Pressure switches are an important part of any air compressor. They monitor the tank’s level and switch the motor on or off as needed. Over time, pressure switches wear out and need to be replaced. The switch also helps prevent leaks by shutting off the pump when there is a high enough level of pressure in the tank.
The first step is to connect the power cord to the pressure switch’s terminal. To do this, remove the switch cover and look at the wires. They should have labels to help you identify them. If you don’t, you may need to add a ground wire.
You will see two sets of terminals – one set for the line cord, and the other for the motor cord. These are colored green, white and black to differentiate them from each other.
Next, you’ll need to connect the motor and line cords to their respective terminals. This can be done with the help of a screwdriver or other electrical tool. You can also use an adjustable wrench to do this.
Once the wiring has been completed, you can place the pressure switch back on the compressor and restore power to the circuit breaker. Then, you can begin adjusting the settings for your specific application.
When adjusting the pressure settings on a pressure switch, you need to understand the difference between cut-in and cut-out pressures. If the cut-in pressure is set too low, it will cause the compressor to start and stop repeatedly. This can damage the motor and other parts of the compressor. If the cut-out pressure is set too high, it will overheat the motor and wear out its components.
For most compressors, the switch has a big set-screw that sets the cut-in pressure and a smaller screw that sets the differential setting. The differential setting is used to set the maximum pressure, which is relative to the cut-in pressure. It’s usually in the range of 0.8 to 1 bar (or 15 psi).
Before rewiring the pressure switch, you must first cut the power supply. This will avoid electric shock and protect you from injuries. You should also check that the switch has been properly installed on the compressor before you begin work.
During the rewiring process, make sure to keep your hands and equipment clean and dry to prevent injury. You should also ensure that the wires you plan to connect are well insulated.
Once the electrical connections are completed, you can replace the pressure switch’s cover. If you’re not confident in your ability to do so, hire a professional to do the job.
The pressure switch in an air compressor is a simple device that controls the motor and prevents leaks. The pressure switch is activated when the tank level drops to a certain level and shuts off the motor when it reaches a higher level. It is also equipped with a relief valve, which relieves pressure that can build up between the pump and the check valve.
