OT: Looking for a air compressor recommendation, I need air! Options

[draganc]

Hi guys,

I’m looking for recommendations for a new air compressor for my home work shop.

I’m looking for a unit that is capable of doing some painting, grinding, DA sanding, hence, around 60 gallons and around 11/10 scfm at 40/90 psi.

The unit will be used 1-2 per week, hence, I don’t need a full-blown pro model, but I don’t want to wait forever to build up pressure.

I checked Home Depot, Lowes and HF and their unites between $450 – 600. It looks like they are all the same, from a performance and customer ratings point-of-view.

What can you guys recommend?

Thanks,
Dragan

[carr914]

Thanks a lot guys for the fast response!

@carr914, which craftsman model do you have?

What are the differences and benefits between single and dual stage?

What are the differences and benefits between single and dual stage?

A two stage is just what it sounds like. One cylinder (or pair of cylinders) compresses air from atmospheric pressure to around 90psi. The discharge goes to the second cylinder(s) which compress the air further. I think mine is 175psi.

The advantages are more cfm for a given HP and more air in the tank for given size (because of the higher pressure).

Only disadvantage is greater cost.

Brian really explained the Stage Deal.

Also get a Oil Lubed vs an Oil-Less. Will last longer & Much Quieter

My Craftsman (don't know the Model off the Top of my Head) is a 60 Gallon 2Stage 220/240 Volt, it gets right up to 160psi ( the Limit I put on it). Since I have a Small Garage, I poured a Small Slab on the outside of the Garage, mounted the Compressor and then built a Shed around it to protect it from the elements.

I got a great Deal on it. Someone had bought it, took it home & realized it was 220/240. They brought it back without ever using it. Sears put it on Special as a Demo. I kept going in (not far from my house) and they finally lowered the Price to $325 ( think it Retailed for $700). Bought it and the Warranty. About 2 Years in, it started making a weird noise. Called Sears and they sent a Repair guy out. He ordered the Parts & came back the next week. The Cost ( to the Warranty Co was $575 in Parts plus Labor) to me was Zero. After the Warranty was out, Sears offered me another 3 Years @ $120 so I grabbed it. So I'm about 6 years in & still under warranty.

Whatever you get, make sure you get a Moisture Filter System as it will save your tools and allow you to Blast & Paint. Always Oil your Tools & drain the Compressor Tank when you are done for the day. Failure to drain the tank can cause moisture to sit at the bottom of the Tank and make it Rust from the inside out