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RV travel is one of the best ways of capturing the beauty of the outdoors while reducing travel costs. You can avoid expenses such as trip fare or hotel costs, and can carry almost everything you need for your vacation. It’s also an affordable way of traveling with a large group of people. The RV life can be an even more enjoyable experience if you prepare for the emergencies that may come up such as flat tires. In such situations, you need to have an air compressor.
An air compressor works by forcing air into a container, pressurizing it, and then forcing the pressurized out through an opening in the tank fitted with an air hose. The pressurized air can be used to fill your tires, power air tools, or inflate air cushions, sports balls, and other inflatables that are necessary for your trip. During winter, when it’s not so comfortable to stay in the RV, you can use the air compressor to flush out the plumbing system before filling it with RV antifreeze. Therefore, an air compressor is an important tool for every RV owner. We will help you find the best one.
Benefits of RV Air Compressors
- Multifunctional. Since most air compressors come with multiple nozzles, you can use them to inflate other automotive applications besides your RV. You can also use it to fill pool toys, inflate soccer balls, bike tubes, motorcycles, and other inflatable equipment. Therefore, an RV compressor acts as multipurpose and versatile equipment.
- Easy to use. When using portable RV air compressors, you are exempted from the guesswork. You can simply set the air pressure for the car tire inflation and rest assured that your tires will not be over-inflated or under-inflated, thanks to the automatic shutoff. The compressor ensures the specified amount of pressure is inflated into the tires to keep you going throughout the journey.
- Long-lasting. A quality RV air compressor serves you for the longest time. Most of the models are made of high-quality stainless steel material that is resistant to rust and corrosion. Also, some RV air compressors can withstand high pressure because they have insulated rubber valves.
- Convenience. Air compressors for RV tires make your traveling easy and convenient. They are easy to use for inflating your vehicle tires quickly. You can attach the compressor to the cigarette lighter or on your car battery, and it will automatically start inflating the tires. With a digital tire inflator, you do not have to visit the gas station anymore for tire inflation.
Types of RV Air Compressors
Positive Displacement
These air compressors for RV tires work by forcing air into an empty chamber until it reaches a specific volume. On reaching the specified volume, the compressor opens a port valve and discharges the air. It has an outlet system within the compression chamber that it uses to discharge the air when inflating the tires. In this category of air compressors, there are piston-type, rotary screw compressors, and vane compressors.
Portable
Portable compressors are the most common air compressors on the market today. They come in different types based on their PSI, CFM, and horsepower. Portable compressors are lighter than most of the traditional compressors. They are mostly used by motorhome owners, campers, and other off-road enthusiasts.
Types of RV Air Compressors
Tankless Air compressor
A tankless or mini air compressor is a compact unit that’s perfect for quickly inflating your tires. As the name suggests, it’s not fitted with a tank for storing air so it doesn’t take time to build pressure. Ideally, it will run continuously to supply air when connected to a power source, and automatically shuts off when the preset pressure is attained.
Air Tank Compressor
Most RV air compressors on the market have an air storage tank with a capacity ranging from 2 to 60 gallons. Having a reservoir for compressed air means that you can give the air pump a rest while you run air tools or inflate your tires. The design of the compressor is based on the shape of the tank, and this is why we have the hotdog, pancake, and vertical air compressor.
Top Brands
PORTER-CABLE
This is a popular manufacturer of quality RV air compressors today. It started as a tool shop back in 1906 and has grown over the years to become a successful tool company. The company is based in Jackson, Tennessee. Some of the best-selling RV air compressors from this company include the Porter-Cable 30-Gallon Single Stage Portable Air Compressor and Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor. Most of the air compressors from this company are electric-powered and made of durable parts.
VIAIR
VIAIR is one of the leading suppliers and distributors of quality RV air compressors worldwide. The company has been in operation for many years now and is proud of its excellent reputation in the global compressor market. It is based in Irvine, California. Some of the best-selling products from this company include the Viair 40047 400P-RV Automatic Portable Compressor Kit and VIAIR 45053 Silver Automatic Portable Compressor Kit (450P-RV). The company has set a record in the provision of standardized 24-volt and 12-volt air compressors.
Craftsman
Craftsman is an American tool and equipment manufacturer that was founded in 1927. It’s a subsidiary brand of Stanley Black & Decker. Craftsman specializes in designing work gear, hand tools, power tools, storage, and outdoor equipment. Check out the Craftsman Pancake Air Compressor if you would like to try out one of its air compressors.
RV Air Compressor Pricing
- Under $100: These are some of the most affordable RV air compressors you can buy. They are highly portable, lightweight, and compact in design. They have a lower air discharge rate of about 2 cubic feet per minute. However, these air compressors might not be suitable for large tires.
- Over $100: Air compressors in this category are some of the best. They are equipped with specialized functions and equipment such as an automatic shutoff function, 100 percent duty cycle, changeable inflation gun, and a carrying case. Their air discharge rate is also a bit higher compared to other cheaper air compressors. These devices give faster inflation at maximum working pressure. Additionally, they are made of more durable materials and are suitable for inflating large tires.
Key Features
Working Pressure
RV air compressors come with different working pressures depending on their model. The working pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The PSI can range from 0-150 and determines the air discharge speed (CFM) of the compressor. Compressors with low working pressure have a low runtime and take more time to inflate tires.
Power Cord
The power cord is an essential feature in every air compressor. Compressors with longer power cords are more flexible and easier to use. The power cord length ranges from 4-30 inches. Therefore, when selecting an RV air compressor, you should go for one with a longer air hose and power cord for ease of use.
Cylinder or Tank Size
When choosing the best air compressor for your RV, you must check for the right cylinder or tank size. Tank size determines the volume of air pressure the compressor can store. Ideally, air compressors with larger tanks store more air than those with smaller tanks. Also, those with large tanks are a bit heavier and difficult to transport.
Other considerations
- Noise Level. Some of the cheaper RV air compressors can be very loud, making it difficult to stay close when they are running. When buying an RV air compressor, you should go for one with a sound range below 65 decibels; this sound limit is safe for your ears. Most RV air compressors give off sounds between 40-90 decibels. Therefore, you should always find out the noise level before buying the machine.
- Weight. RV air compressors come in various weights because they are made of different materials. If you are going to be carrying your air compressor in the car, then you should ensure that it is portable and lightweight. A lighter air compressor is easier to transport and store. The best portable air compressors are those below 40 pounds.
Best RV Air Compressor Reviews & Recommendations 2021
Best Overall
Tirewell 12V Tire Inflator
Best Value
Viair 88p Portable Air Compressor
Premium Pick
California Air Tools 2-Gallon Air Compressor
Most Portable
Kensun Portable Air Compressor
Honorable Mention
Craftsman Pancake Air Compressor
Honorable Mention
All-Top Heavy Duty Portable 12V Air Compressor Kit
Honorable Mention
GSPSCN Portable 12V Air Compressor Pump
Tips
- Turn on your RV’s engine when using an air compressor. This makes sure that you get the correct tire pressure reading or the closest possible reading. However, use the compressor once the tires have cooled off.
- To check the tire pressure, allow the tires to cool off if you’ve been on the road. This is because hot air and friction increase tire pressure. You can deflate the tires a little to make sure you get the best reading.
- Don’t go beyond the manufacturer’s recommended maximum inflation pressure. Overinflation compromises traction, which might lead to a tire burst. Even if the tires don’t burst, their lifespan may be shortened.
FAQs
Q: How does an RV air compressor work?
A: An air compressor has a tank filled with air. This air is passed from the tank to your RV’s tires through an air hose. When the tank is connected to a power source, it automatically fills with air. You can use the stored air the next time you need to inflate your RV’s tires.
Q: How long does an RV air compressor last?
A: The longevity of RV air compressors depends on their usage and storage. Regularly cleaning the air intake and draining the receiver tank keeps a compressor dry and reduces the possibility of rust. A well-maintained compressor can last many years.
Q: Does the tank size limit the usage of an RV air compressor?
A: The tank stores the air needed to inflate an RV’s tires. While a bigger tank holds more air than a smaller tank, it may not be very easy to store. A small tank can be stored in a small compartment in an RV.
Q: What is the best air compressor size for inflating RV tires?
A: The size of the air compressor isn’t as important as its performance. What you mostly need to consider is the pressure rating of your air compressor. Most RV tires need about 35 to 80 PSI of pressure. Therefore, you need an air compressor that can deliver pressure within that range to fill up your tires.
Final Thoughts
The Viair 88p Portable Air Compressor stands at the top of our review because, with a 120 PSI rating, it can effortlessly inflate tires of up to 33 inches. It’s also easy to carry around and is decently priced. The Tirewell 12V Tire Inflator is a great fit if you are traveling in a smaller RV and would like an affordable and lightweight air compressor.