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Like many auto equipment and machines, there’s a spectrum of best buy auto air compressor types available in the market today. The perfect type and brand for you would largely depend on what you intend to use it for. Price points and after-sales services are also thrown into the buying criteria, to be weighed along with functionality, ease of use, and durability. The best option for you is the one that fits your purpose, budget, and future needs.
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Understanding Air Compressors
Generally, air compressors are devices used to convert power into store pressurized air that can then be used for a range of purposes. Air is then discharged to fill gas cylinders and tires, to power tools and equipment, or to serve as a flushing medium among others. When the pressurized air in the tank reaches a specified minimum level, the device cycles again to ‘make’ pressurized air up to the preset limit. Simply put, best buy auto air compressor units work for air or gas in the same way as pumps work for liquids.
Air compressors are used not only in industrial settings or in oil and gas operations. Aside from manufacturing plants, these devices are used in auto shops, commercial spaces, and even home workshops. Shop owners would most likely be more knowledgeable about the technical specifications of best buy auto air compressor types and brands. At the very least they should understand the terms listed in the product features of the air compressors that they are looking to buy.
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Air compressors for home use
Homeowners who want to buy a compressor for their home workshop would have to be familiar with a few terms in order to ensure that they are getting the best buy an auto air compressor. Here are some of the things you have to take a look at:
- Pressure – air compressors can deliver low, medium, or high pressure. Low-pressure compressors discharge air at 150 psi (pounds per square inch). Medium pressure units go up to 1000 psi while high-pressure models have discharge pressures over 1000 psi. Low-pressure air compressor units can be used for airbrush set-ups, water sprinkler systems, blowers, tire inflators etc.
2. Oil-free or Lubed – oil-injected compressors, although less expensive, require more maintenance and periodic checks. These are also not good for use in tasks that require better air quality. Oil contamination is also an issue that makes oil-less or oil-free compressors more preferred in specific applications such as food production and spray painting. These units, however, are more expensive and make more noise while operating.
3. Reciprocating or Rotary Screw – these are two types of compressors that differ in the way air is pressurized and stored. A reciprocating piston type comes in single-stage and two-stage configurations. Two-stage compressors have two pistons with the second one larger than the first. Single-stage compressors discharge air at 150 psi max. Reciprocating piston compressors are best for those who are expecting a higher usage for their devices. Rotary screw compressors are the more preferred option for tasks that require continuous running.
Buying Tips for Auto Air Compressors
Consider your use when weighing the features of your options for air compressors. You can buy a portable tankless one if you simply want a convenient unit to keep in your car for inflating your tires. If you need a compressor for tasks that require pressurized air for an extended period of time, you need one that has a bigger tank.
As far as pricing goes, the most basic models for lighter tasks are available with under $50 price tags. Auto air compressors for cars run up to around $150 while heavy-duty units go up to thousands of dollars. Make sure that you check out your options and carefully examine the features of the compressors that you are looking to buy. When you are sure about what features and specifications you need, choose the best buy auto air compressor from a trusted brand and source.
