Buying a compressor is a great way to expand
the tools available to you in your workshop.
Your purchase will also allow you to save space,
since air tools generally require less storage
space than bulky corded power tools. Shopping
for a compressor can be a bewildering process,
filled with confusing specifications and grandiose
performance promises. If you are planning to
purchase a compressor in the near future, a look
at some of the basics of compressors is definitely
a good idea so that you know exactly what you
are looking for in your shop.
Compressor types
There are several different compressor types.
The first distinction you should consider is
whether you want a stationary or portable model.
Stationary compressors are generally larger and
offer more power, but as the name implies they
are made to be left in one place. This is a great
option if you can set space aside in your workshop,
but many do it yourselfers find that portable
compressors offer more convenience and flexibility
in limited shop space.
Portable compressors were once considered to
be a poor alternative to more powerful stationary
models. But recent portable units have become
almost as powerful as stationary shop units,
and offer the added bonus of ease of movement.
With your portable unit you can work in your
shop or on a job site, which can save you from
having to buy two compressors. Many do it yourselfers
find that an easy way to increase the capability
of a portable unit is to buy an extra air tank
that can be placed in the shop. With a larger
reserve of compressed air it is less likely that
you will be slowed down by the smaller motor
of a portable model.
Choosing an oilless compressor
If you are looking for compressed air solutions
that will require little or no maintenance for
a long period of time you will probably want
to look for an oilless compressor. Oilless compressors
were once restricted to the more expensive centrifugal
compressors found in large shops, but are now
available in rotary-type compressors. This means
that you can live without the worry of having
to constantly check the lubricant level of your
shop's compressor.
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