An air compressor is a very useful tool and a must have for any handyman or DIY enthusiast. These versatile machines can be used for a wide variety of applications, from inflating tires to running air tools. Choosing the right air compressor is much more difficult if you don't know exactly what you are looking for.
There are hundreds of different models and brands to choose from, which makes the task a little more daunting. To make matters even more complicated, these air compressors come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. There are several types of air compressors to choose from, from small pancake compressors to stationary industrial compressors.
To get the most out of your air compressor, you need to find the right type and brand. Once you've decided on a type that suits you best, you need to do a little more research to find the best brand. My point of contact for comparisons and reviews of air compressors is The DIY Hubby.
What type of air compressor will suit me best?
The applications for which you are using the compressor will determine the type of compressor you will need. Here is a list of the different types and who they are best for:
- Pancake Air Compressor: This type of compressor is usually small in size and is intended for home use. It is not designed for heavy work or long periods of time. Pancake air compressors are best for inflating tires, blow guns, and running smaller air tools.
- Portable Air Compressor: Contractors and craftsmen prefer this type of compressor because it is versatile and can be taken anywhere to get the job done. Portable models are compact in design and can be used for heavy-duty work on the construction site. This is also a great choice if you need a more powerful model for home use.
- Twin Stack Air Compressor: This is basically a portable compressor with two air tanks. The twin tanks allow more air storage, a longer run time and a better work cycle. As with the portable compressor, this type is the popular choice with contractors and craftsmen.
- Hot Dog Air Compressor: This type has a single horizontal air tank and is probably the most famous and widely used type of compressor. The hot dog type comes in a variety of sizes, making it suitable for almost everyone. Smaller models usually come with wheels to make them more portable. Larger hot dog compressors are typically floor-mounted and used in industrial settings.
- Upright Air Compressors: This type has a single vertical air tank and is mainly used in the automotive industry for spray painting and powering air tools.
How do I choose the right model?
Now that you know what type of air compressor you need, you need to find the right model. To get this right, you need to take a closer look at what you're going to be using it for. Make a list of all the air tools you want to run. All pneumatic tools have CFM and PSI values. These ratings basically indicate how much pressure and airflow a given air tool needs to operate at maximum efficiency.
Search through all of the pneumatic tools you have listed to find out which CFM and PSI requirements apply to each one. A quick google search will give you all the information you need. To find the best model, you need an air compressor that meets the highest CFM and PSI values of the air tools on your list. This means that you choose a model that will run all of your tools with maximum efficiency.
Which brand should i choose?
There are a number of very good brands to choose from when making the decision to purchase a new air compressor. My advice is to always do your research before investing in a power tool. When looking for the best brand, look for:
- Is it a well-known and reputable brand?
- What do consumers say about the brand's customer service?
- Does the brand have good online reviews?
- Is there a service center near me?
- What kind of guarantee do they offer?
All of the above are very important for research. This ensures that you are shopping with a good brand with good support and gives you peace of mind that something is going wrong.
Conclusion
Choosing the right air compressor shouldn't be difficult once you know what to look for. With the right knowledge and a little research, you can find an air compressor that is exactly tailored to your needs. The time you spend researching will be well worth it.
