How often would would you be using 40-50 psi instead of the max. the compressor is rated for?
A better question is, when would you ever use the maximum? Most air tools are rated at 90 for the performance they advertise.
I'm guessing that this is the one you have.
25 gal compressor specs $399 on sale.
At 90 psi it can deliver 5.1 CFM. If the DA you mentioned came from Sears, it uses 5.0 CFM. At 175 psi max, the compressor probably kicks back on at around 150. Once it does, it will never stop again until you do. Even if you have a water separator on the tank, the hot air will cool in the air hose, the condensed water will spit out of the DA exhaust. You oiled the DA, so you will have black oily water on everything.
That compressor can only manage 5.6 cfm at 40 psi. This HVLP
gun that sears sells needs 7.0 CFM@40. Try to paint with this on a hot day and you'll put more water than paint on the fender. And don't forget the black oil.
This would be a better sears compressor
6hp (phony rating), 15Amp same as the other 3 1/2 hp. This one is $20 less, twin piston, single stage, but gives 8.6 CFM@40. It also delivers 6.8@90.
You can get by with this one and get good results for a $379 investment.
Several of the other compressors mentioned are nice enough for their prices, but they are 220volt.
