Air Compressor Size
#1
08-08-09, 08:35 PM
Air Compressor Size
Five years ago I had a 6 zone underground sprinkler system installed. The components are made by Rain Bird.
All is working fine but at the end of each season I have to pay $100.00 to blow the system dry for the winter, a 10 minutes job by the contractor.
I do have right now a small air compressor in my workshop (2 gallons, 100 psi) which I’m planning to change anyway. How big of a compressor do I need for this job? If I do one zone at a time it should not be too big.
Nicolas
All is working fine but at the end of each season I have to pay $100.00 to blow the system dry for the winter, a 10 minutes job by the contractor.
I do have right now a small air compressor in my workshop (2 gallons, 100 psi) which I’m planning to change anyway. How big of a compressor do I need for this job? If I do one zone at a time it should not be too big.
Nicolas
#2
08-09-09, 06:07 AM
Super Moderator
The compressor you have now says two hp but it likely is not.
If a manufacturer were honest about capacity ratings you would find that the largest capacity compressor you can operate on a normal 115 volt, 15 amp circuit is 5-6 cfm @ 100psi which more reliable makers will show as 2 hp.
Because of this your choice will be fairly simple.
Just look for a compressor in this cfm capacity in a style that you like.
For blowing out sprinklers cfm capacity is important but a large tank size helps as well.
We do not promote any particular brand here but IMO this CH unit is one of the best values in a homeowner compressor unit.
The cast irom pump and belt drive if looked after make for a very long lasting unit.
More compressor info.
Cliick image:
Image courtesy of chpower.com
If a manufacturer were honest about capacity ratings you would find that the largest capacity compressor you can operate on a normal 115 volt, 15 amp circuit is 5-6 cfm @ 100psi which more reliable makers will show as 2 hp.
Because of this your choice will be fairly simple.
Just look for a compressor in this cfm capacity in a style that you like.
For blowing out sprinklers cfm capacity is important but a large tank size helps as well.
We do not promote any particular brand here but IMO this CH unit is one of the best values in a homeowner compressor unit.
The cast irom pump and belt drive if looked after make for a very long lasting unit.
More compressor info.
Cliick image:
Image courtesy of chpower.com
#3
08-09-09, 06:55 AM
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Do not exceed the PSI of your pipe in the ground or you will cause damage to it. What you want is something with a high CFM rating (cubic feet per minute) at a lower PSI, say around 70-80 PSI max.
Get the highest CFM in your market range.
Get the highest CFM in your market range.
