What makes a good air compressor?

Most people think that the more the price, the better it is. Even if to some extent this may be true, if you get one that is expensive but does not fulfill your need, it becomes less useful.

It is, therefore, safe to say that a good air compressor is one that works according to your purpose. Air compressors can perform different tasks at home, for instance, inflating your child’s bicycle, balls as well as fixing nails on a leaking rooftop.

For first-timers as well as professionals, here is a list of the best air compressors that could come in handy for your home garage or shop. Take a look at the comparison table to gauge what will work best for you.

Best Air Compressors for Home Garage in September, 2020

Porter Cable C2002 – Best Air Compressor to Inflate Car Tires

Features and specifications:

Six-gallon pancake Water drain valve Induction motor Oil-free compressor

Are you looking for a durable compressor? Choose Porter cable that is built in a pancake design of its tank. All the crucial components that you need are protected by a console cover and shroud, increasing its durability.

Powerful compressor with a high flow regulator for you to use at a high pressure increasing flexibility.

Its 120V amp makes it convenient for you to use it when it’s cold outside. All the components that come with the air compressor make it ideal for different purposes, such as fixing tires and nailers. A strong induction motor gives you a high performance for you to use without making the surrounding messy though oil spills. You can freely replace the brushes to use according to the type of task at hand. Feel free to share the compressor with a partner at work thanks to its air couplers.

The packaging comes with a manual that can be challenging for first-time users to understand due to the complicated break-in instructions.

For people who do not mind a high priced product, porter cable performs efficiently on various jobs. Its durability features make it worth its value.

Pros User-friendly

User-friendly Light-weight for easy movement

Light-weight for easy movement Durable

Durable An oil-free pump makes it easy to maintain

An oil-free pump makes it easy to maintain Two people can use it simultaneously Cons The compressor is noisy and vibrates hard on a floor

Bostitch BTFP02012 – Best for Beginners and Home Usage

Features and specifications:

Dual outlets Valve Oil-free pump 6-gallon capacity

Do you find air compressors a nuisance to your kids or neighbors when working in your home garage? Get this device that is manufactured with a 78.5dBA suitable for serene surroundings. It works well for a small task such as nail guns, tires as well as blowing out grates.

Bostitch accumulates pressure within minutes, making it run smoothly for you to use on different jobs.

This sturdy air compressor is solidly built, providing sufficient stability to avoid excessive vibrations. You can easily start it up in harsh conditions due to its motor that is high powered. It is fitted with a valve for ease in draining its tank and a high flow regulator that makes it perform as you desire. The pump of this Bostitch BTFP02012 compressor does not contain lots of oil; thus, it is easy for you to maintain it.

Do not judge this compressor based on the size before testing it out. It may be small but works well on light jobs. For anyone trying to use air compressors for the first time, this is an ideal choice.

Pros Reasonable price for you to afford the compressor.

Reasonable price for you to afford the compressor. Light-weight for easy carrying

Light-weight for easy carrying Quick charging and filling Cons The packaging does not include tubing in its kit.

Senco PC1010 – Perfect for Impact Wrenches

Features:

Induction motor Oil-free pump Air filter Regulator Breaker on its pump

Whether you are new to air compressors or a pro at using them, Senco hot dog compressor will make you enjoy a wide range of functions thanks to an efficient drive motor. You can enjoy finishing surfaces, painting as well as nailing areas that need to be renovated.

Unlike pancake compressors, Senco is made from a hot dog design thus does not vibrate your floor. It is manufactured to be an indoor compressor with rubber feet to minimize vibration.

Different from other air compressors, Senco contains an air intake filter allowing circulation of dry and clean air on its pump.

This instrument is equipped with an aluminum cylinder to give you service for years without corroding quickly. You can keep on renovating your home and do what you love with its one-gallon capacity.

A lube free pump makes you work without the interference of oil. The air compressor is comfortable to move around due to its cushioned grip. Its packaging comes with pressure gauges making it convenient for you to apply pressure according to the purpose.

The safety features, recovery time and durability of Senco makes it ideal for people who need to perform small tasks from home.

Pros Time-saving air compressor taking few seconds to pump and recover

Time-saving air compressor taking few seconds to pump and recover Large air capacity

Large air capacity Its weight makes it portable

Its weight makes it portable Its well-built design increases portability.

Its well-built design increases portability. The relieve valve makes it safe to use Cons Not meant for heavy-duty applications

California Tools CAT-1P1060S – Best Compressor for Nail Gun

Features:

Steel air tank – 1 gallon A motor-free from oil Pressure gauges Thermal overload shield

Feel free to fit your staple guns, airbrushes, and nail guns in this air compressor that takes seconds to recover. The compressor does not need you to put on ear protectors for it is not as noisy as others.

You can smoothly operate its air socket with one hand.

This product uses a single pistol pump design to give you a sweet time as you inflate tires or fix the screws on your child’s bed. This air compressor assures you of an extended life cycle as it is easy to maintain. The rubber feet on the base minimizes vibrations on different kinds of floors.

It also comes with a bar handle that increases balancing as you carry your air compressor. The handle also offers maximum protection to your components. You can easily tell the status of your tank as well as your pressure due to the dual gauges.

If you plan to get an air compressor to use it on occasional repair work, California air tools should be your choice.

Pros Works at both high and low temperatures

Works at both high and low temperatures Fewer pounds makes it easy for you to move around

Fewer pounds makes it easy for you to move around A significant pressure regulator increases accessibility. Cons You may find it hard to adjust its air pressure if you want a precise amount.

You may find it hard to adjust its air pressure if you want a precise amount. Its switch is not too friendly to use.

California 5510A air tools – Good Product under $200

Features:

Teflon coating rings Wheel Kit Dual piston Gallon capacity of 5.5 Universal connector

This long-lasting air compressor is made from aluminum to ensure that your air tank does not rust easily. Different from the rest, you will notice a larger air tank fitted in this compressor for you to it to run for long.

Its compressor motor enhances the life cycle by six times more than an average air compressor.

Its dual piston saves you time as it delivers air fast thus enhancing performance. High gallon capacity provides enough pressure for you to work on different parts of your car. You can cleanly operate your tools due to an oil-free pump in the air compressor. The lack of oil means that you won’t spend much maintaining your compressor. Purchasing this device saves you expenses of looking for air filter since it is included in your package.

This air compressor is suitable for light duty jobs such as nailers and tires. Look at the PSI of your tool to determine if this is ideal for you because it does not work well with impact wrenches and die grinders.

Pros Incorporation of wheels makes it easy to drag across the garage, and the weight enhances portability

Incorporation of wheels makes it easy to drag across the garage, and the weight enhances portability Quick filling and less recovery time makes it a life saver

Quick filling and less recovery time makes it a life saver Efficient heat dissipation Cons It comes with a short handle which inconveniences some users

It comes with a short handle which inconveniences some users The fittings are loose and require some modification for the compressor to work effectively

Dewalt DWFP55126 – Small Portable Air Compressor for Workshop

Features:

Plastic bar 6-gallon tank Universal Couplers Pressure regulators Cord wrap

Tired of air compressors that are costly yet do not live up to your expectations? Chose this simple to use and pocket-friendly Dewalt DWFP55126.

Its tank is more massive than other air compressors thus suitable for many applications like framing.

The pancake air compressor is easy to move by holding the plastic bar placed on top of it. The top part comes with easy to interpret controls for so that your children can inflate tires with it. It is guarded with a console cover, to protect your control from damage. Its motor enables you to use this air compressor in different weather conditions.

Dewalt contains high flow regulators to ensure that it performs as you desire by controlling the pressure. You can operate the compressor alongside your child working on different items thanks to two universal couplers. You can quickly use the ball valves to drain your tank and the cord wrap to store your compressor easily after you are done repairing.

People raise complaints about lose fittings of Dewalt that allows air to penetrate through the air hose. Ensure that your air compressor has all the parts tightly fixed so that can save yourself the efforts of asking for a replacement.

If you don’t intend to fix roof tiles above your home, you can choose dewalt for its low price and great features.

Pros You can easily lift it through the plastic bar

You can easily lift it through the plastic bar Safety features make it not wear out easily

Safety features make it not wear out easily Less noisy

Less noisy It is cheap

It is cheap Can be used simultaneously Cons More substantial than other air compressors

Makita MAC5200 – Good Quality Air Compressor under $500

Features:

3-horsepower motor Fitted with rugged wheels Hose ports Iron pump Gallon tank of 5.2

Makita manufacturers came up with yet another model to make it easy for you to enjoy your hobby. Before judging this model based on the price tag, look at its great features.

The hot dog compressor comes with a unique folding handle for you to drag the compressor around and store it conveniently without occupying excess space.

It is constructed from iron making it sturdy and durable. Its cast iron cylinder also works towards giving you excellent performance by increasing compression and faster recovery. You need to lubricate the parts with oil to allow smooth functioning at high-pressure levels. The oil drain ensures that you change oil conveniently for easy maintenance. Use the oil slight glass to access your ports. Its piston ensures that you receive high output enough for two users to use at a go.

If quality is much more important than price to you, you will enjoy Makita air compressor for robust site jobs. It is better to invest in a compressor that can handle complex chores rather than buying one that breaks within few hours.

Pros The wheels and handle make it portable

The wheels and handle make it portable There is an extra room to store your accessories

There is an extra room to store your accessories High power of up to 6.5 CFM

High power of up to 6.5 CFM Easy to access

Easy to access Does not produce irritating noise Cons The price is higher than most compressors.

The price is higher than most compressors. You need to keep on changing the oil to increase efficiency

California Air Tools 10020C – Suitable for Professionals

Features:

Wheels at the bottom area A rubber handle Oil-free piston Start valve Aluminum cylinder

If you are searching for an air compressor to use for significant tasks at a short period, look no further. This model gives you fewer decibels than other air compressors making it among the best compressors for daily use.

Its 10-gallon tank makes it stand out from the rest of the air compressors for you to have intense power and better circulation of air.

This model comes with a vertical structure so that you can lean it conveniently against surfaces. Make use of the start valve to work with fewer amps at the beginning of each task. Thanks to this valve, your motor can spin with ease due to an emission of air from the pump. You can, therefore, work in cold areas thanks to the no-load startup. Its thermal overload protector keeps your compressor safe from overheating.

Buying this product saves you more since you don’t waste any more money servicing and maintaining it. The safety features and warranty ensure that you have enjoyed the services of this California air tools compressor.

Pros Works silently at 70 psi

Works silently at 70 psi Its wheels enable you to push it on different surfaces

Its wheels enable you to push it on different surfaces The large tank enhances performance

The large tank enhances performance Starting it at any kinds of temperatures is easy because of its low voltage.

Starting it at any kinds of temperatures is easy because of its low voltage. The dual pistons are large. Cons Using it above raised areas is hard

Using it above raised areas is hard It is expensive.

Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressor – Quietest Choice for Home

Features:

Dual pistol pump It is fitted with wheels Rubber handle Induction motor

Wish you could paint faster with an air compressor that has reliable power? Campbell Hausfeld produces enough power of 125 PSI for such hobbies. You can fasten screws and do nailing using a comfortable compressor from a reputable company.

Less noise of 68dBA makes it ideal for indoor tasks.

Increase the performance of your automobile by choosing a compressor that has an oil-free pump and a strong induction motor. This compressor lets you enjoy durable components such as 8-gallon and dual piston. Your hands would be comfortable moving the air compressor around with a rubber fitted handle. The stability of the compressor is impressive, and its wheels also save you the burden of straining as you move it.

If you are searching for a less noisy air compressor that lets you work at night, Campbell Hausfeld is what you need. People have used this model for years with minimal complaints. This is evidence that the model delivers.

Pros Produces more air than standard air compressors do.

Produces more air than standard air compressors do. Heavy duty components assure you of years of service

Heavy duty components assure you of years of service You can use it for hours every day since it is very reliable

You can use it for hours every day since it is very reliable A quick filling tank helps you save time so that you don’t have to wait for air. Cons Even with the handle and wheels, it may be challenging to lift.

Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV – Best Air Compressor Under $100

Features:

Recoil Hose Blowgun Air Chuck Handle Pressure gauges Inflation adapter

Carry out numerous projects with an air compressor that is easy to use and provides you with all the accessories you need for your tasks.

All you tires whether your car’s or a son’s bicycle can benefit from the 3-gallon capacity of the air compressor due to high stored air power. You can also do airbrushing and brad nailing within minutes using this model.

Ten pieces of accessories are provided for you to start working immediately, thus convenient to use.

Manufactures of this model use a compact horizontal design for you to carry it around with ease. The handle also provides a strong grip for movement. You can effectively control the amount of pressure you need using the pressure gauges. The motor produces high output as its oil-less pump enables quick maintenance.

If you desire an air compressor for small jobs at a home garage or workshop that does not cost too much, consider this model. This is ideal for first-timers trying to fix their car tires. For those who don’t mind the noise as long as it is performing as expected, you will not find this instrument irritating. You can always work with earplugs, right?

Pros Its affordable price and plenty of accessories are appealing

Its affordable price and plenty of accessories are appealing Light-weight thus portable

Light-weight thus portable It is quick recharging with no leaks. Cons The air compressor is noisier comparing it to others

The air compressor is noisier comparing it to others Not very convenient for complex tasks

Best Air Compressor for Home Use – Buyer’s guide

Before we look at the considerations of a good air compressor, it is fair to discuss why you need an air compressor. This equipment functions by accumulating and compressing air in a tank to increase the pressure inside more than outside so that you can use this air to inflate tires or conduct spray painting.

Air compressors make your work more comfortable for you to avoid spending excess resources in people’ garage doing tasks that you can fix by yourself. They are cheaper to use and convenient to operate from home. You can quickly conduct any vehicle repairs with you own an air compressor. Roofing , flooring, and woodwork projects are all possible with an air compressor.

In case your fish pond or swimming pool is blocked, the pressure from this compressor would give you flashing water to fix the problem. With numerous purposes, an air compressor is a must-have for everybody.

Factors to consider when choosing the best air compressor for the home garage and shop:

Tools The kind of tools you need determines the type of air compressor you select. Airbrushing and inflating needs may go well with a particular air compressor. You may need to consider if you want your device for staple guns, nailers, and air impact wrenches. People use air compressors for different purposes. You need medium-duty compressors for your home garage. The type of air compressor These are different in terms of how they build pressure. For instance, piston air compressors require gas to function. Going for this type costs you more since you need to purchase more tools to work on different items. For your home needs, an air compressor with one piston would be ideal for your home needs. Choosing a portable product, on the other hand, works better with simple tools like guns to inflate tires. Size Small size air compressor is less tedious than a huge one in case you need to lift it above your roof to work on the tiles? If you don’t have lots of space in a squeezed garage, you can go for a small size air compressor. The tank size also determines how long you will use your compressor. Small jobs for your home needs go well with a small tank air compressor for you to switch it on and off as you complete one task and proceed to the next. Complex jobs, on the other hand, would go well with a large tank that allows you to use for a while. The source of power Most indoor activities would go well with an air compressor that uses electricity. In case you need it for outdoors, chose one that runs on gasoline to power it. Choose a gasoline unit if you are using two cylinders to achieve higher power than one barrel. In cases when you are working on a site, gasoline compressors give you more power thus, high performance. The noise of such compressors may not bother you since you would be using it on the field. Electricity compressors need to be less noisy as you use them in a home garage. The power source ensures that you don’t get limited in any situation when you need to use your air compressor. Stage options Consider the number of cylinders that you need for your air compressor. A single stage option refers to one cylinder air compressor. Most compressors for home usage require one tank. They only need a maximum of 120 PSI. Multi-stage, on the other hand, comes with two cylinders for pneumatic tools. Air compressed in the first cylinder goes further to the second tank to give you double pressure. When you need heat for pneumatic tools such as air sanders and grinders, a multi-stage air compressor would be better than a singer stage machine. Lubrication For long-term use, go for an oiled compressor. This gives you better performance compared to an oil-less air compressor. Even though oiled compressors need high maintenance and proper care, it is still the best for heavy-duty job demands. An oiled air compressor requires you to change the oil regularly. Come up with a schedule of adjusting oil as you frequently confirm the oil levels to avoid damaging your compressor. Occasional use requires an oil-less compressor that performs well for light jobs since you may not need high pressure. This does not necessarily require lots of efforts to maintain and are more durable since you only use them once in a while. These types are mostly Teflon coated and are lubricated permanently so that you don’t have to keep on changing the oil in them.

FAQ

What Is an Air Compressor Used For? An air compressor is a specific type of gas compressor and works as a pump. They filter gas through a pipe, which then goes into a machine. The amount of gas and the pressure at which it is pumped may vary depending on the type of air compressor and what it’s being used for. There are quite a few applications for an air compressor. It can be used to circulate heat in a refrigerator or air conditioner. It can be used in welding projects or manufacturing jobs. An air compressor can fill pneumatic tires or supply power to pneumatic tools. Most of the time in a home garage, an air compressor is used to power up different tools, such as drills. Another common home use is for filling car tires.

What Are the Different Types of Air Compressors? If you’re new to air compressors, then you might find it confusing to sift through all of the available options. It’s not as simple as saying you want an air compressor and then picking up the first one you see at the store. A variety of models and styles are available, and they all offer their unique capabilities and benefits, as well as disadvantages. For starters, here are some of the most common kinds of air compressors. First is a centrifugal air compressor. This works by spinning an impeller and translating the energy produced by the impeller into the air. The rotating impeller helps to provide a constant flow of air. This creates a higher volume of air in this type of compressor as well as air pressure up to 1200 psi. Even though the upfront costs can be a bit high, these air compressors are highly efficient. Next is a reciprocating air compressor, which increases the air pressure by decreasing the volume of air. In other words, it uses positive displacement with the help of a piston system. Reciprocating air compressors are easy to install and tend to be a more economical solution compared to centrifugal compressors. That being said, reciprocating air compressors have a complex design, so if something goes amiss, it can be expensive to repair it. Finally, a rotary screw air compressor has a pair of rotors within it that compresses the air using positive displacement. What makes this different from a reciprocating air compressor is that it doesn’t use valves. Rather, it has a coiled system that is cooled by cold air or water. This prevents overheating, enabling a rotary screw air compressor to tackle more heavy-duty projects and work for extended periods. They also tend to be affordable and easy to install, although they don’t last as long as reciprocating or centrifugal air compressors.

Which Air Compressor Is Best? This depends on what your intended use is. What are you going to operate with your air compressor? Maybe you’re going to use it to fill your car tires, or perhaps you need it to power up a heavy-duty drill or nail gun. First, consider CFM, or Cubic Feet per Minute of airflow. The higher the CFM, the more air that will flow through the compressor each minute, and the more powerful it will be. You’ll also want to think about the size and price. Decide what your budget is and how big or small you want the air compressor to be. There’s no right or wrong answer here; just what pertains to your situation. Also, keep in mind that some air compressors are oil-based while others are not. An oil-based compressor will be more powerful and won’t produce as much noise. On the other hand, these compressors can be quite pricey and require more attention to maintenance.

What Voltage Do I Need? Again, this will depend on what you’re using the air compressor for and the size of the unit. Typically, air compressors in a home garage are going to be on the smaller side and will probably run on 110 volts. This is pretty standard, but, of course, your air compressor might be a bit large and therefore run on a higher voltage.

How Much Air Do I Need to Power My Compressor? Generally speaking, the air tools that you will commonly find in a home garage require between 70 and 100 psi. To be on the safe side, you should check the user manual for whatever tool you are powering up with the air compressor.

How Long Does an Air Compressor Last? It depends on how often you’re using it. Air compressors have the potential to last for years and years, provided that you take good care of your unit. For instance, if your air compressor has an air filter, then you should ideally be cleaning it every week or so, especially if you use it a few times a week. If you’re using an oil-based air compressor, then the oil should be changed every 7,000 hours or so. All that being said, it will also depend on the type of air compressor you’re using. A reciprocated air compressor might need more routine maintenance than a centrifugal air compressor. Your best bet is to read the instruction manual and see what the manufacturer suggests in terms of replacement parts, oil changes, and lifespan of the system.

Can an Air Compressor Replace Other Power Sources? Of course. There are a few reasons that an air compressor may be better than other power sources. First of all, compressed air is safer because it doesn’t depend on electricity. Therefore, there is a reduced risk of injury and electric shock. Another benefit is that air compressors tend to be more lightweight and user-friendly. They can also be easier to transport and they often come at lower prices than other power sources. In terms of maintenance, an air compressor is a solid choice, as it doesn’t have the same hydraulic tools as electrical power sources. Finally, air compressors are much less likely to overheat.

﻿ ﻿ ﻿

Final thoughts

Reduce the frustrations that come with tools such as hammers and pumps with an air compressor that works within minutes. These machines were invented for us to save time and use less efforts at home as we experiment with different jobs.

Most homeowners have found six-gallon compressors much efficient that small sized gallons. Use the list discussed above and choose an air compressor that provides the necessary pressure for a particular task.

Hope you will find your best air compressor for home garage and shop usage.

Related: