Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - Air compressor questions

I'm looking to buy an air compressor. I'm a first time buyer... always mooched off others.

It's for a home shop and I need about 10cfm so I've resigned myself to getting a 220v oil unit with a 30 to 60 gallon tank.

Here are things I'm wondering about:
1. Do any of the manufacturers make a unit that's quieter than others?
2. Do I need to insulate my garage if it's attached to the house? Or can these units withstand cold temperatures.
3. Are there any blatant things I should watch out for when comparing units?

Thanks.

All the belt driven air compressors are a lot quiter than the small cheap direct drive units but they are still noisy. It shouldn't harm the compressor to be subjected to cold temps although it may cause the oil to thicken and any water in the tank might freeze.

You might construct a closet for the air compressor which would help isolate the sound and maybe keep it a little warmer.

Many of the more expensive commercial duty compressors are quieter than home owner types because they use lager displacement pumps that turn slower.

I have reduced my compressor's noise level to near zero by mounting it outside my shop in a small dog house.

I had a 220v oil unit--it filled up so fast the noise never bothered me.
I gave it to one of the kids --bad mistake...........
Now I have a oil-less 120v--it fills slowly & the noise will drive you crazy.......................

Hi GregH,
After reading the string on air compressors, I have a few questions. I just purchased a Craftsman 919.167620 33 gal 1.6 hp 6.32@40PSIG AND 4.9@90 PSIGIs- it best to leave the drain valve open after draining? Are motors rebuildable?

Thanks,
Bob

Hi,

It isn't necessary to leave the drain open.
If you mean rebuild the pump that would depend on whether or not Sears has the parts and what the cost of them would be.
If you mean the electric motor it could also be repaired but again the cost would determine if it would be practical.

The type of compressor you have will have a rated duty cycle
which would be the amount of time it should run in each ten minute span.
You should check to see what yours is and then make sure you do not operate it beyond this capacity to ensure a longer life.

My motto: you can't have too much air. I have a 220v, 7hp, 11.8cfm@40psi,10.4cfm@90psi,60 gal.. It works great, max 125 lbs., cycles on at 90 off at 115. Husky brand from Lowe's. Had same thing before from Sam's except less cfm. Lasted 20 years. I use synthetic oil. If I had it to do over, I would go for a 2 cycle with a 40 gal. tank. I use air grinders, impact tools, air sanders, etc.. Mine in 100% duty cycle. Also is cast iron cyls.Hope this helps.