How to buy an air compressor that’s right for you
You might already know that air compressors are versatile and used for many different jobs of all sizes, but do you know what to look for in buying an air compressor?
From home use to commercial and industrial projects, there is a wide and sometimes confusing range of reasons to buy an air compressor.
This air compressor buying guide will help make sense of it all and assist you in selecting the right compressor for your needs.
Buying an Air Compressor for Home Use
Four common air compressors for home use are pancake, hot dog, twin-stack, and wheelbarrow styled compressors. They’re lightweight and usually portable. They typically operate with a maximum PSI between 90-150.
A few uses for this type of compressor would be airing up tires, pneumatic tools such as brad nailers, spray painting, and cleaning small nooks and crannies.
Stationary compressors are typically found in commercial shops, but may also be considered for home use if you require higher horsepower and a bigger tank for longer periods of use.
There are many brands to choose from and Craftsman, Briggs and Stratton, and Industrial Air are among the best. When selecting the best air compressor for your home, expect to pay between $100 – $500.
Air Compressors for Heavy-Duty Jobs
For larger commercial jobs, gas and diesel compressors are commonly used. They weigh up to 2,000 pounds and can be transported by towing behind vehicles or skid loaded onto trailers.
These compressors have much more power and can be used in construction for tools such as jackhammers and impact wrenches. Mobile mechanics often use these compressors for tools and tire service, too.
One of the great things about gas and diesel compressors is that they don’t require a power source. So, if the electricity goes out on a job, you can continue working without interruption. Or you can work in a remote area that doesn’t have power to begin with.
Another benefit is being able to run multiple tools at once. There are also less cables than electric compressors making for a safer job site.
These heavy-duty compressors can be bought new or used, and vary greatly in price ranging from $500 to $50,000. They are known to be extremely durable and long-lasting.
Choosing the Right Type of Compressor
We have a few tips on buying an air compressor. First determine what tools or accessories your job requires, and then decide how much power you will need.
If you require less than 6.5 horsepower, you most likely only need a compressor for home use. Anything needing more horsepower than that will likely require a heavy-duty compressor.
Consider whether or not you’ll always have power for the projects you’re planning. If you won’t always have a way to plug in, gas and diesel compressors are your best options.
Decide if you’ll need to use multiple tools at once and pay attention to the CFM and PSI that will be required.
Determine how long you’ll be working consistently, and decide if you’ll need a bigger tank than standard home use models provide.
It’s Time to Buy an Air Compressor
From simple tasks around the home like blowing up balloons, to heavy duty tasks like sandblasting, you can now buy an air compressor with confidence.
If you’ve found this article helpful and informative, check out our website for more great tech tips.
