Chris,
My thoughts -- You are likely going to get a spectrum of answers on this. All are correct under differing circumstances -- it may come down to a combination of personal preference and budget.
But ... My compressor (the one in the OR ...
) is 24 years old. I've only ever had to replace the electrical pressure switch. However, it's beginning to use a lot of oil in the case ...
You can go "thrifty" and just replace components (I still have my granddaddy's axe -- I've only had to replace the handle 6 times and the head 4 times ...), but once you start chasing rabbits down those holes...
An air compressor is a major once or twice in a lifetime purchase. I say go big ("high quality") or go home. As much as you use it, take a deep breath and get a good one that your grandkids will inherit. Do it now, or be continually replacing components that will go bad in the middle of projects. And who knows what the inside of your current tank looks like? Have you been diligent in draining it daily???
I don't know what the good ones are any more. Quincy??
If you use it as much as you say, spend the bucks and go with a quality brand. Buy it once. Don't screw around.
As for size ... how much does your compressor run while you use it? If a lot, and/or you have to stop now and then to let it rest or catch up, then you need a bigger one.
There are some tools to go "thrifty" on -- a good air compressor isn't one of them.
Just do yourself a favor in the long run -- break out the dollar gun, load 'er up and hold the trigger down.
John
