Locating The Overall Best 20 Gallon Air Compressor
Are you a handyman who needs to utilize pneumatic tools on a regular basis? If so, you may very well want to consider investing in the best 20 gallon air compressor that you can find. A 20-gallon compressor will give you the ability to power your tools without clogging up your workspace. These compressors are far smaller than their competitors, yet they’ll still be able to power a few tools at once. Within this guide, you will find in-depth reviews for some of the best compressors on the market.
#1 Industrial Air IL 1682066.MN 20-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor
**[Editor’s Choice]**
If you are on the market for a new air compressor that offers the necessities of a licensed contractor and auto mechanic, you should look no further than the Industrial Air IL 1682066.MN. This air compressor is constructed of durable cast iron material, with premium components. The v-twin cylinder ensures accuracy and efficiency from the moment the compressor is switched on until it is turned off. The oil lubricated pump will decrease friction and keep the unit working efficiency throughout the life of the compressor.
Ball Bearings
The Industrial Air IL 1682066.MN Air Compressor is embedded with ball bearings, just like any other air compressor. However, these ball bearings are unique in that they are automotive style, which means they are more durable and capable of withstanding the test of time.
Maneuverability
While a lot of mechanics spend their workday inside a garage, others will move from one jobsite to another. With this said, their equipment and tools will need to offer immense maneuverability to keep up. The Industrial Air Compressor is designed with two large pneumatic tires and a large handle, so you can easily move it around without issue. However, it is crucial to note that the compressor weighs 186 pounds, so transportation will probably require a 2-person team to lift it in and out of your work truck.
Notable Specifications
- 120-Volt application, but can be converted to 240-volt
- Embedded with a 10” cast iron flywheel
- Belt driven technology
- Oil lubricated pump
- Twin cylinder
- Comes with a 2-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
Overall Assessment
The Industrial Air IL 1682066.MN 20-Gallon Air Compressor operates efficiently and maintains constant air compressor, even when under extreme duress. The large pneumatic wheels and handle make the unit maneuverable, so you can move it from one place to another with ease.
The Industrial Air Compressor is considered the best 20 gallon air compressor for the money in our list.
#2 Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate – 2 HP, 5.5 CFM, Model# P1.5IU-A9
The Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate is a must have compressor for any professional or amateur looking for reliability and performance. It doesn’t matter, if you are working in garage or on a jobsite the Ingersoll Garage Mate is so portable that you can take it just about anywhere you want. With the fully pneumatic tires and heavy-duty ergonomic handle the compressor can easily be wheeled through jobsite obstacle and whatever gets in its way. However, that is not all that this compressor has to offer.
Cast Iron Cylinders And Frame
The Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate comes installed with a cast iron, oil lubricated pump, which provide reliable and solid performance even after years of use. On top of this, the frame is also constructed with heavy-duty cast iron to ensure durability. Cast iron is one of the strongest metals available on the market and that is why Ingersoll highly believes in incorporating it into this compressor.
Quiet Operation
One of the biggest complaints that users make with air compressors is their noise. This is a very viable complaint, because during operation compressors can be rather noisy. However, that is not quite the case with the Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate. This compressor utilizes a belt drive operation, which provides users with a quite 77 dba during full operation.
Safety And Accessories
Safety was a huge consideration during the developmental stages of this compressor. This is why the compressor includes several different safety devices and gauges that allow users to monitor pressures. Along with this, the device also comes along with some other accessories that come in handy during operation. Included with the compressor you will find a pressure switch, pressure gauge, regulator, safety valve, and a six-foot power cable.
Notable Specifications
- Cast iron cylinders and frame
- Oil-lubricated pump
- 77-dBa operations
- Pneumatic tires and ergonomic handle provides easy transportation
- Includes a variety of safety devices and other accessories
Overall Assessment
It doesn’t matter if you need a compressor for the job site or garage the Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate is the perfect solution. With such a quite operation you can actually carry a conversation while the compressor is running.
#3 DeWalt DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
**[Top Rated]**
Many blue-collar workers rely on their equipment and tools to perform each and every work task. With this said, the equipment must be able to keep up and provide a cost-efficient operation. The DeWalt DXCMPA1982054 Air Compressor is a high-quality machine that operates as guaranteed by the manufacturer. The onboard tank has been certified by ASME, which says everything’s about its workmanship and quality.
Dual Voltage Motor
While most workers prefer a 120-volt application for their air compressor, others prefer a 240-volt application. Well, with the DeWalt Portable Air Compressor, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. With the dual voltage motor, you can convert the unit from a 120-volt compressor to a 240-volt.
Quickset Regulator
The embedded regulator is designed to offer a quick setting and adjustments. The quickset regulator is very easy to operate, allowing you to make easy adjustment and regular air pressure in seconds. This feature will help you keep your productivity at the maximum level.
Cast Iron Flywheel
The flywheel is constructed from heavy-duty cast iron material to ensure durability and longevity. The flywheel is also balanced to ensure a smooth operation. The flywheel is 12 inches in diameter, so it can keep up with strenuous workloads.
Notable Specifications
- Maximum pressure – 155 psi
- 0 CFM at 40 psi
- 7 CFM at 90 psi
- ASME certified tank
- Equipped with two pneumatic tires
- Dual voltage motor
- Quickset regulator and on/off switch
Overall Assessment
The DeWalt DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Air Compressor is exactly what you need to add to your equipment list. This compressor was designed with the on-the-go mechanic and contractor in mind. The premium components, cast iron flywheel and tank works efficiently from start to finish.
#4 NorthStar Belt Drive Single Stage Portable Air Compressor
All NorthStar compressors come installed with heavy-duty cast iron V-twin heads. These heads are designed to greatly help with help dissipation by not transferring heat between the cylinders. This feature alone can greatly increase the life of your compressor by cutting down on heat damage. However, that is not all this 2 horsepower, 20-gallon compressor comes along with.
Can Be Converted To 230 Volts
While this 20-gallon compressor does come wired for 115 volts an electrician can convert it to 230 volts. This handy little feature actually gives users an option of which voltage they would like to use.
ASME Certified
The problem with most compressors is the tank designs. The just aren’t designed properly, which can lead to accidents and injuries. However, that is not the case with the NorthStar Air Compressor. The 20-gallon tank has been put through ASME testing and passed every test with flying colors.
Notable Specifications
- Can be wired to 230 or 115-volt operation
- The ASME has certified the 20-gallon tank
- Heavy-duty cast iron V-twin heads
- 0 CFM at 90 PSI
- 0 CFM at 40 PSI
Overall Assessment
All Northstar Compressors were designed with durability and longevity in mind and the 20-gallon, 2 horsepower compressor design is no different. With a ton of other various features, users simply can’t go wrong with the purchase of great compressor.
#5 NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor
If you are in the market for a portable gas powered compressor, you have to check out this Northstar 20-gallon horizontal gas powered compressor. This compressor was not only designed to handle the heaviest of duty jobs with ease, but it was also designed to provide users with a long lifespan. That is not all that this compressor has to offer.
Superior Cooling And LVT Technology
If you are familiar with gas powered compressors, you probably know that they are well known for producing tons of heat. This can be a problem if you are running the compressor inside a trailer because all that heat buildup can cause the compressor to overheat. However, thanks to the V-type cylinder design this compressor runs at the coolest level possible. Vibrations can also be another problem with compressor, but this NorthStar portable compressor comes equipped with low vibration technology, which greatly cuts down on vibrations.
Honda Engine
Honda is well known for their durable and reliable engine and that is why NorthStar decided to use a Honda engine inside their compressor. Installed in the compressor you find a reliable Honda GX 160 OHV gasoline engine. The engine also comes along with a low oil shutdown. In the event that you forget to check the oil and the oil runs low the compressor will automatically shut itself down, before any damage can be down to the engine.
Notable Specifications
- Comes installed with a reliable Honda GX 160 OHV engine
- Engine has a low oil shutdown that protects the integrity of the motor
- V-style cylinder provides superior cooling
- Low vibration technology
- Cast iron pump construction provides longer lifespan
Overall Assessment
If you are in the need of a good reliable, portable compressor you won’t find a better fit than the NorthStar. This compressor comes equipped with several different features and safety devices that will benefit any user.
#6 Porter Cable PXCMF220VW 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
Porter Cable is a well-known name throughout the tool industry. They has been creating reliable and durable tools for the workman for over a 100 years now and they have developed quite the reputation along the way. Well, all of their ingenuity and dependability went into the design of the PXCMF220VW 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor. The compressor truly is amazing and unlike anything users has ever seen before.
Oil-Free Induction Motor And Pump
One of the most amazing features that you will find on the PXCMF220VW 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor is the oil-free induction motor and pump. This feature not only provides users with a more dependable performance during continuous tool operation, but it cuts down on maintenance. There will no long be a need to check or the change the oil after every use, which is going to save you tons of time.
Low Voltage Start Up
Most people don’t understand the fact that when a motor starts up this is when it consumes the most power. The starting operation of a motor is what really puts wear and tear on the motor. However, with this compressor that is something that you won’t have to worry about. The motor will utilize a low voltage circuit during start up, which great reduces the severity of the startup process. This will only increase the life of the motor.
Notable Specifications
- 7-inch wheels and handle
- Low voltage start up
- Oil-free induction motor and pump
- 150 max PSI
- Comes with a regulator, gauges, and quick connect
Overall Assessment
The compressor also comes equipped with 7-inch rubber wheels, and a handle, which makes transportation easy. The wheels are also good for providing maximum stability when the compressor is running. If you want a name that you can trust and depend on, Porter Cable is the way to go.
#7 Pro-Force VLF1582019 20-Gallon Air Compressor
The Pro-Force Air Compressor offers a cost effective and low maintenance operation. The great benefit of investing in the Pro-Force Compressor is it comes with an accessory kit. The kit includes an inflation needle, blowgun, dual tire chuck, female thread connector, thread sealant and ¼” NPT male connector. This will definitely appeal to the work on a budget.
Oil Free Design
The Pro-Force VLF1582019 has an oil free design, so you do not need to worry about messy oil refilling. This design ensures a low maintenance and cost efficient operation, which cannot be said about other brands. You will be able to focus more on the tasks at hand and less on maintaining the compressor to keep it operating efficiently.
Notable Specifications
- Oil free design
- 125 DFM at 90 psi
- 5 DFM at 40 psi
- CSA and UL certified compressor
- RHP – 1.5
- Comes with a 25’ recoil air hose and other accessories
Overall Assessment
Not only does the Pro-Force VLF1582019 20-Gallon Air Compressor offer a cost efficient operation, but it is also a bargain. The mere fact that you receive a variety of accessories makes the price tag even friendlier.
Summary
Equipping yourself with the best 20 gallon air compressor will prove to be a good decision ( Check our articles about 30 gallon air compressor reviews and 60 gallon air compressor reviews ).This equipment is great for handymen and mechanics. Just remember that not all compressors are equal. Use the information provided above to ensure you make the right choice for your money!
Reference
- http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4019397
- http://forums.mastertoolrepair.com/index.php/forum/air-compressor-forum/422-20-gallon-kobalt-digital-compressor
- https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/convert-broken-20-gal-compressor-into-portable-air-tank.240275/
- http://www.diychatroom.com/f29/campbell-hausfeld-compressor-problems-83468/