Air Compressors & Pumps

About Air Compressors & Pumps

Air compressors and pumps are essential equipment for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts requiring compressed air for pneumatic tools, tyre inflation, and air-driven applications. These versatile machines convert 240v electrical power or petrol into stored compressed air, delivering consistent power for everything from impact wrenches and spray guns to brad nailers and inflation tasks across workshops, construction sites, and mobile applications.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from compact mini compressor air pumps ideal for mobile tyre inflation and emergency roadside situations, through to robust workshop air compressors with tank capacities from 6 litres up to 100 litres. Choose from oil-lubricated or oil-free models, direct drive or belt drive mechanisms, featuring trusted brands including DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, and Stanley across all price points and applications.

Applications

Air compressors and pumps serve diverse trades and applications:

• Automotive Mechanics: Impact wrenches, tyre inflation, spray guns, and pneumatic ratchets in garages and mobile repair services
• Carpenters and Joiners: Powering nail guns, brad nailers, and staplers for flooring, trim, and cabinetry installation
• Painters and Decorators: HVLP spray guns for professional finishes on walls, furniture, and vehicles
• Construction Workers: Framing nailers, concrete breakers, and heavy-duty pneumatic tools on building sites
• Manufacturing Engineers: Assembly tools, grinders, and production line equipment requiring consistent air supply
• DIY Enthusiasts: Inflating tyres, sports equipment, airbeds, and running occasional pneumatic tools for home improvements
• Mobile Tradespeople: Portable mini compressor air pumps for tyre services and emergency inflation tasks

Choosing The Right Air Compressors & Pumps

Calculate Air Requirements: Check the CFM (cubic feet per minute) and PSI demands of your pneumatic tools. Select a compressor exceeding these requirements by 25-30% for optimal performance.

Tank Capacity: Smaller 6-25 litre tanks suit intermittent use with nail guns and inflation, whilst 50-100 litre tanks provide consistent air supply for continuous spray painting or running multiple tools simultaneously.

Portability Needs: Mini compressor air pumps offer excellent mobility for mobile tradespeople, whilst larger workshop compressors deliver superior power for demanding stationary applications.

Power Supply: Most units run on standard 240v 13A household power. Larger professional models may require dedicated circuits or 16A supplies, whilst petrol-powered alternatives suit remote site work.

Noise Levels: Belt-driven oil-lubricated models typically run quieter (70-80dB) than oil-free compressors (90-100dB), important for residential or enclosed workshop environments.

Maintenance: Oil-free compressors offer low maintenance convenience for occasional users, whilst oil-lubricated models provide longer service life for professional continuous operation. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality brands offering reliable performance and comprehensive warranties.

Safety Information

Pressure Safety: Never exceed maximum pressure ratings. Always release tank pressure before maintenance and never point compressed air at people or animals.

Electrical Safety: Ensure proper earthing and connection to suitable 240v supplies meeting UK BS 1363 standards. Operate in dry, well-ventilated locations.

Personal Protection: Wear hearing protection for models exceeding 85dB and safety glasses when operating pneumatic tools.

Regular Maintenance: Drain moisture from tanks daily to prevent corrosion. Follow manufacturer service schedules for oil changes and inspect hoses regularly for wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size compressor do I need for spray painting? For automotive or furniture spray work, choose a compressor delivering at least 10-14 CFM at 90 PSI with a minimum 50-litre tank. Oil-free models or proper filtration prevent paint contamination.

Can I run multiple air tools simultaneously? Add the CFM requirements of all tools and ensure your compressor exceeds this total by 25-30%. Larger tank capacities help maintain consistent pressure when running multiple tools together.

How often should I drain the compressor tank? Drain after every use or daily if used regularly. Compressed air naturally contains moisture that condenses inside the tank, causing corrosion and contaminating your air supply. Browse MyToolShed.co.uk for quality compressors with easy-access drain valves.