Applicable Systems
Copeland Scroll Compressor (CoreSense/Comfort Alert)
Symptoms
The compressor reports a discharge superheat alarm. The calculated discharge superheat exceeds the normal operating range, indicating inefficient or unsafe operation.
Possible Causes
- Thermal expansion valve improperly adjusted or sized
- Insufficient refrigerant flow to the evaporator
- Hot gas bypass valve leaking or stuck open
Troubleshooting Steps
- Step 1: Measure suction and discharge temperature and pressure to calculate superheat
Superheat is within 5-15 degrees C of target - Step 2: Adjust the thermal expansion valve superheat setting per the manual
Superheat stabilizes within target range - Step 3: Check for refrigerant leaks and recharge if necessary
System charge matches specification
How to Reset
To reset: Bring superheat within the specified range, then clear the alarm from the controller.
Source: Copeland Scroll Compressor Service Manual, Emerson Climate Technologies
Category: Refrigeration