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Add Flexibility to the Jobsite with Portable Air Compressors

    Air compressors are a staple on the jobsite. They help power numerous pneumatic tools, so whether you’re using a nail gun, paint sprayer, air chisel or other rotary tool, the air compressor has you covered. Portable air compressors in particular come with the added benefit of being able to move around the jobsite.

    The other option is a stationary, or commercial, air compressor. Oftentimes, these are larger and hold more power, which can be essential for large operations. The disadvantage, though, is they cannot be moved, require a specific power source (electricity) and take up a large footprint. For the average construction site, stationary air compressors aren’t necessary. They’re not the most convenient option, especially if the jobsite is tight on space. On a larger construction site, it might make sense to have both a stationary and portable option.

    1. Portable — The most glaring difference between stationary and portable air compressors is the ability to move them around. From one side of a jobsite to the other, or from one jobsite to the next, portable air compressors are easy to move both short and long distances. Unlike stationary units, portable air compressor rentals are easy to pull behind a truck — or haul by trailer.
    2. Self-sufficient — Instead of plugging into an electrical outlet, portable air compressors run on diesel fuel. That means they’re immune to power outages or interruptions. Tanks range from 2 – 30 gallons, providing flexibility for contractors to rent the size of air compressor that best suits their runtime needs – the larger the gas tank, the longer the runtime.
    3. Small footprint — At a significantly smaller size, mobile air compressors save floor space over stationary models. Depending on the jobsite, this might be a crucial benefit. It can also be placed outside but used inside by attaching a hose and running it indoors.
    4. Flexible — Air compressors are used across many industries, including construction, agriculture, oil/gas, utilities and pharmaceuticals. Manufacturing facilities often rent one as a backup to the main electric air compressor. That way, if a power outage or malfunction happens, the portable air compressor can restore operations quickly.
    5. Affordable — Smaller, portable air compressors cost less to rent than stationary units. They don’t require a sacrifice in performance, either. Just like stationary units, portable air compressors are durable power sources that can keep your machinery running for extended periods of time.
    6. Quieter. All air compressors are noisy, but portable units are normally quieter in comparison to stationary units. This makes them ideal to use in residential settings where it’s important to minimize disruption.

    Contact your local rental store to ask about a portable air compressor for rent. If you’re new to renting and don’t have connections with a particular store, use the locator above to find a rental store near you. You’re in good hands with RentalHQ.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What size air compressor do I need for construction?

    It’s no secret construction sites need larger, higher-pressure air compressors than the average home garage. Stationary air compressor tanks can hold as much as 80 gallons of air but are more difficult to store. Instead, opt for a more convenient portable air compressor with a smaller air tank capacity, around 20 gallons. That way, you can easily move it around the jobsite as the motorcycles on and off, self-refilling the air tank.

    What is a good psi for a portable air compressor?

    For homeowners, 100 – 150 psi is a good amount of pressure. That covers most household tasks — and most construction tasks, as well. To be safe, check your tools to see exactly how much psi they require. Some specialized applications will need psi than the average range of 100 – 150.

    Are portable air compressors worth it?

    Absolutely. Construction sites benefit from having both types of air compressors, stationary and portable. Having a portable option gives you a level of convenience you simply can’t obtain with a stationary option. Not to mention, the peace of mind you get when you have a solid backup plan.