Air Compressor Buying Guide

Last updated May 16,

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Air compressor power tools, also called pneumatic tools, are generally faster, lighter and more powerful than traditional power tools. They use a concentration of air to power the tool. The key to choosing the best air compressor is to match the unit to the job demands. Portable compressors are ideal for the home and the job site. Stationary compressors provide the high volume of air needed for powering automotive and production air tools. Use this buying guide to find out what to consider when selecting the best air compressors for your projects.

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Table of Contents

1. Types of Air Compressors

2. Electric Air Compressors

3. Gas-Powered Air Compressors

4. Cordless Air Compressors

5. Air Compressor Performance Ratings

6. Air Compressor Tank Size

Types of Air Compressors

There are two types of air compressors: portable and stationary.

• Portable air compressors come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Smaller models are light enough to carry. Larger models include wheels for mobility. Portable air compressors are available with tanks in different sizes, ranging from two gallons to 30 gallons.
• Designed to be bolted into a fixed area, stationary air compressors attach directly into a building's electrical circuit. They typically feature 60 to 80-gallon tanks and offer motors that are between 4 and 10-horsepower. They are a great investment for a garage or workshop.

Whether portable or stationary, the best air compressors are available in one or more power sources: electricity, gas or a battery pack.

Electric Air Compressors

Easy to use, electric air compressors simply plug into a regular wall outlet. Most run on standard household voltage, between 110V to 120V. However, compressors with motors that exceed 2HP can require a 220V to 240V outlet.

Electric compressors are the ideal choice if you need a quiet air compressor or a automatic start-stop air compressor. Since electric compressors don't emit fumes they are perfect for areas with limited ventilation. This makes them the best home garage air compressor.

Tip: Powering an electric compressor with a generator can damage the motor.

Gas-Powered Air Compressors

Gas-powered air compressors are usually portable and work well for those places where there's no electricity. They are commonly found at job sites, on farms or other outdoor spaces. The high-pressure output of a gas-powered air compressor makes it ideal for heavy-duty projects and tools such as nail guns, sanders and paint sprayers. These types of air compressors are more budget friendly but have fumes and can be noisy.

Cordless Air Compressors

Compact and lightweight, cordless air compressors use a rechargeable battery platform. Since there's no cords to get in the way, cordless air compressors are easy to carry around and use. This makes them ideal for projects that require more flexibility such as working on a roof or in small spaces.

Cordless air compressors are quieter and work equally well indoors and out. However, due to their limited power, even the best air compressors of this type work better for smaller projects than for larger ones.

Air Compressor Performance Ratings

Compressors generally have horsepower ratings between 1 1/2- to 6 1/2-HP. However, it’s the standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) or performance rating that reflects the air pressure a compressor generates inside its tank. A tank's SCFM determines just how much power the compressor will provide to a tool. This power is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). In addition, the tools powered by air compressors also have their own SCFM ratings that indicate the air flow or pressure a tool needs for top performance.

Here's how to gauge the minimum compressor SCFM rating you need for your air compressor:

• Examine the SCFM requirements of all the tools you intend to use.
• Multiply the highest tool rating by 1.5 to get the minimum compressor SCFM for your needs. Since actual SCFM varies during compressor operation, this number will give you a little buffer.
• If you expect to operate multiple pneumatic tools at the same time, you'll need more power. Calculate the minimum SCFM compressor rating by adding up the SCFM requirements for each tool that you'll use simultaneously.

Smaller tools usually require 0- to 5-SCFM. Larger tools can require 10-SCFM or more.

• Most light-duty home compressors are designed to power only one tool at a time. Light-duty compressors generally have 90-PSI, which is typically sufficient for powering pneumatic tools for simple, household tasks.
• More powerful, professional-grade compressors may generate 150-PSI or higher and can handle multiple tools.

Air Compressor Tank Size

A smaller tank size is a good choice if you intend to use a tool intermittently. For example, tools that require only quick bursts of air drain the tank much more slowly. For tools like pneumatic brad nail guns or finish nail guns, a 2- to 6-gallon tank is sufficient.

If your pneumatic tool requires a high volume of continuous air, then you should consider a larger tank. It’s best to have a large enough tank with a compressor pump that exceeds the SCFM requirement of the tools. This will allow the compressor time to cool between cycles.

Air Compressor Pump Type and Features

There are two air compressor pump types: single and two-stage. You can also choose between oil-lubricated or oil-free. In addition, there are other pump features that can protect both you and the compressor from harm and unnecessary wear and tear.

Below are the types of air compressor pumps you can choose:

• Single-stage air compressors can have one or more cylinders producing compressed air at the same output pressure.
• Two-stage air compressors. The first-stage cylinder(s) feed air to a second-stage cylinder that further compresses the air. The second stage cylinder(s) typically increase the tank pressure to around 175-psi. The benefit is more air stored in the same size tank, allowing tools to run longer. This is useful for high-demand work, such as continuous tool operation in an auto shop.
• Oil-lubricated air compressors require oil to operate, just like a car or lawn mower engine. The oil lubricates the moving parts in the pump to prevent excessive wear. They are generally larger and heavier than oil-free models. Plus, oil must be monitored and changed to prevent premature failure.
• Oil-free air compressors typically use special piston rings. These rings are made from a material like what's used in non-stick frying pans and to lubricate the cylinder. Oil-free compressors are a much smaller, light and a popular choice for both homes and job sites.

Best Air Compressor Accessories

Once you've discovered the best air compressors for home use or workshop use, it's time to add a few key air compressor parts and accessories:

• Installing a pressure regulator on your air compressor will help you know precisely how much air flows from the compressor. You can easily adjust the pressure up or down according to the needs of the job.
• Trade out the air hose with a longer option for extended reach.
• Adding a desiccant dryer to the air compressor protects your equipment from the moisture contained in compressed air. Moisture can cause damage to pneumatic equipment over time.
• An air filter protects pneumatic tools from water, oil and dirt as you're using the air compressor.
• Air compressor combo kits include an air compressor with key accessories or a compatible pneumatic tool.

Air Compressor Features and Safety

When deciding between different types of air compressors, look for features like:

• An air-cooling system that cools pumping machinery and extends motor life.
• A thermal overload switch which automatically shuts off motor if it overheats, increasing tool life.
• A label stating that the unit meets the standards of the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) for high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
• A roll cage that protects the compressor from being crushed or battered on the job site.
• Air compressors with universal quick connectors make it easy to trade out tools.

After you've chosen the best air compressor for your needs, keep it performing well with these tips:

• Never exceed the recommended pressure for the job or the tool.
• With oil-lubricated compressors, always check the oil level to ensure sufficient lubrication.
• Make sure safety relief valves are not covered during use. Otherwise, air will escape automatically if the pressure is too high.
• After each use, open the drain to get rid of any moisture that's accumulated.
• Always consult your owner's manual for specifics.

Now you understand how to choose the best air compressor for your pneumatic tools. Start exploring accessories and extra features to make your projects even easier. Ready to choose a portable or stationary air compressor? Use The Home Depot Mobile App to locate products and check inventory. We'll take you to the exact aisle and bay.

Just need the best air compressor for one project? Consider tool rental to get your project done. Use a rented tool and then bring it back. There's no maintenance required or storage needed.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit High Pressure Air Compressor.

There are quite a few different kinds of air compressors. Naturally, certain types are better suited for certain workplaces, and choosing the wrong kind could hinder your productivity. 

Consider the following things before you purchase anything:

1. What Compressor size do I need?

The very first step of choosing a air compressor is to understand what size compressor you need. The correct size of a compressor depends on the task means to perform. Pick one is too small and it won’t get it job done. Choose one it is too large, and it will waste energy and could lead mechanical problems. Correctly sizing your compressor requires real data about your needs, not guesswork. Whether you’re upgrading your current compressor or designing a new system, ask a compressed air sales professional to conduct an air system audit to measure your actual demand.

If you’re planning for future capacity, keep in mind that a compressor should be sized to address actual demand. Instead of anticipating potential future demand by oversizing today, add a compressor when the time comes to provide flexibility and redundancy as your operation expands. Also keep in mind that process improvements often reduce air demand; you may be able to expand your operation without expanding air production.

2. What type of compressor do I need?

The next thing to do is to decide on the type of compressor you need for your application.  

There are two main types of compressors, piston compressor and rotary screw compressor. Piston compressor which are sometimes also called reciprocating air compressors, are the most economical and least expensive air compressors available. Rotary screw compressors are often the ideal choice for operations that require a constant compressed air supply.

3. Does air quality matter? Oil-Free Or Oil-Lubricated?

Generally, there are two basic categories of air compressors; oil-free or oil-lubricated. Oil-free air compressors don’t use oil and can help you ensure that your air quality is great. These are ideal for facilities where air quality is extremely important. On the other hand, oil-lubricated air compressors use oil to lubricate their parts. These machines are incredibly energy-efficient. Take some time to reflect on which type you prefer more. 

 To not overcomplicate the answer, your choice should be based on the application and process that the compressed air will be utilized in.

4. Understand the pressure and flow?

Compressed air flow is typically measured in cubic meter per minute (M3/min). Compressed air pressure is typically measured in pounds per square inch (Kpa) or barg. Think of flow as the ability to perform a process within an acceptable time frame, and pressure as the ability to support multiple processes at once.

5. What’s The Duty Cycle?

An air compressor’s duty cycle refers to how often the machine will run. Different models will have different cycles, which could affect your facility’s work.

6. How Much Space Will It Take?

Smartly using your available space is crucial if you want to stay organised and productive. Think about how much space you have allotted for commercial air compressors and try to find an air compressor that will be suitable for your worksite.

7. How Will It Be Installed?

Think about how your air compressor will be installed once you’ve purchased it. Will you install and set it up yourself, or will you hire someone else to do it? You should also consider how your product will be delivered and, if you are replacing an old one, how you will remove your old air compressor.

8. How Will It Be Maintained?

Always figure out the best way to maintain your new air compressor before you order it. Factor in the long-term maintenance cost if you are working on a tight budget. Good air compressors work well and aren’t a pain to maintain, so knowing how to take care of your air compressor before you have it is a good idea. 

After you purchase and receive your air compressor, remember to maintain and check it routinely. Well-maintained air compressors are less likely to break down than neglected ones and will last longer.

9. Initial vs. Overall Cost

When considering an air compressor, a primary concern should be: “How can I get the most amount of compressed air for the lowest overall cost?” Many consumers may consider only a small fraction of the life-cycle cost – primarily the initial cost of the machine, not realizing they will likely spend more in electricity the first year to run the machine than the purchasing price. That’s why, when comparing compressors, it’s important you examine all aspects of the costs associated!

10. Not Sure Where To Begin?

Start by analyzing your air system’s life-cycle costs! You can analyze your usage and potential cost savings by conducting a no-contact compressed air energy assessment. Best of all - it causes no harm or downtime to check.

Finally, it’s absolutely essential that you only buy your new air compressor from a reliable seller. Purchasing important products from companies who don’t care about quality can land you in hot water. 

Good sellers will always value the quality of their products and the satisfaction of their clients. So, it’s vital that you always make sure you are buying from reputable and experienced companies.

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