What Size Air Compressor Do You Really Need?

[@jorgerowell8871]

I have watched 3 different types of videos with the Bear. This Bear is the coolest. Very informative. Easy to understand..accurate information. And easy on the eyes . Thanx

[@snitgu]

The quality of the air tool also makes a difference. My 30 gallon 5cfm @ 90psi can barely run the $10 cut off tool but the $60 cutoff tool runs great. Not all air tools are created equal.

[@josephszijarto1170]

Love your tool reviews Bear, but there's some inaccuracy in this vid unfortunately that's misleading people - you'll notice a lot of people now opting for electric tools below. A tool's SCFM rating at a certain PSI can be satisfied by a compressor with a far lower SCFM provided you have an adequately sized tank for how long you need to run the tool. If you want to run it constantly, for a very long duration, then the compressor does need to keep up directly with the volume of air the tool requires as you mention. An impact wrench will run perfectly on a 20 gallon compressor at 90-120psi for any reasonable need. It will run at full performance until the pressure drops below the rated value. The biggest power-robber you'll find are thin hoses and quick-disconnect couplings (air restrictions preventing you from getting the needed CFM from the tank). You'll have to wait a minute for the compressor to refill to remove that next wheel if you want 'full power', but not a problem for most home mechanics as tire rotations aren't exactly professional pit stops. For very air-intensive tools like drills, grinders, even perhaps HVLP, you're correct you do want something big enough to directly satisfy the tool's air needs. On the pressure part too, you mention you'll 'never use' 135-150psi. You're correct, you'll never use that at the tool, but that's the pressure in the tank. The greater the pressure given the size of the tank, the more air is in it. And the more CFM you'll get to the tool before the compressor kicks on again. You can't talk about tool SCFM requirements without talking about tank size and the maximum working pressure in the tank - it's not all about the CFM the compressor can constantly output.

[@respond_code3]

So what CFM rating can i get away with for a impact wrench? I found some 8-10 gallon compressors around $140. I dont care if i need to wait for it to kick on to do the next tire.

[@wingerrrrrrrrr]

@@respond_code3 it just depends on your patience level. Even a puny sub cfm compressor could be used to fill up a big storage tank to a sufficient operating pressure, and could run the impact wrench enough to remove all the lugs on one wheel. Then take a coffee break before doing the next one. To me 2.3 CFM at 90 is enough to not try my patience much. The key is making sure your wrench and fittings allow enough air delivery and torque to impact the lugs off immediately. If you're sitting there impacting impotently, it'll use up all the air in a jiffy, and then you'll have to sit and wait before trying again. That's where it's an exercise in frustration.

[@respond_code3]

@@wingerrrrrrrrr thanks. I ended up finally getting a compressor. Looks like Home depot had one with the wrong price on it. Was shopping online and saw they had a WEN 20gal for $187. That didn't make sense. The WEN 10gal is $185. I checked around and the WEN 20gal is selling from $285-300. So i quickly added to cart and checked out. Wasnt supposed to be here until the 26th, arrived in 3 days!. I cant really say much about it though. Runs fine, no leaks. But haven't ran impact tools under load yet.

[@wingerrrrrrrrr]

@@respond_code3 what's the CFM rating on it? I actually prefer higher CFM with smaller tanks over bigger tanks because that allows it to come up to operating pressure quicker and still allow continuous operation. The tanks are supposed to be drained out after use, so a big tank means a longer wait if the CFM isn't upsized accordingly.

[@respond_code3]

@@wingerrrrrrrrr 4 to 5 depending on your PSI. Used it today. Spins lugs off effortlessly. Definitely happy with it

[@cowboy0clayton]

I agree with you on the battery powered stuff. Im a diesel mechanic. I have both air and battery powered stuff. 9 times out of 10 I just go for my battery powered stuff. Even when Im working in the shop equipped with a giant air compressor... I still find myself just going to my battery powered stuff. No hoses, no fuss, and they do the same.

[@jacobw446]

Most people can get by with a 3-6gallon for occasional work, like filling tires, 20+ gallon for a small shop, and a 40-60gal for a medium shop, and a 80gal for a big shop.

[@josephszijarto1170]

Yep, 20 gallon 25-year shade-tree here running air hammers and impact wrenches at full power the whole time (with reasonable cycle-times).

[@chucks4328]

I have an 80 gallon Ingersoll Rand for blowing out tractors and tires. I also have a 20 gallon Sanborn I use to air up tires so I can get them rolling to the shop to be worked on. The most used compressor is a 2 gallon Fortress turned down to blow sawdust and use as an electric shop duster.

[@melvingibson4525]

Got a 60 gallon dewalt for $450 on black Friday from tractors. Have ran siding nailer, finishing nailer, pneumatic hardi board shears, impact guns, die grinder, and many more. Very happy with it so far. Having a big air supply is very very nice.

[@minituck04]

I just bought a Quincy QT5. You can never have enough compressor. When you decide to run a blast cabinet you will ABSOLUTELY need all the CFM you can get.

[@NY411Info]

Nice

[@ahmadghosheh3104]

You also need to consider power supply. At 60 gallons you are at 220-240 V outlet and that is an expensive addition to your garage if you're a DIY, about $300+ electrician fee. Compressors below 60 gallons are usually 110-120V

[@richardprice5978]

120V is junk for bolted shop compressor mobile ah all pass but is so so

[@keithcanfield3251]

I installed a Quincy 7.5 hp 2 stage 240 volt single phase in my shop 2 years ago. It's a workhorse and runs fine on single phase power. Now that we're nearing the end of 2022, be prepared for sticker shock.

[@jameshill4900]

It's also very important to use high flow fittings and larger diameter hoses (3/8 min. - 1/2 best) for anything that requires higher cfm. Make sure your regulator has a cfm output that matches or exceeds your compressor. For low cfm or dyi odd job users I would advise nothing smaller than a 2 cfm compressor. Quite usable for most tasks. Anything smaller is almost painful.

[@Fireship1]

Milton V. They are high flow and make a huge difference along with large diameter air hose.

[@jameshill4900]

@@Fireship1 The V is a good very high cfm fitting. It's nice because it uses the standard 1/4" intake (which I assume most people here would be using). I've had great luck with them. The larger fittings I use are reserved for my tools that have the 1/2" intake.

[@nodak81]

@@Fireship1 Thank you! I couldn't remember the brand name. I changed all my fittings to the purple 1/4" Milton V-style and the difference was amazing!

[@jims2507]

@@Fireship1 Will these Milton V fittings make any difference with my pancake air compressor and 3/8" 50 ft hose? Need to spray fluid film/woolwax, haven't tried this yet.

[@chrisforker7487]

I purchased a storage tank to help with volume. I have a 50 gallon compressor and two 50 gallon storage tanks. This has a higher initial run time, but zero drop in air performance. This same strategy can work on a smaller scale too.

[@danielbackley9301]

exactly three different factories I worked in all had secondary air tanks more tanks smaller compressor .

[@donaldroehrig7817]

Yes, our engineers did the math and we ended up going with a 75hp variable speed screw drive compressor and two 100 gal tanks. Also, our main air lines that run the length of the building are 3" hard lines, and these act as storage as well. We have air to spare, but with the variable speed drives, we don't waste power. People forget to factor in the electrical cost to run a large air system. It can cost thousands of dollars a year depending on demand.

[@brianpritt4154]

Impact wrenches are used in short bursts and then a break before running again. A large tank can help with that. Smaller compressors work fine if you manage your usage.

[@SvdSinner]

You only need the full power of the impact wrench to break the nuts free. As long as your tank is large enough to run it hard for a second or two, you can get 90%+ of the functionality from a basic compressor that you can get from a giant compressor.

[@rayzt3c425]

I run mine on a little 6 gallon porter cable. It works fairly well for my automotive uses.

[@michaelprosperity3420]

@@SvdSinner Thanks. I had that question. I'll be getting the 29gl Central Neumatic for my garage. My Campbell Hausfield finally quit after 20yrs.

[@TheRoadhammer379]

I can tell none of you have run a 1" impact removing semi truck wheels.

[@joel9405]

@@TheRoadhammer379 99% of average people don't remove semi wheels? 😂

[@Knockingdownbarriers]

Very very informative and well communicated. All too often reviewers use too many terms that they don’t define and they go over the top with self-importance ivory tower mentality that confuses the Layman. You are a pro and thank you.

[@mbazzy123]

I just upgraded to the Ingersal Rand 60 Gallon 5 HP 220 VT. 30 Amp this moves 18.5 Cfm @ 90 PSI and cuts out at 125 PSI coming from a 33 Gallon Craftsman twin cylinder oilless, its a very big improvement for me. $960.00 @ Tractor Supply

[@williamcole4105]

Nice to see another person do this. I watched another tuber and he touched on this, which helped me with some research and figuring out what I needed in a compressor. Never would have thought about the bigger air tools needing a larger cfm.

[@TexasScout]

Re: Impact gun I have never had to run an impact of any size continuously. I have a 20 gallon comp that puts out 5.7 at 90 PSI, I have never been short of air while rotating tires or changing blades on the mower. In fact, many years ago I ran a small sand blaster continuously with a Sears 5 hp hot dog style comp. Made a living painting.

[@DavidStrchld]

I have a Craftsman compressor from like 30 years ago, has specs like yours, in using the impact gun I really have not had any issues of note, after all it's only run for a short time normally, with a good resting time inbetween, however if I did have a really tight lug nut I may have to get it to run to it's cut off point (125 PSI) to get enough of a initial breakaway, though that is rare. I think it has to do more with the losses in the long hose length and 3/8 diameter hose then anything else. The air ratchet uses more air, but it works fine with it.

[@marcoespinoza948]

Would a craftsman compressor rating at 11.5 scfm @90 psi be okay to use with a impact wrench since it only really needs 4-5 scfm @90psi?

[@TexasScout]

@@marcoespinoza948 oh hell yes

[@marcoespinoza948]

@@TexasScout okay thank you that’s all I needed to hear

[@wingerrrrrrrrr]

Yeah, if it doesn't break the lug loose immediately when pulling the trigger, try the following: a) bump up the pressure b) get a better large ID hose c) get high flow air couplers d) get a better impact gun

[@DKWalser]

Red -- I know Jeff helped with the research on this one, so, while you're technically correct in the stats, he reached the wrong conclusion on a few things. First, the SCFM requirements from an air tool can be met -- briefly -- with the air in the compressor's tank. Second, a higher pressure compressor puts 'more air' in its tank -- allowing it to run an air tool for longer than a lower pressure compressor with the same sized tank. For example, I have the HF 27 gallon Fortress High Performance air compressor. It runs up to 200 PSI and produces 5.1 SCFM at 90 PSI. That 27 gallon tank effectively equals a 54 gallon tank at 100 PSI. It will run an impact wrench for several minutes (not continuously, but as you normally would use the tool -- several short bursts at a time). Plenty of air for removing or putting on all the tires on a car or truck, for example. That makes using virtually all the typical air tools practical for the home shop -- with the exception of large sanders, buffers, and grinders. (They make small (3") random orbital sanders that only consume 3 - 5 SCFM, so you can do SOME sanding. But, a 3" sander is a specialty tool. You'd want something larger for most work, and those sanders will outpace my HF compressor.)

[@markmall7142]

To complicate matters further one should be aware that the rated CFM or l/m is not actual and you should rather spec on FAD which pertains the delived CFM if the info is available. Another thing to consider is noise especially in a home shop so DB rating could be significant and having a smaller tank could be beneficial as it fills quicker equating to less noise for shorter periods and less power consumption .

[@chrisdover8014]

I have a Porter Cable 5 gallon pancake compressor that has met most of my needs. The most I've ran on mine was a framing gun and it kept up with it just fine. I would not try and run any tools that require a continuous supply to operate, such as an impact gun, but nailers work pretty good.

[@David-hm9ic]

Since most of us that are hobbyists would use impact wrenches and all of the other air tools intermittently we don't need the compressor to deliver the big CFM on demand all the time. I have worked in an environment where we used air tools all day every day so I know the difference. A bigger tank can keep the tool going for a while even when the psi/cfm rating falls short. Those ratings are for using the tools nonstop all day long. Unless someone is making a living with their air tools and every minute matters, it's OK to wait on the compressor once in a while. I have a 25 gallon Craftsman with a BS power rating of 4 HP. It's over 25 years old and I have rarely had to wait on it. It's due for replacement because I'm allergic to air tank explosions. My tools include an air drill, paint guns, a die grinder, random orbital sander, 3/8" air ratchet, little to big nailers and a small HF sandblasting cabinet. That's the real air consumption device. Someone I know is a city civil engineer. When the city built a new fire station he was told that the fire department needed a 230V 3 phase air compressor to inflate the tires on the fire trucks. "Nothing but the best for the fire department." He had to abide by the recommendation ($$$ Thousands for an air compressor) when a $600 115V 1ph compressor would have been more than adequate.

[@keithcanfield3251]

I have a Quincy 7.5 hp 2 stage 80 gallon tank compressor. I ordered it with a 240 volt single phase motor and it works great.

[@NELSONG12]

Great info Oso! My little bostitch pancake compressor seems to handle little nailer guns, tire inflater and 21° nail gun. I'm happy!

[@briancrounse7473]

I'm in this same boat. I haven't gotten a tire adapter, yet. Just use it for my nailers and recently got the air tools for dust cleanup.

[@richardfowler3254]

I helped install a Quincy compressor in my friends shop, It is amazing and very quiet too. I do not need one but it is a great one for certain !!

[@michaelvanderbilt6353]

You can rebuild it will run along time, ran 2 24 hr a day + 8-10 on Saturday once a year rebuild the value.

[@ZebraFacts]

Very nice, informative, and fun video about air compressors. Being that I know nothing about air compressors. The only experience I have ever had using high air pressure, was when I was a very young man working at a large Sara Lee factory. We used high air pressure to clean and dry floors, walls and baking equipment. So, for my own personal usage I'm still left with how many gallons, horsepower, and or watts are adequate for painting, sweeping my lot of dirt, leaves, and other such debris. I would also love to be able to be able to spray my many fruit trees.

[@skunkworks9-3]

So what I'm gathering is if your a shade tree kinda person then electric tools are the way to go. Get a compressor for airing tires and a lil car painting.

[@lordrayden3045]

Yep..... Cordless has come so far, you can go with those....... or corded tools for thst matter

[@josephszijarto1170]

You can run a really strong 1/2" air impact wrench (capable of 1000lb-ft) on a 20 gallon, 4SCFM tank - I've been doing it for 25 years. If you're doing heavy suspension work, there's still no beating air. You just have to pause every minute or so to let the compressor refill the tank. Bigger tank, less pauses. Bigger compressor, less pauses. Plus the air tools are much cheaper than electric typically, and you never run out of battery. The Bear's understanding of how pressure, tanks, and tool SCFM requirements work isn't too good unfortunately.

[@minituck04]

you can even run a Graco sprayer that uses dewalt batteries. Expensive but man do professional painters love it and it works like magic

[@edwarddavis507]

Just a thought. If you’re running electric with a cord, yeah you should hang onto those because they will always work and will last decades. If you are running cordless than you might find you are spending more money on replacement batteries so the air tools have the advantage. I think it’s all dependent on the user.

[@splendidtime1]

cant believe that I just enjoyed listening to a bear interest me about compressors. awesome thanks

[@theinfernalcraftsman]

For auto mechanics the days of air tools are over. Most everyone at dealer shops use Milwaukee M12 impacts and ratchets. If you use air tools you will not be liked since they are so loud. For my needs I use every grinder and cut off tool under the sun and then rhe blasting cabinet and pressure blaster and paint as well. For me a modified 60 gallon is usable but I really need more air so I don't have to stop working.

[@Fireship1]

I agree. When I work around fuel such as drilling screws out of a fuel tank flange, I’d rather use air. No motor sparks and less of a chance of ignition.

[@badmatt4227]

I bought the California Air 20 Gallon and it runs my 1/2” impact (brand NAPA) great. Bonus, it does not chase me out of the garage when running. 14:50 I would not purchase the cordless, DeWalt has a corded version that will last longer.

[@andrewforte]

I have a US Craftsman 2hp 33gal 150psi that does 6.4scfm at 90psi. After I switched out the quick couplers to 3/8 automotive it has no problems keeping up with my IR 2135QTi 1/2" impact gun. However it does struggle at times to keep up with the DeVilbiss FLG-3 HVLP spray gun. I have thought about switching to electric, but I have so much invested in air tools that it's not worth it.

[@asdf9890]

This helped a lot. I want a compressor that I can get that impact wrench that will take off any bolt, but looks like I just need to man up and use a breaker bar....and the other half of my jack handle as an extension. I'm not spending $1500+ on a compressor.

[@EfficientRVer]

If I'm willing to use an air tool and drag an air hose, I'm willing to use a corded tool and drag a 12AWG extension cord. Exceptions for things like nailers, where the tool is simply better, or I'd rather not be holding 120V on a roof or whatever.

[@matthewcantrell417]

Another great video I have really been enjoying your content, I work in Industrial maintenance and wanted to share another decision point that most people don't think of when deciding on weather to go compressed air vs electric/battery powered tools. It is the cost of running the tool (electricity). Anytime you use compressed air to do the same job of something that can be done with straight electricity you are using 7 to 10 times more electricity (money) to complete that work. Even most Companies that have huge compressors don't realize how much money can be waisted for the convenience of grabbing an air hose and plugging in that air tool. Where I work compressed air is the last resort option, we would prefer to spend a little more upfront on the battery/electric option and recoup the savings over the long term use. I hope people find this comment helpful, and I look forward to more videos.

[@jameshill4900]

Interesting. Is that a calculation you figured out or found somewhere? What parameters is it based on (continuous use or intermittent). On intermittent use 7 x cost vs air in the long run sounds high. Batteries do degrade and weaken over time. Air tools do not and are always putting out 100% * as long as there is air. (PS I do use battery powered tools but also use air for my larger tools).

[@MrSupernova111]

Yeah, but the real comparison is a long term comparison and my bet is that the air equipment will last much longer than battery powered tools. I think they're both great but let's be fair in the comparison.

[@steponmemommy9323]

I have the 20 gallon McGraw 135 PSI oil lubed compressor. Just got a set of Milton V-Style high flow fittings from Amazon. Was wondering if those new fittings combined with a 1/2" air hose would be enough to run a cheaper impact? Edit: The new fittings and the 1/2" Earthquake impact from HF work fabulous!

[@scottgaskill8514]

I believe in buying all the compressor you possibly afford. I went from a 60 gallon single stage to an 80 gallon 2 stage. I went from air tools to cordless and still do things like sandblasting. Some things you just want to be covered for. You'll never have a big enough garage, you'll never have enough outlets and you never have enough air.

[@TheSprinterVan]

I love my Kobalt impact 24 volt brushless 5-year warranty check the specs unbelievably great

[@Jwitherow1964]

No looking for the biggest and best large portable air compressor

[@worrior626]

thanks man just the info i was needing to find for over an hour! but again fantastic video keep them up learned alot and will be back with alot of questions in the future!

[@bradyspace]

PSI is like Volts and CFM is maybe like amps. Tank size is a bit like watt hours.

[@scottyV1000]

I have a craftsman half inch impact that I’m pretty sure was made by IR that I run with a 30 gal Craftsman compressor but since I got a DEWALT 20 volt impact I never use it. In the time it takes to fill the compressor and hook up the impact I can have the tire off with the DEWALT and there is no cleanup afterwards.

[@cmd_f5]

Good stuff. Thanks. I generally go for electric or battery power over my air grinder and such. I don't have a need for it most of the time. Kinda like bringing a firehose to water the flowers haha

[@alanbesing3693]

Love this... what a great delivery.

[@michaelmusson3593]

If you are planning on painting or sandblasting especially, you need a lot. 10 to 12 CFM for painting and closer to 20 CFM for sandblasting with a 80 gal tank

[@johngodden1665]

I had a 5th wheel RV with Goodyear 16 tires, they took 105 PSI. Large pickup tires can be 60 to 80 and I have been told that some people run the Goodyear tires above on their pickups. Way over 80 PSI. Using the impact wrench you will find the longer you can keep the pressure at 90 or above the performance you will get. The sanders, grinders and sand blasters are the worst. The issue is not only the amount of air you need, but the length of time you need to use it. Draining a 20 gal. Compressor in a 2 or 3 minutes and then waiting for it to completely refill.

[@scinto23]

My 30 gal 2 stage oiled will kick on after removing the 3 wheel on my truck. Does great with impact wrenches, air ratches, and air hammers. Thinking of grabbing a small 18v battery powered one just for tires though.

[@artv4nd3l4y]

I have a lot of experience with my Central Pneumatic 21 gallon now (same line as the 29 gallon I believe), and I have to say it's done me well. When I started to notice real limitations was with an air sander, like he said something spinning at high rates like 12000RPM for a long time if going to just eat your air. I wonder how it would do on a 60 gallon, my guess is that would be sufficient based on my experience. I could drain the tank pretty easily in a couple minutes, and it takes a long time to fill back up so wasn't a great solution. On the other hand the HF HVLP gun worked great, I got great consistent spray and it took a while for the compressor to start turning on. It would also turn back off so air compressors still can work well for a variety of tools, but you definitely should consider cordless tools when it makes sense. Look at pin nailers and brad nailers though, you never want to buy a cordless unless you're a professional, they're literally like $200. I got a brad nailer and pin nailer that both work fine from Harbor Freight for around $50. I will say the pin nailer won't do 2" pins like the Dewalt one, but then again the bigger ones also won't do 1/2" typically. There is a lot of great resources out there now to help with choosing between air and cordless tools. I will say my Milwaukee cordless drill set i.e. was one of my favorites, but not everything is so mass produced and air tools can still work great sometimes for cheap. Look at Milwaukee's best impact wrench something like $500, yeah it's super powerful but still not as powerful as an 80 gallon air compressor with a quality air impact wrench. Buy five of those nicer cordless tools that actually compete with the 80 gallon tools, and all of a sudden you're already around $3000 after taxes...

[@ronv6637]

Milwaukee top of the line is over $2000 and the batteries are very expensive,and I can't reinflate the truck tire with it

[@sheliamurphy4231]

Thank you for the excellent review/comparison and God Bless and Shine On Brother Bear!!!

[@Jimc4007]

Great timing! I've been shopping around for a small compressor to use a brad and finish nailer for woodworking. Don't need it for much of anything else. I don't own any type of air tools at all.

[@wingerrrrrrrrr]

Check out the 2 gallon Fortress ultra quiet one from HF for 140 on sale. Super unobtrusive if you have the compressor in the same room you're working, and decent output for light use.

[@bones5083]

My 10 gallon central pneumatic harbor freight compressor has been perfect for air hammer and impact but not good for die grinder. For most I need it for though works great

[@kevincedeno8899]

I got a Husky VT631402AJ that came with the workshop when I bought a property. The 60 Gal monster says it does 11.88 CFM @ 40 PSI / 10.3 CFM @ 90 PSI, max 135 PSI. Only problem, I have to make a new custom gasket since the one that it had was blown.

[@sirsweetness8332]

I have the 29 gallon CP from HF. It does well. Hook my 29 gallon up to my 13 gallon at the same time and I have 42 gallons 🤪

[@Ratkill9000]

It works. Long as the fittings are good.

[@joecool509]

I have finally gotten rid of my last air tool. I use the m12 miwaukee for tires and I am good.

[@OGPedXing]

I got the mcgraw 21 gal. But it's at 175 psi which means it's like a 26 gal 150. I use nailers and impacts with it, no grinders. I do have an lvhp sprayer (low vol, high pressure) which should work fine for smaller pieces or panels of a car.

[@tommyeller524]

I have a Quincy 80 Gallon QT 7.5 Single phase 230 volts and it is awesome. $3,000.00 it awesome.

[@jameshenry9874]

Thanks for this video! Definitely helped me better understand what I need!

[@sirtigalotwolfe2962]

I have a 8 Gal. Cambell and whatever,, replumbed a portable tank of air to add the the air volume works great try it.

[@seapanda579]

You can run 3phase 240volt on your normal single phase 240v you use a vfd. As for the noise I build a compress room. I built it by using insulated concrete core foam block ( icf ) use a good foam filled door. Or use 2x6 frame and fill the gap with open cell foam. Make sure you have a opening to let air in and one to let heat out I use a 12 " pipe in the roof with a fan putting heat out. All my switchs are mounted out side the room and I have a large line leaving the tank to outside the room with a extra very large tank to hold more air. I use a lot of air pigs tool I need the extra air. I run two type of lines one that has oil in the air for tool and dry air. If you did like people coming to get air all the time give the the oil line. It stop that quick. If he using a blow gun lol

[@trolling4dollars816]

Good video coming from someone that has stated more than once that air powered tools are dead ;) One fact that was left out is that the maximum PSI is not as important as the PSI that turns the compressor on. I had to buy a 175 psi max compressor to supply a constant 125psi to my steel piercing nail gun. See you Sunday

[@Fireship1]

I’ve got four. A bellaire two stage 60 gallon, Sears two stage 25 gallon, HF single stage 8 gallon and Sears single stage 3 gallon. I use the best one for the job at hand. The 60 is my favorite of course. ☺️

[@JackalGB]

Thanks Bear, I think I'll be skipping the air impact wrench then. $240 gets me a Makita XWT17Z 18V. :D

[@cb84capri]

If you're getting into makita I think the best thing to get first is the 16" chainsaw with 4 5.0ah batteries and a dual charger. You will love that impact.

[@twistedpixel2558]

Old comment I know, but air is all around more powerful than the best corded or cordless.

[@Comm0ut]

Need is one thing but for sand blasting more air is better and a cheap way to get it is accumulate small consumer crap compressors used then connect them together with large ID air hose and Chicago couplings which I did before scoring used industrial compressors. My impact wrenches haven't been used in years because cordless is so much handier but for abrasive blasting there's no replacement for displacement.

[@mikedaniels9331]

I want to pump, bicycle, tires, hundred psi and 125 psi, so what size compressor would I need for road bike tires?

[@denoftools]

Size doesn't really come into play there, it's all about the motor.

[@JohnDoe-ig1yw]

Very informative video. Thank you. Definitely not buying 2000$ compressor anytime soon for home garage. I will have to find a different way to break free this axle bearing on my Sienna from bearing carrier now that I can not use my air hammer.

[@Ratkill9000]

Great video. Going to need an air compressor within the next year. Though I'm hoping to get a Crossfire CNC plasma table for home art and what not.

[@hairpunut]

Impact wrenchs require some cfm on mid to high compressor. They can range from 3.5-9 cfm. My nitro cat hits hard but needs 8-9 cfm to run right. Plus a large amount of air. But my home depot will give me some power but not for long on my 20 gallon. So I want to move to a 60 gallon. But can't find any that I can use for my situation.

[@joecool509]

AVE did a good video on CFM advertisement on compressor and how they don’t align with the tool needs.

[@NY411Info]

Yes he did, and the manufacturers do a lot of BS Figures.

[@calvinwalker4654]

He puts out a lot of info that you won't see from other channels.

[@killnconquer2645]

What about a gas operated, would use it for semi truck, running a 1inch impact

[@crypto118]

I still have a Craftman's hot dog to top off tires, but I mainly use electrical tools for everything else. But for the professional, these compressors are needed, so thanks for the video :)

[@MrDfbwa]

Question I have is air hose/fitting size. To provide a high rate of CFM, wouldn't you need a larger diameter air hose and fittings. I would think your standard 1/4" or 3/8" air hose would not be capable of providing the higher CFMs that your 1/2 inch or larger air hose could provide.

[@lightningsmokerXx]

On Compressors with Regulators , what psi do i set that for , for a air chuck for filling tires & a blower wand for blowing dirt off ?

[@frijoli9579]

One thing not addressed is the actual way they measure compressors. They are not measured by compressor output. If you have an air tool that runs at 4cfm and 90 PSI, a compressor rated a 4 cfm at 90 PSI will NOT keep up.

[@patfrey7242]

Good video. I was waiting to hear about the sandblaster and you didn't say the CFM? Just the 100 PSI.

[@anthonygoodrich6487]

Good info. I snagged a kobalt 30 gal 2 stage on clearance. Basic use, works for me. Can you do a short vid on breaking down hose size and comparable uses. I'm thinking 3/8, but maybe you say different.

[@andrewforte]

The hose size is not as important as the quick coupler size. I have a 2hp 30gal with 3/8 hose. What made a big difference was upgrading to 3/8 T high flow auto couplers. Especially when running 75ft of hose with a 1/2" impact gun.

[@anthonygoodrich6487]

@@andrewforte thanks. I snagged a TSC reel and 3/8 50ft hose for 35 bucks. Still hadn't decided on couplers, but high flow it is. Have a great day

[@tdiddi74]

Need a compressor for car/motorcycle tire inflation and blowing water off after wash. Thinking about the 1 or 2 gallon Fortress compressors. Which one would is recommended? Thanks!

[@MrSloika]

For a home shop two cheapo HF compressors hooked in tandem will give you the CFM you need and do it cheaper than a large professional quality compressor.

[@judyl.761]

Very helpful. Thank you bear!

[@Ho_ten]

SO...I have a question about all this, hopefully you'll get back to me sooner that later. I need to spray my backyard fence with Austrian lumber oil stain. I have about 1,000 foot of fence that I need to treat. I haven't purchased my spray gun yet and nor do I have a compressor. What would you recommend for this type of job? Thanks for reaching out! Any insight you might have is going to be greatly appreciated.

[@dylaneng91]

This video saved me a ton on air tools!

[@pkt1213]

Since I put up over 500 ft of privacy fence, I didn't use mine a lot. Most of what used to be air powered for me is now battery. I guess the real problem, most of the tools with lower air requirements have been replaced with good battery tools. Now what I need air for still requires a beefy compressor like a sander, so it really hasn't resolved my compressor woes.

[@zackhaas3267]

The Central Pneumatic 29 gallon will run any impact full power up to 3/4" with the right setup. The biggest thing with it is to change out the factory regulator to a decent regulator. The factory one is EXTREMELY restrictive.

[@SoloReaper2099]

Which size is good for automobile painting

[@swaffy101]

Great break down and info. Thank you!

[@BrewCityRider]

Interesting how many of the bigger HF compressors actually have a lower or equal CFM rating to the 8 gallon 2hp one, which is 4.5cfm and in my garage. Works great with my 1/2" impact - just make sure to use 3/8" I. D. hose and V or H style fittings.

[@benjaminabel8596]

I'm starting to think that bigger tanks are a scam. PSI is PSI and once it goes down, it doesn't matter how much air is in the tank, just how much PSI the tank can handle and the force of the motor.

[@HiroProtagonistak]

I help out at my buddies auto shop he runs ingersoll rand compressors and they rarely get used. When they do it's not to their capability. Cordless tools are the way to go. If they could make a cordless auto paint gun it would be great.

[@txrangers717]

I have a porter cable 4 gallon side stack compressor that my father dropped off at my house a while ago (he used to work in construction). I've been thinking about fixing it up to working condition. It's missing the regulator and he told me the safety valve leaked so it wouldn't reach cut-out pressure. The interesting thing about it is the scfm it produces for a small compressor. 7.7 at 40 psi and 5.3 at 90 psi. That seems to be higher than any other compressor I can find at that size of a tank. What would be the recommended uses for that? It seems to be borderline impact wrench territory, but it seems like the 4 gallon tank would run out of air quickly.

[@jimquinty5378]

do you remember when harbor freight had US General compressors? I think I might own one of the last from 10 years ago for a 60 gallon tank that that is 2 stage (175 psi) that puts out 15.3 cfm at a 100 psi and its been outside under a shed dormer (porch) and still runs with very little maintenance

[@JesusMartinez-wm4dk]

you can use it raptor liner??

[@ypopnun1003]

My 80 gal 5 hp 2 stage is ok for everything but my 15 gal sandblaster with a 3/4 inch feed hose It came out of a gas station. looking for a100 gal 10 hp or a trailer-mounted gas/diesel driven

[@FeedScrn]

How long do air-compressors last? How do you know when it's time to ditch it? If I had one, I would not want to wait until I heard a loud boom - to know.

[@tidesrollin5343]

I lucked up on a 80 gallon 2 stage Quincy for 600 bucks only had about 20 hours on it!!!! I was sooooooo excited, till I had to run new power to the shop!!!!! Its not really that loud in the whole scheme of things!! It was far more than I needed, but I could not pass it up!

[@JTP1967]

Nothing beats the finish of an air sprayer, especially when spraying top coats. Not to mention the amount of over spray. That is why, a lot of finishers such as myself, are constantly looking for a good compressor that will handle a paint sprayer. To much spatter from a corded, hand held sprayer, and a graco sprayer just shoots out to much. Maybe some day they will make a decent, mobile air compressor that will handle air sprayers (or a less taxing air sprayer). At least automotive painters have the luxury of having the car in their shop, but not so lucky when refinishing cabinets and trim. Nothing beats the beauty of the finish of an air sprayer.

[@Pk3_Garage]

You can buy less expensive professional HVLP guns to use with a smaller compressor. I have a professional HVLP spray gun that only uses 6.5CFM at 30 PSI. My Craftsman 33 gallon, 1.7 HP, 165 max PSI air compressor works fine with it.

[@JTP1967]

@@Pk3_Garage That's good to know. I have on that consumes just over 4CFM @ 30-40 PSI. I have a DeWalt 15 Gallon/225PSI compressor that claims to put out 5.0CFM @ 90PSI but it can't keep up with the gun. I can spray the 1 cabinet door, and the dang compressor is cutting on, constantly running. I don't want to spend any more on the 30+ gallon without knowing if they will keep up. Mobility is MOST important to me.

[@heavychevy383]

gotta kobalt 20 gallon compressor (as a gift) & havent purchased any air tools yet... so this information should, in theory, keep me from buying something my compressor wont support... thanx bear, & god bless u to dude

[@Poorboychickencoop]

The bigger the tank is better for weekend warrior mechanics. I've bought these styles alot.. I'm now building my own which equals the $3k compressors. 27 cfm 7.5hp motor single phase 230v. The problem with battery tools is they wear out fast..

[@larryhampton9069]

My wife bought me a Delta from Sam's Club over a dozen years ago for $758, 6hp, 80 gallon, 175psi max, 16.9scfm@100psi.

[@larryhampton9069]

2 stage

[@johnbrenchak5234]

Very informative, thank you for the info.

[@anthonywilliams2764]

Ok I need a compressor to fire out sand and cement mortar to exterior walls for rendering!! What sort of compressor will I be looking at ? Taking into account it will be used continuously for 2-3 hours per day ??? Yea lease help

[@KellerChristoph]

What about compressor LIFE SPAN? I am using a 25 year old Craftsman that I have taken good care off but, since it is in my shop with me I wonder if it is still safe to use. Runs well and of course, it is LOUD. ;-)

[@denoftools]

Look at the tank on the compressor there should be an expiration date stamped on it. If your past that you need to replace that tank.

[@rtgray7]

Timely video! For someone slow and lazy, ;) , What is the minimum CFM/PSI to run a Pin, Brad and Finish nailer?

[@Fireship1]

You can run nailers on small compressors. I have an 8 gallon that I use for finish and framing nailers. I can shoot quite a few nails with each gun before it kicks on.

[@rtgray7]

@@Fireship1 That's what I needed to know. I appreciate that!

[@Smashachu]

You can build a 12cfm aircompressor for 200-300 if you can compromise on tank size.

[@huckelberryfizzle]

Great info, exactly what I needed to know, thank you! Man I could watch that bear talk all day long