Air Compressor Quick Question
 

I recently appropriated an older but still functional 120VAC 5gal air compressor for the garage etc. Only problem is 5 gallons isn't really enough capacity - runs out of pressure pretty quickly and is almost constantly running. Can't keep up when I'm using the air hose for cleaning dust/leaves out of the engine bay and such.

Can I get one of those 11 gal "portable" carry tanks and re-plumb it (very comfortable doing that) to use as a reserve tank? Big safety issues, anything I should worry about?

Thanks

Ned

Re: Air Compressor Quick Question
 

Yes. Tee the fill side and install a one-way check valve so you can keep using it in portable mode if need be.

Your compressor will be running even more as it's trying to fill nearly three times the volume.

True, but once filled it should hold pressure longer. Not too concerned about it running but it just couldn't keep up with the amount of air it needed at one time. Thanks for your replies!

The real solution is to get a larger compressor, but the larger tank will help by giving you a larger buffer and should make the current setup more livable.