A 20-gallon air compressor is a type of compressor that has a 20-gallon air tank. These compressors are typically smaller and more portable than larger compressors, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks such as powering pneumatic tools, sandblasting, and spray painting. They are also suitable for home and DIY projects, such as inflating tires, powering nail guns, and running airbrushes.
The main difference between a 20-gallon air compressor and a 60-gallon air compressor is the size of the air tank. A 20-gallon tank will hold less compressed air than a 60-gallon tank and therefore will require more frequent compressor cycles. However, a 20-gallon air compressor is also more portable, and it can be stored more easily than a larger compressor.
When choosing a 20-gallon air compressor, it is important to consider the same factors as when choosing a 60-gallon air compressor such as the horsepower of the motor, maximum PSI and CFM ratings, type of pump, tank material, lubrication system, noise level, safety features, and brand reputation.
Overall, a 20-gallon air compressor is a great choice for anyone who needs a portable, and powerful compressor that can handle a wide range of tasks. It is suitable for both professional and home use and it is also more affordable than larger compressors.
Top Rated 8 Best 20 gallon air compressor
1: CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 20 Gallon, 1.8 HP, Oil-Free Air Tools, Max 175 PSI Pressure
The CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 20 Gallon, 1.8 HP, Oil-Free Air Tools, Max 175 PSI Pressure has several key features, including:
- 1.8 horsepower motor: The compressor is powered by a 1.8 horsepower motor that is capable of producing up to 7.7 CFM at 40 PSI and 6.2 CFM at 90 PSI.
- 20-gallon tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Oil-free pump: The compressor’s pump does not require oil, making it more convenient and easier to maintain.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use on the job site or in a garage.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20 gallon tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing a stable air pressure, and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Quick-connect fittings: The compressor has quick-connect fittings that make it easy to connect air hoses and tools.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Compact and lightweight: The CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor is portable, lightweight and very easy to move around, it can be stored in a small space and easy to take it to any job site
Overall, the CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 20 Gallon, 1.8 HP, Oil-Free Air Tools, Max 175 PSI Pressure is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable, easy-to-maintain compressor. Its oil-free pump and durable steel tank makes it suitable for light-duty tasks and its high-flow regulator and automatic shut-off feature makes it easy to use and energy efficient.
2: NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor – Honda 163cc OHV Engine, 20-Gallon Horizontal Tank
The NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor – Honda 163cc OHV Engine, 20-Gallon Horizontal Tank has several key features, including:
- Honda 163cc OHV engine: The compressor is powered by a reliable and efficient Honda 163cc OHV engine that provides consistent and powerful performance.
- 20-gallon horizontal tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon horizontal tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use on the job site or in a garage.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20 gallon tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing a stable air pressure, and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Cast iron, oil-lubricated pump: The compressor is equipped with a cast iron, oil-lubricated pump that is built to last and provides consistent performance.
- Low oil shutdown: The compressor is equipped with a low oil shutdown feature that automatically turns off the engine if the oil level is too low, preventing damage to the engine.
- Large air filter: The compressor is equipped with a large air filter that helps to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the compressed air.
Overall, the NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor – Honda 163cc OHV Engine, 20-Gallon Horizontal Tank is a powerful and reliable
3: NorthStar Portable Electric Air Compressor – 2 HP, 20-Gallon Vertical Tank, Super-Quiet Operation
The NorthStar Portable Electric Air Compressor – 2 HP, 20-gallon Vertical Tank, Super-Quiet Operation has several key features, including:
- 2 horsepower electric motor: The compressor is powered by a 2 horsepower electric motor that provides efficient and consistent performance.
- 20-gallon vertical tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon vertical tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use in a garage or on the job site.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon vertical tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing stable air pressure and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Cast iron, oil-lubricated pump: The compressor is equipped with a cast iron, oil-lubricated pump that is built to last and provides consistent performance.
- Super-quiet operation: The compressor is designed for super-quiet operation, making it ideal for use in residential or commercial settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
- Large air filter: The compressor is equipped with a large air filter that helps to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the compressed air.
- Thermal Overload protection: The compressor is equipped with thermal overload protection that prevents the motor from overheating and damage
4: NorthStar Single-Stage Portable Electric Air Compressor – 2 HP, 20-Gallon Horizontal
The NorthStar Single-Stage Portable Electric Air Compressor – 2 HP, 20-Gallon Horizontal has several key features, including:
- 2 horsepower electric motor: The compressor is powered by a 2 horsepower electric motor that provides efficient and consistent performance.
- 20-gallon horizontal tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon horizontal tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use in a garage or on the job site.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon horizontal tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing stable air pressure and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Cast iron, oil-lubricated pump: The compressor is equipped with a cast iron, oil-lubricated pump that is built to last and provides consistent performance.
- Thermal Overload protection: The compressor is equipped with thermal overload protection that prevents the motor from overheating and damage
- Low noise level: The compressor is designed to operate at a low noise level, making it suitable for use in residential or commercial settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
- Large air filter: The compressor is equipped with a large air filter that helps to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the compressed air.
Overall, the NorthStar Single-Stage Portable Electric Air Compressor – 2 HP, 20-Gallon Horizontal is a powerful, reliable, and portable compressor that is suitable for a wide range of tasks.
5: Air Compressor, Portable, Horizontal, 20 Gallon, Oil-Free, 4 CFM @ 90 PSI, 150 PSI
The Air Compressor, Portable, Horizontal, 20 Gallon, Oil-Free, 4 CFM @ 90 PSI, 150 PSI has several key features, including:
- 20-gallon horizontal tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon horizontal tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use in a garage or on the job site.
- Oil-free pump: The compressor’s pump does not require oil, making it more convenient and easier to maintain.
- High flow rate: The compressor is capable of delivering 4 CFM of air at 90 PSI and has a maximum pressure of 150 PSI.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon horizontal tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing stable air pressure and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Low noise level: The compressor is designed to operate at a low noise level, making it suitable for use in residential or commercial settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
- Thermal overload protection: The compressor is equipped with thermal overload protection that prevents the motor from overheating and damage.
- Large air filter: The compressor is equipped with a large air filter that helps to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the compressed air.
Overall, the Air Compressor, Portable, Horizontal, 20 Gallon, Oil-Free, 4 CFM @ 90 PSI, 150 PSI is a powerful, reliable, and portable compressor that is suitable for a wide range of tasks. Its oil-free pump, high flow rate, automatic shut-off and thermal overload protection makes it easy to use and maintain.
6: California Air Tools CAT-20015HP Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 1.5 hp, 20 gallon 175 PSI Two Stage Air Compressor
The California Air Tools CAT-20015HP Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 1.5 hp, 20 gallon 175 PSI Two Stage Air Compressor has several key features, including:
- 1.5 horsepower motor: The compressor is powered by a 1.5 horsepower motor that is capable of producing up to 7.5 CFM at 90 PSI and 5.30 CFM at 175 PSI.
- 20-gallon tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Oil-free pump: The compressor’s pump does not require oil, making it more convenient and easier to maintain.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use on the job site or in a garage.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20 gallon tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing a stable air pressure, and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Two-stage pump: The compressor has a two-stage pump design which provides higher PSI, and more CFM, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
- Ultra Quiet operation: The compressor is designed to operate at a very low noise level of 70 decib
7: DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
The DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor has several key features, including:
- Oil-free pump: The compressor’s pump does not require oil, making it more convenient and easier to maintain.
- 20-gallon tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use on the job site or in a garage.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing stable air pressure and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Large air filter: The compressor is equipped with a large air filter that helps to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the compressed air.
- High Flow Regulator: The compressor features a high flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Pneumatic tires: The compressor is equipped with pneumatic tires that make it easy to move the compressor around on a job site.
- High Flow Coupler: The compressor features a high flow coupler that allows you to easily connect air hoses and tools.
- Low Noise Operation: The compressor is designed to operate at a low noise level, making it suitable for use in residential or commercial settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
8: CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 20 Gallon, 1.8 HP, Oil-Free Air Tools, Max 175 PSI Pressure, 2 Quick Coupler
The CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 20 Gallon, 1.8 HP, Oil-Free Air Tools, Max 175 PSI Pressure, 2 Quick Coupler has several key features, including:
- 1.8 horsepower motor: The compressor is powered by a 1.8 horsepower motor that is capable of producing up to 7.7 CFM at 40 PSI and 6.2 CFM at 90 PSI.
- 20-gallon tank: The compressor has a 20-gallon tank that provides stable air pressure and allows for extended use between compressor cycles.
- Oil-free pump: The compressor’s pump does not require oil, making it more convenient and easier to maintain.
- Portable design: The compressor is lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for use on the job site or in a garage.
- High-flow regulator: The compressor features a high-flow regulator that allows you to easily monitor and adjust the air pressure.
- Automatic shut-off: The compressor is equipped with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the compressor when the set pressure is reached.
- Durable steel tank: The compressor has a 20 gallon tank that is constructed from durable steel, providing a stable air pressure, and allowing for extended use between compressor cycles.
- 2 quick coupler: The compressor comes with 2 quick couplers, which allows you to easily connect multiple air tools at the same time.
- Easy to use: The compressor is easy to operate, with a simple on/off switch and a quick-connect air outlet.
- Compact and lightweight: The CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor is portable, lightweight and very easy to move around, it can be stored in a small space and easy to take it to any job site
Overall, the CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 20 Gallon,
Why You should need a best 20 gallon air compressor
A 20 gallon air compressor is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks, such as powering air tools, inflating tires, and spraying paint. A 20 gallon air compressor is ideal for both professional and personal use.
Here are a few reasons why you might need a 20 gallon air compressor:
- Powering air tools: A 20 gallon air compressor can provide the necessary air pressure and flow rate to power a wide range of air tools, such as impact wrenches, ratchets, and paint sprayers.
- Inflating tires: A 20 gallon air compressor can quickly and easily inflate car and truck tires, as well as bicycle tires, sports equipment, and inflatable toys.
- Spraying paint: A 20 gallon air compressor can be used to spray paint, which is a faster and more efficient way to apply paint than using a brush or roller.
- DIY projects: A 20 gallon air compressor is a great tool for DIY projects around the house, such as nailing, stapling, sanding, and cleaning.
- Job site: A 20 gallon air compressor is portable, making it ideal for use on job sites, such as construction sites, where a reliable and powerful air supply is needed.
- Automotive work: A 20 gallon air compressor is powerful enough to handle the demands of automotive work, such as removing and installing tires, powering impact wrenches and more.
Overall, a 20 gallon air compressor is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks, making it a valuable addition to any workshop or job site.
How to choose a 20 gallon air compressor
When choosing a 20 gallon air compressor, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the best one for your needs. Here are some of the most important things to consider when choosing a 20 gallon air compressor:
- Power: Consider the horsepower of the motor and the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating at specific PSI (pounds per square inch) to determine the power of the air compressor. Make sure the air compressor has enough power to run the air tools you plan to use.
- Tank size: The tank size is important as it determines how long the air compressor can run before it needs to be refilled. A 20-gallon tank is a good size for most applications.
- Type of pump: Air compressors come with two types of pumps: oil-free and oil-lubricated. Oil-free pumps require less maintenance, but they may not last as long as oil-lubricated pumps.
- Portability: Consider the weight and size of the air compressor to determine if it is easy to move around. If you plan to take the air compressor to different job sites, portability is an important consideration.
- Noise level: Some air compressors are louder than others. If you plan to use the air compressor in a residential or commercial setting where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, look for an air compressor with a low noise level.
- Price: Air compressors come in a wide range of prices. Consider how much you are willing to spend and what features you need before making a purchase.
- Brand reputation and customer service: Consider the reputation of the brand and the availability of customer service before making a purchase. It is always better to buy from a reputable
You can also Read about Top-rated Best 60 Gallon Air Compressor
FAQ
What can a 20 gallon air compressor do?
A 20-gallon air compressor can be used for a variety of tasks, including:
- Inflating tires: You can use a 20-gallon air compressor to inflate car tires, bike tires, and other types of tires.
- Powering Pneumatic Tools: You can use a 20-gallon air compressor to power pneumatic tools such as nail guns, staplers, and spray guns.
- Sandblasting: You can use a 20-gallon air compressor to power a sandblaster, which can be used to remove paint, rust, and other materials from surfaces.
- Painting: A 20-gallon air compressor can be used for spraying paint, it can be used with a paint sprayer, which can help you achieve a smooth and even finish on large surfaces.
- Cleaning: You can use a 20-gallon air compressor to power air tools, such as air guns and air nozzles, to blow debris and dust out of hard-to-reach areas.
- Powering air-actuated equipment: Some equipment such as air-actuated valves and cylinders can be powered by a 20-gallon air compressor.
Keep in mind that a 20-gallon air compressor is a portable, small to medium size compressor, it may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks like industrial painting, large scale sandblasting, or powering heavy-duty pneumatic tools.
Can you paint a car with a 20 gallon air compressor?
Yes, it is possible to paint a car with a 20-gallon air compressor, but it may not be the best option depending on the specific circumstances. A 20-gallon air compressor is a portable, small to medium size compressor, it may not be powerful enough to handle the high CFM (cubic feet per minute) requirements of a large spray gun used to paint a car. Additionally, it may not have enough reserve air to sustain the paint spraying process for an extended period of time.
Painting a car is a time consuming and labor-intensive process, it’s best done with a larger compressor that can handle the high volume of air needed to maintain an even and consistent paint flow. A larger compressor that can provide more CFM and PSI, would be more suitable for this kind of task.
If you are planning to paint a car using a 20-gallon air compressor, you may need to use a smaller spray gun, or you may need to work in smaller sections, taking breaks to let the compressor catch up. It’s also important to consider the condition of your compressor, as an older compressor may not be able to handle the demands of painting a car.
It’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific task and equipment you have, or consult with an expert to ensure that you have the appropriate size air compressor and the right equipment for the job.
How big is a 20 gallon air tank?
A 20-gallon air tank refers to the size of the air tank’s storage capacity, it is not a reference to a physical dimension of the tank. The physical size of a 20-gallon air tank can vary depending on the manufacturer and design of the tank.
Typically, a 20-gallon air tank will be larger than a smaller tank such as a 5-gallon tank, but it will be smaller than a larger tank such as a 40-gallon tank. The size of the tank can also vary with the shape of the tank, the material it’s made of and the purpose of the tank.
For example, a 20-gallon vertical air tank will be taller and narrower than a 20-gallon horizontal air tank, and a 20-gallon air tank that is used for portable air compressors will be smaller and lighter than a 20-gallon air tank that is used for industrial applications.
It’s important to note that the physical size of the tank will not affect the storage capacity, the 20-gallon capacity of the tank refers to the amount of air it can store, regardless of the size of the tank.
What’s the best 20 gallon air compressor?
There are many different 20-gallon air compressors on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a 20-gallon air compressor:
- Power: Look for a compressor that has a high CFM (cubic feet per minute) and PSI (pounds per square inch) rating. This will ensure that the compressor can handle the demands of your specific tasks.
- Portability: If you need to move the compressor around your workspace or take it to different job sites, look for a compressor that is lightweight and easy to move.
- Noise level: Some compressors are louder than others. If you plan to use the compressor in a residential area or in a shared workspace, look for a compressor with a low decibel rating.
- Durability: Look for a compressor that is built with high-quality materials and has a solid construction. This will ensure that the compressor will last for a long time and can withstand heavy use.
- Brand reputation: Look for a compressor from a well-known and reputable brand. They have a good track record and have been in the market for a long time, which will give you peace of mind knowing that your compressor is backed by a strong warranty and customer service.
Based on these criteria, some popular 20-gallon air compressor options include:
- DEWALT D55168: This compressor has a high CFM and PSI rating, is durable and portable and has a good reputation for quality and reliability.
- Makita MAC2400: This compressor is known for its low noise level, high power and durability.
- Campbell Hausfeld VT6358: This compressor is lightweight, portable and has a high CFM rating, it is also budget-friendly.
- California Air Tools 5510SE: This compressor is known for its quiet operation, high power and durability, it also has a good reputation for quality and reliability.
It’s always a good idea to read reviews and compare features before making a final decision, and consult with an expert if you have any doubts.