You can’t think of an auto repair shop without an air compressor. There are a lot of tasks that require an air compressor. From top to bottom, if you examine the tasks, you must need an air compressor to perform these actions.
Air compressors are necessary for inflating tires and power tools. When you’re dealing with automotive body parts, the best air compressor for an auto repair shop can be a real helping hand to you.
5 Air Compressors for Your Auto Repair Shop Review section
5 Air Compressors for Your Auto Repair Shop Review sectionA compressor that comes up with good motor power, stable air output, and good pressure is the best one. In this article, we’re going to share the 5 best air compressors that are designed mainly for auto repair shops. Those are:
- CAT 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor
- EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
- CAT 4610AC Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 1.0 hp 4.6-Gallon Portable Air Compressor, Silver
- Campbell Hausfeld 8 Gallon Portable Quiet Air Compressor
- Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor
All these compressors are good for small auto repair shops and simple tasks. These are not industrial air compressors and they are not capable of dealing with big vehicles as well. Let’s jump into the review section for a better understanding.
1. CAT 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor
Highlights
When you’re on the market and you’re out there searching for the best air compressor for your auto repair shop, the smartest choice would be if you go for this air compressor. This one comes from the brand called California Air Tools or CAT.
This brand is highly popular in this sector and they’ve been making air compressors for a long time now. This one is an ultra-quiet series air compressor that comes up with a 70 dB noise level. This noise level is pretty lower for industrial areas.
This compressor is built for shops where noise is a real concern. Just like other regular air compressors, this one is also a corded electric air compressor and it runs with 110 volts of electricity.
However, the capacity of this air compressor is pretty impressive as it comes up with a big 10-gallon tank that can beat up any capacity required for an auto shop.
However, the weight of this compressor is a bit higher and it weighs 82.5 pounds. With the maximum 2 horsepower motor, it can give you a pressure output of 125 Psi maximum.
The air delivery capacity of this compressor is 6.40 CFM at 40 Psi and 5.30 CFM at 90 Psi. As a bonus, the 10-gallon tank of this compressor comes up with wheels for portability. The oil-free pump ensures that you’re using this compressor without any major and hard maintenance.
pros
- Oil-free durable pump
- 10-gallon air holding capacity
- Maximum air pressure 125 Psi
- 2 horsepower powerful machine
- 30 CFM at 90 Psi
- Quiet and 70 dB noise level
cons
- Doesn’t have a warranty for some regions
2. EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
Highlights
The EPAuto air compressor portable pump is a great option for you if you’re a mechanic and run an auto repair shop. Maybe it’s not the best air compressor for auto repair shops .
But we suggest having one of these portable air compressor tire inflators in case you have to run for a quick repair in the middle of the road. This is small and the specification of this tire inflator is made for quick and easy tasks.
However, this is operated with DC and the required voltage is 12 V. You can plug this tire inflator in your car and give it a simple go. It has some extra features as well such as a flashlight, some extra adaptors, and cones.
The air delivery capacity is 1.06 CFM which would be your inflation speed. This isn’t huge but in terms of portability, it’s pretty awesome.
However, the maximum air pressure for this compressor is 70 Psi which is great. It has some overheating issues and to prevent that it comes up with an overheat protector that automatically shuts the compressor.
When the heat is up to 167 Fahrenheit, It’s instructed to use not more than 10 minutes at the same time to prevent overheating issues.
pros
- Long power cord for convenience
- Maximum air pressure 70 psi
- Highly portable and lightweight
- Comes up with an LED light
- Auto shutoff feature for overheating
- Air delivery rate 1.06 CFM
- Comes up with extra cones and adapters
cons
- Can’t run a long time
3. CAT 4610AC Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 1.0 hp 4.6-Gallon Portable Air Compressor, Silver
Highlights
Our third pick is another one from the brand California Air tools. This one is a bit smaller than the first one and it comes up with a smaller tank capacity.
However, the features of these both compressors are the same and they operate the same way. You can call it the little brother of the previous one. It comes up with a 4.6-gallon tank. The twin tank system makes it durable and long-lasting.
Besides, it can take huge pressure because of this. Just like the previous one, it’s also a corded electric air compressor and it comes up with a perfect-sized power cord to make your tasks easier.
Having all the specifications of an auto shop compressor it comes up with a 4 pole motor that can give you 2 horsepower at its maximum. The maximum air pressure you can get out of this air compressor is 120 Psi. This is pretty enough actually.
The plus point of this air compressor is it’s extremely quiet and it comes up with a noise level of 60 decibels. Thanks to the manufacturer CAT for this.
The weight of this one is almost half of the previous CAT air compressor which is a pretty good sign for an air compressor in terms of portability and carrying it with you. It weighs only 45.5 pounds.
The compressor is an oil-free low maintenance air compressor so you don’t have to worry about anything. The air delivery capacity for this compressor is 3.10 CFM at 40 Psi and 2.20 CFM at 90 Psi. This delivery capacity is pretty perfect for an auto repair shop.
It can inflate tires quickly, run on different power tools, and can supply air at a certain flow. It comes up with two quick hose connectors that are universal and fit into any ideal hoses.
Besides, the easy start motor works even in the harshest weather. This rust-free twin tank aluminum air compressor can be your choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly all-around air compressor for your auto repair shop.
pros
- Corded electric compressor with 110v
- 2 hp powerful motor
- Extremely quiet, 60 dB noise level
- Weighs only 45 pounds
- 2 CFM at 90 Psi
- 120 Psi at max
- 4 pole motor
- Quick start feature
cons
- Some users find the tank capacity lower
4. Campbell Hausfeld 8 Gallon Portable Quiet Air Compressor
Highlights
Here’s a masterpiece that comes from Campbell Hausfeld. They have several other compressors that are focused on different purposes and they are great for different features.
If you ask about this one, it comes up with an 8-gallon tank, which is huge for an air compressor. Just like other compressors on this list, it also runs with electricity and comes up with a 120 volts operation system.
The interesting fact is it comes up with a lower noise level and when you’re comparing the compressor with others in terms of noise, you’ll be getting 50% less noise according to the manufacturer.
The noise level for this air compressor is 68 dB which is slightly lower than others on this list. This air compressor weighs only 67 pounds which is great when it comes to portability. The Campbell compressor is made for auto repair shops as it’s suitable for any kind of inflation operation.
Besides, it’s perfect for power tools like spray paints and nailers. It can give you maximum air pressure of 125 Psi. The air delivery capacity for this air compressor is huge as well. It can deliver you with 2.4 CFM at 90 Psi.
This delivery capacity is pretty huge for an auto repair shop. It comes up with wheels in terms of portability. It makes carrying the machine with you easier when you’re traveling from Jobsite to Jobsite.
The universal quick couplers are there for a reliable hose connection. It’s an oil-free compressor that means it requires low maintenance and you don’t have to worry about repairing it at all.
pros
- Quieter compressor compared to others
- The noise level is 68 dB
- Highly versatile, suitable for different jobs
- Comes up with wheels and other accessories
- Universal quick couplers
- Maximum air pressure 125 psi
- Delivery capacity is 2.4 CFM at 90 psi
- Oil-free compressor with zero maintenance
cons
- Has some shipping restrictions
5. Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor
Highlights
If you’ve come through the whole article and you didn’t find any of these air compressors suitable for your auto repair shop, here’s our last choice that may go with your requirements.
It comes from the brand called Industrial Air. This is a big one compared to the others on this list. It has a huge capacity of 30-gallon tank which is pretty big.
The biggest drawback of this air compressor is it’s an oil-lubricated one and you need to maintain the compressor from time to time. It comes up with a cast iron construction that makes the compressor durable and long-lasting.
The twin-cylinder system gives you efficiency and power. It has a heavy-duty induction motor that gives maximum power when needed. The air pressure is pretty high for this air compressor as it can offer you a max pressure of 155 Psi. This pressure is huge and capable of doing any kind of job.
The delivery capacity of this compressor is pretty high as well. It can deliver you 5.7 CFM at 90 Psi continuously. The motor capacity of this compressor is 1.9 HP. It runs with electricity.
The package of this air compressor comes up with synthetic lubricator oil and it features a tempting warranty as well.
pros
- High capacity 30-gallon air compressor
- Highly durable if maintained
- Maximum air pressure is 155 Psi
- Air delivery capacity 5.7 CFM at 90 Psi
- Easy read pressure gauge
- 9 HP motor for power
- Easy starting feature
- Capable of running for a long time
cons
- Oil-lubricated and requires maintenance
Best Air Compressor for Auto Repair Shop Buying Guide 2021: Things you must know!
Air compressor is a regular necessary tool that’s required in everyday life. You can use it for different purposes both indoor and outdoor. It just makes everything easy and quick. Besides, industrial jobs are easier with a giant air compressor.
Now, when you’re running an auto repair shop or you’re a mechanic, you must need an air compressor to inflate the tire or clean the clogged radiator filter, or for some other tasks. You always want to make it faster and precise. You can’t do these without a good-quality air compressor.
When you’re on market and searching for a suitable air compressor that goes with your automotive activities, you may get confused easily because you don’t know which feature is important for you.
In this section, we’ll talk about features you need to check when you’re buying an air compressor for your auto repair shop.
Let’s get started!
Tank size
This is a big question. When you’re dealing with regular tires like your SUV, the capacity isn’t an issue. Regular tires can be filled with any capacity.
So, you can go for a compressor that comes up with 6 gallons or bigger tank size for a small auto repair shop. The point is, what happens when you run a big auto repair shop that does big engines and tires? You need a big tank for that.
There will be crews working with different hoses at the same time and to make sure they’re working pretty well, you need a compressor that comes up with a 30+ gallon tank size.
Air pressure
For simple auto repair shops, air pressure is an issue. You need to buy a compressor that can deliver with an exact air pressure continuously.
Inflating tires and power tools don’t require much pressure though, but it’s important to have at least 125 Psi Maximum pressure.
Delivery rate
The delivery rate refers to the inflation speed. The more your delivery rate is, the quicker you can get your job done. It’s measured with CFM Cubic Feet per minute. For a standard auto repair shop, you need a good delivery capacity.
At a regular auto repair shop, you can get an air compressor that can deliver at least 4-5 CFM at 90 Psi. But when it comes to big auto repair shops.
you need to go for a higher delivery rate to work perfectly as you will be dealing with giant machines.
Motor power
This is an important fact in case of the power and pressure you need. You need a slightly powerful motor to operate with auto body parts.
When big air compressors offer you high-powered operation, several smaller compressors come up with great power. You can buy a compressor that comes up with at least 2 HP-powered motors to work perfectly.
Oil or oil-free
This is a tough question. Both compressor types have their advantages and disadvantages.
If you’re searching for an air compressor that’ll last long with maintenance and give you great efficiency of working, you can go for an oil-lubed air compressor. These are great for bigger auto shops.
When your task is simple and you don’t much care about maintaining the machine, you can go for an oil-free compressor. They are compact and easy to use. Besides, oil-free compressors are great in their category.
Accessories and extras
There are several features you need to check before buying an air compressor. Those are extras. Like the power cord. You need to buy an air compressor that comes up with a long soft power cord.
A cord storage is a helping hand as well. Wheels are great in terms of portability. Having two stands is a plus point. Couplers are necessary.
You need to make sure that your compressor comes up with universal couplers. A warranty feature will be great too!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
What size air compressor do you need?
The size of the air compressor depends on you and your property. Air compressors come in different tank sizes and capacities. There’s a vast variety in the size and shapes of the compressors. The size depends on your application.
Suppose you run a big auto repair shop and you have to deal with different power tools every day, you need a higher capacity then. You won’t be able to do it with an oil-free compressor as well. You need a higher gallon 20+.
But if you’re more into simple jobs and running the shop alone, you’re working with regular-sized tires, a small size air compressor is pretty enough.
Small air compressors are great as well as they come compact and can run power tools perfectly.
How big should my compressor be?
What are you trying to do with that compressor is the answer to this question. The bigger the compressor bigger the capacity and pressure. Besides, with a bigger compressor, you’re getting more horsepower, Psi, and delivery capacity.
Now, if you run an auto workshop with several employees, you need a bigger air compressor. If you’re doing it alone and don’t care about maintenance that much, you can buy a regular oil-free compressor with good power and delivery capacity.
How much pressure do I need?
The pressure is important for inflating tires and other jobs. It’s the main task of the compressor. When the air is compressed, it comes out with pressure that’s what compressors do.
If you’re willing to run different paint tools or power tools, you need a compressor that can at least come up with a maximum of 125 Psi output. You can’t work with less.
What is the best air compressor for automotive work?
The best air compressor for automotive work is the CAT 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor. It comes up with a 10-gallon tank while offering you a powerful 2 HP motor. It can give you 125 Psi air pressure output.
Besides, the delivery rate for this air compressor is pretty good. It can deliver you with 5.30 CFM at 90 Psi which is awesome.
It’s the best budget air compressor. However, there are 4 more air compressors on our list. You can take a look at those at the same time.
What type of compressor is best for professional auto bodywork?
Our recommendation is to go for a big industrial oil-lubricated air compressor if you’re talking about a big auto repair shop full of crews.
In a big auto repair shop, you need to deal with different tasks like inflating big giant truck tires, cleaning, working with power tools that can’t be done with a smaller air compressor.
So, it’s essential to go for a big-sized air compressor. But when you’re dealing with small tires or regular SUV tires, you can buy a regular-sized air compressor that comes up with a 6 or more gallon capacity and a standard delivery capacity.
Conclusion
So, these are the best air compressors for the auto repair shop. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly all-around air compressor for your auto repair shop, you can go for the first one CAT 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor. This one is great.
All these air compressors described above are great for small auto repair shops. If you’re looking for big air compressors this article is not for you. For any kind of information or queries, contact us directly.
