How to Choose an Air Compressor

With all the different air compressor models available in the market, shopping for the right model can become quite a challenge. Even more so, if you don’t have proper guidelines to aid you through the process. However, this detailed how to choose an air compressor guide is designed to make things easier for you.

When it comes to picking an air compressor, you need to consider many things, such as your requirements and use, the size of the compressor, power source, and more. It may seem complicated, but it isn’t. Our guide on how to choose an air compressor has broken down everything you need to know in a few simple guidelines.

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Pro Tip: Choose an air compressor that produces most CFM (airflow) using less electricity (low horsepower) while making less noise (low dBA)

Understand Your Requirements and Application

Every product is built to fulfill specific requirements. Therefore, it is very important to understand your requirements for air compressors. Ask yourself questions like what will be the usage of the compressor and how much power will it take.

If you’re still uncertain, fret not. We’ve simplified it for you.

Home Use

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, getting a compressor will make things for you a hundred times easier. Air compressors save time and energy by powering up pneumatic tools that complete tasks such as spraying, nailing and hammering at a faster rate compared to manual work. By doing your repairs yourself, not only can you enjoy the satisfaction of doing the work yourself, but you can also save thousands of dollars that would have been spent on hiring a contractor.

With an air compressor, you can do simple tasks like fixing flat tires or replacing old boards at home without a lot of hassle. The only thing you need to know are the specifics of your compressor and your tools, how much power does the compressor contain, and how much do your tools require.

Usually, air compressors with larger tanks contain more power and are perfect for woodwork and advanced home improvement projects.

Professional Use

When it comes to professional use, there isn’t much room for error. Business owners and contractors require air compressors to power their work stations, which is why it is essential to choose the right product. If you’re wondering how to choose an air compressor as a pro, the first thing you need to look for is durability and efficiency.

Professional work requires compressors to power tools that can paint over a hundred cars or change thousands of tires. In addition to the heavy workload, the investment for air compressors is also high. Therefore, choosing the right air compressors is very important.

Certainly, air compressors are built to fulfill specific requirements. Before purchasing an air compressor, ask yourself, what your business requirements are.

Manufacturer Use

Air compressor systems are quite powerful, which makes them perfect for factories and industries. Given how powerful these compressors are, they also require a huge investment.

When you get an industrial air compressor for heavy-duty work, make sure to consider the requirements of your industry. The environment, pump lubrication, air treatment, regulators are only some of the many things that need to be looked into. The right product will ensure efficiency and maximum product quality.

The growth of your business is another important aspect to consider when buying an air compressor. Your air compressor should be able to keep up with the growing demand of your business.

While an undersized compressor may not be very efficient for your business, at the same time a compressor too large will add up to your electricity consumption. So, try to aim for the right balance.

Air Compressor Terms and Their Importance

Here are a few air compressor terms you should know. We’ve also tried to highlight why it is important to take them into account.

CFM

This is one of the most important things to consider when buying an air compressor. The cubic feet per minute rating determines the number of tools you can power at a time using your compressor. It also tells the overall power capacity of your compressor. Each tool has its own CFM rating.

For instance, tools like grinders that run continuously have a higher CFM rating compared to tools such as wrenches that are used sporadically. It is better to choose a model with a high CFM rating to ensure maximum productivity.

SCFM

The standard cubic feet per minute or the SCFM determines the volume air compressors deliver at specific PSI. SCFM is rarely found on machines that have standard conditions. Even though the term is rarely used for air compressors, it is still helpful to know when buying an air compressor.

PSI

PSI refers to the rating required by pneumatic tools given in pounds per square inch (PSI). Compressors that can store more air in their tanks usually have a higher PSI. These compressors enable you to use air tools for a longer time.

HP

The power of an air compressor is measured in horsepower (HP). The HP rating shows the output power transfer of the engine. The HP rating of a compressor can range from 1.5 to 500 HP depending on the design and size specifications. High HP creates more air pressure. Therefore, such compressors are more flexible and produce higher CFM.

Air Compressor Tank Sizes

Air compressor tank sizes range from less than a gallon to over 60 gallons. The tank sizes indicate how long the air tool can run on stored compressed air before the motor has to start generating again. The less the motor runs, the better the lifespan it has. Certain air tools that run continuously require more air capacity, therefore, need compressors with larger tanks.

If you need more air capacity for your work, an industrial compressor with a tank size of 60 gallons or over would be more suitable. On the other hand, if your usage is for light-duty work, such as nailing, you could easily complete your task with a 3-gallon tank.

Portable Vs Stationary Air Compressor

Mobility is an important factor to consider when purchasing air compressors. Depending on your usage, you need to decide if you want a portable compressor or one that is stationary. To make your decision easy, we’ve listed down the specifications of each type.

Portable Air Compressors

Portable air compressors are specifically made for mobility. They are best for contractors who need to move from location to location to complete their work tasks. Such compressors are great for pumping up equipment such as balls and tires, and for powering up pneumatic tools in construction areas.

Portable air compressors come with various tank styles. Although the tank style has nothing to do with the performance of the compressor, it comes into play when looking at the floor space, application, and compressor size.

Pancake

These usually have a smaller capacity. Pancake style tanks are commonly found on the smaller portable compressor with 3 to 6 gallon tank size. Their compact design makes them the best for portability.

Pontoon

This is another common portable compressor tank design. As indicated by the name, it has a horizontal cylinder that looks similar to pontoon boats. Pontoon compressors are present in compressors with smaller capacities.

Twin Stack

Similar to the pontoon tank, only this style comprises of two tanks. Not only is this style compact and portable, but the two tank storage enables it to work at a higher capacity.

Wheelbarrow

These are similar to the pontoon and twin tank style, but due to their larger size and weight, they become difficult to move. So, when such compressors come with wheels and handles, they are referred to as wheelbarrow tanks. This feature makes them great for mobility.

Stationary Air Compressors

Stationary air compressors are large and heavy, which is why these compressors are meant to be kept in one place. They also have a higher capacity, which means they provide a larger CFM and PSI output.

Stationary air compressors are also available with different tank styles. Similar to the portable compressors, their tank style has nothing to do with their performance.

Stationary Vertical

The vertical style is present mostly in stationary air compressors. The tank size can range from 60 to 80 gallons.

Stationary Horizontal

This is another tank style that is common in stationary air compressors. The tank size for this compressor can range from 50 to 120 gallons.

Gas vs Electric – Powered Air Compressors

While deciding over the different features you require of your air compressor, it is important to also look into the power source. Air compressors are available in two main power sources: gas and electric. Your choice can be determined depending on your usage.

Gas Powered Air Compressor

Gas-powered air compressors work in a manner that is similar to that of power generators. A small combustion engine powers the motor of these compressors. This feature makes them convenient and flexible as they are not dependent on the power source available at the site of work.

Gas-powered compressors are great for outdoor work. These compressors are also quite powerful with the ability to provide steady air pressure.

On the other hand, these require more maintenance including, but not limited to, oil changes and gas refills. Even though these compressors have the same horsepower as electric powered air compressors, they still cost more.

Pros

Flexible and convenient
Great for outdoor work
Powerful and can provide steady air pressure

Cons

Costly
Require more maintenance

Electric Powered Air Compressor

Electric power air compressors are designed to be plugged into an electric power source. Furthermore, these compressors work best for indoor work as they do not produce any noise or toxic fumes. They are also cheaper in comparison to gas-powered compressors.

On the downside, the dependency of these compressors on power can be quite inconvenient. Especially, when there is unavailability or shortage of power.

Pros

Cheaper
Great for indoor work
Do not produce toxic fumes

Cons

Depend on a power source

Oiled or Oil-Free Air Compressors

There are two types of air compressors, the type that requires oil lubrication and the type that don’t.

Oil-Lubricated Air Compressors

These types of compressors are similar to the engines of lawn-mowers and cars, which need oil to function. The joints and gears in these compressors need oil lubrication to move. The air compressor oil prevents excessive wear and tear of the parts. These compressors also tend to produce less noise.

As a consequence of their design, these compressors are usually heavier and larger. They also require regular maintenance. Your compressor’s lifespan can shorten drastically if you don’t monitor oil change regularly. If maintained properly, the compressors are quite durable.

Pros

The oil prevents wear and tear of joints
Produce less noise
Last long if maintained properly

Cons

Heavier and larger
Requires more maintenance

TIP: Use special air compressor oil rather than using noraml engine oils.

Oil-Free Air Compressors

These compressors work perfectly fine without the assistance of oil lubrication. The piston rings in compressors are made of materials that are similar to those used in the manufacturing of non-stick kitchen pans. The rings of the pistons lubricate the cylinders of the compressor.

Not only are these compressors lighter and smaller, but due to their oil-free nature, they also require less effort and cost for maintenance. Oil-free air compressors are great for both home and work applications as their size and weight allow for easy access and portability.

Such compressors are usually found at hospitals, laboratories and places that need an atmosphere that is fluid-free.

Pros

Lighter and smaller
Portable
Require less maintenance

Cons

Less powerful in comparison to oil-lubricated air compressors

Conclusion

Modern air compressors are becoming more popular day by day. You can find air compressors in places like local garages, hospitals, and even households. Investing in air compressors is worth the price as you save costs by doing repairs yourself.

Buying larger appliances can be like playing a game of Russian roulette, especially if you don’t have proper guidelines to follow. The technicalities of air compressors may seem tricky, but we’re sure you can now make an informed decision after reading our guide. You can also judge the performance rating of any compressor by yourself you come across. Be sure to check the durability and power capacity when buying your air compressor.

Now that you have all the right information about how to choose an air compressor, we believe, you will have no trouble singling out the right model for yourself.

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