Compressor will not start

Won't run

AirCompDX - Field Reference for Air Compressor Techs
All symptoms

No response when start button is pressed, or motor hums and trips.

1

No incoming power

high
CheckVerify voltage at disconnect L1-L2-L3 with meter. All legs within ±10% of nameplate.
FixRestore power; check upstream breaker, fuses, and main disconnect.
ToolsMultimeter (CAT III 600V+) · Insulated gloves
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
2

Tripped overload relay

high
CheckCheck OL reset on starter; look for thermal trip indicator/flag.
FixReset; investigate root cause (high amps, single-phasing, low voltage, mechanical bind).
ToolsMultimeter · Clamp meter
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
3

Pressure switch open (system at cut-out pressure)

Reciprocating
CheckBleed tank below cut-in pressure; listen for switch click.
FixIf no click, replace pressure switch. Verify diaphragm and contacts.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
4

Pressure switch unloader stuck

Reciprocating
CheckListen for air bleed on shutdown (should hear 1–2 sec of bleed).
FixClean or replace unloader valve in pressure switch.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
5

Faulty contactor coil

CheckMeasure 24/120/240V at coil terminals when start signal is present.
FixIf voltage present but no pull-in, replace contactor.
ToolsMultimeter
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
6

Control transformer fuse blown

high
CheckContinuity across control fuse; check secondary voltage at X1-X2.
FixReplace fuse; find the short that blew it before re-energizing.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
7

Emergency stop / interlock open

critical
CheckTrace control wiring; check door interlocks, high-temp switch, oil-level switch, low-oil-pressure switch.
FixReset/repair failed interlock. Do NOT bypass safety interlocks.
SafetyNever jumper a safety interlock to get a machine running.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
8

Controller fault not cleared

Rotary screw
CheckCheck HMI / controller for active fault code. Cross-reference manual.
FixClear fault after addressing root cause. Note repeat faults — they indicate a real problem.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
9

Phase monitor relay tripped (3Φ)

Rotary screw
CheckLED on phase monitor; check all three line voltages and phase rotation.
FixRestore correct phase sequence; replace relay if defective.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.
10

Remote start signal missing

Rotary screw
CheckCheck sequencer / building management remote-start contact closure.
FixSwitch to LOCAL mode to bypass, or restore remote signal.
Sign in to rate whether this fix helped.

Did we solve your issue?

Sign in to share what resolved it and help others.

Safety

Lockout/tagout before opening enclosures. Verify zero energy. Bleed system pressure before opening any pneumatic connection.