Comparing Electric Air Compressor Costs and Brands

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For businesses who demand efficiency from their compressor, an electric air compressor could be the ideal air technology solution. Electric air compressors are perfect for indoor use as they do not emit any harmful fumes. They can be used at any worksite that has access to an electrical grid. With many major brands offering excellent models with an array of options, you should have no problem finding an electric air compressor that meets your business' needs.

The Benefits of an Electric Air Compressor #

When compared to internal combustion air compressors that run off of gasoline or diesel, electric air compressors offer a number of advantages, including:

• Zero emissions: Electric compressors do not require fossil fuels and are therefore much cleaner to operate, making them healthier for you and the planet.
• Ease of ownership: Overall, electric air compressors require less maintenance.
• Cost efficiency: An electric-powered compressor is generally cheaper to buy and run.
• Quiet: Compared to an internal combustion compressor, one with that is powered by electricity produces much less noise.
• Flexibility: Electric air compressors can be used indoors and outdoors and you can also choose between portable and stationary models.

Average Electric Air Compressor Costs #

Local and individual retailer prices can vary considerably. The following prices are only meant to provide a rough overview of electric air compressor prices.

• A simple 12v air compressor costs around $25 to $300.
• A 120/240v two-stage portable electric air compressor with 1.6 HP, a 7.5 gallon tank, and 175 max PSI costs about $500 to $750.
• An electric air compressor with a 5.5 HP, 3-phase electric motor, 2-stage pump and an 80 gallon tank costs approximately $1,500 to $2,000.
• An Ingersoll Rand air compressor with a 10 HP, 3-phase, 2-stage electric motor, 120 gallon tank and max PSI of 175 costs roughly $2,000 to $3,000.
• A duplex electric air compressor with a 20 HP, two-stage motor, 120 gallon tank, auto start/stop control and 175 max PSI costs around $5,000 to $6,000.
• A 3 HP, 3-phase oil-less electric air compressor with a 30 gallon tank and 9.4 max CFM @ 90 PSI costs approximately $7,000 to $8,000.
• A 5 HP, 3-phase oil-free electric air compressor with a 60 gallon tank and 15.6 CFM @ 100 PSI costs about $9,500 to $10,500.
• A duplex electric air compressor with a 50 HP, two-stage motor, a 240 gallon tank and max PSI of 175 might cost $14,000 to $16,000.

Sample Pricing for Electrical Air Compressors #

Estimating the Electrical Costs of an Air Compressor #

The sticker price of an air compressor represents only about ten to thirty percent of the total cost of ownership. In order to gain a more complete understanding of how much you will pay for an electric air compressor, it is necessary to gauge the machine's electrical costs. To do so, follow these steps:

• To begin, you will need to obtain the compressor's brake horsepower and motor efficiency ratings. You should be able to locate these figures on the machine itself or by contacting a vendor or the manufacturer.
• Contact your utility provider (or use your bill) to determine the cost per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity. Then, estimate how many hours per year you will run the compressor.
• Once you have these numbers, you can plug them into this formula: HP x .746 x hours x Kw cost / motor efficiency. As an example, assume a compressor that runs six hours per day, three days per week, with electricity cost of $.08 per kWh and a motor that is 90 percent efficient.

25 HP * .746 * 936 *$.08 / .90 = $1551.68

As you can see, the energy costs of an air compressor can add up quickly, and should be kept in mind when you are evaluating machines.

Best Brands for Electrical Air Compressors #

• California Air Tools
• DEWALT
• Makita
• Bostitch
• Porter-Cable
• Campbell Hausfeld
• Rolair
• Ingersoll Rand
• Quincy
• Industrial Air

Resources:

• How to Calculate the Electrical Cost of an Air Compressor

Use Our Free Service and Find Air Compressor Companies Near You #