How much compressor do I need?

[PCMusicGuy]

As I already replied, by using slim breakers you can easily add a 220 circuit to your full breaker panel at a cost of about $11 for a 40A breaker, and a few bucks for some slim 110 15A breakers to make the room for the 220. I have done it multiple times, it is very simple. It is certainly easier to just grab a 110 compressor and plug it in, but you will probably be happier with a beefier 220 unit and it can be done with your budget. Also consider that many quality 110 compressors will not run on a 15 amp circuit, which your garage probably has. So, at that point you are running a 20 amp 110v circuit anyways, may as well run 220!


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You guys don't seem to understand. He is saying that adding 220V breakers is not an option at this time. He likely doesn't have the time or knowledge to do it himself or maybe none or compatible with his existing panel. He may also not have a friend nearby who could help him avoid electrician costs.

Anyway, the highest output rated compressor I'm aware of for 120V (20amp) service is the Quincy Q12126VPQ. It is rated at 7.4CFM @ 90 PSI. It is several hundred dollars more expensive than the Husky you are looking at and the extra CFM may not be worth nearly twice the cost. I'd say get the Husky and be happy if the higher flow rates aren't really necessary.

 

[McLean]

LOL. This seems to be the trend of EVERY compressor thread. Glad we finally got back on topic after about 2.5 pages. These are a few of better spec'd 120v compressors that I have found:

Harbor Freight

Husky

Craftsman Pro

Quincy

I don't have experience with any of these. Just based on specs..

 

[McLean]

Here's some specs to compare:

*note: these are only 120v compressors with 5+ scfm w/ substantial tank

Harbor Freight 69865 - 29 gal, 150 max psi, 48.3 gal @90psi output, 5.9 cfm, noise 82 db- price $357.99

Harbor Freight 61489 - 29 gal, 150 max psi, 48.3 gal @90psi output, 6.4 cfm, noise NA "quiet" - price $357.99

Dewalt D55168 15 gal, 200 max psi, 33.3 gal @90psi output, 5.0 cfm, noise 78 db- price $389.00

Husky C301H- 30 gal, 135 max psi, 45 gal @90psi output, 5.3 cfm, noise 74.7 db- price $ 439.00

Kobalt VT6389- 30 gal, 155 max psi, 51.67 gal @90psi output, 5.5 cfm, noise 89 db- price $ 449.00

Craftsman Pro WLB1982713- 27 gal, 150 max psi, 45 gal @90psi output, 5.8 cfm, noise 73 db- price $549.99

Ingersoll Rand P1.5IU-A9 - 20 gal, 135 max psi, 30 gal @90psi output, 5.2 cfm, noise 77 db- price $559.99

Quincy Q12126VPQ 26 gal, 135 max psi, 39.0 gal @90psi output, 7.4 cfm, noise NA - price $749.99

I tried to eliminate the specs that are constant or not relevant. And due to previous discussion, added the "x gal at 90 psi output" to try to bring some standardization to the capacity (volume vs max psi) debate.

If I missed any key players in the 120v compressor category, let me know and I will add them

 

[99LeCouch]

After looking at the HF and Husky compressors, I'm leaning toward the Husky. It's taller and thinner, the oil drain is more accessible, and it's at least assembled here in the States.

 

[eddiemeddiem]

Check this one out too:
http://m.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-2-HP-3...Volt-Vertical-Electric-Air-Compressor/3824207


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[McLean]

eddiemeddiem- thanks for the suggestion! That compressor looks great, good scfm, high max psi and one of the largest tanks...except that it's 89db!! (buried in the Q&A) Booo. If it was enclosed or outside the garage, could be great option though. Added to my previous list (Post 43).

99LeCouch- Let us know how you like it! I'm leaning towards the HF 61489 currently, but could be convinced otherwise.

 

[eddiemeddiem]

No problem.

Three additional points to consider:

1) Sound / SPL levels that manufacturers report are fairly subjective (at least in my opinion). I don't know if there's any standard as to how they perform the tests, how the compressor is mounted, floor, surrounding building, etc. So I wouldn't place a whole lot of value on the published specs for SPL. If SPL is truly important to you, I suggest downloading an app on your phone then go to the various stores and ask them to plug the compressor in. Note the surroundings, and try to hold the phone's mic at a typical distance from the compressor (i.e. arms length) at each store. The worst they'll say is no.

2) When you're looking at the potential compressors, I'd tend to prefer one with an air inlet that's a female pipe thread vs a bolted on flange. You might have to look close at the pump to see the differences. This way, you can buy a Solberg FS series air filter/silencer. It is a demonstrated fact that a significant portion of the SPL generated by a compressor is by the intake. These FS are designed to help out, and they do definitely make a difference. Expect to spent somewhere around $20 on Amazon, and make sure to get the Solberg "FS" version.

3) To help reduce the noise more, make sure that the compressor is mounted on rubber. If it's hard mounted to the floor (or just sitting on it on metal legs) it is coupled directly to the floor and you'll definitely be able to feel it when it's running. Get some rubber isolating pads and it will make a huge difference in sound and felt vibration in your garage (and rest of the house if it's attached). You can buy purpose made pads, or cobble something up on your own from various pieces of rubber. If it's a portable compressor with tires, the tires count for rubber mounts (for two of the legs, at least).

Good luck, and let us know what you decide...

 

[McLean]

Update: picked up a HF61489 yesterday. So far, I'm not impressed. Typical HF Quality as expected, but it is very loud and the output is not as good as advertised.

Noise levels were registering at ~90 db a few feet away in my garage on a generic iphone app. Which is meaningless...except that my results were nearly identical to the 20gal Costco "Snap On" knockoff. Tone was much lower, but nearly the same (+/-3db) noise output.

 

[99LeCouch]

Bumpity bump:

SWMBO told me to get myself a compressor. Yes, dear!

I ended up getting a Porter Cable PXCM301. It's the same as the Husky C301H at the orange box. 30 gallon, 5.3 scfm at 90 PSI, and 120 volt. It is portable, although that is relative. It still needs a full set of tools, but that is coming. I'll break it in and report back when I have a little more experience with it.

 

[1950mercury]

As I already replied, by using slim breakers you can easily add a 220 circuit to your full breaker panel at a cost of about $11 for a 40A breaker, and a few bucks for some slim 110 15A breakers to make the room for the 220. I have done it multiple times, it is very simple. It is certainly easier to just grab a 110 compressor and plug it in, but you will probably be happier with a beefier 220 unit and it can be done with your budget. Also consider that many quality 110 compressors will not run on a 15 amp circuit, which your garage probably has. So, at that point you are running a 20 amp 110v circuit anyways, may as well run 220!


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This...buy a couple piggyback breakers and ad a 220 circuit or put in a sub panel...