I live in the KC area and recently purchased a Cambell Hausfeld, 6.25 HP, 28 gallon air compressor from Lowes. It cost $288.00 plus tax. It is rated at 7.4 SCFM @ 40psi and 6.1 SCFM @ 90psi. It is the new upright tank unit that takes up very little floor space. I was hoping this would fit the bill for my sand blast cabinet which recommends 9-12 SCFM @ 90psi. Unfortunately, it was unable to keep up while sand blasting.
A few days later I purchased a Husky, 7 HP, 80 gallon, 2-stage, 220v air compressor from The Home Depot. It cost $869.00 plus tax. It is rated at 14.3 SCFM @ 90psi which is better suited for prolonged use such as sand blasting.
The reason I explain both scenarios is due to the fact that there are so many options on HP, tank size, voltage, etc. I suggest deciding what your most taxing activity will be and determine the required SCFM @ PSI requirements in deciding which air compressor to purchase. I shopped around at Lowes, The Home Depot, Harbor Freight and Cummins Tools to see what each had to offer. Max Tool (
www.maxtool.com) is another source for air compressors.
Another consideration is the power requirements. Many of the larger units require 20-30 amp circuits with a 220v plug and conductor feed from the service panel. I noticed The Home Depot is offering a pretty nice pnuematic air tool set, valued at $200, to go along with their $200.00 air compressor. Sometimes these little add-ons can help justify the purchase.
Best of luck during your search. With a little patience and due diligence with your research, you will certainly find the air compressor that best fits your primary compressor needs.
