Frequently
Asked
Questions

A: Air compressors are fast, efficient industrial machines that can be used to blow up tires or power paint sprayers, air-powered tools, and other instruments. Due to its variety of uses, air compressors can be found anywhere from manufacturing plants to home workshops. Air compressors work by taking in volumes of air at atmospheric pressure and increasing their pressure in order to generate compressed air. This compressed air can then be used for different applications.

A: The biggest difference between a gas and electric compressor is their source of power. The gas-driven type requires gas in order to function. This is suitable for manufacturing plants and other industrial settings since you might not be near an electrical source and can easily choose a compressor with a large enough storage tank to last the duration of your project. The electric unit requires an electrical power source in order to work. So, there are limitations for where you can use this version as you must have electricity. However, beyond this limitation, electric compressors are easy to maintain, consume less energy and fuel, and are extremely easy to install.

A: Horsepower is a unit of power and, in the case of air compressors, the power of the motor. The motor is what makes the compressor actually do its job so it is necessary to know how powerful the machine can be. Small power tools do not need too much horsepower. For airbrushing, inflating, or powering blow guns, horsepower anywhere from 1/2 to 4.0 HP. Heavy duty equipment require higher horsepower in order to function. For example, tools such as sanders and grinders need around 4.0 HP. PSI stands for pounds per square inch and is a common measure for the pressure of air flow. In regards to compressors, it indicates the discharge pressure of the air as it flows out of the tank. It is commonly used with CFM, which stands for cubic feet per minute and is the volume of air delivered by a machine to run a tool. The machine must generate enough air to allow your tools to function properly. Every power tool that uses compressed air requires a specific air consumption value. General rule of thumb is that you should multiply the CFM by two if you plan on continuously or frequently using the air compressor. However, most air tools are used on an intermediate basis. When looking for the correct horsepower, PSI, and CFM requirements, it’s best to consult the actual manufacturer of the power tool, just to be safe. There are so many different brands, types, and features that you should take into consideration when buying this power tool.

A: Steel is one of the commonly used materials for the storage tank. It is very strong but not very durable as it can rust easily over time. It is also quite heavy and can making wheeling it around a slightly harder task. On the other hand, aluminum is a good alternative as it does not rust and is much lighter. The downside is that it can dent quite easily.

A: Depending on your location, there are a number of national distributors who provide air compressors. Compare prices with smart air compressors to save up to 25% on your purchase.