?outside compressor storage?

[70sbudget]

i have a two car garage that needs a revamp as the previous owner installed some rickity shelves that are very cumbersome. i moved in in a hury and filled them up, purchased a classic car and got to work on a restoration.

the details. craftsman 25 gallon oil free compressor

i would like to build a small storage unit on the outside of my garage for the compressor and pipe the garage for multiple usable locations.

does anyone see any issues with storing the compressor outside in a self contained accessable shed? obviously make it breathable and so that water cannot get to the unit.

 

[Torque1st]

Welcome to GJ!

There are a number of threads here on that subject. Perhaps a search on "outside and compressor" would bring them up.

 

[KenS]

One disadvantage I've learned about compressor location-- but have not seen mentioned in other threads on the subject-- is that if it is located in a cold area in the winter, the charge of pressurized cold air are coming through the lines to your air tools can make them miserably cold to work with unless you're wearing gloves.

I was doing some work with a metal-bodied die grinder and actually froze my skin before I realized it with cold air coming from a cold compressor.

Usually in the indoor-vs-outdoor compressor location threads you will hear the pros and cons of compressor crankcase heating to keep oil flowing at cold temperatures; the need for adequate airflow to the compressor; how air will be piped to the shop; and protection from the elements-- especially for the electric motor.

On the other hand, you see gasoline-powered compressors in the backs of service trucks exposed to all kind of elements year round with no adverse effects-- at least to the compressors.

 

[Steve in Mi]

My Ingersol Rand manual warns against operation in temperatures below 32 (freezing) and above (??? I don't remember at this moment), anyway, I figure I couldn't satisfy either extreem in an uninsulated outdoor space (Michigan) so it stays inside my shop where the temp ranges from 62 (Winter) to 72 (Summer).

An oilless compressor may have a different set of recommendations. Anything in your manual about it?

 

[70sbudget]

outside temps would range from 40s to 90s as i am in san diego. i did a number of searches last night and found nothing on outside compressors. this compressor is an oil free so i have no oil to deal with. i was thinking about ways to make the storage unit breathe yet protect it from the elements and have a few ideas in mind.

thanks for the tips guys.

still wondering if there is any negitive to having an oil free compressor stored outside in a protected area and still be fully functional and useable?

 

[tfi racing]

Ah,San Diego...The climate shouldn't affect your compressor at all,sub zero temps usually are the issue with outdoor units.One consideration is noise,if your neighbours are close,they may not appreciate it much.

 

[IDASHO]

My cheap 5hp Craftsman oil-less has been fine outside in Idaho winters. I have it in a compressor closet under the deck, more-or-less a lawn mower shed. Plenty of ventilation, but hasnt had any problems with the cold yet.

There is no way that POS is coming into the garage though.... As it is, the neighbors can hear it better than I can

 

[revlover]

As others have said, shouldn't have a problem with it being outside in San Diego, which of course in German means, a whale's ******. LOL

Just build a plywood box around it to keep at least some of the elements out.

 

[malibu101]

I too agree that in that climate it will be fine. Don't forget about it since it's oilless, the tank still needs to be drained.
Stating the obvious- keep an eye out for bugs that may start nests in the nooks and crannies. I doubt they would survive the heat (or want to stand the noise of an oilless) but the nest leftovers could cause cooling issues.

 

[70sbudget]

thanks guys. that was my thoughts just wanted some opinions of those with a bit more experience. the inside of the garage will be pulmbed shortly as i am in the middle of a remodel of my wrench wenches salon.

gotta keep her happy.

 

[goodfellow]

WOW!! errr -- What were you guys talkin' about again?

 

[jay50]

Dang.....and you're talkin' about spending time in your garage/shop?

 

[mrb]

San Diego? I will be there at the beginning of March. If you want to buy any of my red extension cords (see FS thread), i will deliver them personally They match your girl's top and i think she will like them.