If you’ve ever tried running a sander, paint sprayer, or impact wrench only to have your compressor struggle to keep up, you’ve hit the limits of your compressor’s SCFM rating. SCFM, or Standard Cubic Feet per Minute, is the measure of how much air your compressor can deliver at a given pressure. Simply put: the higher the SCFM, the more tools you can run effectively.
But what if your compressor doesn’t deliver enough SCFM? Can you increase it? The short answer: yes, to a degree. In this guide, we’ll explain what SCFM is, why it matters, practical ways to boost airflow, and which upgrades make the biggest difference.
Quick Picks: Best Tools & Accessories to Boost SCFM
- Best Overall: Ingersoll Rand Refrigerated Air Dryer – Reduces moisture, improves efficiency, and increases usable SCFM.
- Best Budget: Milton High-Flow V-Style Couplers & Plugs – Simple upgrade that immediately boosts airflow to your tools.
- Best Premium: Quincy QT-54 60-Gallon Two-Stage Compressor – If your current unit is undersized, upgrading to a higher SCFM compressor is the ultimate solution.
What is SCFM and Why Does It Matter?
SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) measures how much air your compressor can deliver at a specific PSI. Tools like brad nailers need less than 2 SCFM, while sanders or grinders may need 12–15 SCFM. If your compressor can’t keep up, tools lose power and productivity suffers.
Your compressor’s SCFM is affected by:
- Pump Size: Larger pumps move more air.
- Motor Horsepower: More HP means faster air recovery.
- Tank Size: Bigger tanks store more air, but don’t increase SCFM directly.
- Moisture and Restrictions: Water in the line, small fittings, or long hoses reduce effective SCFM.
Buyer’s Guide: Ways to Increase SCFM
You can’t magically double your compressor’s pump output, but you can maximize usable SCFM and reduce losses. Here’s how:
- Use High-Flow Couplers & Fittings: Standard fittings restrict airflow. High-flow fittings instantly boost usable SCFM to your tools.
- Shorter, Larger-Diameter Hoses: A 3/8″ or 1/2″ hose flows more air than a 1/4″ hose. Keep hoses short to reduce pressure drop.
- Install an Air Dryer or Aftercooler: Moisture reduces efficiency. Dry air flows better and extends tool life.
- Check for Leaks: Even tiny leaks can rob SCFM. Use soapy water to find and fix leaks.
- Use a Second Tank: Adding an auxiliary tank increases stored air, reducing strain on your pump.
- Upgrade Compressors: If your tool demand is higher than your compressor’s rated SCFM, the only true fix is a higher-capacity compressor.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Ingersoll Rand Refrigerated Air Dryer
Who it’s for: Shops battling moisture and pressure loss.
- Key Benefits: Removes water, lowers heat, improves effective SCFM.
- Pros: Extends tool life, boosts efficiency, reliable build.
- Cons: Requires electricity, added cost.
Final Verdict: The best all-round upgrade for increasing usable SCFM. Check Price
2. Milton High-Flow V-Style Couplers & Plugs
Who it’s for: Anyone with standard fittings wanting instant airflow improvement.
- Key Benefits: 70% more airflow compared to standard fittings.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to install, immediate improvement.
- Cons: Requires replacing all couplers for best results.
Final Verdict: The simplest and cheapest SCFM boost. See Price
3. Quincy QT-54 60-Gallon Two-Stage Compressor
Who it’s for: Buyers outgrowing their current compressor.
- Key Benefits: 5 HP motor, 15.2 CFM @ 175 PSI, built for shop duty.
- Pros: American-made, reliable, excellent SCFM rating.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires 240V.
Final Verdict: The best solution if your current compressor is undersized. Check Price
4. RapidAir MaxLine 3/4″ Piping Kit
Who it’s for: Shops with long hose runs losing airflow.
- Key Benefits: Large-diameter piping system reduces drop in SCFM.
- Pros: Professional-grade setup, scalable, durable.
- Cons: Requires installation effort.
Final Verdict: Best for shops needing consistent airflow across multiple bays. View Price
5. Campbell Hausfeld Auxiliary Air Tank
Who it’s for: DIYers wanting more stored air without replacing compressors.
- Key Benefits: Adds storage, reduces pump cycling, improves usable airflow.
- Pros: Affordable, portable, simple solution.
- Cons: Doesn’t increase pump SCFM, just available air.
Final Verdict: A smart add-on for smaller compressors. See Price
6. California Air Tools 8010 Ultra Quiet Compressor
Who it’s for: Users who want quiet performance with higher airflow than basic pancake units.
- Key Benefits: 8-gallon tank, 3.0 CFM @ 90 PSI, ultra-quiet at 60 dB.
- Pros: Quiet, oil-free, portable.
- Cons: Lower SCFM compared to large shop compressors.
Final Verdict: A practical upgrade from small compressors. Check Price
Comparison Table
| Product | Type | SCFM Effect | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingersoll Rand Dryer | Refrigerated Air Dryer | Improves usable SCFM | Shops & garages | Check Price |
| Milton High-Flow Fittings | Couplers & Plugs | +70% airflow | Any compressor | See Price |
| Quincy QT-54 | Two-Stage Compressor | 15.2 CFM @ 175 PSI | Shops & heavy tools | Check Price |
| RapidAir MaxLine | Air Piping Kit | Reduces loss | Workshops | View Price |
| Campbell Hausfeld Tank | Auxiliary Tank | More storage | DIY users | See Price |
| California Air Tools 8010 | Quiet Compressor | 3.0 CFM @ 90 PSI | Portable upgrade | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really increase SCFM on my existing compressor?
You can’t change the pump’s maximum output, but you can maximize usable SCFM with high-flow fittings, larger hoses, dryers, and tanks.
Will a bigger tank increase SCFM?
No. A bigger tank increases air storage, not pump output. But it can make airflow more consistent for short bursts of tool use.
What’s the cheapest way to increase SCFM?
Upgrade to high-flow fittings and use larger-diameter hoses. These simple changes make a noticeable difference.
When should I upgrade my compressor instead?
If your tool requires more SCFM than your compressor can deliver continuously, upgrading to a larger unit is the only long-term fix.
What SCFM do I need for spray painting or sanding?
Spray guns often need 12+ SCFM at 40 PSI, while sanders and grinders may need 15–18 SCFM at 90 PSI. Match your compressor to your heaviest tool.
Conclusion
While you can’t magically change your compressor’s pump capacity, you can increase usable SCFM with smarter fittings, shorter hoses, dryers, and auxiliary tanks. For many users, these upgrades are enough to get more work done without replacing the compressor.
If you’re outgrowing your setup, the Quincy QT-54 is the best upgrade, while the Milton High-Flow Couplers are the easiest first step. And for shops battling moisture and heat, the Ingersoll Rand Air Dryer is the ultimate performance boost.
Check today’s best SCFM-boosting upgrades and compressors here