When going on RV camping, its everyone’s expectation that everything will be smooth on the way, a flat tire is the last thing you would expect. It can derail all the planned fun activities and even leave your kids disappointed when you are not prepared for the unexpected.
Air compressors are used to convert power into energy using either gas, electricity or motor. and essential accessories for home and commercial usage. They are used for inflating tires, spraying as well as powering tools used in outdoor activities.
As you prepare for any outdoor adventure, always try to pack an air compressor for your RV to take care of any eventuality on the road.
We evaluated the most popular air compressors on the market and narrowed down to the top 10 to help you find the best portable air compressor for RV tires. We looked at multiple factors such as power, motor size, quality, durability, safety and convenience when making our RV air compressor reviews.
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Top Picks
Best Portable Air Compressor For RV Tires
- Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor (Editor’s Choice)
- Kensun Digital Air Compressor/AC,DC Tire Inflator
- VIAIR 300P Portable Compressor
- GSPSCN Silver Double Cylinder Portable Air Compressor
- JACO SmartPro 2.0 AC/DC Digital RV Air Compressor
- DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor
- Kensun Model J Portable Air Compressor Pump
- POTEK Car Jump Starter with 150 PSI Tire Inflator/Air Compressor
- Slime 40022 12-volt Digital RV Air Compressor
- SuperFlow HV-41 Air Compressor
1. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor (Editor’s Choice)
The Viair 88P is a portable and powerful air compressor capable of inflating up to 33-inch tires within a few minutes. It uses heavy-duty battery clamps to draw power directly from the battery and has an inline 20-amp fuse for protecting the battery of your vehicle. And a gauge mounted at the top of the unit allows you to monitor the pressure of the tire. For durability and long-term use, this unit features a gearless high quality direct-drive motor with an oil-less design and permanently lubricated bearings.
Size, power and motor type
The Viair 88P is designed to inflate up 33-inch tires in no more than 6 minutes, it has a maximum pressure of 120 pounds per square inch (psi) and 1.47 cubic feet per minute (CFM) rating for its flow rate. It comes with 9 feet 12V DC power cord/porter cable and an integrated air hose of up to 12 feet making it great for motorhomes and long vehicles like trucks. Viair 88P is a compact unit and weighs only 4.5 pounds.
Maintenance Requirements
This is a low-maintenance unit, it has a permanently lubricated, maintenance-free motor, so it requires no form of lubrication. Only use a cloth dampened in warm water and a mild to clean the plastic parts of the compressor, there isn’t any need for cleaning chemicals or solvents as these could damage the plastic. If your 88P needs some form of servicing, consult a qualified technician to handle it.
Extras and Accessories
The Viair 88P is one of the Best Portable Air Compressors as it comes with a 12 ft. air hose, 9 ft. power cord/porter cable, 120 psi pressure gauge, LED power indicator, dual battery clamps, solid brass twist-on tire chuck, 3-piece inflation tips kit and 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Summary Review
It’s recommended that you check your tires every month and even as you’re on a cross-country vacation in your RV, your tire pressure will need to be maintained. With the Viair 88P portable 12V air compressor, you can keep your tires in top form for better gas mileage.
2. Kensun Digital Air Compressor/AC,DC Tire Inflator
The multifunctional Kensun digital air compressor and tire inflator can be used both at home, on the road and is one of the best 12 volt air compressor for RV tires.
It operates both under DC 12 Volts and AC 110 Volts, so you can easily plug it into your wall at home, or in the lighter socket of your car and use it right away.
Even though Kensun air compressor is pricier than some other compressors of its size, it is worth every penny. With auto digital gauge and superb power of 120 watts, this air compressor will inflate your tires and other inflatable items instantly.
It features a set of nozzle accessories suitable for inflating all types of car and truck tires without exception, as well as toys, soccer balls, basketballs, and other items.
Additionally, it features a bright LED work light for ease of use even at night, and a backlit LCD screen that is easy to operate.
A General Overview of the Motor, Size, and Power of the Unit
The Kensun digital air compressor can be powered both via your home electric outlet (110V) and your car lighter outlet (12V).
Its dimensions are 11.8 x 4.3 x 6.7 inches, and its compact design gives it a heftier feel, and yet it is 5 pounds.
You can conveniently carry it around or pack it in the zipped carry bag, along with all the extra accessories included in the package. The compressor’s superb power has an air flow of 30 liters per minute.
Minimum Maintenance Required
The pump doesn’t require an oil change. You do not have to deal with messy oil changes and fixing for it to work efficiently.
Accessories Included
The Kensun D1002 comes with an AC cord for 110 Volts and 12 volts DC car power cord, a zipped carry case, instructional manual and a warranty card of two years. The compressor can inflate your tires or other inflatable items without too much of a hassle.
The compressor comes with three different inflation nozzle adaptors. The adaptors include a screw-on nozzle for all tire types and others for pumping balls, camping gear, sports gear, and beach toys.
Summary Review
I highly recommend this RV air compressor because of its multi-functionality, and the fact that you can comfortably use it for inflating your RV tires either at home or on the road. It is compact and can effortlessly be stored and carried in your car.
It is easy to use, highly functional in every duty cycle, requires almost no maintenance, and made of high-quality materials that enhance its durability.
3. VIAIR 300P Portable Compressor
If you want an RV air compressor more powerful than the 88P, then this Viair 300P might be the ideal choice for you. The Viair 300P is a quick and efficient air compressor that’s very suitable for most RVs, it quickly provides high levels of compressed air and fills 33-inch tires in a few minutes and uses alligator clamps to source power directly from the car battery.
Size, Power and Motor Type
At 8.7 pounds, the Viair 300P is compact and built to provide a maximum psi rating of 150 psi. Since it uses alligator clamps to connect directly to the motor battery, it features a thermal overload protector to prevent amp draw spike that could cause motor damage, a 40 amp fuse to allow for easy inflation of any car battery. It also comes with a gearless direct drive motor, a quick connect hose and a 5-in-1 inflator/deflator air hose with inline 100 PSI gauge for easily monitoring the tire pressure.
Maintenance Requirements:
With a moisture and dust resistant IP54 rating, the Viair 300P is built to be reliable and durable for the maximum run time. It has a permanently lubricated and maintenance-free motor which doesn’t need any form of lubrication, this makes maintenance a cinch for RVers. You only need to regularly clean off dust and dirt from the unit’s cooling fins and motor housing. Manufacturers recommend that any repair should be handled by a qualified technician.
Extras and Accessories:
Viair air 300P comes with an impressive number of accessories. The unit itself has a deluxe dual easy to store compartment bag for storage and has compartments for accessories small enough to fit. It comes with a 40-Amp inline fuse holder, dual battery clamps, 3 piece inflation tips kit, thermal overload protector, 5-in-1 inflator/deflator air hose with inline 100 PSI Gauge, Aluminum Sand Tray with Vibration Isolators, 25 ft long air hose, 8 feet long power cord and 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Summary Review
This is the ideal RV air compressor for off-roading. If you want to spend more time enjoying a relaxing trip and less time maintaining a machine, then this air compressor is the perfect choice for your RV.
4. GSPSCN Silver Double Cylinder Portable Air Compressor
Fast and powerful, GSPSCN air compressors can inflate a truck tire in a few short minutes, it has double cylinder air compressors which are powered by a high-quality direct drive motor. This unit is fitted with anti-vibration rubber feet to ensure it’s rooted to a spot as it works despite the vibrations, and it features a special technology for reducing noise. It is a high efficiency pump with low rotating speed and will meet the pressure requirement of most car tires.
Size, Power and Motor Type
The GSPSCN heavy-duty double cylinder design delivers a maximum pressure 150 psi and air flow of 70L/min which is capable of inflating standard vehicle tires in just 2 minutes. It comes with an 11.5 ft cigarette lighter power cord and a battery cord so you have two options; either connect it directly to your battery or the cigarette lighter in your motorhome. This unit is very versatile and works well for different types of vehicles including SUVs, trucks, RVs, etc. It also comes with 3 nozzle adaptors for easily pumping up air mattresses, bikes, toys, sporting equipment and other inflatables.
Maintenance Requirements
Ensure you check the user’s manual of your unit and follow the recommended maintenance instructions. Always check the valves and belts to make sure every part is working as it should. And ensure to get it to a qualified technician if it requires any repairs.
Extras and Accessories
This pump comes with a generous amount of accessories. It comes with a tire repair kit including a plier, knife, screwdrivers, tire repair strip, split-eye insertion needle, and rasp tool. In the box, you’ll also find a power cord with clamps, a 3.5 m coil air hose, 3 inflatable adaptors, a sturdy bag for convenient storage and a user’s manual.
Summary Review
GSPSCN is one of the best RV air compressor brands known for affordable excellence, they offer great products at budget-friendly prices. Whether you’re at home or in the middle of nowhere with your RV, the GSPSCN is considered among the best RV air compressors, since it helps you keep your tires in top shape, maintaining their pressure, improving longevity and ensuring your safety on wheels.
5. JACO SmartPro 2.0 AC/DC Digital RV Air Compressor
Designed for reliability and performance, the Jaco SmartPro is a portable and super-compact device for maintaining optimal tire pressure at all times. With an automatic shut off, this pump makes sure your tires are filled with the right amount of pressure. And an array of settings enables you to customize the device while an LCD display screen permits you to monitor what’s going on. It also has a flashlight in case you have an emergency flat tire at night and need to use the machine.
Size, Power and Motor Type
Jaco SmartPro is designed to deliver a maximum pressure of 100 psi at a fast air flow of 30L/min, and a SmartPressure technology enables you to automate the process. It has an integrated digital air gauge where you set your target pressure and the machine will automatically shut off once it has delivered that exact amount of air pressure. It works great for inflating passenger vehicle tires, SUVs, trucks, cars and even motorhomes. This easy to carry unit comes with an extended 10 foot 12V DC power cord for easy access to each tire, and a 6-foot AC power cord (110V / 120V) for connecting to power outlets at home.
Maintenance Requirements
Maintaining your compact air compressor is as easy as following a couple of instructions. First off, make sure you check the user’s manual your equipment comes with to understand exactly how to always keep it working great. You may need to regularly wipe it down with a dampened cloth to remove dust and dirt, also check the energy valves and the drive belt pressure to ensure that every part is working as it should. For more complex repairs, consult a qualified technician or the manufacturer.
Extras and Accessories:
In the box, you will find the SmartPro 2.0 AC/DC Portable Air Compressor with a built-in long enough portable compressors’ 24-inch air hose with a rugged brass twist-connect nozzle chuck for a secure and hands-free seal to the tire valve stem and built-in bleeder valve with a bonus plus of reduced noise levels when you fill your tires. A 10 ft 12V DC power cord and 6 ft 110V-120V AC power cord for dual power source. It comes with a storage bag, a presta valve adaptor, a needle nozzle, an inflatable nozzle, a fuse and a quick start guide.
Summary Review
This is a great device for maintaining optimal tire pressure on-the-go and staying safe on the road. You can use it in any type of passenger vehicle and especially in your RV while on extended outdoor vacation trips. It enables hands-free use and comes with a 100% Lifetime Warranty.
6. DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor
The DeWalt D55140 Air Compressor is a top choice in the higher-end and heavy-duty category.
It has a 1-gallon tank for air, and a powerful motor capable of providing a maximum psi rating of 135 PSI. Even though it is a heavy-duty device, this air compressor is relatively quiet (with a low 71 decibels rating). The motor is oil-free and is maximum 2.6 amps.
The Dewalt D55140 is made using cast iron. The cast iron construction plus the added roll cage and protection frame ensures that this compressor stays intact and undamaged while performing different types of work.
Size, Power and Motor Type
These portable air compressors weigh 24 pounds and are only 9 inches wide, which is quite compact for such a powerful tool.
This air compressor allows one-hand carrying and operation. The motor is 2.6 amps and can deliver 0.75 SCFM @ 90 – 135 PSI Max. Therefore, the compressor is among the most powerful portable devices, with a quick start-up, good running time and minimum time for recovery.
Maintenance Requirements
The motor is oil free and durable.
It requires no maintenance and oil changing or adding, which will save you the trouble of oil refilling.
Extras and Accessories
The Dewalt D55140 Heavy duty air portable compressor has a universal adaptor nozzle which allows for a quick and easy to use connection to pneumatic tools.
It also has a ball draining valve used for fast and efficient draining of the 1-gallon tank and a power cord that can easily coil around the cord wrap for better storage.
Summary Review
You can conveniently use the Dewalt heavy-duty compressor for a variety of jobs. It is powerful yet compact and quiet. It has a great running time, quick recovery and impressive power of the released air pressure.
The device has a sturdy make and design that endures any accidental damage which often occurs during its use. It is made for one-handed use. So, it is an irreplaceable portable heavy duty air compressor, which is an excellent tool to own and use at home and work.
7. Kensun Model J Portable Air Compressor Pump
If you want a reliable and portable air compressor for flat tire emergencies and those days when your tire gets punctured, you’ve got one here. The Kensun Model J is an RV air compressor with all the right features. It has a screw-on air hose for a secure and hands-free attachment to your tire’s valve stem. It also features an automatic shut-off which enables you to “set it and forget it” and prevent over-inflation. With this you only input the desired air pressure and the machine goes to work and automatically shuts-off when it’s done.
Size, Power and Motor Type
The Model J is another one of the best 12 volt air compressor for rv tires as it can tap into different power supplies, it comes with 110V AC power cord for use at home and a 12V DC power cable for use on-the-go. With the 10.9 inches long 12V power cable you can connect the unit to the cigarette lighter port in your vehicle and inflate your tire within a few minutes. It’s designed to inflate the tires of cars, bikes, sedans, SUVs, RVs and can deliver up to 90 psi at the air flow rate of 35 L/min. At 5.59 pounds, this unit is very compact and can go with you to anywhere.
Maintenance Requirements
Periodically check the valves, belts and other parts of the machine to ensure they are in great shape. Ensure you clean the machine to keep dirt and dust particles out. With continuous usage, you may need to change some parts, ensure you follow the right procedure or employ the services of a qualified technician.
Extras and Accessories
The Kensun Model J comes with an AC/DC adapter, multiple nozzle extensions, hoses and other functional accessories you can use to inflate virtually anything. It also comes with a convenient carry case for proper storage, an instruction manual and a 2-year Warranty.
Summary Review
These RV air compressors are great for use at home, for off-roading, and as an essential device in your RV. With an LCD display screen, easy controls, high-speed inflation and hands-free use, this machine is simply one of the best portable air compressors available.
8. POTEK Car Jump Starter with 150 PSI Tire Inflator/Air Compressor
No products found.Reliable and portable RV air compressors should never be absent in your vehicle, to ensure that a flat tire doesn’t ruin your beautiful road trip or camping. And the Potek 1000A Peak JumpBoost is one you can trust. This portable air compressor will inflate an emergency flat car tire in a few short minutes, works as an emergency light and it doesn’t cost much either.
Size, Power and Motor Type
Designed to deliver a maximum pressure of 150 psi, it takes less than 8 minutes for the Potek to completely inflate a regular car tire of 30 psi. It comes with a 120V AC charging adapter for use at home and a 12V DC chapter adapter for use on-the-go. At 14.13 pounds, this device is a bit on the heavy side but it’s more than just a portable air compressor. It provides 1000 Peak and 500 Instant Amps as an emergency lifesaver when you are out and perfect for long driving, adventure and travel.
Maintenance Requirements
To keep your machine dust-free, gently clean the surfaces with a soft cloth moistened with a mild solution of water and detergent. Periodically inspect the condition of the charging adapters, connectors, and wires. This machine has no serviceable parts, so you have to replace any component that may have become worn out or broken and all replacements should be performed by a qualified technician. This unit comes with a 12V maintenance-free battery that will need to be replaced after some years.
Extras and Accessories
Potek comes with 12 volt power outlet sockets, a compressor hose, an AC adapter, a spare fuse, and a user manual. The device has a beautifully designed storage box that safely houses all the accessories.
Summary Review
The Potek portable air compressor is smartly designed with functionality in mind, the gauge is stable and accurate and your tire will be inflated in minutes. It’s somewhat noisy but this isn’t unusual for portable air compressors. In all, it’s an excellent device for keeping your tires in good shape while on a road trip or camping holiday.
No products found.
9. Slime 40022 12-volt Digital RV Air Compressor
The Slime 40022 tire inflator, is a superb 12 Volt device with an amazingly bright LED digital display – perfect for use at night or in dark conditions.
After you enter the required pressure, the air compressor will pump just enough air and then stop automatically when you have reached the desired pressure via its “Inflate-Right” technology.
All you need to do is to plug it into the cigarette lighter socket of your car, attach the air pipe to the tire valve, set the required pressure level and switch it on.
You can use it in the darkest nights without the need of a flashlight. The device has rubber on its feet to avoid it sliding around and for added stability.
The Slime 12 Volt compressor has a screw-on rv air compressor nozzle that works with most types of rims. It ensures a secure fit and is much more universal than the regular “clip-on” adaptors.
Size, Power and Motor Type
The Slime 40022 can inflate a standard car tire in 6 minutes with a maximum pressure of 35 PSI.
Its dimensions are 2.8 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches and weigh a mere 1.9 pounds, so they are really small rv air compressors that fit snugly in any car trunk.
Maintenance Requirements
The 280 Watt motor of this portable air compressor requires no maintenance since it doesn’t need oil to work.
Extras and Accessories
The Slime RV air compressors have a handy compartment which can easily fit both the air hose and the electric power cord when not in use. The easy reach of this compressor from the lighter socket to all the tires of the car is made possible by the 12 ft cable and the air hose.
The compact and efficient air compressor comes with a metal ball needle adaptor as well as an accessory adaptor tool for inflating.
Summary Review
The Slime RVair compressor may not be the fastest, but it is inexpensive, reliable, compact, light and has an auto-stop function for easier use. This air compressor is our best rv air compressor for RV tires under budget.
Its bright green LED display shows the PSI level of the tire and can be used without a problem even if you get a flat tire on a dark road at night. The screw-on connector for the tire valves makes this compressor an almost universal rv air compressor for most types of tire rims.
Its digital gauge is precise, so all you need to do is to input the required psi rating and let the compressor do the rest. It will automatically switch off the air compression when the pressure in the tires reaches the required level.
The Slime RV air compressor is small, inexpensive, lightweight and requires no maintenance, therefore, a perfect emergency car air compressor which you can always have with you when on the road.
10. SuperFlow HV-41 Air Compressor
SuperFlow HV-41 is a home air compressor powered via a 120 Volt outlet, making it perfect for inflating tires in the garage or pumping air mattresses and camping inflatables.
It has a powerful motor and provides quick and efficient inflation of the tires and other high-pressure blow-up gear in its automatic portable compressor kit. The device has a precise gauge which will ensure that you get the correct readings for the psi ratings so that you never pump too much or too little air in your tires.
The SuperFlow HV-41 is compact, light and can easily be stored or carried around whenever you need it.
Size, Power and Motor Type
The 120 Volt air compressor is compact enough to carry around the house or pack in the truck when not in use. Its dimensions are 11 x 7 x 6.2 inches, and the unit weighs 4.5 pounds.
The motor is powerful and delivers a maximum of 120 PSI and has a maximum amperage of 2 amps. The running time of the motor and compressor is 10 minutes; thereafter you will need to recover and fill up.
This compact air compressor is powered by a direct drive motor which eliminates the risk of interruption of the air compression during its duty cycleand leaving the tire under-inflated.
Maintenance Requirements
The SuperFlow HV-41 compressor requires zero maintenance.
Plug the air compressor into an outlet in your home or garage and then attach it to the tire valve, and it will do the rest in no time.
Extras and Accessories
The SuperFlow HV-41 compressor has a 10 ft power cord/porter cable and a 36 inch air hose which are sufficient for easy reach and handling. It comes with two raft adapters and a needle connector for tires and other high-pressure inflatable items.
The unit has an illuminated gauge which is accurate in measuring the psi rating of the tires or other inflatables. This ensures pumping of the right quality and quantity of air in each of your tires or other inflatable items, without the risk of over or under inflating them.
Summary Review
The Super Flow HV-41 RV air compressor is easy to use, and even though it is quite compact, it has proven to be effective and powerful.
This air compressor is excellent for home, garage, and RV camping. Since it can’t work with 12 Volts, it is not suitable for an emergency car air compressor for the road. Nonetheless, it is an excellent device which will quickly pump your tires in your garage or any other blow up item which you may need to inflate.
How To Use an Air Compressor – The Step-by-Step Guide
Air compressors these days seamlessly engage their pneumatic components without your manual help. And because they are so beginner-friendly, most RV air compressors provide that ease of use that feels just as straightforward as switching on a light bulb.
Of course, some precautions are generally accepted as the best practices we’ll need to keep in mind before starting up our air compressors.
First, you’ll always need to pay special attention to the pressure gauges to make sure that the in-hose air pressure never gets below the listed ratings of your power tool. Also, never forget to adjust the pressure every time you select a new tool and learn to release the drainage valve once you’re done with every use. Safety is of utmost importance for the usage of every tool.
Checking Up Portable Air Compressors
There’s a routine checklist to peruse before using any RV air compressor, whether it has an automatic portable compressor kit or not. You’ll need to consult the owner’s manual to have a good grasp of the type of RV air compressor you’re using.
If the RV air compressor doesn’t have an oil-free pump, for instance, then it’s a given that you need to check out the pump oil-level before each use. Most large pumps are usually filled with oil. In such cases, look for the oil dipstick (traditionally stationed close to the compressor’s ends), and pull it out. If the oil level on the stick doesn’t cross the 2/3 mark, then you’ll need an oil top-up before starting up such portable air compressors. The best RV air compressors have a sight glass or sump tank dot that helps you know the compressor’s oil level.
Most of the newer portable air compressors don’t come with all that baggage, so you can just get right to it if your RV air compressor seems to have an oil-free pump.
Setting Up Air Compressors
Because of its weight, place the compressor on sturdy but level ground and link the foot hose’s pointed end to the regulator. The regulator control is a copper-colored, hollow, and round metal plug usually placed near the smaller pressure gauge on one side of the compressor.
Then, attach the other end of the hose length to the power tool, so there’s the regulator on one end and the power tool on the other end of the hose. Hold the hose’s end to the power tool and twist it against the plug of the power tool until the lock snaps into place. Once the tool is secure, plug in your tirewell 12-volt tire inflator coupler, or whatever RV air compressor coupler you have, if you’re pumping a tire.
Next, double-check to confirm that the compressor’s power switch is not turned on before you plug the compressor into a preferably grounded outlet. Extension cords are a big no when using air compressors. Instead, you can opt for an extension hose to improve the hose length rather than risking the overheat that comes with using extension cords. This is why it is better to opt for compressors with higher values for power cord length and hose length.
Filling Up the Air Storage Tank
Before filling the air tank, ensure that the air tank is closed by tightening the drain valve with a clockwise turn of an adjustable wrench. Then read up the compressor’s psi ratings, which are easy to read and found under the tool or in the owner’s manual.
Once that is done, start up the compressor and let it run for a few minutes with your eyes on pressure readings on the larger gauge. The ideal pressure you can fill your air storage tank with is five psi less than the design rating. So if it’s stipulated that the tank can hold 90 psi, target 70-84 psi.
After that, you can connect the tool’s psi to match the hose’s regulator valve until the pressure gauge records the exact pressure level you need by twisting the regulator knob. You should bind the threaded layer of the hose using Teflon tape to minimize leakages. As soon as the pressurized air fills the hose, the tool is ready for work. The tool will automatically refill its pressure after every use until you switch the device, but be patient enough to allow it complete the refill before usage, so the power tool doesn’t stop working abruptly.
Closing Up Shop
Air compressors tend to load up moisture in their storage tanks during use, so you’ll need to exploit the excess pressurized air to release the condensation by twisting the valve at the underside of the tank clockwise with a plier or adjustable wrench.
Close the pressure regulator valve next to cut off the air supply, turn off the compressor, and set aside the hose until the drain is complete. The pressure relief valve can help speed up the draining process. Disconnect the hose and unplug the compressor from the power outlet before you store both components in a dry area with a moderated temperature.
What to Look for In the Best Air Compressors for You
There’s a compressor for every situation. So, let me guide you through the best compressor fit for your position:
Portability – Power cord length and hose length
There’s no cheap substitute for the extra reach you’ll get with an air compressor with good cord and hose lengths. Extension cords overheat, and extension hoses are supplementary costs, so get that issue out of the way beforehand.
Flow Rate – Suitable cubic feet per minute rating
You don’t need to literally blow yourself away when you’re just trying to inflate tires. Get the flow rate you need for the job at hand. Not more, Not less.
Storage Tank – Size does matter
The size and weight of your air tank determines how long you can use the tool at a time before you need to compress air, and how portable it really is. Again, if you know you’re not going to be using it for too long, you shouldn’t be buying a huge tank.
Voltage – What’s your outlet rating?
If the voltage supply to the compressor is too low, it won’t even hum. If the voltage is too high, your compressor might break soon or cause you harm. The compressor’s (and your) life hangs on that delicate balance of voltage supply and rated compressor voltage, don’t mess it up.
FAQs about the best portable air compressor for RV tires
How much of pressure (psi) does it need?
The PSI (Psi- pounds per square inch) discharged by your compressor should exceed the psi requirement of your RV tires, you can usually find this on the sidewall of your tire and can be anywhere between 35-80 depending on a range of factors.
How much air flow (cfm) should it have?
Cfm (cubic feet per minute) is the measure of airflow that the portable air compressor can create. Simply put, the higher the number, the faster your tires will inflate.
Choose a compressor that exceeds the psi and cfm requirements of your equipment so that you are not underpowered. For optimal performance I would look for on with .
How loud is a portable air compressor?
They can get pretty loud, up to 90db, which is about the same as a food blends or motor-cycle passing. not great for early mornings, especially on campsites. You can find some lower. I’d recommend searching for one in the 65db range, around the same as an electric shaver.
Which size of the tank does it need?
A portable air compressor has a tank that provides a reserve of air to meet peak flow and pressure demands. The larger the tank, the more reserve is available. Tanks can either be vertical or horizontal.
What supply of electricity is available?
The power supply is an essential factor that you should consider when buying an air compressor.
Where a three-phase and single-phase compressors are available, the best option is a three-phase air compressor. It produces more efficient compressed air than the single-phase equivalent units.
Single-phase compressors of up to 2.5 hp can operate from a 240v 13 amp power supply, except the new 3.0 hp low current models. 3.0 hp and higher must run from a 240v 30 amps supply. When possible, choose large air compressors that you require to allow for expansion.