Refrigerated compressed air dryer troubleshooting guide

refrigerated compressed air dryer troubleshooting

The refrigerated compressed air dryer is used for drying moisture from the air. When the refrigerated compressed air dryers stop working properly, they may cause severe damage to the intended environment and its contents.

Therefore, knowing how to repair these devices when they break down is important. Here we provide some tips on refrigerated compressed air dryer troubleshooting.

Why Isn’t My Air Compressor Dryer Working?

If you’re having a problem with your air compressor not drying the air, there are a few things to check first.

-A broken or faulty compressor

-Bad insulation in the line or ductwork leading to the compressor

-Inadequate ventilation around the compressor

-Low refrigerant levels in the system

-Faulty control board on the compressor

Indications Of Refrigerated Air Dryer Problems & Solutions

Refrigerated compressed air dryers are an excellent option for many people. They are fast, efficient, and easy to use. However, they can also be problematic if they are not operated correctly. The following are some of the most common problems with refrigerated compressed air dryers:

Your Compressor Won't Start

1. Your Compressor Won’t Start

If your compressor won’t start, you can do a few things to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some common causes of compressor problems and how to fix them:

1. Check the power cord. Ensure the power cord is plugged into an appropriate outlet and that the outlet is working. If you’re using an extension cord, ensure it’s appropriately wired and has enough voltage.

2. Check the fuse. Check the fuse if the compressor doesn’t start after plugging in the power cord.

3. If the fuse is good, check to see if there’s any obstruction in the airflow path between the compressor and motor. This can include dirt or leaves on the fan blades or obstacles in the hose leading from the compressor to the motor.

4. Check for foreign objects in the air intake ducts. If nothing is blocking the airflow between the compressor and motor, something may be caught in one of the air intake ducts. So clean out all the air intake duct openings and ensure no debris is stuck inside.

5. Clean the compressor. Ensure the compressor is free of dust, dirt, and other debris. Also, check to see if the filter is clogged.

2. Your Compressor Won’t Stop

If a compressor just keeps running and never stops, there can be an issue with the pressure switch or pressure release valve. But in a high-pressure tank, it ought to be possible to stop when the pressure reaches a specific level.

The motor stops because the tank is too pressured to stop when a pressure release valve malfunctions, preventing the pressure from being released. In addition, because sensors won’t know the proper pressure level, internal controls won’t know when to shut it off if the pressure switch malfunctions. In both situations, it is advised that a replacement be made to fix the problem.

3. You Hear Odd Noises From the Compressor

Loud noises from your compressor, such as screeching or rattling, could indicate several problems.

  • Electrical problems often cause rattling compressors.
  • In addition, a loose component may require tightening or replacement.
  • Additionally, the distribution motor might need to be tightened.

If any of these issues arise, contact a professional to avoid severe irreversible damage to your air compressor.

You Hear Odd Noises From the Compressor

4. You Have Circuit Breaker Problems

If the compressor blows the circuit breaker often, the compressor might need to be replaced. There might also be an issue with how much electricity it uses.

Never continually switch the circuit on while working. The problem won’t be resolved because the circuit breaker trips to avoid fires. You should contact a professional if you believe you require an electrical repair or a new compressor, you should contact a professional.

5. Your Compressor Shakes or Makes Ticking Noises

If your compressor seems unstable, your system could be having issues. Likewise, there can be an issue when it has trouble starting or operating. If the compressor is making ticking noises, for instance, it might not be working correctly.

Your system will probably get worse if you ignore it; eventually, it won’t be fixable. However, this trembling and rattling is frequently a sign of a problem that must be fixed immediately to avoid damaging components or, if left unattended, could result in the need to buy a new compressor.

If you can fix the compressor right away and hire a technician, you might be able to figure out which part is the problem. However, using a compressor that trembles and generates such buzzing noises is unsafe.

Your Compressor Shakes or Makes Ticking Noises

6. Your System Blows Warm Air

Moving refrigerant via the compressor is necessary to cool the air. Warm or heated air will escape the openings if this is inadequate. Also, if the condenser is not operating correctly, there can be a problem with the refrigerant supply.

To assess if the issue can be addressed, look for any refrigerant leakage and get in touch with a professional. Some refrigerant problems might harm the compressor as well as cause other issues. 

7. You Find Moisture in or Around Your System

If you have a refrigerated compressed air dryer, it’s very important to troubleshoot any issues causing moisture to build up in or around the system. This can lead to damage and even system failure.

One of the first things you should check is whether the compressor is actually working. If it isn’t, the system won’t be able to generate the necessary amount of air pressure to operate properly. 

If the compressor is working, but there’s still moisture buildup, it may be due to a blockage in the system. This can include anything from leaves and debris to clogs in the hoses. To prevent future problems, ensure all system parts are clean and free of obstructions.

You Find Moisture in or Around Your System

8. Your Compressor Lags During Use

If your compressor lags during use, it could mean that the pump has failed. Pumps can fail before their expected lifespan for a variety of reasons, such as:

  • An excessive amount of moisture can be caused by condensate buildup in a system
  • An overheated environment
  • Shaking of the system
  • Lubrication residue

To avoid potential damage to your compressor, make sure to inspect the condition of your system regularly.

9. Heat exchanger coils are dirty

If you are having trouble with your refrigerated compressed air dryer not drying, there is a good chance that the heat exchanger coils are dirty.

To clean the heat exchanger coils, follow these steps:

  • The air dryer should be checked first if it isn’t performing properly.
  • You won’t get proper airflow if the coils are filthy.
  • Air is blocked and trapped by dirty lint.
  • Remove dirt from the refrigeration condenser coil with a brush or soft cloth.
  • Compressed air can blow the condenser clean or water, and mild detergent can be used to clean heavily contaminated condensers.
Heat exchanger coils are dirty

10. Condensate in the Piping

When you are experiencing condensation in your piping, you can do a few things to troubleshoot the issue. 

1. The first thing you should do is check the discharge of the condensate drain. If there is an obstruction in the drainage system, water will build up and cause condensation. 

2. Ensure your temperature and inlet air flow rate are working correctly and are within the range.

3. Check the temperature of your room and if it is within the range. If there is a problem with your temperature system, cold air will be trapped in the pipes and cause condensation. 

4. Clean the condenser coil. Make sure the pressure switch/fan is turning freely.

11. No Compressed Air Passing Through the Dryer Outlet

If no compressed air passes through the outlet, the valve on the dryer isn’t opening when needed. This can happen if the valve is stuck open or closed. It can also occur if the valve is damaged.

If ice builds up on the air conditioner’s coils, providing inadequate insulation and leading to further problems. If the room is too cold, a dryer’s temperature should not be below 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

12. Air dryer dew point problem

The dew point is the temperature at which water vapor begins to condense out of the air. The dew point is affected by humidity levels and temperature. When the dew point is lower than the indoor air temperature, moisture will begin to form inside the air dryer unit.

Air dryer dew point problem

How do you test if the air dryer is working?

If your refrigerated compressed air dryer is not working, you can do a few things to test whether or not the dryer is working. You can check the cord and plug to ensure they are securely connected, turn the power to the dryer, and check for power at the receptacle. You may have a working dryer if all of these are working properly.

Conclusion

If you are having trouble with your refrigerated compressed air dryer, we have combined some troubleshooting tips to help you get it working again.

If you have any other questions about your machine, don’t hesitate to contact a professional; they will be more than happy to assist you. Thanks for reading!

FAQ

What is the common cause of pneumatic dryer failure?

There are a few common causes of problems with refrigerated compressed air dryers, including dirty condenser coils, blocked air vents, worn parts, and dirty filters. In most cases, these problems can be easily corrected with a quick fix. However, you may need to contact a professional if the problem is more complicated or severe.

How do I know if my air dryer is bad?

Here are some signs that your dryer might be failing:
1. Your compressor won’t start
2. Your compressor won’t Stop
3. Odd noises from the compressor
4. Circuit breaker problems
5. Compressor shakes or makes ticking noises
6.  System blows warm air
7. Moisture around the system
8. Compressor lags during use
9. Heat exchanger coils are dirty
10. Condensate in the piping
11. No compressed air Passing through the dryer outlet
12. Air dryer dew point problem

How does a refrigerated compressed air dryer work?

A refrigerated compressed air dryer is an electric appliance that uses compressed air to remove moisture from the air. The appliance has a compressor, a fan, and a drying air-to-refrigerant heat exchanger. The compressor creates a high-pressure air stream that forces the moist air out of the air and into the air-to-refrigerant heat exchanger. And then, the exchanger removes moisture from the air.

How do I service my air compressor dryer?

If you’re experiencing problems with your refrigerated compressed air dryer, it’s time to take it in for service. A technician will inspect the air dryer’s components and ensure everything runs smoothly. They will also clean the air dryer and replace any damaged parts.

When should I replace my air dryer?

If your air dryer is not drying air as efficiently as it used to, it might be time to replace it. Air dryers use compressed air to help remove water moisture from the air, so if the air dryer is not working as well as it used to, there may be something wrong with the compressor. And you should also replace the air dryer when it stops working and its warranty expires.