What does the element outlet temp warning mean on a Quincy QGD?
Short answer: High element outlet temperature warning. If your Quincy QGD 40-60 / QGS 40-100 (Airlogic2 controller) is showing Element outlet temperature warning, the controller has logged a specific, documented condition. This page covers what it means, what causes it, what you can safely fix yourself, and when — and why — it takes a technician.
What exactly is the machine telling you?
A measured element outlet temperature exceeded the programmed shutdown warning level (factory setting 113°C / 235°F) — a programmable level below the shutdown level, warning the operator before a trip. The message disappears when the condition clears.
Which machines show this?
Quincy QGD 40-60 hp and QGS 40-100 hp rotary screw compressors with the Airlogic2 display controller, including Full Feature packages with the integrated refrigerated dryer. Like Quincy's smaller INFOLOGIC machines, these display icons and text messages, not numbered fault codes — a lit alarm LED means a warning, a flashing one a shutdown, and the specific condition is spelled out on the controller's screens and logged in the Event History menu. Warning and shutdown levels for temperatures are programmed values with factory settings, so your machine's exact trip points can differ. Two habits the manual insists on: the emergency stop does not make the machine voltage-free, and service timer changes go through the authorized distributor.
What causes it?
- Element outlet temperature passed the programmed warning level (factory 113°C / 235°F)
- Cooling-air restriction or recirculation in the compressor room
- Dirty oil cooler or air cooler
- Oil level low after cooldown and depressurization
Can you fix it yourself?
Yes, and this is the moment to act cheaply — clean the coolers, fix ventilation, and correct the oil level before the same trend reaches the shutdown level. The message clears itself once the condition does.
Step by step — what to try, in order:
- Select the warning icon on the display and press Enter to read the actual value
- Check for cooling-air restriction and improve compressor-room ventilation; avoid recirculation of cooling air
- With the unit stopped and powered off, clean the oil cooler and air cooler
- After full cooldown and depressurization, check the oil level and correct it
When do you need a technician — and why?
If warnings continue after the basics, the thermostatic bypass valve or a worn element is suspect — diagnosis inside the pressurized oil circuit with proper instruments.
If it does come to a service call and you're in Nashville, TN or Birmingham, AL, we maintain independently compiled lists of local companies that service industrial air compressors — real businesses with verified contact information, none of whom paid to be listed.
Related questions
What does Element outlet temperature warning mean on a Quincy QGD 40-60 / QGS 40-100 (Airlogic2 controller)?
High element outlet temperature warning. A measured element outlet temperature exceeded the programmed shutdown warning level (factory setting 113°C / 235°F) — a programmable level below the shutdown level, warning the operator before a trip. The message disappears when the condition clears.
Can I fix Element outlet temperature warning on a Quincy QGD 40-60 / QGS 40-100 (Airlogic2 controller) myself?
Yes, and this is the moment to act cheaply — clean the coolers, fix ventilation, and correct the oil level before the same trend reaches the shutdown level. The message clears itself once the condition does.
When does Element outlet temperature warning on a Quincy QGD 40-60 / QGS 40-100 (Airlogic2 controller) need a technician?
If warnings continue after the basics, the thermostatic bypass valve or a worn element is suspect — diagnosis inside the pressurized oil circuit with proper instruments. Call for service if warnings continue after cleaning coolers and fixing ventilation — a malfunctioning bypass (thermostatic) valve or worn element needs a technician.
Verified against service documentation: Quincy QGD 40-60 / QGS 40-100 (Airlogic2 controller) documentation for Element outlet temperature warning (compressorworld.com)