Eliwell F1

What does Eliwell F1 mean?

On the Eliwell EWRC5000 AIR controller, F1 indicates a motor overload protection alarm triggered by the QM1 motor overload relay tripping. The controller detects the overload input signal from the motor protection circuit and logs the alarm. Regulation may be blocked depending on configuration to prevent motor damage.

Symptoms

• Display shows 'F1' and the alarm icon illuminates.
• Motor overload relay (QM1) has tripped, de-energising the motor output.
• Fan or compressor motor stops operating.
• Alarm relay activates if configured.
• Buzzer sounds if fitted.

Common causes

• Fan motor or compressor motor drawing excess current due to mechanical overload.
• Motor winding insulation degraded, causing high current draw.
• Overload relay (QM1) set to an incorrect trip current for the motor rating.
• Phase loss or undervoltage condition on the supply to the motor.
• Motor seized or mechanically jammed, creating locked-rotor current.

Diagnostic steps

1. 01

   Identify which motor has tripped

   Locate the QM1 motor overload relay in the panel and identify which motor circuit it protects. Check the relay's trip indicator or test button.

2. 02

   Reset the overload relay

   Press the reset button on QM1 after the motor has had time to cool (typically 5–10 minutes). Do not reset repeatedly without investigating the cause.

3. 03

   Check motor current against nameplate rating

   With the motor running, measure phase current with a clamp meter and compare against the motor nameplate full-load amps. Current above nameplate rating indicates overload or electrical fault.

4. 04

   Verify QM1 overload setting

   Confirm the overload relay trip current dial is set to match the motor's full-load current. An incorrectly set relay will nuisance-trip on a healthy motor.

5. 05

   Inspect supply voltage and motor for mechanical faults

   Measure supply voltage at the motor terminals for phase loss or undervoltage. Check that the motor shaft turns freely and the driven load is not jammed.

When to call a professional

If the motor overload relay trips repeatedly after reset, or if the motor current measurement is normal but the relay still trips, a licensed electrician or refrigeration engineer must inspect motor windings for insulation failure, test the overload relay calibration, and investigate the supply voltage. Operating a motor past a legitimate overload will cause winding failure and potential fire risk.