The compressor test: Differences, features, and recommendations for everyday use

The compressor is a powerful pressure provider and can be used for various tasks in the garden, garage, and house. It's no wonder that more and more DIY enthusiasts swear by this little helper. Combined with the right tools or attachments, the compressor offers many advantages compared to working with conventional electrical appliances. With the strong pressure generated by a compressor, you can remove stubborn rust or even carry out painting jobs with a pneumatic paint spray gun. The high pressure allows for a particularly gentle application, especially in tasks that require a lot of physical strength with other devices.

Inflating and checking pressure

Whether it's bicycle tires, car tires, air mattresses, or balls, it's all very easy with the right tire inflator and the appropriate adapters. With the help of the built-in pressure gauge - a mechanical or digital pressure gauge - you always have the tire pressure in view. In addition, there are various attachments for inflating balls or paddling pools.

Blowing out with the gun

The compressor is also very useful for blowing out, i.e., cleaning tools, workpieces, and hard-to-reach corners in the hobby workshop. With a blow gun, you can reach places that are difficult to access with a conventional vacuum cleaner tube. You can get blow guns in various lengths, with a curved or straight nozzle, made of lightweight plastic or sturdy metal.

Sanding

Excentric and straight grinders can be optimally operated with compressed air. In contrast to their electrically powered counterparts, they generally have a lower weight and are also more durable due to the simpler mechanics. Annoying cables are a thing of the past with compressed air-powered models.

Drilling with the impact and ratchet wrench

In the automotive field, pneumatic impact wrenches are very common, as they are much more overload-resistant than electric impact wrenches. With these tools, you can loosen stubborn nuts and bolts made of any material. Pneumatic impact wrenches are also used for tasks such as changing tires or replacing spark plugs on cars. For these tasks, your compressor should be capable of generating at least 6 bar of air pressure. Please also ensure the use of an air hose with a sufficient inner diameter to ensure that an adequate amount of air reaches the impact wrench at all times.

Stapling and nailing

Even for woodworking and crafting tasks such as stapling, pinning, and clipping, a compressor can save you a lot of time. Additionally, you can pin foot and decorative moldings without the nail being too prominent. Upholstery work is a breeze and, above all, quick.

Sandblasting and Grinding

When sandblasting with a compressor, sand particles hit the workpieces at high speed. This method is particularly effective for thoroughly cleaning rusty fences. If you want to prepare your workpiece cleanly and precisely for painting, i.e., matte the surface, then sandblasting or sanding with a compressed air compressor is the most effective method. In this area, a compressed air hose with sufficient inner diameter is also recommended.

Chiseling

The powerful air of the compressor proves to be particularly helpful when chiseling. Mounted on the right tool, the compressor provides you with sufficient air reserves for chiseling work. The main advantage over the electric counterpart is again the safe operation in potentially explosive work areas. A compressed air hose with a sufficient inner diameter is also recommended for this application.

Cleaning surfaces

Whether it's a patio, the interior of your car, or dusty areas under the stairs, with the right compressor, you can clean a variety of surfaces sparkling clean. Even hard-to-reach and tight corners are no match for the power of compressed air.

Oil-free or oil-lubricated: Which motor delivers more power?

In addition, you have the choice between oil-free and oil-lubricated compressors. Since the pump of an oil-free compressor logically does not need to be oiled, you save a lot of maintenance costs and time. The oil-free compressor is also better suited for paint processing, as contamination with oil is excluded.

The oil-lubricated compressor, on the other hand, requires regular maintenance, which takes some time and incurs costs. However, compared to the oil-free device, this type has a longer lifespan and more power.