Storing your Air Compressor?
To complete your ultimate garage workshop you purchased an air
compressor to complete your power tool collection. But where do you
put it? What kind of air compressor you have will determine where
to place this important piece of machinery.
If you purchased a single-stage portable compressor, these are
easy to carry or have wheels that allow you to roll it around
anywhere in your garage. Many are small enough that you could place
them in a baseboard cabinet or under a large workbench so that it
is out of your way until you need it. Most portable compressors run
off of a standard 120 volt outlet, so you can plug it in anywhere
in your work space.
But what if you have a larger two-stage air compressor? Because
they aren't portable, these beasts need to be as close to a power
outlet as possible. In addition, two-stage compressors have much
more horsepower than a portable one, and you need to make sure your
you're running the compressor through a 220 volt outlet.
And while a portable air compressor can be wheeled anywhere out
of the way, a two-stage compressor needs a permanent home where it
you won't have to work around it. Placing your compressor in the
middle of two workbenches may not be the most ideal spot. Instead,
place the air compressor in a corner that has a convenient
outlet.
You can also make your own little closet for your compressor.
Just build your enclosure to fit both the compressor and you
comfortably. However, if you want to enclose a two-stage air
compressor, remember to have adequate ventilation. Since it can not
be moved like a portable compressor, it needs to have one or two
vents to allow the compressor to take in air and dissipate
heat.
Whether you decide to get a portable or a two-stage air
compressor, be sure you have a place to store it. Giving the
compressor a dedicated home will keep it out of the way so that it
does not get damaged while you work. When it is kept clean and well
maintained, your air compressor will provide you with many years of
faithful service.