Air Compressor Recommendations - Brand and / or Size.

[Ahren I]

I've been thinking about adding air to my shop after fighting off the idea of it for so long.
I guess, I like working the old fashion way. Any recommendations for a durable brand and a good size for one?

[Beth Fricks]

I just bought a compressor and did a bunch of research. What I have come to the conclusion is: If you want to use the compressor with a sprayer or any tool that uses a constant stream of air (sanders, grinders, etc) you will need to spend a minimum fo $300-$400. Most sprayers require 6 SCFM at 50 psi to work correctly. If you want to shoot a few nails and blow stuff off, you can get a compressor that will work for you for $150-$200. I bought a Craftsman 6 gallon, for $179 on sale, that produces 2.4 SCFM at 90 psi or 3.78 SCFM at 40 psi. Not enough for a sprayer, but plenty to run my trim nailer. Also, look at buying an an oiled compressor. My new one, that is oiled, is about 1/2 as loud as my last one that was not. I did want to run a sprayer so I bought an Amanco HVLP sprayer that I love. Together, the compressor and sprayer were less than the Huskey Pro for $369 that I came real close to buying. I hope this helps. If you have any other questions let me know.

[John C. Standley]

Campbell Hausfeld is a good compressor. I bought a 26 gal compressor from Lowes for $199.00. It is working very well for my needs.

[Robert J Guidry Sr]

I have 3 compressors, a 110 volt 5 hp 33 gal Campbell Hausfield in my barn approx 20 years old,never any problems.

a 220 volt 6.5 hp 33 gal Craftsman in my Wood shop approx 25 years old, never any problems.

A 110 volt 1.5 hp 8 gal portable used for on the road apprpx 35 years old and have had to change the screw that attaches and drives the piston to the flywheel 2 times.

The 2 larger units are oil units and I change the oil yearly and clean the filters regularly. In my opinion these units are well worth the money I paid for them.

As far as size, It depends on what you plan on using them for. Sprayers, sanders, pneumatic wrenches and others use a lot of air and require a larger compressor. Nail guns, finish nailers etc.dont use as much air and you can get by with smaller portable units, 1- 1.5 hp.

Hope this helps.