Choosing the right Champion Air Compressor is essential for ensuring efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
To begin with, ensuring your equipment runs smoothly starts with selecting the right size compressor for your specific needs—whether for industrial applications, workshops, automotive work, or general use. Choosing the correct size not only helps optimise performance but also prevents unnecessary strain on the system. As a result, your compressor will run more efficiently, last longer, and require less maintenance over time.
This guide will help you determine the right size air compressor based on your specific requirements.
Why Choosing the Right Size Air Compressor Matters
When it comes to selecting the right air compressor, choosing one that is too small can result in insufficient airflow, reduced efficiency, and unexpected downtime. On the other hand, an oversized compressor may lead to unnecessary energy costs and wasted resources.
With this in mind, the goal is to find a unit that delivers enough air (CFM) at the required pressure (PSI) without overworking the system.
To help guide your decision, consider the following key factors:
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How much air your tools or equipment need (measured in CFM)
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The pressure required for operation (measured in PSI)
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Whether you need continuous or intermittent airflow
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The environment and space available for installation
Step 1: Understanding CFM and PSI
Two important factors when choosing an air compressor are:
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): The amount of air the compressor can deliver
- PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): The pressure at which the air is delivered
Most tools and equipment specify a minimum CFM at a given PSI.
Ensuring that your compressor meets or exceeds these requirements will prevent pressure drops and inefficient operation.
Common CFM Requirements for Air-Powered Tools
| Tool/Equipment | CFM Requirement (at 90 PSI) |
| Air Ratchet | 3-6 CFM |
| Impact Wrench (½”) | 4-6 CFM |
| Paint Spray Gun | 12-14 CFM |
| Sandblaster | 12-20 CFM |
| Pneumatic Drill | 4-8 CFM |
If, for instance, multiple tools are used simultaneously, then add their CFM requirements together to determine the total airflow needed. In addition, multiply the total CFM by 1.2 to ensure your compressor isn’t running at maximum capacity all the time. This way, you can maintain a more efficient and balanced system, preventing unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Tank Size
The tank size of an air compressor plays a crucial role in determining how long it can provide air before needing to refill. Therefore, understanding the right tank size is essential for optimising your compressor’s efficiency.
As a general rule, here are some guidelines for tank sizing:
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Small tanks (20-50 litres) – Ideal for short, intermittent use, such as inflating tires or operating small air tools
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Medium tanks (50-150 litres) – Suitable for workshops and automotive applications with moderate air demand
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Large tanks (150+ litres) – Best for industrial applications, manufacturing, and high-CFM tools
In particular, a larger tank allows for longer operation before the compressor needs to restart, which is more efficient for continuous-use applications. Consequently, a larger tank reduces the frequency of restarts and ensures a steadier airflow, saving both time and energy.
Step 3: Portable vs. Stationary Air Compressors
Champion Air Compressors are available in both portable and stationary models, and each is suited to different applications, depending on your specific needs.
Portable Air Compressors
For instance, portable compressors are designed for on-the-go use, such as construction sites or mobile work. Additionally, they are typically smaller and lighter, making them easy to transport from one job site to another. Therefore, they are best for low to medium-demand applications, where mobility and flexibility are key.
Stationary Air Compressors
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Specifically, stationary air compressors are ideal for workshops, factories, and businesses needing a constant air supply.
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In addition, they offer larger tank sizes and higher CFM output, making them perfect for heavy-duty use.
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Furthermore, these compressors are more energy-efficient for long-term operation, helping to reduce operational costs.
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As a result, if your air needs are continuous, a stationary rotary screw compressor is often the best choice for consistent, reliable performance.
Step 4: Piston vs. Rotary Screw Compressors
Champion offers both piston (reciprocating) and rotary screw compressors. Each has advantages depending on your air demand.
Piston Air Compressors (Reciprocating)
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Primarily, suitable for intermittent use
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While it may offer a lower initial cost, it certainly requires more maintenance afterward
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Ultimately, best for workshops, garages, and small manufacturing setup.
Rotary Screw Air Compressors
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First and foremost, they offer continuous, high-efficiency operation for industrial use.
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Moreover, these compressors are low maintenance and energy-efficient, reducing operational costs.
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As such, they are ideal for factories, automotive plants, and production lines that require consistent performance.
Therefore, for high-demand, continuous use, a Champion Rotary Screw Compressor is the best long-term investment.
Step 5: Air Dryers and Filtration – Ensuring Clean, Dry Air
Excess moisture in compressed air can cause corrosion, tool damage, and reduced efficiency. To maintain dry, contaminant-free air, consider:
- Champion Air Dryers – Remove excess moisture, preventing condensation issues
- Air Filters – Trap dust, oil, and other contaminants for cleaner air
- Aftercoolers – These help cool and dry air before use.
- Additionally, if your applications require ultra-clean, moisture-free air—such as in medical or precision manufacturing—it’s essential to use a dryer and filtration system.
Step 6: Energy Efficiency and Cost Considerations
Choosing an appropriately sized Champion Air Compressor can save money in the long run.
A compressor that is too large wastes energy. On the other hand, one that is too small can overwork itself, leading to frequent maintenance afterward.
How to Improve Efficiency:
- Use a variable-speed compressor if air demand fluctuates throughout the day
- Check for air leaks – even small leaks can waste a significant amount of energy
- Ensure proper maintenance – regularly changing filters and checking for pressure drops can prevent inefficiencies
Find the Right Champion Air Compressor for Your Needs
Choosing the right Champion Air Compressor depends on:
- Your required CFM and PSI – Match the compressor’s output to your tool requirements
- Tank size – Larger tanks reduce start-stop cycles and provide steady airflow
- Portability vs. stationary – Furthermore, consider whether you need mobility or prefer a fixed installation for your compressor setup.
- Compressor type – Piston models for intermittent use, rotary screw models for continuous demand
- Air quality requirements – Use filters and dryers for clean, moisture-free air
At CJS Direct, we offer a range of Champion Air Compressors to suit every application, from workshops to industrial production.
