Convert gas compressor to electric?

[Fab80]

Have a couple questions. I scored this compressor from a family member for free for use in my home garage. I was initially pumped because it is gas powered and figured I would save a little on my electric bill as well as I could mount casters to the "feet" and be able to roll it out and use it outside without having to have a really long air hose. After getting a new belt and air filter and changing the fluids in the compressor and engine I suddenly found myself wanting an electric compressor instead. If I keep it gas I have to deal with noise, fumes etc... while working in the garage, either that or roll it out every time I want to use it. Its not operational yet (have to get a new line from the compressor to the tank). So before I make my decision I wanted to see what some of yall thought about the swap i.e. how difficult it would be to swap an electric motor, what wiring I would need (not a great electrician by no means), pressure switches etc... as well as pros and cons of both electric compressor versus gas compressor. Thanks in advance. Sorry for the small pics.

 

[Thumper68]

I would keep the gas one for when I needed it and buy a elec compresser for in the shop use.

 

[zkling]

It's not going to be hard, but I don't think it will be cost effective. You will need a ~2.5-3 REAL Hp electric motor, 220v. An electric pressure control switch for cut in - cut out pressure. And a proper size pulley for the electric motor.

Gas compressors exist for places that electric power is not available, say on the back of a service truck, trailer, remote shop, or construction site. Having one in a fully setup residential garage will provide little to no benefit.

Have a couple questions. I scored this compressor from a family member for free for use in my home garage. I was initially pumped because it is gas powered and figured I would save a little on my electric bill as well as I could mount casters to the "feet" and be able to roll it out and use it outside without having to have a really long air hose. After getting a new belt and air filter and changing the fluids in the compressor and engine I suddenly found myself wanting an electric compressor instead. If I keep it gas I have to deal with noise, fumes etc... while working in the garage, either that or roll it out every time I want to use it. Its not operational yet (have to get a new line from the compressor to the tank). So before I make my decision I wanted to see what some of yall thought about the swap i.e. how difficult it would be to swap an electric motor, what wiring I would need (not a great electrician by no means), pressure switches etc... as well as pros and cons of both electric compressor versus gas compressor. Thanks in advance. Sorry for the small pics.

, I'm curious, what is the cost of gas per gallon where you are located? Cost of a KWH?

 

[Fab80]

It's not going to be hard, but I don't think it will be cost effective. You will need a ~2.5-3 REAL Hp electric motor, 220v. An electric pressure control switch for cut in - cut out pressure. And a proper size pulley for the electric motor.

Gas compressors exist for places that electric power is not available, say on the back of a service truck, trailer, remote shop, or construction site. Having one in a fully setup residential garage will provide little to no benefit.



, I'm curious, what is the cost of gas per gallon where you are located? Cost of a KWH?

Wholesale Rates - Electric (TVA)
As of June 30, 2012
Residential
Type of Charge Amount
Customer 0.05725 per kWh
Energy $9.62 per kW

$3.05 to 3.10 depending for gas.

Thanks for the reply.

 

[zkling]

Wholesale Rates - Electric (TVA)
As of June 30, 2012
Residential
Type of Charge Amount
Customer 0.05725 per kWh
Energy $9.62 per kW

$3.05 to 3.10 depending for gas.

Thanks for the reply.

And the savings are where?

In all seriousness, you may want to consider trading that off for an electric compressor. Even with an electric motor that is not going to be all that much of a compressor (30 gal, ~8cfm @ 90psi) with that tank it is going to cycle quite a bit. I guess it will all depend on how cheap you can find a ~3hp electric motor. Then figure ~$60 for the pulley and pressure switch.

 

[Fab80]

Thanks for the advice everyone, I think Im gunna stick with the gas. Makes more sense. I can use it where I need outside of the garage and what not. Doesn't seem it will be very cost efficient to swap over. And I will have it up and running sooner as well. Once again, thanks, that's what I like about this forum, fast and useful answers.

 

[compressornew]

First of all you may use compressor stabilizer and check the compressor work load capacity.If you convert it electric then use multimeter also on motor.When start compressor check multimeter indications and adjust it as working project.There are many electric motors adjusted with compressor and you may choose to be latest motor model.

 

[crewchief888]

i have the same compressor in my service truck.

i'd keep it as a gasser..