How to Select an Air Compressor?

Answer 1

An air compressor is a type of tool that uses an electric motor to fill a reservoir with compressed air. This compressed air can then be used to power many other types of pneumatic tools. Common uses for an air compressor are to power pressure washers, impact wrenches, nail guns and to inflate tires.

An air compressor can be an indispensable tool to have at home. Having an air compressor in the garage is great for keeping car tires at proper inflation, which extends the life of the tires and improves fuel economy.

For home auto repair, an air compressor is an essential tool. Many car repairs are nearly impossible without an air powered impact wrench. Some nuts just can not be broken free without an impact wrench’s strength. Likewise, an air powered nail gun is great to have for home repairs, remodeling and additions.

Now let’s discuss how to determine what sort of compressor is suitable for your needs.

Most users will require an air compressor that will run on standard 110 volt electrical power. When shopping for compressors, most units you will find on the market will run on this type of power. The most important factors to consider are the size of the tank, the cost, and the form factor of the unit.

To determine what tank size to will need, consider how you will be using the compressor. As for the form factor, make sure that the unit you select is easily portable if you plan to travel with it. If the compressor will be staying in place, this consideration is not as important.

Generally the cost of the compressor rises with the volume of air that its tank holds. If it will be stationary and used only occasionally, you will not need to hold a large volume of air. If you think that you may be taking the compressor with you to small jobs in the field where power may not be available, you may consider purchasing a unit with a larger tank. If you plan to use the compressor frequently and for large jobs, go with the highest volume tank you can afford.

Answer 2

Location! Location! Location!

Believe it or not, the most important thing you can use to decide which air compressor to purchase is the location where it will primarily be used. If you suspect that you will need to use it in other locations occasionally, then you probably will want to consider something that is at least slightly portable.

Power

Once you have decided where you will use the air compressor, you will need to decide how much power you require from the compressor. Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) is the measurement to look at when determining the power of the air flow from the compressor. Simply put, the higher the number the more powerful the compressor.

Depending on the tools that you will use with your air compressor, you will have different needs in terms of power. The tool attachments will have a specific required air flow rate. Some examples are nailers, which require one to four CFM and power sanders, which require as much as thirteen CFM. Before you buy a compressor it is important to look at the tools you want to use and find out how much airflow they require.

If you are looking for a small and portable compressor to do little more than inflate your tires or pool toys, then a 120 volt or rechargeable cordless inflater would probably be perfect for you.

Price

When you have compiled a list of your requirements from an air compressor, you are ready to start looking for a specific model. It is possible to purchase a plug in inflater for well under $100. It is also possible to spend several thousand dollars on a double tank compressor for your workshop or garage. There is no reason to spend more than necessary on an air compressor, because chances are that if you don’t plan to use air powered tools to restore a car when you purchase it, you won’t be doing it at all.

Conclusion

Air compressors are very useful to have around the house. Using this guide to selecting the right compressor for you will help you to save money and purchase the compressor that is best for you.