Shopping for a air compressor

[Subytech]

I want a air compressor for the house.I want one to do sidework working on cars.What I want to know what brand you guys recommend and how many gallons is good.I want something good but not overkill.Thanks.

 

[Jim Johnstone]

Start with what type of tools you will be using, and what your available electrical power is, and then we can narrow it down.

 

[Subytech]

Impact gun, air chisel, air ratchet etc..what do you mean by avaliable electrical power.sorry dont know much about air compressors..just know how to hook up tools to a air line lol.

 

[Jim Johnstone]

Impact gun, air chisel, air ratchet etc..what do you mean by avaliable electrical power.sorry dont know much about air compressors..just know how to hook up tools to a air line lol.

What I mean is do you only have 120 volts available, or 240 volt? How many amps are available in your shop/garage? That will really narrow down how big of a tank and how much volume of air production of a compressor you can run.

 

[pipsters]

A 20-30 gallon 120v compressor will do a LOT around the garage and still remain fairly portable - especially if it's a horizontal unit.

For general mechanical work I personally haven't ever run out of air on my 120v unit but I only use:
.

• 1/2" impact
• 1/4" air ratchet
• 3" die grinder
• LVLP paint gun
• 1/4" die grinder
• air chisel
• tire chuck
• blow gun

For my use I am MUCH happier with a portable 120v 25 gallon unit over a bigger stationary 60-80 gallon but I don't do any sand blasting or major grinding or painting.