An air compressor and mating air tools can do an amazing amount of work around your home and shop. Regardless of whether your chores include woodworking, metalworking, mechanical jobs or even simple home chores, a compressor is the tool. Many chores can also be done at a lower cost than with comparable electric tools. The initial cost of the air tool is lower, and the average life-span is longer. Here are some considerations when choosing an air compressor. Following these guidelines will help make it easy for you to do it like a pro. Before you purchase an air compressor, first, you need to consider what type of projects you plan to do. Air compressors are used for a wide range of applications, from inflating tires to operating a factory. It's helpful to consider all the projects you plan to do, and all the tools you plan to use, both now and in the future. Some air tools require more air (CFM) than other types of tools. Try to plan ahead and think of the tools you may use in the future when choosing an air compressor. For inflation, fastening, tire inflation and trim/fastening projects, a smaller, portable air compressor (up to six gallons) is recommended. For auto and home maintenance projects such as drilling, removing bolts and spray painting, a horizontal or vertical tank compressor (7-29 gallons) is recommended. For auto restoration and woodworking chores, consider a larger compressor (30 gallons or more). Finally, for shop air such as facility operation, a larger compressor (60+ gallons) is recommended. If you need a compressor for industrial application, then you may want to consider a two-stage air compressor (60+ gallons). Another consideration is how often do you plan to use the air compressor? Your frequency of use will impact your selection. If you plan to use a compressor a few times each month for tire inflation, Campbell Hausfeld recommends a tire inflation air compressor. In order to operate some air tools and inflate tires on an occasional basis, CH recommends home and auto maintenance compressors that range from 7-29 gallons. If you want to use most auto restoration tools occasionally, you will need a 30 gallon or larger compressor (note that sanders typically require a 60 gallon compressor). If you plan to use a compressor every day, such as in a shop environment, you will need a high performance air compressor designed for every day use. Campbell Hausfeld recommends 60 gallon or larger commercial-grade air compressors to fit this level of usage. Also consider what type of power do you have available. If you want to run your compressor on your household circuit, you just need to check that the compressor operates on 115 volt, 15 amp circuit. Campbell Hausfeld compressors (up to 30 gallons) operate on your household circuit. Larger compressors need more power to operate. Compressors larger than 30 gallons operate on 230 volt, single-phase power. Two-stage compressors (10 hp and larger) operate on three-phase power only. If no electrical power is available, you will need a gas air compressor.
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