Published: 10/09/2025
What Size Air Compressor Do I Need?
Air compressors come in various shapes and sizes, and each one varies in terms of energy consumption and efficiency. What’s right for one business may not be right for another., That’s why it’s always worth asking our experts if you’re unsure which one to choose for your business, whether you’re on a small-scale or industrial level.
By choosing the right model and the right size of compressor, you can ensure optimal efficiency, production rates, and it can even extend the life of your tools.
How big of an air compressor do I need?
On the lookout for a new air compressor, but not sure which size meets the requirements?
Here are some factors to take on board:
It depends on tools
The first thing you need to ask yourself is – how big of an air compressor do I need for air tools?
Check the specifications for each of your tools to determine their airflow (CFM rating) and pressure (PSI) requirements, to understand if they match your desired compressor. These can be found in the instruction manual.
Consider daily usage
Different-sized air compressors are built to handle different run times and usage. If you’re in a business where tools are used consistently, then a high-duty air compressor would be the best choice.
Plan for industrial growth
If you have plans for potential plans for industrial growth and increased workload, then a large compressor would be advised. In doing so, you’ll prevent overloading and complications, which could cause downtime.
The different air compressor models and their applications
There is a wide range of air compressors on the market, designed for different tasks. Understanding which one is best for your business will save a great deal of time – and headaches!
Piston compressors
These compressors work by using pistons to push air into a tank. They’re perfect for home workshops or garages where tools are best for occasional use, rather than consistently within a workshop. They’re best used for inflating tyres and operating small tools such as nail guns and impact wrenches.
Find out more about our piston compressors.
Rotary screw compressors
Rotary screw compressors use two spiralling rotors spinning in opposite directions to compress air. The air becomes trapped between the rotors and compresses as they turn. A cooling liquid is then injected to keep the operating temperature around 80°C, or 60°C above ambient.
Some of the most common applications of this type of compressor include assembly line operations and heavy-duty pneumatic tools.
Find out more about our rotary screw compressors.
Scroll compressors
Scroll compressors feature two interlocking spiral-shaped scrolls (one fixed and one moving) that condense air toward the centre. These machines are often used for small-to-medium-sized manufacturing processes.
Find out more about our scroll compressors.
Turbo compressors
Turbo compressors spin at up to 30,000 rpm to compress air in two stages. This type of compressor is typically seen in the pharmaceutical industries and large-scale spray-painting.
Find out more about our turbo compressors.
What size of air compressor do I need?
With so many options of air compressors on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to invest in. Our Manchester-based team can recommend and install the ideal compressor for any business in the UK. We also design whole compressed air systems, service and repair compressors of any model.
As a Premium Platinum BOGE partner, our experienced team of engineers and sales staff ensures your compressed air systems are designed and maintained for maximum efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Get in touch with our experts at Air Supply today. We look forward to hearing from you!