

Each tank has a pressure rating and pairs with a pump. Tank capacity is a measure of the amount of air volume your compressor can hold. To make sure you get the most from your compressor, we recommend going with a model that gives you 50% higher CFM than your highest tool’s needs. Check the package or the manual for the tool you’re considering and make sure the air compressor you’re buying can handle both.

The reality is that every tool has its own CFM and PSI requirements. 125 PSI is a good starting point and 200 PSI gets you into the high end of the spectrum for the most common units. The higher the pressure, the greater the amount of air the tank can hold. PSI (pounds per square inch) is a measurement of the maximum pressure the pump can put in the tank. Other tools, like air sanders, need much higher CFM values to keep running.

Some tools, such as finish nailers, require very little CFM to keep up with the pace of the work. That means you have to take some “breaks”. You can actually get higher CFM out of the tanks, but the pump won’t be able to replace it as fast as you’re using it. They tell you the most about the performance you can expect.ĬFM (often measured at 90 PSI) lets you know know the volumeof air the unit can sustain. When you’re shopping for an air compressor, CFM and PSI are the key specs. These are typically lower-power options that are best for finish nailers and other low-supply applications. Gas units are usually reserved for jobs that require high air delivery when mobility is a priority.īattery-powered air compressors are becoming more popular with several major power tool brands making them.
QUIET AIR COMPRESSOR INSTALL
On the other hand, larger units tend to be installed in place and piped to the most convenient locations where you install connectors for your hoses.
QUIET AIR COMPRESSOR GENERATOR
They can run on a generator if you don’t have a direct AC power supply nearby. Smaller electric compressors are highly portable. Electric models can be either 120V or 240V, depending on the level of performance they have. The most common air compressors run on either gas or electric power.
