I need an air compressor but am not sure what i need exactly... lol

basically i am looking for something that is somewhat "portable" but will be mainly used in my garage. I will be using it for the standard stuff, possibly small paint projects but nothing too crazy.

what do you guys run/recommend? what kind of specs should i be looking at? CFM, HP size of tank.

Portable ones aren't good for paint, period. The tank is way too small and discharges too quickly, and they generate too much water vapour. They're fine for light air tool work like impact guns or drills or what have you, but for die grinders, bead blasters, and sanders, a big tank with lots of CFM from the compressor is a must.

Also remember when you're shopping to check the pressure that the compressor's CFM rating is taken at. It's much easier to make 10 CFM @ 50 psi than at 100 psi, and that's pretty much what dictates how quickly your compressor will refill the tank, or keep up with your tools.

I've got a 60 gallon, 18.5 CFM @ 100 psi House of Tools unit, and sometimes it's not enough. I can drain it down pretty easily while bead blasting.

I agree with Matt. I've got a big one, almost identical to his. When I'm blasting, it's running all the time. Little ones are fine for filling the tires and zapping the lug nuts off or running air nailers...

interesting, i was looking at some 30 gallon tanks but dont know if they will fully suit my needs. the 30 gallon was somewhat portable even though it weighs alot. i most likely wont be moving it around much anyways. i thought as long as you have a moisture trap you can use it for painting, I dont mean large projects but just small pieces like valve covers etc....


hmm looks like i should goto house of tools and take a look

if all you're running is an airbrush or a touch-up gun, a small compressor would be fine. An HVLP gun takes 15-20 cfm so it'll drain the little tank in a hurry. The moisture trap is a good thing to have, as well as a good filter.

well i caved and just bought a 60 gallon 5hp 18.5 cfm at 100 psi compressor...

Now i just have to run some 220 to my gargage!

House of Tools, huh?

Good choice. Not exactly a commercial grade compressor but plenty of compressor for any of our needs...