Trouble-Shooting a Safety Relief Valve
The Safety Relief (or Release) Valve is probably the most important item on your air compressor...it saves lives!
How to tell if the Safety Valve needs replacement:
- It constantly leaks (obviously) upon initial start-up (from 0 PSI).
- If the Safety Valve doesn't blow off at the PSI designated on the valve itself.
- If the Safety Valve blows off before the compressor shuts off.
Note: Find out what the maximum PSIis of your compressor (a.k.a. "cut-out" pressure). If your air compressor has a cut-out pressure of 155 PSI, then your Safety Valve should blow off around 175 PSI. This is typical, it should be rated 20 to 30 PSI above the cut-out pressure because you don't want the Safety Valve blowing off at the same pressure the compressor shut off at, then it would always blow off when the compressor shuts off.
If your Safety Valve blows off below the cut-out pressure of the unit (125 PSI, 155 PSI etc.) which is when the Pressure Switch automatically cuts it off, you need to replace your Safety Valve.
Shop safety valves here.
Recent Posts
-
The Sound of Trouble: Diagnosing Strange Noises in Your Air Compressor
Your air compressor is a workhorse, a reliable partner for countless tasks. But what happens when th …Jul 2, 2025 -
Mastering Your Compressor: How to Set the Perfect Pressure for Any Job
One of the most frequent questions we hear at Master Tool Repair is: "What pressure should my air co …Jun 6, 2025 -
What Is an Aftercooler and Why Does Your Air Compressor Need One?
If your air compressor is producing hot, moisture-heavy air, you could be putting your tools and equ …May 22, 2025