Best 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Home Garage

Disclaimer: All claims are strictly my personal opinion. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.

30 Gallon air compressors are of two types;

Single Stage: The air is sucked is compressed to the preset pressure by a single-piston stroke. The air is compressed only once. This will give you around 120 PSI.

Double Stage: A two stage, or dual stage air is a compressor with an extra piston. This way the 175 PSI pressurized air is delivered to the storage tank

30 Gallon Air Compressors provide you power with portability if required.

These are a bit more powerful than the residential garage compressors I have mentioned here Best Garage Compressors.

A few factors that you must keep in mind when choosing a compressor;

Maximum Air Pressure:

This is pressure inside a tank. It should be more than 120 PSI

Motor Power:

A motor with a 1-5 hp rating is OK for a single stage & up to 14 hp is sufficient for two stage air compressor.

CFM – Cubic Feet per Minute:

The amount of air you will get from the compressor. CFM higher than 5 CFM is quite good to go with a 20 gallon compressor.

I have put together all top rated 20 gallon compressors with all the necessary details. You can choose as per your requirements.


QUICK PICKS

Here are my recommended products picked out through amazon; you would be interested in depending on your budget…

BEST PICK
Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...
Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...
Cast iron, twin cylinder, oil lubricated pump; Heavy duty induction motor for maximum performance and efficiency
Best Value
Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Vertical Portable Air Compressor...
Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Vertical Portable Air Compressor...
Features an Oil-Lubricated, two stage pump to increase the compressor's longevity; Delivers 4. 1 SCFM @ 90 PSI, 3. 9 SCFM @ 175 PSI and has a maximum PSI of 175
DeWalt DXCMLA1983012 30-Gallon Oil Free Direct Drive Air...
DeWalt DXCMLA1983012 30-Gallon Oil Free Direct Drive Air...
Features Quick and Easy Use with Standard Outlet 120-Volt Plugs; Arrives Fully Assembled and Ready To Use

5 Best 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Home Garage Reviews

Below are the top rated Air Compressor on Amazon from the best known brands as per my recommendations;

1. Husky 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Garage

See at Amazon!

Salient Features
  • Capacity: 30 Gallons
  • 5.1 CFM @ 90 PSI
  • Sound Level: 78 dB
  • Max PSI: 175
  • Motor: 2 hp
  •  Stages: Single

Overview

The Husky 30 Gallon Air Compressor is the perfect air compressor for your garage or shop.

It is designed with a high-performance pump and motor to deliver higher psi and SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) for peak performance.

The tank has been ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) certified to meet all safety requirements.

The 30 gallon vertical design has a smaller footprint than other compressors, so it can fit in tight spaces, but still gives you plenty of storage space for tools.

What we Like!
  • It is of heavy duty yet portable
  • It is much quieter than the competitors
  • This gives the longer run for air tools
Things to Consider!
  • The tank is of stainless steel instead of cast iron
  • Motor is of 5 HP only

2. DeWalt 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Home Garage

See at Amazon!

Salient Features
  • Capacity: 30 Gallons
  • 7. 7 CFM @ 40 PSI or 6 CFM @90 PSI
  • Sound Level: 82 dB
  • Max PSI: 155
  • Motor: 1.9 hp
  • Stages: Single

Overview

Dewalt electric air compressor is the best choice for the garage or job site with electricity access.

A single stage compressor, no belt and hence no oil change, refill, tightening – lowest maintenance.

It is very easy to use as you will have quick connect air outlets, pair of wheels for portability, and an efficient vertical tank design.

There are pressure gauges for tank, tools, and pressure regulators.

It can deliver higher PSI like 90 PSI at 5.7 CFM and 40 PSI at 7 CFM.

The Dewalt is really good at the cooling system. The two layered cooling is efficient for heat dissipation.

This compressor can be used for powering the nailing, airbrushing, spraying, bolting, etc.

The decibels are higher and you may need sound dampers to use in a residential garage.

What we Like!
  • Protection for Low Voltage and Power Surges
  • Long lasting powerful induction motor
  • It provides the highest CFM for direct drive class
Things to Consider!
  • A noisy guy and need sound dampers to run in residential locality

3. Ingersoll Rand Hot Dog Compressor for Garage

See at Amazon!

Salient Features
  • Capacity: 30 Gallons
  • 5.7 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Sound Level: 80 dB
  • Max PSI: 135
  • Motor: 2 hp
  • Stages: Single

Overview

The Ingersoll Rand Hot Dog (Horizontal) Compressor is a single stage yet powerful that delivers 135 PSI.

The best part is that it is a heavy duty that can be 100% duty cycle.

It is durable, lasts longer. You can operate for continuous 2,000 hours before changeouts.

The synthetic lubricant will increase efficiency.

The ergonomic handle will help you to move it effortlessly. It is also fixable on the garage floor.

What we Like!
  • The tank is made of durable cast iron construction
  • It has equipped with wheels for easy transport
  • It can go 100% continuous duty for tough applications
Things to Consider!
  • Horizontal tank design will take more floor space

4. Industrial Air 30 Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor

See at Amazon!

Salient Features
  • Capacity: 30 Gallons
  • 5.7 CFM @ 90 PSI & 7.1 CFM @ 40 PSI
  • Tank Material: Steel
  • Max PSI: 155
  • Motor: 1.9 hp
  • Stages: Single

Overview

If you are looking for the performance of your pneumatic tools then you can get an Industrial Air 30 Gallon compressor.

This garage compressor delivers 5.7 CFM @ 90 PSI & 7.1 CFM @ 40 PSI that is enough to run multiple tools.

The motor is powerful and can deal with dual wall outlet voltages 120V & 240V.

The twin cylinder pump casing is made of single piece cast iron.

The valves are Swedish stainless steel reed valves. It has pre-attached pneumatic tires for easy portability.

What we Like!
  • The casing is of cast iron, twin cylinder, oil lubricated pump.
  • You will get a 2 year limited warranty.
  • The dual voltage motor handles wall outlets with 120V & 240V.
Things to Consider!
  • The Industrial Air is coslier than competitors.

5. Campbell Hausfeld Two Stage Gararge Compressor

See at Amazon!

Salient Features
  • Capacity: 30 Gallons
  • 4. 1 SCFM @ 90 PSI and 3. 9 SCFM @ 175 PSI
  • Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
  • Max PSI: 175
  • Motor: 2 hp
  • Stages: Two Stage

Overview

The Campbell Hausfeld has a two stage pump that gives you the authority to handle small jobs to heavy duty stuff.

Campbell Hausfeld is made for DIYers as well as for professional contractors out there.

The wheels are semi pneumatic that allowing easy mobility around your garage.

The pump is oil lubricated that adds life to the equipment and reduces the noise.

It delivers 4.1 CFM at 90 PSI and 3.9 CFM at 175 PSI.

This is built in the USA and has a life of a minimum of 5,000 hours.

What we Like!
  • It has an oil-lubricated, two stage pump to increase reliability
  • It can handle all jobs like upholstery to heavy duty nailing
  • Dual voltage motor – 120V or 240V
  • It is made in the USA
Things to Consider!
  • This is more expensive than competitors.

Factors to Consider When Buying an Air Compressor for a Home Garage

Following are the significant factors to consider while choosing an air compressor;

Operational Noise

Compressors are usually very loud.

If you plan on operating your air compressor indoors, be mindful of the noise output measured in decibels (dB).

Most will operate between 60-90 dB which is the difference between a “normal” conversation and a power lawnmower!

For comparison purposes most state laws consider exhaust noises over 85dB illegal – so make sure not to exceed this buying an air compressor when using it in that low noise residential areas.

Tank Air Capacity

The compressor’s air capacity determines how long you can work with your tools before having to refill the tank.

Larger tanks are heavier and require more space, but they allow for longer operating periods without a break in between refills because of their larger size.

PSI- Pounds per Square Inch

PSI is used to define air pressure.

This is one of the most important factors while choosing an air compressor for your needs.

Most pneumatic tools require 70 to 90 PSI to work with. For example, if you need to operate an impact wrench then it needs 90 PSI.

Make sure about your requirements and then choose the required one described above.

If your PSI rating is not enough then the air tools may not work properly. By forcing too much you may damage the tool.

CFM – Cubic Feet per Minute

You can say it as the volume of produced air. Same as PSI the CFM is an equally important factor to consider when choosing a compressor for your DIY projects.

I have made it easy as you just need to multiply the minimum CFM of your tool’s required CFM by 1.5.

Many pneumatically powered tools require a CFM of around 4 to 5, but it varies significantly like for a stapler you may just need only 0.3 CFM while a framing nailer may require 2 plus CFM.

Air Fittings/Couplers

For easy operation just be careful about Male and Female pipe threads – Internal and External threads.

Multiple Tools

If you need to operate multiple tools like you need to operate a blaster that needs 50 CFM and a Drill that requires 40 CFM then you need to add both and require 90 CFM of air capacity to these jobs at the same time.

This way you can add multiple air tools for your team to work alongside in your garage.

Duty Cycle

If you need an air compressor for quick and short breaks instead of a 100% duty cycle then you can get a less powerful air compressor that will save your time and money.

If you need for 100% duty cycle then you need a better pump quality and a bigger receiver tank capacity compressor.

See your requirements before investing your hard earned money.

Power Supply

In order to avoid a silly situation where your air compressor trips the breaker, you’ll need to figure out how much power it needs.

This can be done with some simple math just multiply the hp by 746 to get watts. Now you need to divide the voltage of the motor to get running Amperage. Just size up the breaker to avoid trips if needed.

Oil lubricated vs Oil free

Oil lubrication garage compressors are stronger than oil free in performance and durability.

Oil free is the best to reduce running costs and frequent maintenance.

Easy Tank Drain

The drainage should be easy as it is quite a frequent operation when running a compressor. Easier drainage, easier maintenance, and longer are compressor life.

Air Compressor Size

The best way to do this is by considering what tools are most likely to be used in the garage, such as spray paint guns or sanders with motors that can generate more power than lighter duty units but still need something capable enough for general use around the home improvement projects.

Most people have several different types of bulky equipment which mean there must always be room available on site at all times – even when not being used!

Just consider this factor as per your garage requirements.

Noisy vs Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

According to studies, it found that noise above 85 dB is harmful to our ears. If exposure is long then it may damage the ears.

A sound that is between 60-70 dBA is considered a normal conversational voice.

The air compressors are 60-110 dBA usually. Some brands make ultra quiet like 50 dBA or even less.

If you are looking for a residential garage then you need to remember that in some areas you can not operate equipment that produces more than 85 dBA.


Uses of Air Compressors in Garage

Here are a few uses of an air compressor when you are going to use for a garage;

Multiple Tasks

An air compressor in the garage can help you to do multiple tasks at a time like inflating, Brad nailing, polishing, grinding, bolting, sandblasting, blowing, cleaning, and much more.

Versatile Application

A compressor is not only used in industries but compact versions let you put it in your garage. These compressors can be used from simple ball inflating to complex industrial projects.

Lower Cost

These compressors once have air in the tank then you can use them continuously or in batch. No power is required when on/off like in electric power tools may trip the breakers.

These are readily available and no need to wait longer to operate.

Easy to Use

Most of the compressors I have mentioned are portable thus making them very easy to use for a DIYer. Unless you required a 60-gallon air compressor that is much heavier and not easy to move or not manufactured for it.


Types of Air Compressors – Stage Wise

Stages wise there are two major air compressors;

Single Stage Air Compressor

In this type, the air is sucked and compressed by a single piston stroke and hence the air is compressed only once. The maximum pressure is roughly around 120 PSI (per Square Inch). These are used where a 100% duty cycle is not required at higher pressure. Like for DIYers project where a longer run continuous flow is not required.

These compressors with a single stage are normally cheaper and portable.

Two Stage Air Compressor

In this type, the air is sucked and compressed by the first piston and then again is compressed by another piston. In this way, a two-stroke pressurized gas is present in the tank. This way the pressure in the tank can go higher like up to 175 PSI (per Square Inch).

This is typically more expensive and only to be used where more power hungry tools are to be operated.


Types of Air Compressor – Pump Wise

We have mainly 4 types of air compressors that follows;

Reciprocating Compressor

In reciprocating compressors up and down movement in the piston is used to compress air. This type is for quiet series of air compressors.

Rotary Compressor

The rotary compressor works on the two screw rotors. The rotors rotate and the air is trapped between that build up high pressure within housing. These are used for industrial applications as you need a 100% duty cycle there.

Axial Compressor

As the name suggests the air flows in an axial direction and is compressed with the help of a rotary element. This way low pressure air converts into high pressure air.

Centrifugal Compressor

This compressor works on the centrifugal movement of the impeller. Air enters into a casing and is compressed due to centrifugal movement of the impeller & the casing, then forced outward by converting low to high pressure air.


Top Brands for Garage Air Compressors

There are many brands competing with each other in the power tools market. But here are the top rated as per my recommendation for compressors;

DeWalt

Not many people know that DeWalt is a subsidiary brand of Black & Decker. The major contribution of this brand is that it has a cooling system for heavy duty air compressors.

DeWalt also manufactures other power equipment like electric chainsaws, lawn mowers, power drills, and much more.

Porter-Cable

This is also a subsidiary brand of Stanley Black & Decker. This is a local New York based company. That is why DIYers prefer to get this equipment.

This is also a versatile company that provides more powerful tools like presses, circular saws, belt sanders, and more.

INGERSOLL RAND

This is an Ireland based company. It deals in air conditioning, air compressors, winches, etc. It has the best selling compressors out there. The reason is these are reliable and cheaper than other competitors.


Final Thoughts

Campbell Hausfeld is one of the guys to go with if you can afford it as it has all the characteristics one needs for a home garage.

Though it is a bit costlier. But if you are looking for a bit cheaper version of a 30 gallon garage compressor then Husky air compressor is good to go with.

Related Posts:


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are a few questions that will further help you understand more about home garage compressors;

What are the Best 30 Gallon Air compressors for Home Garage?

Here is my list for the top rated 30 gallon air compressors for the garage in 2022;

  1. Husky 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Garage
  2. DeWalt 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Home Garage
  3. Ingersoll Rand Hot Dog Compressor for Garage
  4. Industrial Air 30 Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor
  5. Campbell Hausfeld Two Stage Gararge Compressor

How to Drain an Air Compressor?

This is a common question that you need to know before buying an air compressor;

Draining an air compressor involve simple steps;

Step – 1: Switch off the compressor from the power source

Step – 2: Release pressurized air from the safety valve

Step – 3: Find the drain valve at the bottom of the tank

Step – 4: Open the drain valve and let all the moisture out.

What is called 100% Duty Cycle Air Compressor?

100% duty cycle means you can run a compressor for a long run without any break. If you see a duty cycle of 50% then you need a break for 60 minutes after 60 minutes running or so.

If you run a compressor more than its duty cycle then the pump may damage prematurely due to overheating.

Oil lubricated air compressors are for heavy duty and oil free are for lite duty garage application.

What is Oil-free and Oil-lubricated Air Compressor?

Oil is used for lubrication, cooling, and sealing.

Oil lubricated air compressors are a bit risky in the sense you may forget to check the oil level that may lead to damage to the pump.

Also, oil droplets may make a mess while operating.

Oil free  air compressors on the other hand are neat and clean but are not for 100% duty cycle in many cases.

Although both works on the same principle.

Will A 30-gallon Air Compressor Paint A Car?

Yes, with a 30 gallon air compressor is quite OK to paint a car. The trick is you need to use a smaller nozzle otherwise tank could easily run out before you finish it.

What Are The Typical Uses For 30-gallon Air Compressors?

A 30 gallon air compressor can do versatile jobs from tire inflating, painting, nailers, plasma cutters, and sandblasters, whatnot. You can run multiple air tools with a 30 gallons tank.

How much Horsepower Does a 30-Gallon Air Compressor Need?

On average 2 horsepower is quite OK to work with 30 gallon pump air compressor.

What is the quietest 30-gallon air compressor?

Normally a 30 gallons air compressor that is below 80 decibels is considered a quiet guy. Industrial Air & the Husky air compressors are considered the quietest in the lot.

How Can I Reduce The Noise Of A 30 Gallon Air Compressor?

You can get noise dampers or expression chambers mufflers that will help you to block the noise level. Also if you are in a locality where you can afford the noise then you can just wear earbuds to prevent noise.

David Houghton
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