Scroll air compressors are positive-displacement type compressors that are commonly used in various applications. Of course, from time to time, something is going to hinder the scroll compressor’s performance. Therefore, it is important to understand the troubleshooting steps you can take when you encounter such issues so that you can find a solution to your problem.
This article will provide examples of troubleshooting tips for a scroll air compressor from a popular manufacturer’s owner’s manual.
Though these troubleshooting tips are specifically provided by Quincy for one of their models of rotary screw compressors, it is likely that you will be able to transfer this information and apply it to your rotary screw air compressor.
I will recommend reviewing your scroll air compressor’s owner’s manual to find the troubleshooting guidance provided by your manufacturer. If you do not have the manual, then search for it online or contact the manufacturer directly to obtain it.
It’s very common for scroll compressors to have built-in refrigerated dryers, and so, these troubleshooting tips also include ones for built-in refrigerated dryers. To learn more about them, visit our Refrigerated Air Dryer Guide – Best Refrigerated Air Dryers!
We will take a look at the possible causes, and the correct action to take for the following symptoms:
The compressor does not start
The compressor does not stop and/or the safety valve blows
The pressure difference between stopping and starting cannot be adjusted
Compressor capacity or pressure below normal
Compressor overheating and/or shut down by an air temperature switch
The Dew point is too high
Condenser pressure too high or too low
Motor refrigerant compressor stops or does not start
Evaporator pressure is too high or too low
Condensate trap continuously discharging air and water
Electronic condensate drain inoperative
Scroll Compressor Does Not Start
Possible Causes
Correct Actions
Pressure too high
The compressor will start again when the pressure drops to starting pressure.
On/off switch malfunctioning or loose connection
Have electrical connections checked? Test switch and replace if necessary.
Clean the filter of the automatic drain by opening the manual drain valve. Check the functioning of the drain by pushing the test button.
Scroll Compressor Refrigerated Dryer Electronic Condensate Drain Inoperative Possible Causes and Correct Actions Table
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do I know if my scroll compressor is bad?
You will know if your scroll air compressor is bad if it is not working as efficiently as it should. It may be that the scroll compressor does not start, does not stop, and/or the safety valve blows, the pressure difference between stopping and starting cannot be adjusted, the capacity or pressure is below its normal level, or the scroll compressor is overheating and/or shut-down by an air temperature switch.
What causes scroll compressor failure?
Some of the most common causes of scroll compressor failure include system leaks, dirty/clogged filters, dirty condensers, rapid loading/unloading, misadjusted controls, and wrong oil for the system’s refrigerant.
If you have any questions regarding scroll air compressor troubleshooting, please leave a comment below, with a photo if applicable, so that someone can help you!
By Aidan Weeks
A passionate Mechanical Engineer with endless enthusiasm for fluid power - building off the back of over 18 years of high quality contribution and discussion stimulated by Bill Wade here at About Air Compressors.
With both practical and theoretical experience in pneumatics and hydraulics, I'm putting my knowledge to work - and working my grey-matter through my research, assistance and publishing work here at About Air Compressors.
Feel free to reach out any time!
P.S. A HUGE shout out to Doug who really offers such great value to all visitors to About Air Compressors - once again, feeling like I'm standing on the shoulders of GIANTS by getting to work alongside such a great community
