You might wonder why one air compressor is priced higher than another one. You see them lined up at the local big box store, or your local hardware store. The labels or store tags make them all sound similar, but are they? You can??t rely on the tags. To make sure you are getting what you need, first decide what you expect out of the air compressor and next talk to people you trust to make sure you understand the differences. Don??t rely on the tags.

After you decide what you are going to do with your air compressor you need to know how to determine which air compressor specifications you need to do the job. These things are horsepower, pressure per square inch (PSI), cubic feet of air per minute (CFM) the air compressor will deliver, and the size of the tank.

The tags or labels on the compressor may give a horsepower rating that is deceiving. For example, the tag may say the unit is a 5-HP unit, and it may be. But is it that fast at 120 volts at 15 amps, or is it 240 volts and 20+ amps? If you need 5-horse power this is a critical piece of information.

PSI is something else that can be confusing if you rely on the product information on the box, tag or label. Most air tools, such as an impact wrench, require around 90 PSI. The cheaper machine may say it is capable of 150 PSI. These cheaper machines may shut off at 100 PSI. When you realize you are loosing some pressure in the air hose, 100 PSI may not run your tools correctly.

CFM is critical because for tools to run properly they not only need air at a certain pressure, but at sufficient CFM or volume. Often, air compressor manufactures will provide a scale of CFM ratings at various PSI. This is primarily an attempt to make their machine look superior to other compressors. Remember nearly all of your tools will require a consistent 4 to 6 CFM at 90 PSI to operate, so you only need to worry about the CFM at 90 PSI.

Tank size is your final consideration before buying an other than price. Tank size isn??t a major issue for most of us. One of the most commons sizes of tanks is 30 gallons. If you are going to use your air tools intermittently, tank size isn??t much of an issue. If you make your living or are an otherwise serious air tool user, a larger tank may be more critical for your needs.

Make your air compressor purchase a successful one. Determine how you are going to use it, or what you are going to use it for. Talk to people who use air tools, and whom you trust, and get their advise. Don??t trust the box, tag or label. Make sure the air compressor you are thinking about buying has a HP rating at 120 volts and a maximum of 15 amps that you need. Make sure the machine will deliver at least 100 PSI consistently (the 90 you need for the tool and to compensate for the pressure loss in the hose). Make sure the machine will produce at least 4 CFM, more if your research says you need it. Although the tank size is less important, make sure it is best for your intentions.

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