5 Ways To Use An Air Compressor

Air compressors are devices that have a variety of uses. They work by converting either gas or electrical power into kinetic energy. A good air compressor can make it much easier to complete certain tasks. Some of the most popular uses for air compressors include powering tools, filling or refilling gas cylinders, and filling tires. Depending on how these are used, they can come in a variety of sizes. Some are very large, especially if used for industrial projects. Others, such as those used for tires, are portable. Stores like Lowe's and Northern Tool and Equipment sell a number of air compressors from different manufacturers. Here are five ways to use them:

1. Filling Tires

A portable air compressor is an easy way to keep from having flat tires. These units are easy to keep in a car and use when one of your tires is low. They plug into your car's cigarette lighter and draw power from the car's electrical supply. These compressors are also very easy to use for people with little experience using tools. Portable compressors are convenient to use in situations when your tires need air and a gas station is not close by.

2. Powering Pneumatic Tools

Pneumatic tools often require a medium amount of air pressure to properly operate. These tools are similar to electric power tools, but are often considered to be somewhat safer. Compressed air allows smaller tools to complete tasks that would normally require much larger tools. Using a compressor for powering these tools can easily help save on energy costs, as it reduces some of the electrical power that's required.

3. Heavy-Duty Cleaning Projects

An air compressor can make particularly dirty cleaning jobs easier. A large compressor is a choice for sandblasting. This allows concrete and brick to be cleaned effortlessly. A bio gun can also be easily attached to a compressor. One of these tools helps clear away heavy dirt and debris that can't be removed with other tools. This is a popular option for buildings that have been abandoned for long periods of time and have heavy accumulations of grime.

4. Making Painting Jobs Go Faster

A compressor, combined with a spray gun, makes it easier to apply paint to large areas. Large painting jobs can often be completed in only a small fraction of the time it would take to use smaller brushes and rollers. A compressor also comes in handy when it's time to clean up after a large paint job. Cleaning tools can be used to clean up dripped or spilled paint.

5. Filling Balloons

Some air compressors are designed to be used for blowing up balloons. This can be very helpful if you're hosting a large party and need many of them. It's a faster, safer alternative to filling balloons by mouth. Most balloon compressors have different airflow levels that you can use according to your needs. These compressors are also essential for making balloon animals. It's important to use a controlled level of airflow so that the balloons don't become overinflated and break.