Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions.
My electric motor keeps tripping the overload.
Check the power supply:
- Verify the power supply at the outlet where the air compressor is plugged in. If the power is below 230V, it can increase the AMP draw and overload the thermal overload switch or blow the capacitor. Make sure to check the power supply at the outlet.
Additional issues to consider:
- My air compressor has oil coming from the pump.
- Air blowing out continuously from my pressure switch.
If the above solution did not help, click the link below to get in touch with a Peerless representative for assistance.
My electric motor just hums.
This means you may have blown your starting capacitor
Check the power supply:
- Ensure the power supply at the outlet where the air compressor is plugged in is adequate. If the power is below 230V, it can increase the AMP draw and overload the thermal overload switch or blow the capacitor. Make sure to check the power supply at the outlet.
If the above solution did not help, click the link below to get in touch with a Peerless representative for assistance.
My air compressor does not build pressure and runs continuously.
Lack of strong suction may indicate a blown valve or gasket.
Check air intake filters:
- Examine the air intake filters for any blockages.
- Remove the filters and check the suction of the head by placing your hand over the filter connection.
Clear air breather and contaminants:
- Make sure the air breather on the pump is not blocked with contaminants or dirt.
- If it is, clean it to prevent pressurisation of the pump sump, which can cause gasket blowouts or valve burnouts.
Consider purchasing repair kits and provide the model and year of purchase with proof of purchase attached.
Refer to the video guide on YouTube:
If the above solutions did not help, click the link below to get in touch with a Peerless representative for assistance.
My air compressor has oil coming from the pump.
Isolate the air compressor:
- Ensure that the air compressor only pumps air into its tank and not anywhere else.
- Observe the time it takes to build up pressure to 100PSI and check if the air compressor cuts out or turns off once the pressure has built up.
Check for a burst of air:
- Verify if there is a burst of air released from under the pressure switch. Lack of a burst of air indicates pressurisation of the sump. Excess air can cause pump breather blowouts and oil venting. Promptly address this issue to avoid major pump failure.
Check for air leaks:
- If the air compressor builds up air within the specified pump-up time, it is running fine.
- Re-pressurise the air lines with nothing running and ensure no movement on the air gauge.
- Movement indicates air leaks that need to be fixed. Fixing the air leaks should resolve the issue of oil coming out over the pump.
Refer to the video guide on YouTube:
If the above solutions did not help, click the link below to get in touch with a Peerless representative for assistance.
Air blowing out continuously from my pressure switch?
Follow the hose:
- Trace the black or copper hose from under the pressure switch back to a brass fitting connected to the tank, along with a hose connected from the pump.
Inspect the fitting:
- Check the brass fitting by removing the inspection nut located on its side. Note the nut's orientation.
- Examine the Teflon seal for cracks, markings, or debris.
- Clean off any particles and replace the seal if necessary.
Proper reassembly:
- Carefully reinsert the Teflon seal, ensuring it is correctly aligned.
- Hand-tighten the inspection nut, avoiding over-tightening.
Restart and test:
- Start the air compressor and let it cycle and cut out. This should resolve your leak issue.
Refer to the video guide on YouTube:
If the above solutions did not help, click the link below to get in touch with a Peerless representative for assistance.
Can I use my compressor on an extension lead?
NO!
Any extension lead will cause voltage drop, whether it be a 1-AMP or 15Amp lead, voltage drops will cause motor failure.
When an air compressor cuts out and cuts back in the motor can draw 4-6 times the run current, therefore it is extremely important to have a good power supply.
Remember, use a longer air hose not extension leads - using extension leads could void warranty.
What size generator do I require?
All compressors require continuous 3kva for every 1hp of electric motor. ie. 2hp air compressor requires 6kva generator. This is plugging the compressor directly into the generator. No extension leads. Also check continuous kva rating on generator, not peak rating.
Can I have a bigger air receiver?
By putting a larger receiver on, and keeping the same size compressor pump you create a low pressure on your system.
Compressors are designed to maximise the pump performance to the correct air receiver size.
Larger receivers mean longer time between cut-in and cut-out pressures.
What oil does my compressor use?
For our piston air compressors we recommend you use Peerless ACO2000+ compressor oil, as there is no detergent base the oil which will stop the foaming of oil.
Our range of screw & scroll compressors use an ISO46 semi-synthetic screw compressor oil.
If you do not use Peerless recommended oil you may void your warranty.
My compressor won't pump up any higher than 40-50PSI.
The main cause of this will be blocked intake filters, which causes increased temperatures.
It could also have blown a head gasket or cracked valve (must keep filter clean).
Does my petrol not have an idle control valve?
All peerless petrol and diesel models come standard with an idle control valve. Peerless use genuine Honda engines. The idle control valve improves fuel consumption and life of a compressor.