Mystery solved: unmasking the reasons why your craftsman air compressor stays dormant

If your Craftsman air compressor has suddenly stopped turning on, you’re not alone. This common issue can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your compressor for essential tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the possible reasons why your Craftsman air compressor won’t turn on and provide step-by-step instructions to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Check the Power Source:

• Ensure the compressor is plugged into a working outlet. Try plugging it into a different outlet to rule out any electrical issues.
• Verify the circuit breaker or fuse for the outlet is not tripped or blown. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse if necessary.

Inspect the Power Switch:

• Check if the power switch is turned on. It should be in the “I” or “On” position.
• If the switch is on, try turning it off and then back on again. This may reset the circuit and allow the compressor to start.

Examine the Pressure Switch:

• Locate the pressure switch on the compressor. It’s usually a small, round device with electrical connections.
• Ensure the pressure switch is properly connected. Tighten any loose wires or terminals.
• Check if the pressure switch is faulty. You can test it using a multimeter to measure continuity.

Inspect the Unloader Valve:

• Find the unloader valve on the compressor. It’s typically a small, cylindrical device connected to the tank.
• Ensure the unloader valve is functioning correctly. It should allow air to flow into the tank when the pressure is low.
• If the unloader valve is stuck closed, the compressor will not start. Try tapping it gently with a hammer to free it up.

Check the Motor:

• Locate the motor on the compressor. It’s usually a large, cylindrical component.
• Ensure the motor is not seized. Try turning the shaft by hand. If it’s stuck, the motor may need to be replaced.
• Check the motor’s electrical connections. Loose or damaged wires can prevent the motor from starting.

Inspect the Electrical Components:

• Examine the wiring harness for any loose or damaged wires. Repair or replace any faulty wires.
• Check the capacitor. A faulty capacitor can prevent the motor from starting. Replace it if necessary.
• Inspect the contactor. The contactor is an electrical switch that controls the flow of power to the motor. Check its connections and replace it if it’s faulty.

Reset the Thermal Overload Protector:

• Locate the thermal overload protector on the compressor. It’s usually a small, black button.
• If the thermal overload protector has tripped, the compressor will not start. Press the reset button to restore power.
• Note that the thermal overload protector may trip if the compressor is overloaded or overheating.

Final Thoughts:

Troubleshooting a Craftsman air compressor that won’t turn on can be a challenging task. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a qualified electrician if necessary.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Why does my Craftsman air compressor keep tripping the circuit breaker?
A: Overloading the compressor, faulty wiring, or a failing motor can cause the circuit breaker to trip.

Q: What should I do if the unloader valve is stuck closed?
A: Try tapping it gently with a hammer to free it up. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the unloader valve.

Q: How can I test the capacitor on my air compressor?
A: Use a multimeter to measure the capacitance of the capacitor. If it’s significantly lower than the specified value, the capacitor needs to be replaced.