Applicable Systems
Electra Saver
Symptoms
Discharge air temperature exceeds 113C (235F). The Electra Saver controller shuts down immediately to protect the airend and lubricant from thermal breakdown.
Possible Causes
- Oil cooler core internally or externally fouled, reducing heat transfer efficiency
- Cooling fan belt loose, broken, or misaligned, reducing airflow across the cooler
- Thermostatic bypass valve stuck closed, preventing oil circulation through the cooler
- Ambient air temperature above 46C (115F) or the cooler installed facing a wall
Troubleshooting Steps
- Step 1: Inspect the oil cooler fins for dust, cotton, or oily debris between the plates
Clean with foaming cleaner and low-pressure water or compressed air from inside out - Step 2: Check the cooling fan belt tension - deflection should be 10-15 mm per 300 mm of span
Tighten or replace the belt if cracked, glazed, or deflecting more than 20 mm - Step 3: Remove the thermostatic valve and test in hot water at 77C and 85C
Replace the valve if it does not begin opening at 77C and fully open by 85C - Step 4: Measure ambient temperature at the cooler face with a thermometer
Add ventilation, relocate the unit, or install a high-temperature cooler kit if ambient >40C
How to Reset
Reset: Allow discharge temperature to fall below 95C. Press the Reset button on the Electra Saver controller. A 5-minute timer prevents immediate restart.
Common Replacement Parts
- GD-1000: Oil cooler core, Electra Saver II (Tube-and-fin, Cu/Al, 500x320x55 mm)
- GD-1001: Cooling fan belt, SPA 1500 (V-belt, 13x1500 mm, replacement set of 2)
- GD-1002: Thermostatic bypass valve (Opens 77C, full flow 85C, 1-inch NPT)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is normal discharge temperature?
90-105C at full load in 30C ambient. A trend increase of 8C over 6 months indicates cooler fouling or oil degradation.
- Q: Can I pressure-wash the cooler?
Yes, but use wide fan spray at <30 bar from the inside outward. High pressure from the outside can flatten the fins and permanently reduce airflow.
Source: Gardner Denver Electra Saver II Operation and Maintenance Manual, GD-ESA-II-OM
Category: Compressor