Having your tires properly inflated at all times can help to improve your car's gas mileage and improve the lifespan of your tires. However, going to a gas station to fill your tires up with air can be a hassle and it can be expensive, as many gas stations charge you to use their air. Buying a portable air compressor to help fill up your tires can be a great alternative to filling them at a gas station. However, there are many different types and styles of portable air compressors, and not all of them are ideal for filling your tires. Here are a few of the factors you will want to look for as you search for a portable air compressor primarily for tire inflation.
How the Air Compressor is Powered
One of the factors to consider when you are looking to purchase a portable air compressor is how the air compressor is powered. Air compressors can be powered in a number of different ways. Some run on gas, some are powered by generators, some plug into the wall and use electricity, some have a 12 volt adapter and can plug into the cigarette lighter outlet on your car and others are battery powered. If you are buying a portable air compressor to fill your tires, you may want one that runs on battery power or has an 12 volt adapter. This allows you to place the air compressor in your car and fill your tires if they are ever low while you are on the road.
If It Comes With a Variety of Connectors
Another factor to consider when you are looking to buy a portable air compressor is what connectors the air compressor goes by. Connectors go by many names, including valve stems and attachments. But regardless of what you call them, they serve an important purpose. Different connectors allow you to fill different items with air. While you may primarily be looking to fill your car tires up with air, buying a compressor that has connectors that allow you to fill bike tires, balls and other items in your household can be handy.
Whether it Has an Electric or Manual PSI Reader
Lastly, be sure to pay close attention to whether the portable air compressor you are looking at buying has a manual gauge pounds per square inch, PSI, pressure reader or an electronic digitally displayed one. You need to inflate your tires to the correct PSI pressure. Gauges can be misread, where as digitally displayed readers are clear and easy to read. However, digital displays may cost more. Weigh the pros and cons to determine which is ideal for you and then find an air compressor that has the display feature you desire.
When you are looking at portable air compressors for sale, such as from Airgen Equipment, you need to think about how you will primarily use the air compressor. This helps you determine what factors you need to look for in a portable air compressor to help ensure that it works well for your needs.