How do I clear an E-Stop fault on a Sullair WS controller?
Short answer: Emergency stop activated. If your Sullair WS Controller is showing E-Stop Push Button, 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?
The emergency stop button has been pressed, or the button/wiring is faulty, shutting the compressor down.
Which machines show this?
Sullair's mid-range stationary rotary screws fitted with the WS controller — a text-display unit found on many shop and light-industrial packages from the 2010s. The WS names its faults in plain English (High Temperature, Separator dP High, Aux Motor Overload, Power Interruption) and uses staged temperature protection: a warning at 225 °F, a time-delayed fault at 235 °F, and an immediate trip at 255 °F. Faults are reset from the STOP key after the cause is corrected and the unit has cooled. Practical tip: if the auto-restart timer is configured, the machine can start by itself after a power interruption — make sure nobody is working near it before you walk away from a Power Interruption message.
What causes it?
- The E-stop button pressed — find out why before touching anything
- A faulty button or wiring holding the fault active
Can you fix it yourself?
Yes — confirm the reason, release the button, and restart per normal procedure. That covers nearly every case.
Step by step — what to try, in order:
- Confirm why the E-stop was pressed before resetting anything
- Twist/pull the E-stop button to release it
- Restart the compressor per normal procedure
When do you need a technician — and why?
A fault that stays active with the button released means the button or its wiring is faulty — safety-circuit repair for service.
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 E-Stop Push Button mean on a Sullair WS Controller?
Emergency stop activated. The emergency stop button has been pressed, or the button/wiring is faulty, shutting the compressor down.
Can I fix E-Stop Push Button on a Sullair WS Controller myself?
Yes — confirm the reason, release the button, and restart per normal procedure. That covers nearly every case.
When does E-Stop Push Button on a Sullair WS Controller need a technician?
A fault that stays active with the button released means the button or its wiring is faulty — safety-circuit repair for service. Call service if the fault stays active with the button released — the button or its wiring is faulty.
Verified against service documentation: Sullair WS Controller documentation for E-Stop Push Button (best-aire.com)