It's essential to choose an air compressor that suits your needs and the work you want to do. Before you settle on your choice, you should compare the available types of compressors to select one that has the right features, including the motor type, air pressure and tank size.
We strongly recommend that you choose a compressor with a CFM (air volume capacity) higher than your tooling requirements to ensure your compressor's durability and proper operation.
Portable compressors
Ultra-light compressors, such as Metabo HPT's EC28M, generate low-noise and somewhat low CFM. They are ideal for finishing work and are easy to transport but avoid overusing them as their pumps are small. Battery-powered products, such as Milwaukee's 2840-20, also fall into this category.
Teflon piston compressors, such as Bostich's BTFP02012, are ideal for small residential jobs, but can be noisy. They are also less durable than compressors with pistons in oil. With a performance of approximately 2.5 CFM at 90 PSI, they are ideal for most small pneumatic tools that do not require continuous air flow.
Portable oil-fired compressors are the most efficient and quietest in their class. The MAC5200 is a very versatile unit with CFM from 6.5 to 90 PSI. This compressor is ideal for heavy-duty use or for two simultaneous basic uses.
Larger compressors
For mid-range gallon capacity and continuous tooling purposes, 15-gallon products are good options, such as Dewalt's D55168 or King's KC-2051H1 (20 gallons). These compressors are generally less mobile than small compressors, but most are equipped with wheels.
For heavy duty use or uses that require high airflow and high gallon capacity, 60-gallon compressors, such as Nortech's AT-560V, can be used by several people at a time and their CFM capacity makes them especially versatile.
The high-performance construction site compressors
Whether electric or gas powered, high-performance construction products are ideal for building contractors. Their format makes them very mobile despite their considerable weight. These very high-performance compressors of about 9 gallons with a CFM of 9 to 100 PSI are available in a variety of models to suit the needs of your crews on job sites. Rolair's 4090HK17-001 remains a good benchmark product in this category.
Maintaining your compressor
Regardless of the compressor you choose, it is important to perform regular maintenance to ensure its proper operation and increase its durability. To guide you in the maintenance of your compressor, consult our article on the subject.
Llooking for a compressor? Contact our team of experts for advice and recommendations.
