Applicable Systems
LS Series
Symptoms
Sump (oil) temperature has exceeded 110C (230F). The high sump temperature switch opens, stopping the compressor to prevent oil degradation and airend damage.
Possible Causes
- Dirty oil cooler with blocked fins or oil passages reducing heat rejection
- Thermostatic valve failed in the bypass position, routing hot oil around the cooler
- Excessive ambient temperature or restricted ventilation around the compressor enclosure
- Continuous run at 100% load beyond the thermal design duty cycle
Troubleshooting Steps
- Step 1: Measure actual sump temperature with an infrared gun and compare to the controller reading
If the reading is accurate, shut down and clean the oil cooler fins with foaming cleaner - Step 2: Remove the thermostatic valve and test in a hot water bath at 75C and 85C
The valve should begin opening at 75C and be fully open at 85C. Replace if stuck - Step 3: Check compressor room ventilation - verify exhaust fans are running and intake grilles are not blocked
Add supplemental ventilation if ambient temperature consistently exceeds 40C - Step 4: Review the load/unload duty cycle from the controller trend logs
If the unit runs loaded >95% of the time, consider a larger compressor or add a receiver tank to reduce cycle frequency
How to Reset
Reset: Allow sump temperature to drop below 95C. Press the Reset button on the Sullair controller. The unit performs a 10-second pre-lube before attempting to start.
Common Replacement Parts
- 2500-3800-00: Oil cooler, LS 16-25 (Tube-and-fin, 500x300x50 mm, Cu/Al)
- 2500-3801-00: Thermostatic valve, 1-inch (Opens 75C, full open 85C, 45 L/min)
- 2500-3802-00: High sump temperature switch (Bi-metallic, 110C NC, 1/2 NPT)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is the normal sump temperature range?
70-95C (158-203F) under load. During unloaded idle, 55-70C is typical. Sustained operation above 100C shortens oil life by half for every 10C rise.
- Q: Can I add a larger cooler to prevent this alarm?
Yes, an auxiliary oil cooler can be added for high-temperature environments. Consult Sullair application engineering for sizing.
Comments (0)
Share your experience to help others facing the same problem.
Leave a Comment
Source: Sullair LS Series Operation and Maintenance Manual, 02250141-841
Category: Compressor
Published: 2026-10-17
No comments yet. Be the first to share your experience!