How to Compare Air Compressors

Choosing the right air compressor


When shopping for air compressors there are many different things you need to compare between them in order to choose the right one. The basic components of an air compressor are the engine that runs the compressor and the tank that holds the compressed air. The power and size of the compressor are a direct result of the power of the engine and the size of the tank.


The horsepower of the engine


Just like the engine in a vehicle, the engine in an air compressor has horsepower. Naturally, the higher the horsepower number, the more powerful the engine will be and the more uses the air compressor will have. Industrial air compressors typically have much more horsepower, for instance, than a small air compressor someone might use around the house for things like inflating tires and for use with small air tools.


The amperage of the engine

It's a good idea when you're looking at the horsepower of an air compressor to compare several different models and also look at the amperage that the engine is rated for. Models with similar amperage is should have similar horsepower. If you find a model with a higher horsepower than other models with similar amperage, it's probably an inaccurate number and you'll want to go with something else.


The pounds per square inch or PSI

This number tells you the pressure that's applied per square inch of air. The larger the PSI, the more powerful the compressor. Typically, a diesel air compressor will have a higher PSI because it's a more powerful engine than an electric. So diesel compressors are often used in more industrial applications. Most basic air tools require a minimum PSI of 90.


The cubic feet per minute or CFM

This is another measurement is important to note on an air compressor. This measures the rate of flow of the air coming out of the compressor. The most basic air tools generally require at least a CFM rating of four, and some basic tools require up to six. The higher CFM numbers mean a more powerful air compressor.


The size of the tank

The size of the tank will affect how long the air compressor can run. The air tank is measured in gallons just like a gas tank. The bigger the tank, the longer the compressor can run. But even a very large tank can run out more quickly when the PSI, CFM and the horsepower are high because that means the air comes out of the compressor more quickly. A compressor with a small tank with high PSI and horsepower is going to need to be refilled frequently. That's something to consider when you purchase a compressor, whether it's an electric air compressor or a gas model.


Industrial air compressors, gas, diesel or electric

When choosing an industrial air compressor, you can choose between gas-powered, diesel-powered or electric. Anytime you need a portable compressor, you'll want one that's gas or diesel-powered. A stationary compressor can be electric, but it won't be quite as powerful as one with a fuel-powered engine.

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