Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - Leaving Compressor on

I recently purchased an air compressor and was wondering if it's OK to leave it on all the time even though I may only use it once or twice a week. It has a small tank and only takes five minutes to fill when I use it, but it would be nice to have it available all the time without having to fill it for every small job.

Thanks

itanic,

Yes, it most certainly is ok to leave it on.
However, you must take certain common sense precautions.

Make sure that it is located in an area that is reasonably fire safe in case it runs hot.
If you leave an air line connected, make sure it is well maintained so that a hose will not break and cause extended running.
You can monitor how often it starts as a measure of tightness, keeping in mind that even a tight system could start a few times a day if you have a small air receiver tank.
Ensure that the unit is anchored so that it will not walk when operating.
Make sure it is properly guarded and marked so that it doesn't unexpectedly start if someone unfamiliar is nearby.

Most importantly, enjoy the instant air.
Waiting for an air compressor to pump up is like trying to download something on dial-up. :D

Probably "ok", but I only fire mine up when needed. I know a lot of garages who shut theirs down every night even though they use them heavily every day.

My $.02 worth.

After having one air line blow while I was not home and having the compressor run for many many hours, I never leave mine on anymore when I am not around. If the air is getting low, I flip the breaker on, let it run till the compressor shuts off, then turn the breaker off again.

I have a 150 gallon tank, so I can go a LONG time without having to turn it on.

Pendragon,

You have a valid point.
This reminded me that I forgot to caution against leaving an OILLESS compressor unit plugged in continously.
Most of these have a duty cycle of less than 100% which means that they are not meant to run continuously which would be a problem if there was a failure like you had.
.
So, I'll modify my recommendation to say that most oiless compressors shouldn't be left on continuously.

Generally a reasonable quality, oil type compressor I believe is still ok to leave on.
These have a 100% duty cycle, and although will use extra electricity, will not be bothered by extended running if something were to happen.

Anyone that does leave their compressor on, MUST also go the extra mile and perform thorough maintenance on the equipment.
Hoses are very easy to inspect and any signs of wear are usually quite obvious.

Blow outs can happen, but I've never seen it when equipment is maintained.