I would like to know what types of air compressors you guy use in your garage. Is small better than big? I have a 2 car garage and space is a problem for me. I've already looked at Home Depot, Lowes and Sears. The 3-5 gallon compressors seem ideal but are the bigger(15 gallon) the way to go? My primary purpose would be to air up the tires, blow off water, dust(on the car), sportbike, etc.....

Or is it a waste of $$? I'm no mechanic so I don't pretend I will open a "Tire Kingdom" in my garage!

Also, thinking about a ceiling extention cord roll up but concerned about the cord bumping my show car...........

Ideas and comments are welcomed and pics of garages if you have one!

Thanks in a advance

 

A small compressor for the jobs you listed would be just fine. I have a 25gal, 135psi compressor and its still not enough. I always run out of air with the die grinder and cut off tool. I need bigger!

 

I have a craftsman that is an upright.. I also have 25ft of hose along with two 50ft hoses. I can link them all up or T the off into two hoses. I use mine to work on my cars.. I have an impact and an air ratchet, a die grinder and the standard blowers and air chucks.

I also have Craftsmans 2nd largest jack. It was well worth it at $90 since it can get the car really high off the ground for easier working under the car.. (talk about bad grammer UGH!)

I would suggest a small one since thats what I used when I was a kid.. But if you even think you may get into swapping your tires or working on your own car or even changing gears, GET the manly upright.. For less than $300 you are set. My local Sams Club has the Two 50 Ft yellow air hoses for $15 which is one helluva deal.

 

Thanks for the feedback guys...... really appreciate it. I really want a quiet compressor. My neighbors will complain if it's loud. I heard a small pancake one and it was VERY LOUD. May go bigger.... maybe 15 gallons.

 

all compressors will be loud when it filling.. they cant complain if its during the day.. thats like complaining about the noise a lawnmower makes.. You are allowed to have a compressor and use it.. just dont fill a 25 gallon tank at 2:30 in the morning..

hehhe

Sears is having a sale (jut saw it in the paper)
Pancake 4 gallon (read: will need to fill up alot.. )
169.99

15 Gallon non upright
169.99
Both have a 150 max psi.

I say go for the 15 gallon unit.. Dont worry so much about the noise.. Its not like you are going to be running a spray booth for everyones paint jobs.. You will just occasionally use it..

When you find a quiet affordable air pump (its what it really is) then let us know! :P

 

if you plan on using a grinder, you'll need a big one.... i wish my 80gal. was bigger!!
jeremy