An air compressor is a very versatile tool that can be used for various purposes, including car painting. Painting your car with an air compressor is a great way to achieve a smooth, professional looking finish. The main advantage of using an air compressor for car painting is the even distribution of paint on the surface. This results in less waste and fewer brush strokes, which means you’ll save time and money in the long run. In addition, an air compressor can help you avoid common mistakes such as uneven coverage or dripping paint.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the best air compressors for painting cars so that you can make an informed decision when choosing one for your own car-painting project.
Why do you need a good air compressor for painting cars
A good air compressor will help you achieve an even paint job with fewer brush strokes. It also allows you to apply thicker coats of paint without running the risk of drips or runs. And if you’re using lacquer-based paints, an air compressor will help speed up the drying time so that you can move on to the next step in your project more quickly.
Our top 3 picks for the Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars
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The 8 Best Air Compressors for Car Painting
With the right air compressor, painting your car at home can be a breeze. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is best for you.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 8 best air compressors for painting cars at home. We’ve considered factors like power, portability, and price to find the perfect option for your needs.
So whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or want something that packs a powerful punch, there’s an air compressor on our list for you.
1. Best Portable Air Compressor for Painting Cars- CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Combo Kit
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If you’re looking for an air compressor that can handle all your car painting needs, look no further than the CRAFTSMAN Compressor Combo Kit. This powerful 6-gallon pancake air compressor has everything you need to get the job done quickly and easily, including a 3-tool kit.
The first thing you’ll notice about this air compressor is its power. The 150 max PSI and 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI gives you plenty of pressure to work with, so you can paint like a pro in no time. But it’s not just about power – this unit is also designed for easy use and portability. The compact design takes up less space in your garage or workshop, and the included dolly makes it easy to move around as needed. Plus, the 6-gallon tank provides enough capacity for most jobs without being too bulky or heavy.
But what really sets this air compressor apart is the 3-tool kit that comes with it. This includes a 1/4″ impact wrench, a 25′ coil hose, and an inflation gun – everything you need to get started on your next painting project! And if you ever have any questions or problems, CRAFTSMAN’s customer service team is always ready and willing to help out however they can.
Check full & comprehensive review of this 6 Gallon air compressor.
2. Best Budget Air Compressor for Painting cars- PORTER-CABLE (C2002-ECOM)
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The PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor is a great choice for anyone looking for a robust and reliable air compressor. This unit is perfect for powering air tools, inflating tires, car painting and much more. Its pancake low profile increases stability, making it perfect for those who like to work in high places. With a maximum pressure of 150 psi and 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 psi, the C2002 provides 33% more air tool run time as compared to similar compressors with less power and delivery features.
Also, it has a high-efficiency motor that starts easily in cold weather and runs quietly. A 6 gallon tank gives you extended run times before needing to be refilled while an oil free pump means maintenance is not required as often as other compressor types.
Check more details about this Porter Cable C2002.
3. Best Size Air Compressor for Painting Cars- Industrial Air IL1682066
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The possibilities are endless with the Industrial Air IL1682066 Air Compressor. This air compressor is ideal for anyone who needs a reliable, hardworking air compressor that can handle any job thrown its way.
With two horsepower, this air compressor provides ample power to run multiple tools at once or one large tool continuously without breaking a sweat. It also features an oil-free pump for maintenance free operation and extended longevity. On top of that, it has a durable cast iron construction that will stand up to years of heavy use without issue.
The tank capacity is full 20 gallons, even though the structure is made vertical for ease of mobility. This device delivers 6.2 CFM at 40 PSI as well as 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI. It will go with almost every spray paint tool, giving you the advantage of adaptability. We admit that the unit is pretty heavy for the small project commencement. It is exclusively made to give you the perfect coating and finishing you desire.
This is an amazing air compressor for spray painting cars that have won the hearts of many professionals and DIYer users. If you’re looking for an exceptional air compressor that won’t let you down, look no further than the Industrial Air IL1682066.MN 20-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor with V-Twin Cylinder.
4. Best Air Compressor for Spray Painting Cars- California Air Tools 8010
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Another supplementary air compressor for heavy-duty painting jobs is the California Air Tools 8010 ultra-quiet air compressor. It may not be as powerful as the previous unit, but it is fairly sturdy to take charge.
It is incorporated with an 8-gallon tank with 1.0 HP. One must presume the motor is not so dominating. That is not true, let us tell you that!
This is a large air compressor that you can rely on not because of its size but for the high performance the motor provides.
We have marked this one as one of our favorites due to one specific reason besides other features. While other large air compressors often fail at running quietly, the CAT-8010 runs at only 1680 RPM.
It means the machine will not deteriorate even after using it for years. Plus, it creates a really low noise. It is one of the bigger units that makes only 60 dB of noise.
In short, the thing will last for a long time no matter how many times you utilize it for big projects. From house to car and other accessories, it will not disappoint you with its designed 3000 plus hours of operation.
With a large product like this; come plenty of responsibilities. So, you should remember to keep it in a well-ventilated area that does not have a high percentage of humidity.
Besides, you can always move it from place to place for your convenience. It comes with sturdy dual wheels and a handle.
The product takes another pointer with the oil-free tool’s operation. Thanks to this option, setting up the sprayers to the air compressor gets much simpler. Do not worry, the unit will run just as smoothly.
5. Rolair Air Compressor,2.5 HP,115V,130 psi (VT25BIG)
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If you need an air compressor that can handle a variety of different projects, the Rolair VT25BIG is a great option. This unit has a 2.5 horsepower motor and can generate 130 PSI of pressure, making it ideal for tasks like inflating tires or powering pneumatic tools. It also features a large capacity tank (5.3 gals) which ensures that there’s always enough air available to get the job done. This model includes a durable oil-free pump that requires no maintenance and will give you years of trouble-free operation.
There are several things we really like about this air compressor: First of all, it’s very affordable compared to other similar models on the market today. Secondly, its performance is excellent – it’s able to power most small pneumatic tools without any issues whatsoever. And finally, its size makes it perfect for use in smaller shops or garage spaces where larger units simply wouldn’t fit properly.
Furthermore, you can acquire the air compressor with all the required essentials. As a result, you can adjust it to almost all paint guns you buy or already have in possession. It is somewhat a lucky deal to the people who already have paint sprayers that do not need replacing.
There are some drawbacks to this unit as well, however. For one thing, it’s quite loud – so if you’re using it in an area where noise levels are already high (like a garage), it might not be the best choice. Additionally, at nearly 60 pounds, it’s one of the heavier options on the market – so if portability is important to you, you might want to look elsewhere. Overall though, the Rolair VT25BIG is still a solid choice for anyone in need of the best compressor for painting cars and versatile works.
6. Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80 Gallon Electric Air Compressor for Car Painting
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Looking for a powerful and reliable air compressor that can handle all your needs? Then look no further than the Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80 Gallon Electric Air Compressor. This top of the line air compressor is perfect for both home and commercial use, so whatever your needs may be, this bad boy can definitely get the job done!
You will not be able to resist owning this cylinder-style air compressor once you get to know its features. It is associated with a 240-volt and 15-Amp that effectively distributes about 4.7 HP. Also offers up to 155-PSI Maximum Air Pressure.
It also has an easily accessible oil drain valve with a sight glass in order to properly maintain the unit and prolong its lifespan. Additionally, it comes equipped with two quick connect couplers to easily hook up multiple tools at once – making work a breeze! Plus, there’s even a built-in storage compartment on board so you can keep all your accessories neatly organized in one place. Trust us, this air compressor will make your life much easier!
So if you’re looking for an industrial grade air compressor that won’t let you down, go with the Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80 Gallon Electric Air Compressor – you won’t regret it!
7. California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S- Best Air Compressor for Automotive Painting
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The California Air Tools 1P1060S is a one-gallon air compressor with a six-foot cord. It’s claiming to be the quietest air compressor in the world, and it might just be.
The build quality on this unit appears to be very good. All of the plastic parts seem thick and well made, while the metal components (including the motor) appear to be properly protected against corrosion with a layer of paint or powder coating. This should help extend the life of your investment significantly. The only potential weak spot appears to be where the power cord connects to the rear of the unit; there is no strain relief at that point so if you’re not careful when connecting/disconnecting your power source you could end up damaging both the cord and unit itself over time. Just use caution and common sense and you should be fine though.
As for performance, this unit is rated at 1.0 CFM @ 90 PSI, which should be plenty of power for most applications. It took 30-45 seconds to fill the air tank from empty using the regulated output on the compressor. In general, this unit seems more than capable of handling most light/medium duty jobs around the house or garage. If you need something with a little more oomph then you’ll probably want to look elsewhere though – this unit is definitely not intended for commercial or industrial use.
8. Master Airbrush Air Compressor KIT-SP7B-20-2
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The Master Airbrush Cool Runner II Dual Fan Air Compressor Professional Airbrushing System Kit with 3 Airbrushes is one of the most popular airbrush kits available on the market. This versatile kit includes everything you need to get started airbrushing, including a powerful dual-fan compressor, three top-of-the-line airbrushes, and all of the necessary hoses and adapters.
The Cool Runner II compressor is designed for continuous use and features two cooling fans that help prevent overheating during extended use. It also has an adjustable pressure regulator so you can dial in the perfect airflow for your project.
For detailed work requiring extra control, the included Master G25 gravity feed airbrush features a fine needle and nozzle set that allows you to spray very thin lines and create intricate designs with ease.
Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned pro looking for a reliable backup system, this professional quality airbrush kit has everything you need to get the job done right.
What to look for when choosing an air compressor for car painting (Buying guides)
Looking for an air compressor to power your car painting projects? Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Tank Type
If you are into light artworks, renovating a portion of the house, or thinking about spray painting a car, we recommend opting for portable air compressors. Portable air compressors are very lightweight, hence, the transportation advantages. They come in many cute styles like pancake compressors, wheelbarrow air compressors, hot dog compressors, etc.
The stationary compressor on the contrary is an upright air compressor that you will mostly see in factories, workshops, or garages. They have incredible horsepower and can be used for a long time. These are quite huge and hefty even though the vertical design requires little space in the service or storage area.
Stationary air compressors are quite effective in spray painting numbers of vehicles, houses and other large furniture or equipment.
Size and portability:
An air compressor should be big enough to handle the job you need it for, but not so bulky that it’s difficult to move around or store. If you plan on using your compressor for multiple purposes, consider one with a tank size of 6 gallons or more.
CFM Rating/Air Flow Rate
This measures how much air the unit can deliver per minute and is typically expressed in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The higher the CFM rating, the better suited the compressor will be for tasks such as sanding and painting. Look for a unit with at least 2 CFM at 90 PSI if these operations are part of your plans.
Maximum pressure
Most air compressors can reach a maximum pressure of 115 PSI but some go as high as 150 PSI or more. The level you need will depend on the tools you plan to use; most require between 90 and 100 PSI.
Horse Power (HP):
A 1 or 2 HP motor with 35 PSI sprayers is sufficient if you are thinking about non-industrial projects. The 2 HP variant has become pretty common in recent years so getting your hands on an air compressor as such will do just fine.
Noise Level
Air compressors can be quite loud, so if you’re looking for a unit that won’t disturb your peace pay attention to this specification. Lower dB (decibel) ratings typically indicate a quieter compressor.
Duty cycle
This is the percentage of time that an air compressor can run before it needs to take a break (usually 10 minutes). You’ll want to look for a unit with at least 50% duty cycle if you plan on using it for extended periods of time.
Source of Power
Air compressors can be powered by electricity (plug into a wall outlet), gas (requires separate purchase), or battery (cordless). If you have access to an electrical outlet, that’s usually the best option since it eliminates the need for extra fuel and results in less noise overall. However, cordless units offer greater portability – just keep in mind that batteries will need to be regularly replaced/recharged.
How to Fix Common Issues of Air Compressor in Painting?
If your air compressor is not working properly, it can affect the quality of your paint job. There are a few common issues that you may encounter with your air compressor and here are some tips on how to fix them:
Tailing
Sometimes paint sprayers tend to lose the uniformity of spraying patterns. Thus, there could be visible lines at the edge of the paint; this happens when the paint substance is not properly atomized.
You can fix it by increasing the pressure, thinning the paint, adjusting the distance and posture, or cleaning the spray tip. Sometimes you might have to consider replacing the tip.
Moisture Formation
It is without a doubt that the air of the sprayer must flow clearly. Thus, the spray gun should never be moist. Otherwise, the paint will not be equally consistent.
We advise applying a filter to prevent this damp adversity.
Jammed Airline
Always keep each line and tube clean before beginning a new task/project. It is because there could be potential oil contamination in the air compressor air hose that could taint the performance of the paint.
Cleaning up each tube and line after completing a project is the best way to avoid this trouble.
Too Hot Air Temperature
This occurs due to poor ventilation, dirt build-up on the filters and mechanism, or wound-up gasket/valves. The basic solution to this is cleaning everything from the filter to the intercooler. If it still does not work, then it is time for a new head gasket or valve plate.
Air Compressor Is Too Noisy
If your air compressor is too noisy, there are a few things that you can do to fix the issue.
First, check to see if the intake filter is clean. If it is dirty, replace it with a new one.
Second, make sure that all of the bolts and screws are tightened securely.
Third, try moving the air compressor to a different location in your shop or garage. This will help to absorb some of the noise coming from the machine.
Finally, consider investing in an aftermarket soundproofing kit specifically designed for compressors. These kits can be quite effective at reducing noise levels significantly.
It Keeps Shutting Off
One common issue people have with their compressors is that it keeps shutting off unexpectedly mid-usage. The most likely cause of this issue is an overheating problem due to insufficient airflow around the motor cooling fins. To remedy this, first ensure there’s nothing blocking intakes or exhaust ports.
Next, check for any blockages in internal passages by removing compressed air lines and feeling inside with a paperclip or similar object. Finally, clear away debris from around cooling fins on both sides of the motor housing.
The Air Is Dirty
One issue that sometimes comes up with compressors is dirty or oil-contaminated compressed air output. While this isn’t necessarily a problem with the machine itself perse, it can lead to issues down the line such as clogged nozzles on spray guns or damaged paintwork caused by impurities in the airstream.
To fix this problem at its source, start by checking the intake filter and replacing it if necessary. Next, look for any visible cracks or leaks in the compression chamber which could be allowing contaminants into the system. Finally, consider installing an aftermarket coalescing filter upstream of the existing one to help remove oil aeros from the airstream before it ever reaches the compressor.
How to air compressor used for painting cars?
Compressed air is often used to power air tools, such as paint guns. The main benefit of using an air compressor for painting cars is that it can help create a professional-looking finish. When using an air compressor to paint a car, there are certain things you need to keep in mind to get the best results.
- Make sure the surface you’re painting is clean and free of any dirt or debris. Any build-up on the surface will prevent the paint from adhering properly.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want to be painted. This includes trim, windows, and anything else that shouldn’t be painted.
- Choose a high-quality automotive paint designed for use with an air compressor. Cheap paints will not give you good results and can even damage your compressor over time.
- Follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions for thinning the paint, if necessary. Some paints need to be thinned before use, while others do not.
- Set up your air compressor and paint gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that you’re using the correct size tip on your paint gun for the type of paint you’re using.
- Begin painting by holding the gun about 6-12 inches from the surface. Move in a steady back-and-forth motion as you apply even pressure to the trigger. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure full coverage.
- Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before applying a second coat if desired. Refer to the drying times listed on your automotive paint can for guidance.
- Once you’re finished painting, clean your paint gun and air compressor according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will prevent paint build-up and ensure that your equipment lasts for many years.
People also ask (Faqs)
What size air compressor for painting a car?
A typical size air compressor for painting a car is between 9 and 12 gallons. The larger the tank, the less frequently you will need to stop to refill it. If you plan on doing a lot of painting, you may want to consider a larger tank.
Can you paint a car with a 15 gallon compressor?
If you’re thinking of painting your car yourself, you may be wondering if a 15 gallon compressor is enough to get the job done. The answer is yes, but it will take some time and effort.
Here are some tips:
Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated. Even with proper ventilation, fumes from the paint can be dangerous; so if at all possible, work outdoors or in a garage with doors open and fans running.
Do whatever you can to avoid drips and runs; they’ll ruin your paint job and be difficult (if not impossible) to fix once the paint has dried. This means thinning your paints properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using slow & controlled strokes when painting, etc.
How many cfm to paint a car?
It takes approximately 8-10cfm to paint a car.
Can you paint a car with a 20 gallon air compressor?
It is possible to paint a car with a 20 gallon air compressor.
Tips- The first thing you need to do is sand the entire car down so that the paint will have something to adhere to. Next, you need to prime the car and let it dry completely. Once the primer is dry, you can start painting the car in any color you desire. It is best to use multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat so that the paint does not run or drip.
Can I paint a car with a single stage air compressor?
A single stage air compressor can be used to paint a car, but it will not provide as good of coverage as a two stage air compressor. If you are using a single stage air compressor, you will need to thin the paint more than usual and make sure that you have an even coat on the car before beginning to paint. It is also important to use higher quality paints when using a single stage air compressor so that the paint does not peel or flake off over time.
Which type of air compressor do you need for car painting?
There are a few key factors that you need to consider before purchasing an air compressor for painting your car.
The most important factor is the size of the tank. You will want to purchase a tank that is large enough to hold at least 4 gallons of paint.
Another important factor to consider is the CFM (cubic feet per minute). This measures the amount of airflow that the compressor can provide. Ideally, you want a CFM rating of 6 or higher. Lastly, you will want to make sure that the compressor has an oil-free pump. This will help prevent any contamination of your paint job.
What is the smallest air compressor to paint a car?
The smallest air compressor to paint a car is an airbrush. Airbrushes are designed to apply thin, even coats of paint to small areas and can be used for both automotive and household painting projects. When choosing an airbrush, it is important to select one that is specifically designed for use with automotive paints.
Final Verdict:
We’ve come to the end of our article and it’s time for us to sum things up. In general, we believe that the best air compressor for painting cars at home is either a portable or wheeled unit with at least 6 gallons of capacity. These models should also have a maximum PSI rating of around 120-130 in order to support common paint gun types. For those who need even more power, there are some excellent pancake compressors on the market as well which can be perfect for auto body shops or other professional businesses.
We hope that this guide has helped you better understand what type of air compressor will work best for your car painting needs. Be sure to carefully consider each option before making your final decision so that you’ll end up with a model that fits both your budget and requirements perfectly.
Update log:
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10.08.2022
Updated product:
1. CRAFTSMAN Compressor Combo Kit, 6 Gallon, Pancake, 3 Tool (CMEC3KIT)
2. PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002-ECOM)