The best air compressor can make your life easier and give you a quick return on your investment. The only challenge you are going to face is choosing the Best Air Compressor. The good news is, you have come to the right place where we review the best air compressors to guide in making an informed and best buy. Some of the major factors to consider when buying your air compressor are the types of projects you are working on, working pressures, duration of operation and the portability of the air compressor unit. For most projects that can be done with portable units, you will tend to go for compact and easy to handle air compressor models.

Best Air Compressor Reviews

In our reviews, most units are sufficiently powered to handle most projects done by medium and small businesses as well as homes. However, there are a few ultra-portable units meant for light duty use. We recommend those for home users who need a unit they will only use for light duties periodically, such as painting in your garage, inflating your vehicle’s tires, or washing your car. Moreover, they are all electric powered, which is in line with the modern day clean energy campaign. While each one may have its own strengths and weaknesses, it is important to know what you want your air compressor to do. With that in mind, you will be able to find a suitable fit from this list

1. DEWALT-D55146 Best Air Compressor for Home Use

The DEWALT-D55146 offers 200 PSI and a 4.5-gallon tank to give you maximum convenience when working. At 200 PSI, you get more working pressure of about 80% more than what is offered by most air compressors. Since the PSI feature and tank are not upgradable, buying this unit will ensure that you do not regret your purchase once you start working.

With a rating of 5.0 SCFM at 90 PSI, this unit recovers quite fast once you exhaust its tank while working. For you, it means you don’t get delayed as you work on your projects. Without such a fast recovery rate, it would mean you have to limit yourself to very small projects. It also means that if you turn it on while working, you will never lose pressure. This being a dual connection device, you are assured of being able to work as a team continuously and throughout the day.

One of the reasons for going for a small unit is because you want an air compressor that’s more portable and easy to store. It’s with that in mind that the DEWALT-D55146 is designed with a vertical stand, and a collapsible handle. That allows you to exploit vertical space by transporting it in a vertical position as well as storing it vertically. Moreover, it comes with 10-inch non-flat tires that make transportation around the site easy and fast.

Why It’s the Best Air Compressor for Home Use

It’s possible that you will be using the DEWALT-D55146 in a home setting or office environment to work on renovation projects. In that case, you will be glad to know it has a low operational noise level at only 78 dBA. Furthermore, this unit has been designed using the latest efficient high pressure (EHP), which allows this unit to have a prolonged motor and pump life.

Who can use this unit? This unit is designed for all application that require a quality air compressor device. Whether you need it for small framing carpentry jobs, for your roofing nailer, or even for remodeling jobs, the DEWALT-D55146 Best Air Compressor for Home Use will not let you down. Other uses for this compressor unit include trim carpenter, sheathing and decking, deck building, and demanding nailing applications.

One other important feature of this unit is that it has a maintenance and oil free pump. That makes it the right air compressor for home use because you don’t have to worry about service it. You don’t need any power adapters to use this unit because it is designed to connect to a 120 Volt electric wall outlets.

Highlighted Features

• 200 PSI maximum tank storage
• 10-inch non-flat foam tires
• 0 Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (SCFM) at 90 PSI
• Only 78-dBA operational noise level
• 5 Gallon Tank
• 120 Volt Electric
• Dual connections

Pros

• Easy to use and portable
• Designed for one to two users
• Fast pressure recovery
• High working air pressure
• Low noise level
• It’s easy to store and transport

Cons

• It’s not designed for heavy industrial use.

2. Viair 00088 88P Best Air Compressor for Home Garage

The Viair 00088 88P is a Portable Compressor that offers a maximum working pressure of 120 PSI, and a free flow of 1.47 CFM at 0 PSI. It draws maximum amperage of 20 Amps, and can be powered by the car battery. It’s designed for inflating sedans, SUVs, trucks, and small ATVs as long as their tires don’t exceed 33 inches in size, or need pressures exceeding 120 PSI. You can connect it directly to the battery using its alligator clamps, but you have to keep it connected to the battery at all times.

The Viair 00088 88P comes with accessories that include an LED power indicator, 16 feet hose, 10 feet power cord, and a 3-piece inflation tip kit. Anyone who owns a car and has a 12-volt battery can operate this unit, which makes it ideal for servicing your tires. It’s recommended that you check your tire pressure at least once a month with this unit, you can be able to do it and inflate it if the pressure has dropped.

Why It’s Best Air Compressor for Home Garage

You can monitor the tire pressure using the gauge mounted on top of this unit. You just connect the unit to your tire, then switch it off to read the incoming presser from the tire. With this unit, you don’t have to go to the gas station to check your pressure of even inflate your tires. Moreover, you can check your pressure any time of the day and month, such as before you leave for work. The best time to check the tire pressure is in the morning when it’s still cold. Once the tires get heated, they tend to expand and give you the wrong pressure reading.

If you need an oil-less air compress that offers needs to be powered by a fractional horsepower DC source, you should consider the Viair 00088 88P. It designed for on road and off-road use, and you don’t need a wall outlet to use it. That’s why it’s among the top rated portable air compressors. Overall, if you need a portable air compressor for inflating your car tires, then this is the right air compressor for you.

Highlighted Features

• Draws only 20 Amperes
• 47 CFM Free Flow
• Inflates up to 33 inch Tires
• Connects directly to 12-Volt battery

Pros

• Doesn’t need lubrication
• Use it from anywhere
• Highly portable
• Use it to check tire pressure

Cons

• Only tires measuring 33″ or less.

3. Industrial Air ILA3606056 Best Industrial Air Compressor

The Industrial Air ILA3606056 is a 60-gallon industrial air compressor uses oil lubricated pump and powered by a 240-volt induction motor. It is made of cast iron to give it additional strength and reduce vibrations. It has a twin cylinder for storage of compressed air, and is equipped with an ON and OFF switch as well as a pressure gauge switch. The 60-gallon tank receives its air supply from the twin cylinder pump, which ensures that it can power even the worst “air hog” tools.

The Industrial Air compressor uses 155-psi twin cylinder pump that is able to deliver 11.5 CFM at 90 psi, which is enough to run any pneumatic tool in your workshop. The pump that has a cast iron block is designed to run for years, thanks to the oil lubrication design. The oil lube pump not only runs quietly, but it doesn’t overheat as well. Some of the notable features that make this air compressor pump stand out are aluminum valve plate and head, stainless steel valves, automotive grade bearings, oil-level sight glass, and a 12″ cast iron flywheel used to balance its rotations.

What Makes It the Best Industrial Air Compressor

An electric induction motor that’s rated 240 volts, and can produce up to 3.7 running horsepower powers the Air compressor. Moreover, it’s capable of adapting to lower voltage power sources ranging from208 volts to 240 volts without need to rewire it. It gets shipped with synthetic oil for first use, which helps to extend its life and optimize its performance. Once the 60-gallon tank gets filled to its full capacity and the motor is running, this air compressor unit is able to power your tools continuously. Some of the popular tools that can be powered by this unit include paint spray guns, impacts, ratchets, hammers, and other similar tools.

When it comes to choosing an industrial air compressor, there are many factors to consider. However, the most important are the PSI, tank capacity, and CFM, all of which the Industrial Air ILA3606056 has excellent rating, making it the Best Industrial Air Compressor. With a maximum PSI of 155, a tank size of 60 gallons, and CFM of 11.5 at 90 PSI, it is definitely worth its price tag.

Highlighted Features

• 5 CFM at 90 psi
• 4 CFM at 40 psi
• 60-gallon Tank ASME
• 155-PSI maximum pressure
• 208-240 volts
• 7 HP
• 208-240 volts induction motor
• UL and CSA certified.

Pros

• Good working pressure
• It works with multiple voltages.
• The lubricated pump runs quietly
• Designed for industrial use
• It ships with synthetic oil
• It can operate all kinds of pneumatic tools for longer

Cons

• As you may expect with a powerful air compressor, it’s louder than a smaller and less powerful air compressor unit.

4. Briggs & Stratton Top Rated Portable Air Compressors

The Briggs & Stratton is a 1.8-Gallon air compressor that runs on a quiet power technology. Unlike other models, the Briggs & Stratton 074026-00 is 80% quieter even when it’s operating at its maximum capacity, and it lasts 3 times longer than other models. It’s designed for in-home projects, and has additional features that make it easy to use, such as the large regulator and a quick connect coupler.

A quiet operation makes this air compressor ideal for renovation projects because neighbors will not complain of noise. Moreover, if there is any occupant who isn’t part of the renovation team, they won’t feel stressed, thanks to its quiet operation. The sturdy construction makes it last three times more than other models, which allows you to get more value for your money.

When it comes to operating this unit, it will give you the feel that you are dealing with a modern air compressor. You don’t have to worry about air leakages, thanks to the quick connect coupler. You will therefore be able to quickly setup your connections and get to work. Moreover, the large regulator gives you enough room to enjoy working with various pressure levels. If you are dealing with projects where precision is crucial to get the perfect finish, then the large regulator becomes indispensable.

One of the special features that allow this air compressor to work optimally without becoming annoyingly loud is the four-pole induction motor that runs at 1700 RPM. The second feature is the use of two pumps. The two features work together to ensure they distribute air is uniformly, which prevents it from making disorienting noise. Overall, using this air compressor means that you won’t be experiencing the disorienting noise of an air compressor.

What Makes It a Top Rated Portable Air Compressors

The Briggs & Stratton is able to start even when it’s cold, thanks to its motor that doesn’t require high amperage to start spinning. If you are generating your own power, that becomes a welcome feature because you don’t have to switch off other appliances to start. Moreover, it operates with minimal vibration, which is welcome when working in residential areas where such vibration may cause discomfort to neighbors.

The Briggs & Stratton Air Compressor 074026-00 is ideal for powering a variety of pneumatic tools such as spray guns, hammers, sprayers, saws, sanders, tire inflators, pump tires, build a deck, use it to repair your home’s roof, car, truck, and even remodel your house. Lastly, it’s design is compact, which means you can store and transport it with ease. If you were looking for a top rated portable air compressors, then this is the right compressor for you.

Highlighted Features

• Protective reinforced frame
• Uses an Oil-free pump
• Equipped with metallic control panel
• Easy to use regulator knob
• You can wrap its power cord for easy storage
• It’s driven by 0.75 HP electric motor
• Limited vibration
• It’s 80% Quieter at 60 dB
• Rated 1.8 CFM at 90 PSI
• Has 3X Longer life than other models

Pros

• It’s easy to operate
• Compact design makes it easy to store.
• Comes with big wheel that make it highly portable
• You can operate it causing excessive noise pollution.

Cons

• It’s louder than smaller and less powerful units.

5. California Air Tools 5510SE Best Shop Air Compressor

The California Air Tools 5510SE is an ultra-quiet air compressor equipped with a 5.5-gallon aluminum tank, and powered by a 1.0hp electric motor. It’s oil-free and doesn’t require heavy maintenance to operate. It’s equipped with a thermal overload protector, and is designed to have longer continuous operation periods. The unit is also designed to resist rusting and easy to transport and store. If you need an air compressor for your shop, the California Air Tools 5510SE is worth consideration.

The quiet operation and longer run times make this air compressor ideal for indoor workshop use. You don’t have to wear protective gear when working with this unit. Moreover, if you are working from your backyard or basement, you don’t have to worry about your neighbor making a noise complaint. You can therefore work overtime and finish your projects in a timely and cost effective manner.

Best Shop Air Compressor

At a maximum pressure of 120 PSI, and 310 CFM at 40 PSI, and 2.20 CFM at 90 PSI, this unit is among the best that you can buy for to get a quiet operation. While that pressure isn’t on the higher side as some of the other units we have reviewed, it still sufficient for single users to work without interruption. The aluminum air tank is a plus because you don’t have to worry about rust weakening it after paint chips off. That makes this unit ideal for use in coastal areas where the salty environment makes rust a big issue for businesses.

The California Air Tools 5510SE has an electric motor that runs at 1680 RPM, which allows it to create less wear and noise. Before it starts to experience any wear, it will run continuously for 3,000 plus hours, which a lot more than the 500 hours you get with other models. Overall, you will find that the California Air Tools 5510SE is among the best shop air compressor for small shops and even for home use.

Highlighted Features

• It’s oil-free
• 10 CFM at 40 PSI
• 20 CFM at 90 PSI
• Has an extra-large piston
• Its motor is ETL certified
• The Motor operates at 110 V and 60 Hz
• It uses Teflon Coated Rings
• 1680 RPM
• 4-Pole Motor

Pros

• It has a large aluminum 5.5 Gallon
• A long life of over 3,000 hours
• Compact and lightweight design
• It operates quietly

Cons

• This isn’t and industrial grade air compressor

6. California Air Tools 8010 Best Air Compressor for Air Tools

California Air Tools 8010 Ultra Quiet & Oil with a 1.0 horsepower Steel Tank Compressor is an 8-gallon silver air compressor that produces 60 dB of noise. Its low noise production makes it ideal for home use. It is an oil-free pump which means it requires little maintenance. It weighs 54 lbs making it easy to carry around. The device works best at different temperatures, uneven temperatures, and where noise is a major concern.

Highlighted features

• 120 PSI maximum working pressure
• 0 horsepower motor operating at 1680 RPM
• Life cycle of 3000+ hours
• 60 decibels noise level
• 0 horsepower

Pros

• Great compressor designed to last for long
• Low noise production
• Works in almost any work environment
• Portable and lightweight
• Manufacturer offers limited service warranty

Cons

• The handles are not well designed to fit all users

7. Campbell Hausfeld DCO80500 Best Stationary Air Compressor

The Campbell Hausfeld DCO80500 Quiet Air Compressor is designed to last for long with up to 50 percent noise reduction. It is an oil-free pump with an induction motor that enhances its performance. It is one of the quietest compressors with a 68-decibel level and thus the perfect air compressor to use at home or any environment where noise is a concern. The air compressor can be used with a wide array of tools such as a portable air inflator, pressure washers, and many more. It has a reliable power production of the maximum pressure of 125 PSI, making it perfect for a wide array of tasks ranging from DIY projects to industrial tasks.

The 8-gallon compressor has a horizontal hot dog tank which takes less space. Also, it is designed for a user-friendly experience. On top of that, it runs on 120-volt household current. It also comes with additional accessories such as an air hose, inflation gun, 17-piece accessory kit, gauge, and chuck. Being a portable air compressor, it is conveniently designed to move around. It has durable and large wheels with a steel handle grip for the ease of moving it.

Highlighted Features

• 68-decibel noise level
• Oil-free maintenance pump
• 125 PSI maximum pressure
• 120-volt current
• 4 CFM@90 PSI
• Single stage pump
• Portable air compressor
• Electric -powered

Pros

• Has a regulator and gauge that allows easy monitoring of the line pressure and tank
• Easy to maintain since it is oil free
• It is a quiet compressor ideal for environments where noise is a concern
• It is ideal for different craft projects
• Has large wheels and handles that make it easy to move around

Cons

• Sometimes, the handle wobbles

8. Makita MAC5200 Best Air Compressor for Tires

Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor is a cast iron pump compressor with the piston and big bore cylinder designed to improve its efficiency and recovery time. It comes with a 3.0 HP enabling its motor to produce 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI for improved efficiency. Its oil-lubricated pump that allows it cool efficiently after running for a long period. It comes with a removable durable iron cast cylinder for easy maintenance. The iron cast also helps reduce the wear and tear effect, thereby extending the compressor’s shelf life.

The compressor also comes with rugged wheels for ease of movement. It has an easy storage design, thanks to its folded handle. You do not have to worry about storage since it has an in-built compartment section that holds the compressor’s associated fittings and components. It also has tool hangers that hold the tools that are not being used. Its large automotive style makes it ideal for an industrial setting. The air filter is designed to increase its air intake making it more efficient. Regular maintenance is easy, thanks to the oil sight glass. You can monitor the oil drain without opening up the entire unit. Also, it has a finned discharging tube thathelps reduce the moisture and dissipate the heat. It has a roll cage construction that protects the motor assembly and pump.

Highlighted Features

• 0 HP
• 5 CFM @ 90 working PSI
• 2-gallon tank
• Electric powered
• Versatile range of applications

Pros

• Has a built-in thermal overload that offers additional protection to the motor
• It has an oil sight glass that promotes easy, fast, and efficient maintenance
• A convenient oil drain at the pump’s front for easy access
• Has a built-in storage compartment
• Rugged wheels for ease of movement and traction

Cons

• Has a small tank size which uses up energy quickly
• You need to drain the pump frequently for improved performance

9. Senco PC1131 Best Air Compressor for Home Garage

The Senco PC1131 Air Compressor with 2.5 HP and 4.3 Gallon tank air compressor is ideal for different tasks, ranging from framing to finishing. It generates 4.4 CFM which makes it productive and efficient. Its well-designed oil splash and induction motor that extends its durability, making it a favorite of professional contractors. It has a direct drive motor and comes with standard equipment such as the pressure gauge, and a universal regulator.

Highlighted Features

• CSA approved
• 14 amps
• Oil splash designed to last for long
• Cast iron pump type
• Electric-powered
• 5 HP
• 3-gallon tank
• 4 cfm @100 PSI
• Twin-stack horizontal cylinders

Pros

• It is designed to last for long thanks to its oil-splash design
• Has a twin-stack horizontal tank for improved efficiency
• It has a direct drive motor

Cons

• It is a bit noisy
• The instructions for the set-up and installation need to be more clear
• Does not start in cold weather

10. Bostitch BTFP02012 Best Budget Air Compressor

Are you looking for one of the best pancake air compressors in the market? The Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150  PSI Oil-Free Air Compressor is an oil-free and long lasting pump that requires minimal maintenance. The 6-gallon pancake tank is known for its high-efficiency motor that works well even in cold weather. It also comes with a high flow regulator and couplers designed to maximize the performance of the air compressor. It has 78.5-decibel operation level which is slightly loud. The unit weighs 29 lbs making it easy to carry around and store. It is ideal for home and professional users and comes with a variety of models. You can choose the compressor or a third tool compressor kit.

Highlighted Features

• 29 lbs
• High motor efficiency
• 6-gallon size tank
• Oil-free pump
• Electric power supply
• Comes with two female couplers

Pros

• It has no issues with air leakage
• Portable and easy to move around
• It works with a wide range of pneumatic tools
• Offers a good and consistent pressure
• It is oil-free making it less maintenance
• Its pancake compressor that is efficient and saves space

Cons

• Somehow noisy
• It may leak after using it for sometime

Air Compressors Types

There are different classifications of the best air compressors for air tools. The reciprocating and rotary screw compressor is the major classification. What is the difference between the two?

The Reciprocating Compressor

This type of compressor has one or more compressors to compress air. The pistons have an up and down movement that compresses that air inside the tank. They may be a high or low pressure depending on the size of the tank. They are the perfect fit for intermittent use such as nailing in construction sites, garages, and for DIY projects.

The Rotary Screw Compressor

The rotary screw compressors compress the air with to screws and rotors that rotate in different directions. The tank receives and stores the trapped air. The rotary screw compressors can be used continuously and are ideal for industrial and commercial machines.

Other types of air compressors include:

Stationary air compressors are bulky and non-portable devices ideal for garages and workshops. They have a high- horse and large storage tank that allows usage for long periods without interruption. They have vertical cylinders that helps reduce the floor space that they occupy.

Portable compressors tools are light-weight and have smaller tanks. They come with handles and wheels that make it convenient to move them around. Moreover, they are perfect for light tasks such as powering nail brushes and airbrushing. They come in various styles and models such as:

• Pancake – have flat and round storage tanks.
• Hot dog design- with horizontal designs and a single tank
• Twin-stack design with two cylindrical and horizontal tanks. The stack design helps save space.
• The wheelbarrow design compressor has two cylindrical tanks, wheels, and holders for ease of movement

Single Stage Vs. Two Stage Compressors

Single stage compressor

A single air compressor cylinder sucks in in the air. The trapped air is compressed into a single stroke at about 120 PSI before moving to the storage tank. The compressed air becomes an energy reserve for the air compressor.

Two-stage compressor

It has two storage tanks and bears some similarity to the single stage compressor. However, the air goes from the bigger piston, then to the smaller piston, and finallyto the storage tank. The two-stage compressor works well with high powered tools.

Benefits of Using an Air Compressor

There are various power sources that one can use. However, what makes using an air compressor stand out from rest. The use of air compressors has become common in the recent past at homes and in industrial settings such as garages. Here are a few valid reasons:

• Lightweight and ergonomic tool

Air tools are light-weight and small in size compared to the mains or battery-powered tools. Also, they are fixed to one central power which makes them more effective to use.

• Safer compared to electricity

There are certain situations where one cannot use electric-powered tools because of hazards such as electrocution or risk of electrical fires. Fortunately, air-powered tools have no electrical components therefore reducing electrical fails or fire hazards. If your working area is damp, or there are some combustible gases, the use of air compressors tools come in handy.

• It is economic

The air powered tools tend to be cheaper than electric ones. It creates an economic advantage to the commercial users since it is easy to install. It is also easy to upgrade to new tools and the tools have less maintenance, resulting in less or no downtime at all.

Best Air Compressors Buying Guide

What are some of the factors one should consider as they consider buying an air compressor? Besides the budget, here are few other factors:

• CFM requirements

The air compressor should produce enough air to power the tools. It is important to buy an air compressor that will meet your work needs. For instance, if you will use power tools such as a spray gun or an airbrush kit, you will not need a tool with a high CFM range. Similarly, you will need a tool with a high CFM for industrial and commercial settings.

• Tank size

The compressors come in different tanks sizes. The tanks range from 6 liters to 5000 liters and above. Choose a compressor with a tank size that can meet your performance needs. Having a large tank gets the work done efficiently and continuously without breaking down. A small tank would be perfect for light tasks.

• Oil vs. Oil-less compressors

The oil-less compressor is contaminant –free and requires minimal maintenance. It comes with pre-lubricated parts and has no contaminants. It is ideal for light and medium tasks. The standard or oiled compressors require oil that runs the pistons. However, you need to change the oil regularly to avoid causing damage to the unit. Also, they tend to have a lot of contaminants because of the oil. They are perfect for industrial and commercial settings since they can run for longer continuous periods.

• Intended usage

The compressors have different warranties depending on the usage. If you are using your compressor for professional or semi-professional users, the manufacturer offers a limited warranty period. However, those using the air compressors for DIY or domestic use might have different warranty needs for their tools.

Factors That Affects Air Compressor’s Functionality and Efficiency

There are some critical aspects that govern how the air compressors and what affects their productivity and functionality. Here are a few aspects every air compressor user should understand:

• The Required Air Flow

The air compressor requires certain cubic per feet (CFM) standards that enable them to function optimally. The smaller air tools need about 0-5 CFM and 10 or more for the larger tools.

How do you calculate your CFM requirements?

The CFM rate determines how much energy is needed to power your tools. To know how much energy, you need:

Find the required CFM of your air tools from its manual or online.

Do you intend to several tools at one? If yes, you need to add the individual CFM value of each tool. Most of the DIY compressor tools are designed to run a single tool at once as opposed to the commercial compressors.

If you want to find the minimum CFM of your compressor, multiply your tools CFM by 1.2

For example, a spray gun has 6 CFM, multiply that by 1.2 to give you 7.2 CFM. It means you will need a 7.2 CFM air compressor to run the spray gun.

However, that is a rough guide. Larger compressors bearing higher CFM values and have large tanks give a better performance and can be used continuously without breaking down.

• Preventing Any Air Loss

Sometimes, your best air compressor may be losing air through the hose fittings, air hoses, lubricators, and filters. Losing air affects the performance of the air compressors. If you intend to run the air tools place them at a distance far away from the actual compressor. Additionally,ensure all the fittings are tight to avoid any air loss. If possible, invest in a long hose with a tight fit.

• The Working Pressure

The pressure generated from the air compressor’s tank is measured in PSI units. Most of the compressors have a working pressure of 115 PSI which is ideal for running hobby and DIY air tools. Some of the commercial compressors have a working PSI as high as 145. It is important to check the working pressure of the tool before commencing work.

• The Tank Size

The tank size affects the performance of the compressor. Having a large tanks means the compressor will work for a long time and produce an efficient performance. A small tank gets depleted easily. However, the rule of the thumb is to buy a tank size that suits your compressor needs. For instance, a 6-liter spray gun is ideal for a DIY or hobbyist and would not be economical in a garage or workshop.

To find out your air compressors tank size, multiply your tool’s CFM by 6. For instance, you are using an impact wrench of 8 CFM (8*6=48). You will need a 48-liter compression tank.

• Oil Vs. Oil-Less Compressors

Standard or oiled compressors need lubricating oil so that the pistons run effectively. It requires regular maintenance by changing the oil on a regular basis or it may cause irreversible damage to the unit. Also, they tend to be heavy and are less quiet.

The oil-less air compressors require no lubrication as the pistons are permanently pre-lubricated. It also requires less maintenance since there is no regular oil change needed. It is also lightweight since it has fewer parts in general.

The oiled compressors are suitable for industrial and commercial purposes. They are durable and can run continuously without stopping or breaking down. The oil-less air compressors do not have a long lifespan and are common with light and medium tasks.

• Power Source

Petrol and powered compressors can be set anywhere without hindrance making them perfect for professional and domestic use. They come in handy where there is no electricity or situations where using electricity would be difficult or risky.

Air Compressor Safety Guidelines

Safety is one of the concerns when dealing with air compressors. It is important that everyone stays safe and avoids potential accidents and injuries. Any small mishandling of the air compressor might result in damage to the unit or grievous harm to the user.

Here are safety tips that all air compressors users should comply with:

• Let skilled and professional users handle the machine and its peripheral equipment
• Do not inhale the intake air as it contains contaminants such as carbon monoxide that is hazardous to our health.
• Do not allow the tank to be rusty as it is likely to combust
• Be on the lookout for the air compressor’s voltage. See if it there are repairs needed
• Change your air compressor oil to avoid causing irreversible damage to the unit
• Connect your air compressor to the power source before turning on any pneumatic tool
• Position your compressor in a stable position and keep a safe distance from any moving part.
• Do not touch any moving part
• Do not allow the cords and hoses to hang around loosely on the floor or aisles. It could cause someone to trip and cut the power supply
• Check the air source regularly to ensure it is working as it should
• Conduct regular maintenance services for the air compressor and its parts

Conclusion

Air compressors are now common and are considered as real life savers. They help us inflate our flat tires and make spray painting easy and effortless. However, it is important to understand that there are different types of air compressors and that affects their performance. Even when choosing an air compressor, it is crucial to consider the intended use. Understanding how the air compressors work guides you when making a purchase. Issues such as CFM, size tank, the maximum working pressure and other factors influence the air tool’s performance.While at it, pay special attention to the safety guidelines issued by the manufacturers. Avoid touching any moving parts and ensure there are no loose or hanging cords that might cause them to trip. Also, ensure that only skilled personnel operate the tools. The article has also reviewed some of the best air compressors based on consumer reports.