When it comes to portable air compressors, it is all about the power and the level. Many different types are available; the right one for you depends on the tools you'll be using. You'll need to check to make sure you tool can handle the power of the compressor, and make sure to choose a tool and compressor with a little more oomph than you think will be needed for a job. This guide will help you find the right for you.

Portable Compressor Types

Portable rotary screw compressors are the most popular air compressor. They come in ranges from 65 to 1600 cubic feet per minute, with pressure ratings that go from 100 to 350 PSI. Choose on that will work for your particular tools. As the compressors increase in PSI, they are capable of powering up more than one tool at a time. These portable air compressors are the only kinds that can easily be moved around.

Truck mounted compressors are just what the name says - they are compressors that fit either on your truck, or alternatively, under the hood. Your engine is the power behind these kinds of compressors, so they have the extra expense associated with the gas it takes to run your engine.

Deck mounted compressors are another kind of compressor that sits on your car or truck, however, these compressors have engines of their own, so they don't need your engine for power. They do need fuel of their own, though, and regular oil changes.

If oil changes and gas tanks don't sounds right for you, you can find compressors than run off of the electrical supply. These are more restrictive in their movement however, because obviously they have to be close enough to the electrical supply to get the power they need to run. These oil less air compressors might work best for some people, however.

Safety First

No matter what kind of air compressor you decide on for your job, be it portable, oil less or some other kind, the most important factor to consider is safety. Use the kind of compressor that is powerful enough to do your job, but nothing more. Also, you should always wear safety goggles, ear muffs, and other protective gear when using a power tool. Power tools can be dangerous in the hands of people who do not know how to use them, so make sure you are familiar enough and comfortable enough with a tool before you use a power supply like an air compressor.