If the compressor won't start with air in tank, replace the check valve. Then pull the ring on the safety valve to bleed air out of the tank to reach the cut-in pressure, so the pressure switch attempts to restart the motor to refill the air tank. Test the check valve by allowing the compressor to fill the tank until the pump shuts off. A stuck-open check valve causes high pump head pressure, preventing the compressor from restarting. The check valve prevents tank air from back flowing to the pump. If the pump starts when the tank is empty, then the check valve may be stuck open.
Flip the pressure switch control lever to the Auto position. If the electrical outlet works, shut off the air compressor and bleed all the air from the tank. Reset the house circuit breaker if the electrical outlet is dead. Troubleshooting tips for your Kobalt air compressor when it won't startĬheck the electrical outlet for power.