Home owners know the battle of home improvement can only be won by using a combination of tools. Most people are going for air tools and side-tracking the use of electric tools which are not only expensive but also less convenient. The air tools are advantageous since they lack a motor making them lighter, smaller and cheap to use. In the long run, air tools are cheap. Other than when there is a compressor breakdown, you will need little routine maintenance to keep the system running.

An air compressor system is versatile and can perform a number of tasks when connected to the right kind of pneumatic tools. Compared to the conventional electric tools, the air/pneumatic tools produce more torque, are easy to use and are durable. Since there are no moving parts, the system has less friction and thus the durability.

Shopping for air compressors can be a daunting task thanks to the wide array of styles and sizes available in the market today. Choosing the right air is a matter of personal preference and expected functionality. Before you go shopping around, ask yourself a few questions:

• Which tasks do you need to carry out?
• What is the state of the electrical supply?
• Which specific air tools do you need to operate at your home?
• Where do you want to locate it; a ventilated or restricted place?

Grades of Air Compressors

Consumer

These are the small in size and are used at home. They are mostly used around the house to inflate toys, tires and sporting items like balls. Though they are the smallest grade, they have more functions than just inflating sporting goods and can run large air tools as well. However, when these are not suitable for industries.

Contractor

These are designed to withstand a job site. They are more powerful compared to consumer grade. Basically, they power roadside repair tools and nail-guns. They are designed to be portable either attached to a vehicle or through a wheeled cart.

Commercial

These are designed for industries that require constant supply of air day and night. They are heavy duty and utilise modern air compression technology and low compressor breakdown cases to deliver seamless results. They are mostly used in manufacturing facilities and body shops among other industries. The price is high and mirrors the high performance and the high quality.

Discerning the Right Air Type for the Job

The type and the size you buy will be determined by the air tools you need to operate. There are basically two factors to consider here; the volume and the pressure. Though other factors like tank size and horse power may come handy, they are not useful for a lay person. If for instance the air tools require 3 CFM (unit of volume) and 90 psi (unit of pressure), you can buy one with 4.5 CFM and 90 psi.

After you have selected the right one for the job, you can choose between the different body styles which include twin-stack style, pancake style and wheelbarrow style. Different companies will offer different prices. Choosing the best deal on the market before you buy comes handy.