Choosing an air compressor

[1blink]

I'm in air compressor acquisition mode today! Just very indecisive about which one to pick up. My typical use will include air ratchets, my 1/2" impact, air blowers, and eventually a Hypertherm Powermax 30 plasma cutter (air requirements: 4 scfm at 80 psi). Maybe a bit of painting, cutting, sanding, although so far I have been using electric tools for that. It's all hobby work, I'm not a pro in these fields of course.

I'm trying to keep costs under $650 at the very most, and don't want to run another 220v outlet if I can avoid it, as my breaker box is maxed out already.

I've primarily considered these two compressors:
http://www.sears.com/ingersoll-rand...1x000001&kpid=00989225000&kispla=00989225000P
http://www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-1...-Compressor-D55168/100497924?N=5yc1vZc27pZ4j2

I'd appreciate feedback from anyone with experience using a compressor for similar purposes. Am I going big enough? Is the quality and duty cycle of the IR worth the extra price?

Thanks! The itch to buy is strong, likely purchasing today. The wife is overseas in Ireland for the week, and as a result cannot tell me no this time!

 

[LittleCaesar]

Having had experience with both, buy the Dewalt only if you are going to be carrying away from your garage. Getting some parts for it can be a nightmare. The drain valve is hard to get at even for a ten year old.

If not concerned about mobility, buy the IR @ Sears all day. It has more volume for air tools than the Dewalt, and should be on at least a 30A.

I have just seen this one two weeks ago, and if I didn't have a dual stage 80, I'd go for this:
Quincy Q12126VPQ 2-HP 26-Gallon Belt Drive Cast-Iron Portable Air Compressor

Let us know what ya get.

 

[fourwd1]

I'd go for one with a larger tank if possible.

 

[1blink]

I'm reconsidering now...Standing in front of that 20 gallon IR, I couldn't help but wonder if it could really keep up. I think I'll look on craigslist for a used 220v model with at least 13 cfm at 90psi.
I can add in a sub panel next to the primary breaker box to add another circuit, if I find a good deal on the compressor.

 

[1blink]

Distracting myself now with some ribs.

First time buying ribs at Costco, I was impressed by the butchering. They even removed the tough outer membrane.
Rubbed down with mustard and Meathead's Memphis Dust, Weber set up for a low and slow cook. Dinner will be good tonight!
With the vegan wife out of town, my carnivorous instincts grow more powerful.

 

[LittleCaesar]

I found an industrial Delta, two stage 80g with 13.5 at 90psi on CL for 500. The PO even ran it for me for 10 min, then drained it.

If space is not a problem, then forgo any on wheels. Bigger is better when it comes to air.

Enjoy the ribs.

 

[SV_Dude]

If you can find a used 220v compressor you will be better off. I use the snot out of my craftsman compressor and it has definitely proven to be worth it's money but it struggles to keep up with me when doing basic work. If I use an air grinder or sander then I get frustrated because I can only use it for a few minutes then I have to wait for it to air up.

Find a decent used one and build an air compressor shed outside of your garage. From there run some hard air lines through your garage with a few ports on each side of the walls and you will be set!

If you plan to use it a lot then buy something good now and be done with it. Buy once and cry once.

 

[1blink]

You make a good point. I do plan on moving out of state within 12 months though, so hard lines and a shed would be projects for the next garage. I really hope to have a shop, so we can use the garage for parking again. My projects and tools have taken over this 2 car garage entirely

 

[1blink]

Temporarily satisfied my urge to buy something with this Cornwell 7 drawer cart. Picked it up for 475 off my local craigslist.

Pictured next to my old box...seriously outgrown. My good friend TC helped me haul the new box, and bought my old one too. My first real tool cart, I'm stoked. Got it loaded and organized after dinner tonight. It is in great shape for a used cart.

 

[SV_Dude]

Nice! Cornwell makes some good stuff. That box will last you a life time.

You're not joking about a 2 car garage being taken up fast. It gets worse as your tool collection grows and your project list grows too.

 

[1blink]

I opted to wait on a large compressor, as we are planning on moving from Texas to Colorado in about 6 months. Wiring up a new 220v outlet for such a short time seemed like a waste. Patiently searching craigslist paid off. I picked up this 20 gallon compressor with Devilbiss motor for 100. Bought a rebuild kit complete with new piston, sleeve and o-rings for $45. It does 5.8 scfm at 90psi.

 

[shootmymime]

Cheep find. I know u already have one buy I'll still give you my Input.

I work at a shop and have built our compressor room. We run 2 240v dual stage comps into 3/4 pipe. (Go big). Don't know total cfm

But at home I have a single stage 110 Home Depot version. I asked the same questions when buying mine. Is it big enough, is it strong enough , is it slightly portable for my needs.

My findings were this: Stay away from craftsman pumps with the motors attached to the pumps (kinda like the one you have). Because they aren't as reliable.
So I opted for this husky pro 30 gal.
I use air tools and sand blast cabinet, this one is pushing the limits. For cfm. But is great for tires and painting. ( short heavy bursts or small long bursts when I use my hplv paint gun.)

Other pic is one plus the other waiting to be installed.

 

[txbonds]

Couldn't find the one you have locally, but what I think I noticed is that it appears to be the same basic design as the unit sold under CH name at Tractor Supply and unit sold under Kobalt name at Lowes.

I looked at both of them and pricing was similar at around $429 to $449 range. I ended up with a Husky 30gal for $439 though because of the dual cylinder design. It's only a 1.9 hp motor, but it seemed a little quitter with the dual cylinder design. Model # C301H Internet # 203187352 Store SKU # 723883

Anyway, for what it's worth, I think any of the 3 models from these 3 stores would be a similar quality purchase for a small 30 gal cast iron oiled compressor that you can pick up locally.

Husky 30-Gal. Ultra-Quiet Portable Electric Air Compressor-C301H at The Home Depot

 

[1blink]

The little 20 gallon IR Garage mate I had been lusting after popped up on Craig's list. 1 Year old, delivered to me for $250. Airs up roughly in the same time as the other one I have, but 100% duty cycle, and so much quieter. I can run this one without disturbing the wife's slumber.

The first compressor got hot very fast. I was scared to push it too hard.

I will probably get my $250 back from selling the first one.

 

[LittleCaesar]

That is a steal. Did the PO feel like they needed to give it away?

My brother has the same one. Loves it since he has no dedicated 220v outlet for an upright. The one problem he told me is that it hated to be started below 40F in his garage until he switched to using synthetic oil in it (I think he uses Royal Purple). Now, good to go.

 

[1blink]

The price was good enough that I couldn't bring myself to haggle him down, especially since he'd brought it to me.
I will keep that cold weather tip in mind for this winter, thanks.