Best Air Compressor Reviews 2023

An air compressor is a vital item to have in your shop, whether it’s gas or electric powered. However, it is always good to have a budget and a list of considerations before venturing out to buy anything, especially if it's a product that goes for a significant amount. Compressors cost a lot, but they are worth that cash considering the roles they play, and the fact that you only buy one once in a while. You'll want to make sure that you get it right.

You can get a quality and reliable compressor at prices from as low as $300 to as high as $2500. The price changes as the compressors increase in size and number of features. The biggest compressors cost the most. Some come with extra features, such as thermal overload systems and full metal belt guards. Check what you need the most and suit it to your budget. Stay away from cheap air compressors, as those might fail to work as effectively as the quality ones.

You need all the time you can get to complete projects and start new ones if you’re paid on an hourly basis. Having to interrupt your work to service any of your machines can waste a lot of your time. Consider the capacity an air compressor can hold, depending on your tasks. Compressed air gives you different pressure capacities.  The higher the capacity, the more time you'll save, especially on big projects. You can also use multiple tools at the same time if you have a bigger capacity.

Here are some other important features you should consider before buying a compressor:

• Power - This is the maximum amount of force in horsepower that the compressor can exert
• Size - Check the weight and the dimensions of your machines based on the space you have in your shop
• Design - Check if the cylinder is vertical or horizontal. This is especially important if you’re limited on space
• Pressure - Compressors’ air pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). The higher it is, the more powerful the machine
• Material - Consider the material used to make the various components of your machine
• CFM - This is cubic feet per minute of air required to maintain a given PSI
• Power Source - Compressors are either powered by electricity or gas. Choose one based on your working station and needs
• Noise Level - Some compressors make a lot of noise, while others are very silent. Those that are silent tend to be less powerful than the heavy industrial ones

A typical air compressor consists of a receiver tank, a pump, and a motor. The pump and the motor are attached to the receiver tank, which in most cases is cylindrical and can be placed vertically or horizontally depending on its design. It is this tank that receives pressurized air that has gone through a cleaning process, and that later discharges it to an air tool through a connecting pipe. Most stationary or fixed compressors are large and bulky, so they come with fixed stands.

The material used in the construction of various parts is also an important factor to consider. Most cylinders and valves are made of cast iron and stainless steel. There are also other small components that play important roles in the functioning of a compressor. These components include parts like tank and pressure gauges, drain valves, flywheel, crank shaft, oil sight glass, and metal belt guards, among others.

The air compressor works by receiving air, then passing it through a filter and into the pump, where it's compressed and pushed to a receiving tank where it's stored for use with air tools. Some compressors have single pump cylinders, while others are two stage compressors with two cylinders, the first one being larger than the second.

The receiver tanks vary in size and orientation based on the design of the compressor. Larger compressors have larger receiving tanks to store more air and pressure. Such tanks are ideal for intensive projects that take a long time with consistent air flow. In addition, large capacity tanks produce more pressure and power that you can use to drive heavy-duty tools or run multiple tools at the same time. A check valve is put in place so the air does not flow back into the pump.

Compressors can get overheated if certain measures are not in place. Most have oil that cools down the heated air and the entire system as a result. Experts recommend synthetic oil, since it can run for an extended period of time before you have to change it. Many compressors also have thermal overloads built into them to protect the motor from voltage fluctuations. The flywheel also plays a vital role in the cooling system.

Compressors derive their power either from gas or electricity. Those that are gas powered also use oil for lubrication. The electric ones have to connected to a power source to run and are better for use indoors. The gas-powered machines can be used off site, but for less strenuous projects.

Check the position of the drain valve, a small important component. It should be at the bottom of the pump to release water that forms after condensation.

Consider the design and orientation of the compressor. You’ll find that some come in vertical orientations, while others are horizontal. Your choice will depend on the amount of space you have for your device. If you are going for one with a large tank and you have a small space, consider getting a vertical tank.