Picking a Portable Air Compressor

There are a number of different types ofHowever, you have to run the truck in order to
portable compressors available that vary in sizeuse the compressor.
and power level. The one you purchase will beA deck mounted compressor is mounted in the
determined by the tools you will use. Follow thebed of a truck and can be removed from the
power requirements of the tools you have andtruck and left on site, instead of setting it up each
make sure you get a model that can run theday. Since they have an engine of their own, they
strongest tool you own.do not rely on the power from your truck. You
You should choose slightly more power than youwill fuel them separately and give them the
actually need to make sure you will have enoughseparate required maintenance.
power for any job.There are electrically powered compressors and
One of the most important considerations whengas powered compressors. In both types, air is
using a compressor is safety. Make sure youstored in a holding tank. You attach the tool to be
wear safety goggles when you operate any tool,powered with a hose and check the pressure,
along with protective clothing, including long pants,which is regulated by a valve, on the gauges on
long sleeved shirts and safety shoes such asthe compressor. One of the best brands of
work boots or heavy, not thin sneakers.compressors in the Quincy brand. They carry
The most common portable air compressor is therotary screw compressors that range in size
portable rotary screw compressor. They rangfrom 10 to 350 horsepower. Quincy machines are
from 65 to 1600 cubic feet per minute, with anotable for their reliability, durability and quietness.
pressure rating from 100 to 350 psi (pounds perThey come in all tank size models from small to
square inch). Determine which kinds of tools yoularger models in a stationary cabinet.
use. A professional contractor, for example, wouldHusky air compressors are another popular model,
probably require 185 CFM, so that he could runtypically for home use. To run household tools
two power tools at once and could use it for bothsuch as sprayer, nail guns and spraying insulation,
light and heavy duty tools.the 1.75 gallon tank, 135 PSI unit is recommended.
Truck mounted compressors are popular and canIt is convenient, portable and has a telescoping
be mounted in the bed of a truck or under thehandle. For easy maintenance, it has an oil free
hood, to save space. A truck mountedpump. Another model is the 4 gallon, 125 PSI
compressor will use the engine of the truck tomodel, perfect for small tools, inflating tires or
generate the power, which will keep maintenanceother recreational items. This is ideal for around
easier.the home use or a small wood shop.