Air compressors can be categorized in different ways, from their capacity to their pressure limits. However, on of the most popular way to categorized air compressors is based on their design and how they compress air. A fixed compressor can be impressive beast, but they are also comparatively large in size and heavy.
Where will you be using your compressor?
Is there a ready electrical supply?
Will you be working in confined or unventilated areas?
Which tools will you want your compressor to operate?
PSI – Pounds per Square Inch: PSI is the unit of measurement that a compressor delivered. The higher the PSI, the further the air can be compressed – which means a larger volume of compressed air can be stored in the tank.
SCFM – Standard Cubic Feet per Minute: SCFM, also known as CFM, is the volume of air that your compressor can pump in a minute a specific working pressure. Higher CRM ratings mean that the compressor can provide more air – making higher CFM units is more practical for larger applications.
HP – Horsepower: Horsepower is the unit of measurement that a compressor motor produces. Higher horsepower engines means it produces greater PSI and capable of carrying a heavier workload.
Tank Size: Compressor tank size are measured in gallons. Units with more powerful motors and larger tanks can generate higher levels of PSI for longer amounts of time which is able to provide greater power to your air tools.
The consumer grade air compressor and the contractor grade air compressor are able to stand up to the rough conditions of a job site. On top of that, they're portable, through either a carry handle or wheeled cart. Because of their strength, they're capable of operating nail guns and other large roadside repair tools, such as jack hammers. One who needs to run multiple air tools or does high caliber jobs should definitely look into this grade of air compressors.
Because of their dual air tanks, they're capable of storing more air without having to actually run the motor. Out of all the contractor grade air compressors, these are probably the most suitable for carpenters, due to them being relatively portable yet powerful at the same time. Keep in mind that these things can get up to 80 pounds.
Those who need to constantly run multiple nail guns should consider getting a portable single-stage compressor. Just about any contractor can make use of this type of air compressor. Because of their sheer power, they tend to be a bit more expensive.
Consumer Grade Air Compressors are primarily designed for small tasks around the house, such inflating tires, sporting goods and other items. However, most consumer grade air compressors can run small power tools as well, including brad guns and staplers. For the most part, a consumer grade compressor should be more than enough for those who do small tasks around the house. On the other hand, one who needs to run large or multiple power tools will need to step it up a notch.
Inflators are mainly used to inflate tires and other inflatable devices. Since inflated tires help gas mileage, it's always a good idea to have one of these lying around. Overall, these air compressors are inexpensive and very portable. The only downside is that they're relatively weak and take a while to do the job.
Pancake air compressors typically come with a one-gallon tank and are relatively light, weighting at around 16 pounds, making it rather easy to carry around. Due to their higher power level, they are generally more expensive than their inflator counterparts. They're oil free and don't have any belts, allowing the machine to run practically maintenance free.