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7 Key Questions To Consider When Renting An Air Compressor

If you are using a pneumatic nail gun for construction and carpentry work (either professionally or as a do-it-yourself project) an air compressor is a crucial tool for your work. Your air compressor rental will help you with everything from spray painting jobs to upgrading moldings and much more. However, not all air compressors are alike, and your construction equipment rental agency may have several models from which to choose from. There are a few aspects to keep in mind, such as tank size, lubrication, and horsepower. Here is what you need to consider.

1. How Much Capacity Do You Require?

Depending upon what you plan on using your air compressor for, you will need to choose a model with the right gallon tank size for the job. For small do-it-yourself construction tasks, a small tank may be suitable. However, if you are doing a roofing project or a complex construction project, rent an air compressor with the largest tank for the most capacity.

2. Do You Prefer an Electric or Gas Powered Model?

If you have access to an electrical outlet, you might want to rent an electric powered air compressor. This option will save you some money and hassle of having to obtain gasoline or fuel. Also, if you are completing an indoor job, you won't have to deal with noxious fumes from the gasoline powered model. However, if your project is located outdoors where a power source is not available, a gas powered air compressor will be your best bet.

3. Will You Choose an Oil Lubricated Model?

Air compressors that require lubrication are often heavier and more bulky. They typically have the power to complete heavy duty jobs. You'll need to lubricate the working parts with oil before using the device. However, for a small task where portability is concerned, choose an oil-free model.

4. Should You Rent a Portable or a Stationary Model?

Will you be using the air compressor specifically in one location, or will you need to carry it around to various areas? A portable unit is lightweight enough to go with you from task to task, and it is often on wheels. A stationary model is best suited for a workshop of some sort.

5. How Fast Should Your Air Compressor Deliver Compressed Air

When time is of the essence, you'll want to rent an air compressor with a high rating of CFM (which stands for cubic feet per minute). Choose an air compressor that will deliver air faster than the tool you are using it with. Consider your tool. For instance, if you are using a three gallon sand blaster, an air compressor will need to be rated at 4 CFM. If you are using a commercial spray gun, however, you'll want to rent an air compressor rated at 6 CFM.

6. Should You Choose a Multi-Stage Air Compressor or a Single Stage Unit?

Again, this will depend upon your usage. Two stage air compressors (often referred to as multi-stage) will have dual cylinders. If you are working on a large commercial or business application, you'll do best with the multi-stage unit. It can handle heavier work loads and tends to be quite efficient. The single stage air compressors do not have the capacity to store as much air as a two-stage unit.

7. What Other Features Are Useful to Have?

When renting your air compressor, look for various features. For instance, some air compressors feature an air cooling system. This feature will prevent your tools from overheating. This may extend the life of your tool motors. A thermal overload switch prevents the air compressor from overheating, as it shuts off automatically when the unit gets too hot.  


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