Best Air Compressor for Sale

At Redline, we carry air compressors from top industry brands, including Jenny, Porter, Saylor Beall, DeWalt and Kellog. As well as stocking stationary electric air compressors both Porter air compressors come in the form of tanks equipped with pneumatic tires for maximum portability. Tank sizes range from 20 gallons in the smaller portable models, to 200 gallons in larger models. Some of the larger models also include a one year warranty and the option to select your voltage for an additional cost. Get the job done with stationary and portable air compressors at Redline.

What is an air compressor?

We’ve got loads of made in America air compressors for sale! However, to get things started for those that may not know, an air compressor is a pneumatic device—contains or is operated by air or gas under pressure—that converts power through the use of an electric motor or a diesel/gas engine into potential energy that’s stored as pressurized/compressed air. When this storage tank is fully compressed and reaches its engineered upper limit, the compressor shuts off and holds and the energy is then stored in the tank to be used for a variety of applications.

How does an air compressor work and what does it do?

Before you shop for air compressors, it’s always important to know how they operate. As we mentioned above, an air compressor forces air into a container by pressurizing it. Then, that same air is then forced through an opening in the tank, where pressure builds up. The stored air acts as electrical energy, and when powered by an engine, using a crankshaft, piston, valve, head, and connecting rod, it turns into kinetic energy when it’s released. From there, the pressurized air is used to power a variety of roles, including nailers, impact wrenches, sanders, and even paint sprayers. However, since there’s more than one type of air compressor, it’s important to do a bit of research beforehand to ensure you shop for air compressors with the right specialties.

What types of air compressors are there and how are they used?

There are so many types of air compressors, but which air compressor is the best? Here is the breakdown depending on your trade, industry, or project:

• Rotary screw air compressors: These machines possess two internal screws that rotate in opposite directions, trapping and compressing air between them. These types of compressors are popular for industrial projects.
• Rotary vane air compressors: Similar to the option above, these machines are mounted on a rotor and rotated inside the cavity. They’re very popular for personal projects.
• Piston/reciprocating air compressors: These machines use pistons controlled by a crankshaft to deliver the gas at high pressure. Typically found on small worksites, these air compressors are available in single stage and two stage, varying slightly in their functionality.
• Axial air compressors: These machines use a series of turbine blades to generate air and force it through a small area. Although not very common, axial air compressors are used in aircraft engines.
• Centrifugal/radial compressors: These machines bring in air through a rotating impeller that is then pushed outwards by force. These types of compressors are common in HVAC systems.

How big of an air compressor do I need?

Are you wondering how much air pressure is needed for your given application? While most of your shop’s smaller air tools are made to be used with portable air compressors—gives instant access to compressed air—and typically require 0 to 5 cubic feet per minute (cfm) at 70 to 90 pounds per square inch (psi), some larger tools will need to be connected to a stationary system—Jenny air compressors are great industrial-grade options—and will require 10 cfm at 100 to 120 psi.

How To Choose The Best Air Compressor?

Choosing the perfect air compressor can be challenging, especially with the wide variety available in the market today. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a professional, or someone who needs to inflate a tire, the right compressor can make all the difference. If you're wondering how to find the best air compressors for your home, this guide is for you.

1. Portable Air Compressor vs. Stationary: Depending on your needs, you might opt for a portable air compressor that offers mobility convenience. This is especially useful if you have multiple workspaces or need to take your power tools to different locations.
2. Determine the Power Needs: Before buying, think about the power tools you will use. Tools like an impact wrench might require more air pressure (measured in psi - pounds per square inch) and volume of air.
3. Tank Size: The tank size is crucial because it determines the amount of air the compressor can hold. Larger tanks can store more air, meaning the compressor doesn’t need to run as frequently. However, for lighter tasks, smaller tanks should suffice.
4. Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM): This is an essential metric as it determines the air flow that a compressor can deliver. Different power tools will require various CFM ratings. Ensure your compressor meets or exceeds the CFM requirement of your most demanding air tool.
5. Oil Lubricated vs. Oil-Free: Some air compressors are oil lubricated, ensuring smoother operation and longer lifespan. However, they may require more maintenance. Oil-free models, on the other hand, are less maintenance-intensive but might not last as long.
6. Understanding PSI: The psi (pounds per square inch) metric denotes the air pressure delivered by the compressor. Ensure the compressor's maximum psi rating aligns with the tools you intend to use.
7. Types of Air Compressors: There are various types of air compressors, including piston-type, screw-type, and more. Your choice should be based on your usage needs, frequency, and budget.
8. Air Tanks and Hoses: The type and quality of air tanks and air hoses can affect the amount of air and the air flow the compressor can deliver. Ensure they're of good quality and suitable for your needs.
9. Air Tool Compatibility: Before making a purchase, check if the compressor is compatible with your air tool. Each tool requires a certain CFM and psi, so the compressor you choose should cater to those needs.
10. Maintenance and Durability: Lastly, consider how easy it is to maintain the compressor and its expected lifespan. The more durable, the better your investment will be in the long run.

What size air compressor do I need to work on cars?

When choosing an air compressor for your garage or workshop, it can be challenging to know which model will be best suited to the range of applications needed in your auto facility. So, whether you’re a car enthusiast on the hunt for a small air compressor or you own an automotive shop and require something with a wider range of applications, it’s important to find the best option for your tools and equipment.

Vehicle service, repair, and auto body shops typically use a rotary screw air compressor or a piston air compressor with 5 to 30 HP and 80 to 240 gallon receivers to power the range of pneumatic tools and equipment needed for their industry.

Here are three questions that you need to ensure you properly size what you need before you shop air compressors:

How much-compressed air do you need?
What pressure do you need?
What kind of electrical power do you have available on site?

Several tools might be used for car maintenance and repairs, so be sure to make a checklist and consider all of the following applications to guarantee top performance with your air compressor.

• Angle grinding
• Brad nailing
• Chiseling
• Cutting
• Drilling
• Dual sanding
• Frame nailing
• Greasing
• Metal nibbling
• Mini grinding
• Needle scaling
• Orbital sanding
• Painting
• Ratcheting
• Riveting
• Sawing
• Shearing
• Unscrewing