Best Air Compressor For Painting Cars At Home
Are you looking for the best air compressor for painting cars at home? If yes, then you should read our article because we have listed down some of the top 10 best air compressors for painting cars at home.
When it comes to painting cars, you need to ensure that you get the job done right. The paint has to dry properly before you start working on other parts of the car. This means that you need to invest in a good-quality air compressor.
Air compressors are very useful tools that allow you to finish painting jobs faster and easier. They come in various sizes and types depending on their usage. In order to choose the best air compressor for your needs, you need to consider certain factors such as size, power consumption, noise level, etc.
Contents
Best Air Compressor For Painting Cars At Home – Top 10
amazon.com
$199.00
Air Compressor, 30-Gallon Horizontal Tank, Portable, Single-Stage, 10.2CFM, 3.7HP, 1 Phase (Campbell Hausfeld VT6271)
Features
- Brand: Campbell Hausfeld
- Model Name: Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Horizontal Portable Air Compressor (VT6271)
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 46 x 21 x 31 inches
- Capacity: 30 Gallons
- Voltage: 230 Volts
- Item Weight: 163 Pounds
- Hose Length: 25 Feet
- Air Flow Capacity: 10.2 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Manufacturer: Campbell Hausfeld
- Part Number: VT6271
- Item Weight: 163 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 46 x 21 x 31 inches
- Country of Origin: USA
- Item model number: VT6271
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Size: 30
- Color: 30
- Style: 30-Gallon Horizontal Air Compressor
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Horsepower: 3.7
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Measurement System: Metric
- Included Components: 30 Gallon Portable Air Compressor (1)
- Batteries Included?: No
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 1 Year Limited
Description
- Heavy duty cast iron oil lubricated twin cylinder pump. Delivers 10. 2 CFM at 90 PSI and a max PSI of 135
- Product life of up to 5000 hours based on b-10 bearing rating for high-level durability. Durable and safe ASME code tank for greater air storage
- Start your projects right away; bundle this unit with a Campbell 25 ft. Air Hose (PA117701AV), 17 Piece Accessory Kit (MP284701AV), and the 3-in-1 inflation gun, chuck and gauge (MP600000AV)
- Finish your projects faster and easier with Campbell Hausfeld. The Air Power Expert
DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, 165 PSI (DWFP55126)
$199.00
Features
- Brand: DEWALT
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 16 x 16 x 17.5 inches
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Item Weight: 30 Pounds
- Sound Level: 75.5 dB
- Air Flow Capacity: 2.6 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Manufacturer: Dewalt
- Part Number: DWFP55126
- Item Weight: 30 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 17.5 inches
- Country of Origin: USA
- Item model number: DWFP55126
- Batteries: Lithium Ion batteries required.
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Style: Compressor
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Number of Handles: 1
- Batteries Included?: No
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 1 year limited manufacturers warranty
Description
- 165 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, enable long tool run time with quick recovery for the portable air compressor
- High efficiency motor of the electric air compressor is made for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application. [14 ga or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less]
- 78.5 dBA noise level of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for a quiet work environment
- High flow regulator and couplers of DEWALT portable air compressor are designed to maximize air tool performance
- Long life oil free pump for maintenance free operation
- Console cover protects controls and is removable to allow easy repair
- Outlet tube rerouted to avoid being catch point
- 30 lb weight makes unit easy to carry/store
- 2 universal couplers to easily support two users
- Ball drain valve for quick & thorough tank draining
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor | Ultra Quiet, Oil-Free, 1.0 hp, 8 gal & Plews & Edelmann Amflo 12-25E Polyurethane Air Hose - Non-marring, Smooth Finish, 1/4" X 25', Blue, 25 ft
Features
- Brand: California Air Tools
- Capacity: 8 Gallons
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Sound Level: 60 dB
- Maximum Power: 2 Horsepower
- Motor Horsepower: 1 Horsepower
- Item Package Quantity: 1
Senco PC1010 1/2- Horsepower 1-Gallon Matte Finish and Trim Portable Hot Dog Air Compressor, Gray/Red
Features
- Brand: Senco
- Model Name: Senco - PC1010
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 14 x 13 x 10 inches
- Capacity: 1 Gallons
- Voltage: 115 Volts
- Item Weight: 20 Pounds
- Sound Level: 68 dB
- Maximum Power: 1 Horsepower
- Motor Horsepower: 2 Horsepower
- Manufacturer: Senco
- Part Number: PC1010
- Item Weight: 20 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 14 x 13 x 10 inches
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
- Item model number: PC1010
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Size: 4 x 50 Feet
- Color: Gray/Red
- Style: Portable
- Horsepower: 1
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Maximum Pressure: 1
- Included Components: Power Tool Accessory
- Batteries Included?: No
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 1 year
Description
- Lightweight and portable--easy to carry from site to site as you work
- One horsepower peak ,1/2 horsepower runningand one-gallon capacity
- Ideal for a range of renovation and home improvement jobs, as well as for hobbies and crafts
- Delivers 20 to 44 drives per minute
- Backed by a one-year warranty
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)
Features
- Brand: PORTER-CABLE
- Model Name: C2002
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 19 x 19 x 18 inches
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Air Flow Capacity: 2.6 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Manufacturer: PORTER-CABLE
- Part Number: C2002
- Item Weight: 31.2 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 18 inches
- Item model number: C2002
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Color: RED, Black
- Style: Standard Packaging
- Material: Aluminum
- Pattern: Compressor
- Horsepower: 1.00
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Measurement System: Metric
- Included Components: Pancake Compressor, Portable Air Compressors, Pneumatics
- Batteries Included?: No
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 1 Year Limited Warranty on Compressor Components
- National Stock Number: 4310-01-531-0626
Description
- 150 psi max tank pressure of the portable air compressor allows more air in the tank for longer tool runtimes
- 2.6 SCFM @ 90 psi of the electric air compressor allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO1217
- 6 gal Pancake style tank of the PORTER-CABLE air compressor is made for stability, includes water drain valve and rubber feet
- Low Amp 120V motor of the 6 gallon air compressor starts easily in cold weather or with extension cord
- Durable oil-free pump for long life and no maintenance
- Shroud, handle and console cover protects vital components, makes unit easier to carry and includes cord wrap
- Two regulated, factory installed air couplers to easily support two users
- Only 30 lbs for easy portability
- 150 psi max tank pressure stores more air in the tank for longer tool run times
- 2.6 SCFM at 90 psi allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO1217
- Six-gallon pancake-style tank for stability, includes water drain valve and rubber feet
- Low-amp 120-volt motor starts easily in cold weather or with extension cord
- Durable oil-free pump for long life and no maintenance
Features
- Brand: Makita
- Model Name: Makita MAC5200 3.0 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 29 x 19.5 x 19 inches
- Capacity: 5.2 Gallons
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Item Weight: 75 Pounds
- Air Flow Capacity: 5 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Maximum Power: 3 Horsepower
- Motor Horsepower: 3 Horsepower
- Amperage Capacity: 15 Amps
- Manufacturer: Makita
- Part Number: MAC5200
- Item Weight: 75 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 29 x 19.5 x 19 inches
- Item model number: MAC5200
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Size: One Size
- Color: Factory
- Style: MAC5200 air compressor
- Horsepower: 3
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Included Components: Air Compressor Oil (181122-A), 2 1/4" Universal Quick Coupler, Male (447013-E)
- Batteries Included?: No
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 1 Year Parts & Labor
Description
- Cast iron pump with Big Bore cylinder and piston is engineered to provide faster recovery time for improved performance
- Powerful 3.0 HP motor produces 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI for increased productivity
- Pump is oil-lubricated for cooler running temperatures and reduced wear
- Durable cast iron cylinder reduces wear and increases pump life; removable for easy maintenance
- Folding handle with low profile design for easy storage with handle folded
Ford Silent Series 15 Gallon Vertical Tank 2 HP, 125 Max PSI Oil-Free Air Compressor, FCE6150QV
Features
- Brand: Ford
- Model Name: Ford Silent Series 15 Gallon Vertical Tank 2 HP, 125 Max PSI Oil-Free Air Compressor, FCE6150QV
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 18.5 x 33 x 21 inches
- Capacity: 15 Gallons
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Item Weight: 88 Pounds
- Sound Level: 59 dB
- Air Flow Capacity: 3.9 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Maximum Power: 2 Horsepower
- Motor Horsepower: 2 Horsepower
- Manufacturer: Pulsar
- Part Number: FCE6150QV
- Item Weight: 88 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 18.5 x 33 x 21 inches
- Item model number: FCE6150QV
- Size: 15 gal
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Measurement System: Metric
- Included Components: Ford Silent Series Oil-Less Air Compressor, 15 Gallon Vertical Tank
- Batteries Required?: No
Description
- 15 Gallon Vertical Air Tank
- 2 HP/ 125 Max PSI/ 120V, 60Hz
- Super Quiet Operation (~59dB)
- Portable Design with Mobility Kit
- 2.9 CFM @ 90 PSI/ 3.9 CFM @ 40 PSI
- Dual Pump for 10Xs Longer Pump Life
- Oil-Free/Maintenance Free Pump
- 2 Easy to Read Pressure Gauges & 1 Universal Quick Connect Coupler
- Thermal Overload Protection
- Backed by a 2 Year Limited Warranty
Industrial Air Contractor 4 Gallon Portable Pontoon Air Compressor with 5 HP Honda Gas Engine
Features
- Brand: Industrial Air Contractor
- Model Name: Industrial Air Contractor
- Power Source: Gas Powered
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 24.4 x 21.9 x 19.8 inches
- Capacity: 4 Gallons
- Item Weight: 74 Pounds
- Air Flow Capacity: 6.9 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Maximum Power: 5 Horsepower
- Motor Horsepower: 5 Horsepower
- Manufacturer: Industrial Air
- Part Number: CTA5090412
- Item Weight: 74 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 24.4 x 21.9 x 19.8 inches
- Item model number: CTA5090412
- Size: 4
- Style: Compressor
- Horsepower: 5
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Maximum Pressure: 155
- Included Components: Air Compressor
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 2 Year Limited
Description
- Low maintenance, oil free, direct drive pump has a patented two piece cooling system which extends the life of the pump
- 5-Horsepower Honda OHC/OHV premium residential gas engine
- 155 PSI max pressure for optimum tool performance. Application Use-Air Brushing,Blow Cleaning,Bolting/Wrenching,Brad Nailing/Stapling,Finish Nailing,Framing Nailing,Hobby Nailing,Inflation,Roof Nailing
- "Pontoon" style tank design with two 2-Gallon tanks for job-site portability
- Maximum pressure: 155 PSI; CFM at 90 PSI: 5.0; CFM at 40 PSI: 6.9; horsepower: 5.0; engine type: Honda OHC/OHV.CC: 160
California Air Tools 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor, 2 HP
Features
- Brand: California Air Tools
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 inches
- Capacity: 10 Gallons
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Item Weight: 82.5 Pounds
- Sound Level: 70 dB
- Air Flow Capacity: 6.4 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Maximum Power: 2 Horsepower
- Motor Horsepower: 2 Horsepower
- Amperage Capacity: 14 Amps
- Manufacturer: California Air Tools- Home Improvement
- Part Number: 10020C
- Item Weight: 82.5 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 inches
- Country of Origin: Mexico
- Item model number: 10020C
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Size: 2 Hp - 110V
- Style: Manual Drain & Auto Drain
- Material: Metal
- Pattern: Air Compressor
- Horsepower: 2
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Batteries Included?: No
- Batteries Required?: No
- Warranty Description: 1 Year Limited Warranty
Description
- Ultra Quiet, only 70 Decibels
- Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs
- Powerful 2.0 Hp with Low amp draw - 7.0 Amps
- 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI. Dedicated 15 amp outlet -14 gauge 25ft cord - Min. 5500 Watt Generator. Maximum continuous running 30-60 min. (Depending PSI & CFM)
- 10 Gallon Air Tank with Wheels.125 PSI maximum pressure
- Dimensions: 16" L x 15.1" W x 35.9" H
CRAFTSMAN Compressor Combo Kit, 6 Gallon, Pancake, 3 Tool (CMEC3KIT)
Features
- Manufacturer: CRAFTSMAN
- Part Number: CMEC3KIT
- Item Weight: 1 pounds
- Package Dimensions: 20.9 x 20 x 19.9 inches
- Country of Origin: USA
- Item model number: CMEC3KIT
- Style: Air Compressor w/ 3 Tools
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Maximum Pressure: 150 Pound per Square Inch
- Included Components: CMEC6150 Compressor (1); CMPBN18SB Brad Nailer (1); CMPFN16SB Finish Nailer (1); CMPCS38 Crown Stapler (1); Hose (1)
- Batteries Required?: No
Description
- CMEC6150 Air Compressor: Proudly Made in the USA with Global Materials in Jackson, Tennessee
- PORTABLE: CMEC6150 Compressor with 150 max PSI is lightweight, portable, and oil-free
- 18 GA POWER: CMPBN18SB 18 Ga. Brad Nailer has the power to drive up to 2-in. brad nails
- 16 GA POWER: CMPFN16SB 16 Ga. Finish Nailer has the power to drive up to 2-1/2-in. finish nails
- HEAVY-DUTY: CMPCS38 3/8-in. Stapler has the power to drive up to 9/16-in. heavy-duty staples
What Is An Air Compressor?
An air compressor is a device that uses compressed air to create mechanical energy. It can be used for many purposes, including cleaning and painting, making concrete, welding, or even inflating tires. The most common use of an air compressor is in the construction industry, where it’s often called a pneumatic hammer.
In regards to their use for painting vehicles, air compressors are used to pressurize air into tanks for use in painting cars.
They are available in many sizes and configurations. A compressor may be electric, gasoline powered, diesel powered, or even steam driven.
There are two main types of compressors: reciprocating and centrifugal.
Reciprocating compressors move back and forth inside their cylinders, while centrifugal compressors spin around inside their cylinders. Both types of compressors produce high pressure air.
What Considerations When Choosing An Air Compressor For Painting Cars
PSI Requirements
Pressure supply systems must provide enough pressure to fill the paint sprayer tank. Pressure requirements vary depending on the size of the system. Smaller systems require less pressure than larger ones.
CFM Requirements
Compressors need to deliver a certain amount of airflow to keep up with demand. The flow rate required varies depending on the application. High speed applications such as car bodywork require greater volumes of air than do low speed applications.
Duty Cycle
A duty cycle is the percentage of time that a pump spends running. The longer the duty cycle, the lower the efficiency of the pump. Pumps with short duty cycles run constantly, but pumps with long duty cycles only run intermittently.
Horsepower Requirements
The horsepower rating of a compressor determines how fast it runs. Most compressors operate between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. Higher speeds reduce the life span of the motor.
Tank Size
The capacity of a tank determines how much paint can be stored before refilling. Paint cans range from 10 to 100 gallons. Larger tanks hold more paint.
Noise level
A compressor produces noise during operation. Some compressors produce less noise than others. A quiet compressor may not be suitable for certain applications.
Oil-free pump vs oil lubricated pump
An oil-free pump does not require any oil to operate properly. These pumps do not use mechanical seals and therefore do not need to be cleaned after each use. However, oil-free pumps tend to cost more than their oil-lubricated counterparts.
Portability/size
Compressors come in various sizes. Smaller ones are easier to transport but take up more space. Larger ones are heavier and harder to move around.
Cost
Depending on the size and features you want, you should expect to spend anywhere between $100-$500.
Reviews
You can check out reviews online before making a decision on which one to buy.
Durability / Materials
Electric compressors are usually made out of metal while gas compressors are usually made of plastic. Metal is generally stronger than plastic. However, if you want something durable then go with plastic. Plastic is lighter and easier to transport.
Warranty
Both electric and gas powered compressors come with warranties. Most manufacturers offer a warranty period ranging from one to five years. Some manufacturers even offer extended warranties. Extended warranties cover repairs done after the expiration date of the original warranty.
Maintenance
There are many things that need to be maintained regularly. These include filters, hoses, oil levels, belts, and bearings. All of these parts should be inspected periodically. Failure to maintain any of these parts could cause serious damage to the compressor.
What Size Air Compressor Do I Need?
This depends on what type of work you will be doing. If you are painting cars at home, you probably don’t need anything too big. You can get away with using an 8 gallon or smaller compressor.
If you plan on working outside on more intensive tasks, you might want to consider getting a larger compressor. This way you won’t have to worry about transporting your compressor back and forth, and worry about it not being powerful enough for the job.
