Whether you’re powering pneumatic tools, setting up a spray booth, or running a full shop, one number matters more than anything: CFM (cubic feet per minute). CFM measures airflow, and calculating it correctly ensures your system has the power you need. Too little airflow and tools won’t perform. Too much capacity, and you’ll overspend on … Read more
If you’ve ever wondered why your air compressor restarts smoothly instead of struggling against built-up pressure, the answer is the unloader valve. This small but crucial component releases trapped air after the compressor stops, ensuring an easy restart and preventing damage. Without it, motors can overheat, pressure switches can fail, and your compressor’s life span … Read more
When it comes to plumbing, heating, and radiant floor installations, few materials have made as big an impact as PEX pipe. Unlike copper or PVC, PEX is flexible, resistant to scale and corrosion, and easy to install with fewer fittings. But if you’re outfitting an entire home or commercial building, the right PEX pipe system … Read more
When setting up a shop or industrial workspace, one of the biggest challenges is making sure your compressed air system can handle the demand. Choosing the right pipe size for airflow (CFM) is critical to avoid pressure drop, wasted energy, and costly downtime. That’s where a CFM pipe size chart becomes invaluable. But the chart … Read more
If your air compressor uses a belt-driven pump, that compressor belt is one of the most important moving parts. It transfers power from the motor to the pump flywheel, allowing your compressor to generate the airflow you depend on. But belts wear out over time—they crack, glaze, or slip—causing reduced performance, overheating, or even total … Read more
If you’ve ever worked on a construction site, road crew, or remote job where power tools need reliable air, chances are you’ve seen the Ingersoll Rand P185 tow-behind compressor. This rugged portable unit is one of the most popular rental and jobsite compressors in North America, offering dependable performance for powering jackhammers, sandblasters, and other … Read more
When setting up a shop air system, one of the biggest questions is: what piping material should I use? Many DIYers and pros turn to copper pipe for compressed air because it’s durable, clean, and long-lasting. But is copper always the best choice, and what do you need to know before using it? This guide … Read more
Reciprocating air compressors are the workhorses of shops, garages, and industrial plants. They’ve been around for over a century, and for good reason: they’re tough, reliable, and capable of delivering high-pressure air when you need it. If you’ve ever wondered what a reciprocating compressor is, how it works, and whether it’s the right choice for … Read more
Snap-On is one of the most trusted names in professional tools. Mechanics know their hand tools last a lifetime, and many expect the same from Snap-On air compressors. While Snap-On compressors are not as widely available as their wrenches or sockets, they offer reliable shop-ready performance built for mechanics who need consistent air supply. But … Read more
If you notice hissing air around your air compressor’s regulator, you’re not alone. A leaking regulator is one of the most common compressor issues. It not only wastes air and increases run time, but it can also prevent your tools from getting consistent pressure. The good news? Most regulator leaks are easy to diagnose and … Read more