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Let’s admit it. Air compressors are convenient tools you can utilize for a wide array of processes in your garage. You may find that you’ve needed some extra power for power washing, cleaning processes, and even some of some tools. That’s where an air compressor could help you with your day-to-day tasks. As soon as you get one, you will think how you ever lived without one in your garage.
However, how can you choose the best air compressors for your garage? There are various factors you need to keep in mind before you choose the best air compressor. You will find different styles on the market today, and you might find that the options can be quite overwhelming when you start shopping.
If you need some help with how to pick the best air compressor for your garage, keep reading!
What Does an Air Compressor Do?
Air compressor is an excellent tool for supplying high-pressure air. It can be utilized to run power washers power tools, blow compressed air for cleaning uses, and air up tires and wheels. On top of that, it comes in different sizes and power levels. That’s why you should be extra cautious when buying.
Things to Keep in Mind When Shopping for Air Compressor
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Horsepower
The horsepower rating is important as it tells the capacity and performance of the air compressor. Cheap air compressors are often geared with low-power 1HP motors, while the more expensive, compact ones can go as high as 3HP.
Keep in mind that industrial-grade compressors utilized for heavy-duty applications like painting make up to 5HP. Horsepower rating is relative to max PSI and CFM levels. It’s an indicator of performance and efficiency.
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Cubic Feet Meter Per Minute (CFM) Capacity
Remember that CFM is the amount of air surging out of the hose connected to the tank keeping the compressed air. For instance, an air compressor rated for 20 CFM suggests it can supply twenty cubic feet of air per minute.
Further, heavy-duty tools often need a higher CFM-rated air compressor. If it is light work such as inflating tires and other in-home work, then the compressor with 2 CFM is more than enough for the task. However, if you’re a full-time mechanic, then you can go for those with more than 5 CFM ratings.
The horsepower, PSI, and CFM ratings are all connected. The higher the CFM rating, the wider the list of compatible tools.
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Air Pressure Capacity (PSI)
PSI refers to the force of air coming out of the air compressor. Take note that the higher PSI rating is often suggested, as it enables the usage of a wider array of tools.
PSIG is another value connected to PSI. It’s the measurement of the pressure difference between the atmosphere and the tank. If sanding and painting are your focus, then going for the higher end of that spectrum is highly recommended.
Smaller tools such as an air-wench could get work done for longer, along with a 90 PSI-rated compressor. It’s also safe to remain on or beyond the 90 PSI mark to extract the most potential out of the air compressor.
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Tank Weight and Size
Lighter applications require a tiny tank that lowers the weight too. The smallest tanks come in hotdog or pancake size and are simple to carry. The lightweight ones weigh at least thirty-one pounds.
Those are utilized for in-house applications, such as tire inflation. On the other hand, heavy-duty options pack at least eighty gallons of air and have at least 5,000 hours of service life between refills.
Do you need portability? Then make sure you go for smaller-sized ones but remember that you’ll need to sacrifice work hours. Are you planning to be static and work from your garage? We suggest going for heavy-duty ones holding about ten gallons of compressed air.
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Noise Level
There’s no going around for heavy-duty and large-capacity air compressors. Those could creep closer to the 100 decibels mark and will need some ear-muffs when working with those. With those installed, it is smart to have some type of soundproofing in your garage.
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Lubricated or Oil-Free
Oil-free tanks often have limited potential. However, they are known for low noise and low maintenance costs. Lubricated air compressor tanks also have long-standing working potential along with optimum efficiency.
Nearly all heavy-duty air-compressors with more than 1,000 hours of service are oil-based. That offers longer durations with consistent durability. On the other hand, oil-free ones are susceptible to heating and can’t be used for too long.
There you have it! Now you know the important things you need to keep in mind when buying an air compressor for your garage. If you need a recommendation on which products to buy, we have made an article about this. Visit aircompressorclub.com/best-air-compressor-for-home-garage to get a full comparison of the best eight air compressors for home garage. Happy shopping!
Keyword: How to Choose the Best Air Compressor for Your Home Garage?