Best Air Compressor?

8 Air Compressor Buying Tips:

Have you ever realised the importance of air to human life? Importance of air in human’s life is immense and it is required by humans not only for breathing but also for a host of other purposes as well. Air benefits all living organisms and is useful to humans in a number of ways. It is used widely in several other areas, particularly in the business arena. A lot of businesses use compressed air as an integral part of many manufacturing, industrial, commercial and automotive applications. Process of compressing air forms a large proportion of the total cost of the installation of industrial plants. Here are a few things that you need to consider before you settle on an air compressor either for domestic or industrial use. They will certainly go a long way in helping you select the best air compressor for your needs.

1. Electric compressor or natural gas compressor?

Air compressors work by two different ways. The first is an air compressor that is powered by electricity. The other is the kind of air compressor which is powered by gasoline. Consider the source of power available to you. Consider the fact that the electric air compressor will prove to be more efficient in terms of costs and maintenance while a gasoline model will be more portable and would therefore allow you more choices where you can use it.

Industries are able to save more and by reducing costs of consumption by using the compressors that operate on natural gas. However, if your compressor has to work in a closed space, it is wise to install an air compressor run by electricity in order to be safe from the harmful fumes that may be hazardous to your health and may jeopardise safe and clean working environment of all workers.

2. Two stage or single stage compressor?

If the plant operates at a high level and needs an air compressor that serves its purpose for heavy duties, then a two-stage compressor is advised. A two-stage compressor is more energy efficient compared to a single stage compressor due to the fact that the two-stage compressor produces more air per unit of horsepower and generates less heat thereby providing a longer span of service life.

3. Will it suit my requirement of load?

Find out what is the psi requirement of your work. If it is above 150 psi go for a two stage compressor as a single stage compressors can provide you only up to 150 psi whereas a two-stage compressor can provide air pressures up to 200 psi. Two-stage compressors are more efficient performers for higher air pressures requirements.

Work out your requirement of horsepower which is necessary for the job that you’re going to employ your compressor on. Most of the motors power rating ranges from 1.5 to 6.5 horsepower. A higher horsepower engine provides more PSI (per square inch) and can carry a heavier load of work, but the CFM or cubic feet per minute is the most important consideration. Heavy air compressor will also be able to store large amounts of air required for use in the future.

However, horsepower is often deceptive in some cases. Some manufacturers mention starting horsepower while others report the operating horsepower of the compressor. As a matter of fact, operating horsepower is generally five to seven times less than the starting horsepower.

4. Portability:

Find out Whether your air compressor is going to be stationary or portable. If you’re going to move it around or transport it, consider the size, weight and power source. The units With higher pressure and volume are larger and heavier. On the other hand, there are portable air compressors that are at your will to be moved from one place to another.

5. Balance between budget and minimum requirement:

While buying an air compressor, a buyer should also take into account the efficiency of the compressor equipment. Obviously, one wants a purchase that is economical but it should also capable of carrying out what is expected out of it. What do you do with an equipment that will not survive the difficult challenge that you need it to undergo?

6. Safety considerations:

When considering air compressor to buy, do check the standards of quality and protection features that the equipment adheres to. Ensure that the air compressor that you are finalising to buy has a safety valve relief to escape air if the pressure in tanks exceeds the maximum, a guard on belt for protection purposes and an indoor air filtration system. Obviously, there can be no compromise as far as the safety measures are concerned.

7. Attachments:

Compressors need to be secured with attachments that will be used to connect the air tube to it. A common tool used in the air compressor is a blowgun, a nail gun, pins air, air sander, and a shotgun or air ratchet wrench. A blowgun uses compressed air to blow away dirt and dust. These tools are widely available in hardware stores and must be bought along with the compressor for effective and regular maintenance.

8. Budget:

Decide how much money you want to spend. Inexpensive units do not last as long and you usually get what you pay for. If you buy one too small for the jobs you plan to do, you will not be productive. If you buy one that’s too large, you’re wasting your money and resources.

Three Tips for you to remember when choosing your best air compressor :

1. Always consider your budget before grading various compressors.

2. Think about the compressor’s expected lifespan and its ease of repair so that you have an easy and efficient after sales service.

3. Striking a balance between power and economy will be tough. Take a wise decision.

It is advisable to research about air compressors before making any purchase. A buyer must read air compressor reviews to become aware of the users experiences of the air compressor that he has shortlisted among many.

This air compressor buyer guide will enable you to buy the air compressor that is most suitable for your needs, taking into consideration the criteria of space, power requirement, economy and safety. You will be able to make a better informed decision on which air compressor to buy when you go to buy one next time.