First of all,
is a reciprocating air compressor right for you? If you are a homeowner who likes to do home renovation projects.
Yes. Do you have a workshop?
Yes, again. Small business? This is the one for you. What about construction work?
Absolutely. A reciprocating air compressor is suited for intermittent use and when you don’t need a lot of air. If your compressor is going to have a lot of downtime, this is also your best solution. Rotary options are not a good choice if you’re not planning on using it constantly and will need a lot more attention in the long run. This machine is well suited for almost any situation.
First Things First – What Will It Cost You?
In today’s economy, question number one should be about price. The good news is, a reciprocating air compressor is very budget friendly compared to rotary air compressors. As a matter of fact, when it comes to reciprocating air compressors, they’re budget friendly no matter how you want to look at them. With a rotary compressor, you’re looking at an expensive fix if something ever goes wrong. You’re also going to need skilled maintenance throughout your machine’s lifetime, so be sure and factor that into your decision making. With the reciprocating compressor option, fixes are cheap, and you can usually do them yourself with a little know how and a few youtube videos. Honestly, even if your budget wasn’t part of the equation, the quality and durability of reciprocating air compressors should have you sold.
What Else Besides Price Should I Consider When Buying a Reciprocating Air Compressor?
There are a few minor questions to dwell on before handing over your credit card. Do you want a gas or electric air compressor? If you’re going to keep it in one spot, you should probably go with electric. If you’re on a construction site, or you need to move it around a lot, go with gas for more flexibility in movement. For further consideration, think about fumes and noise. If your compressor is inside a building, go with electric to keep down on noise and bad air quality. Again, if you’re outside and moving around, you can handle the fumes due to natural ventilation. Two very good options depending on your needs and the environment you or your employees will be working in.
Is it oil free or oil injected? If air purity is important, then an oil free version would be your best choice. Oil-free reciprocating air compressors should be used in paint shops, dental labs or breweries, while oil-injected compressors are found in woodworking and metalworking shops, auto shops, and industrial/manufacturing shops. And now the fun one, what size should you get? Location and how much space you have for it should answer that one. Sometimes bigger isn’t better. Especially if you’re planning on being on multiple building sites and need to be able to pick up and go without ruining your back. Whatever you choose, know you’re in good hands with reciprocating air compressors.
