Published: 15/09/2020
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying an Air Compressor
Before you start shopping for an air compressor, it’s important that you know what you’re looking for. Knowing your compressed air requirements beforehand can help the process stay efficient. If you don’t that’s okay, but it’s good to have an idea of the right questions to be considering.
Not all air compressors are the same, which makes finding the right air compressor for your needs confusing, especially if you’re new to the industry.
We’ve put together a few questions to ask yourself before you begin your search for the best compressor to buy!
What compressor size do I need?
Knowing what size you need depends on the task you intend it to perform. Different applications require different amounts of power, and this factor relies on the horsepower and size of the compressor tank.
Ultimately, it’s best to consult a professional when choosing a compressor size because if you pick one too small, it won’t complete the job, and if you pick one too large, it’s a waste of energy and resources.
Don’t over anticipate future demand for compressed air because you can always add another compressor over time to accommodate any increasing demands.
What type of compressor do I need?
There is a variety of compressors to choose from:
- Rotary Screw Compressors: Best suited for continuous-duty applications, these compressors operate efficiently at high speeds while maintaining a steady low flow rate.
- Reciprocating (Piston) Compressors: Recognised for their energy efficiency, these compressors are a staple in the industry, offering powerful, high-pressure performance across diverse pressure ranges.
Scroll Compressors: Known for their ultra-quiet performance, scroll compressors are ideal for environments that demand clean and oil-free compressed air, such as medical and electronics industries. - Rotary Vane Compressors: Commonly used in automotive workshops and with pneumatic tools, though their versatility makes them suitable for broader industrial uses.
- Centrifugal Compressors: Engineered for large-scale operations, these compressors handle substantial volumes of gas and are often found in heavy-duty manufacturing settings.
- Axial Compressors: Predominantly used in large-scale industrial environments, especially where high flow rates are essential, such as in power generation and aerospace sectors.
Please read our air compressor buying guide [LINK] for further information about how to choose the right compressor that matches your requirements.
How much pressure do you need?
Each air compressor is different, designed to handle a range of pressure levels depending on the application. You need to work out how much pressure you need before you make a purchase.
The right air compressor will have the correct amount of air pressure range to support the requirements of the tools in your environment. Air flow is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute) and you can tell the pressure by PSI (pressure per square inch).
How often will the compressor run?
Another important factor to consider is what you’re using the air compressor for. This will help you work out what type of air compressor you need, as some compressors are best suited for constant duty cycles.
Consider how much you intend to use the air for – will it be 10 hours a day, five days a week or only a day or two a week?
It’s also important to work out whether your demands for compressed air are consistent or if they vary.
What quality of compressed air do you need?
If you work in a sector that requires pure, clean, oil-free air, using compressors that require oil lubrication is a no-go. Industries such as healthcare, food and beverage and pharmaceuticals cannot risk contamination.
Knowing what type of compressed air you need ensures you choose oil or oil-free correctly.
Where will you keep your compressor?
You can store your air compressor in a number of different places, however, there are a few restrictions you’ll need to pay attention to.
- There must be adequate ventilation where you choose to store your air compressor; in order to operate correctly, the room temperature should remain stable. If the air compressor overheats, it could shut down and ultimately damage your equipment.
- When in use, the air compressor needs enough space around it to operate properly.
- Make sure you leave enough space to regularly inspect and service the compressor and ensure it continues to run in top condition.
It’s important to find a compressor that is suitable for your workplace.
How will it be installed and maintained?
Will you set it up yourself, or will you hire someone to do it for you? If it’s replacing an old model, how are you going to remove the old one?
Of course, regular maintenance is key when it comes to mechanics. Knowing how to maintain your compressed air system is vital for its long term success and lifespan. A well-maintained compressor is also less likely to require repairs.
Not sure where to start?
At Air Supply Ltd, we’ve been supplying a whole range of new and used air compressors for over 25 years. We stock one of the largest selections of used air compressors across the UK.
Our team provides a friendly, professional and efficient service, and we’d be happy to help listen to your queries and get to know your compressed air requirements.
We also offer expert air compressor maintenance and repair services. So, if you’d like assistance choosing an air compressor for personal or business use, please get in touch.