Watch this video for a complete beginner guide on how to set up and use an air compressor and air tools. We show you, step-by-step, everything you need to know to successfully use an air compressor. An air compressor is a very handy tool to have because it can be used with a wide variety of air (pneumatic) tools, such as nailers, blow tools, paint sprayers, and more! We provide:
- A complete overview to the air compressor, including how an air compressor works, its various parts, what each gauge means and how it works, and the safety features of an air compressor.
- Step-by-step visual guide on how to set up your hose line, all about the fittings, such as couplers, plugs and adapters, how to put them together, and how to attach the line to the air compressor itself.
- How to operate the air compressor, including how to turn it on and shut it off, how to attach a variety of air tools to it, and how to use those air tools, including the safety considerations you should take when using an air compressor and air or pneumatic tools.
An air compressor is an easy tool to use if you follow these steps, and what’s more, it is a GREAT tool to have. The tools that are used with it, such as framing nailers and paint sprayers, are incredibly handy for anyone who likes to DIY their own home improvement tasks!
by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2014
What a wonderful site
Thanks, Nancy!
Love all the videos- you explain things so well. My question is about air compressors. which one are you using in the video? and how do you know what size or how big to get,? Especially if you don’t know which tools you are going to use it with?
Hi Sally, we used the Harbor Freight, 21 gal. 2.5 HP 125 PSI in the compressor video. As for your other question, compressor size is really personal, because it’s all about what you are going to use the compressor for, how often you plan on using it, where you are going to store it, etc. If you’re an avid DIY-er, and you plan to use a compressor for various projects, such as nailing, light painting, and light automotive, then the compressor we used in the video would be an appropriate size for you. However, if you’re an occasional user, and are interested in inflating tires and sporting equipment, and perhaps working on small wood projects, then a smaller pancake compressor will do. The larger compressors are generally used by auto mechanics and auto painters because their tools require a lot of air to function, so if this is the kind of work you’re interested in, then a larger compressor could be right for you. When trying to decide on a compressor style and size, look to your own interests to help you determine what is best for you. I hope this helps! If you have any further questions, feel free to write back! Regards, Leah
hi please could you tell me the names of the fittings and filter used on the compressor in the video thanks
hi please could you tell me the fittings you used on the compressor in the video and also would i need that filter for inflating tires
SeeJaneDrill used a combination of brass male and female industrial 1/4 inch NPT plugs, industrial brass female couplers, a 3 ft x 3/8 in rubber leader hose for demonstration purposes (however a hose with a minimum length of 25 ft is recommended) and a 3/8 inch compact air filter with 1/4 inch NPT reducer fittings (reducers were included with the filter)
hi i have a question about air compressors, the compressor i have doesn’t have a safety valve is this essential if so should i get one as there isn’t a spare hole on the pressure switch ?
Hi Lloyd, having a pressure relief valve is an important part of operating a compressor safely. If you have concerns, you should really take your compressor in to be serviced. I personally wouldn’t operate a compressor with a safety valve.
I am a new diy- I have an air compressor I bought years ago and never really used and then I got all these cool attachmentd to get busy with but to my chagrin my compressor was useless although it had enough PSI for the tools it didn’t have enough CFMs- 100PSI but only 0.5 CFM making it useless except to blow some ai. I now have bought a new one from harbor freight that had an 8 gallon tank Max 125 psi and cFM 4.5 at 90 and 5.5 Cfm which most importantly for me can run a sprayer. Cost was 129 dollars but beware no hose comes with it. Thanks for the videos you are awesome.
Hi Hacker, glad you liked the video, and glad you got a compressor that works! Regards, Leah
Thank you Jane Drill, I find your demonstrations and advice invaluable, so easy to follow, I have used your methods successfully and am now no longer frightened of my air compressor and ready to do some sand blasting. Thank you again.
That’s great, Angie, thanks for writing!
Hi Jane, I just love all your videos and how well you explain every single thing. I have never been able to drive a nail with a hammer, but my brain runneth over with ideas to build and was hoping that this could possibly be the answer for me? After watching I am thinking perhaps I can. I have a question about some compressors that advertise oiless, what does that mean as compared to other types? I am planning to use a compressor to put beadboard paneling up, and possibly build draws, and wondered if I need to attach drywall as well before the beadboard? Also what type of nails or staples should I be looking at? Not sure what size I would need, your suggestions would be greatly appreciated, because I am a newbie at all of this.. Thanks
Hi Lucy, In a nutshell, oil free compressors are used most by homeowners for occasional diy projects. They are cheaper in overall cost, but are lighter in weight, much nosier when in use and typically do not last as long as oil filled compressors.
In regards to your beadboard installation questions, I need to know whether you are installing traditional beadboard or beadboard panels before I can make any recommendations. Please indicate which you will be using and Ill get back with you asap.
Regards,
Leah
Hi Leah,
After watching your air compressor videos last year I took the plunge and bought a small one along with a pneumatic staple gun to get started in my upholstery hobby. I had never understood how air tools worked prior to watching you explain things so clearly. Last fall I reupholstered several chairs, a loveseat and a sofa. Purchasing furniture at Goodwill or on craigslist cheaply gave me the added assurance that if I messed up completely it was no great loss. Each piece was a bit better than the last as my skills improved with experience. Thanks for providing the impetus to get me started on this!
Hi Jane,
Your videos on air compressor use and safety is priceless. However I would like to reupholster some dining room chairs and would like to know what size compressor would I need for the job. I saw some mini compressors and wondered if they were powerful enough. Also compressors are loud.Is there any way the can be muffled? I don’t” plan on using it for heavy jobs. just occasionally.
Thank you
Hi Shirley, yes, a mini compressor should be fine for re-upholstering. As for muffling the sound, well, I would definitely recommend using hearing protection any time you are using an air compressor of any size. Good luck!
I need to know what to do with my Ingersoll Rand Compressor p101wd
Hi Gichuki, that particular manufacturer has a technical support line that you can call. The number is 704-655-4000
Great explanation on everything. I feel a million times more comfortable getting one now
Which filter do I attach to my Porter Cable 2 gallon compressor?
Hi Stacy, I wouldn’t worry about a filter with such a small compressor, because the kinds of tools a small compressor will operate are very limited.
Hi Leah,
I am a 53 year old white male,I love your videos. Will you marry me???
Thanks, Mike. I’m already married!
NOICE! I want one. I can repair maybe even replace the boards on my fence in the yarc instead of paying someone. Much faster than hammer/nail. Thanks for the lesson. Lol Mike…men just love a woman that can fix stuff. I tell women that are looking for a mate to go hang out at Home Depot or Lowe’s. I can look my absolute worst shopping, breathe smelling, belt missing looking for a necessary DIY something and still have someone talking mess. I’m happily married too
Hi Leah. Well put. Organized and clear! Great work.
Hi Andy, sorry for the delayed response, as I somehow missed your comment. Glad you liked it!
I love this website! New fan for sure!
Great, welcome Monique, glad you found us! 🙂
Hi Leah,
What type of oil are you using to put into the tools? Sorry for the silly question.
Thank you!
Hi Tracy, not a silly question at all! I would recommend an inexpensive, highly rated oil called “Prem-oil” by Bostitch. Here is a link to it on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/BOSTITCH-PREMOIL-4OZ-Premium-Pneumatic-Tool/dp/B0024F4PC8?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B0024F4PC8&linkCode=xm2&redirect=true&tag=sejadr-20
Great job Leah! Checking out your online store now! A fan for life!
~Ma MacGyver
Thanks, Ma MacGyver! 🙂
Loved this video…Now I want an air compressor and tools. Leah I found you videos while researching how to install a floor over a concrete pad….I just love them…I have watched many of them in the past several days and you have made me feel that “Yes, I can do it” or at least make a good informed attempt at it. It is the simple things that are sometimes the most difficult for a new DYI to grasp, but you have such a great way of explaining and showing how to do it…Thank you so much…
Hi Leah! I LOVE your videos. As a single woman without much knowledge about tools, how they work, and exactly what they can be used for, I’ve found your videos to be extremely informative, educational, and invaluable beyond measure. You’ve given me the confidence to try things on my own and not have to wait on someone to do things for me all the time. Your “you can do this” mantra is a beautiful thing! Thank you so much and keep those videos coming!!! Take care
Thanks for being so patient and organized! My husband passed and left me with a compressor and a bunch of tools in the garage. .so, rather than let them rust or rot, I decided to learn to use them. I was most afraid of the Compressor, but since watching your video, several times, I finally got the hang of it. Now I am hooked!! Call me, Ms. Fixit!
I bought a new air compressor yesterday & found myself staring at it & taking to it…”I need you but how do I get you started?”.
On a more serious note, I want to say “THANK YOU VERY MUCH”. You did what most can’t….explain the important step-by-step details. Now I know what to do!
Excellent video! Thanks again!!
Lori
Thanks, Lori, glad it was helpful to you and getting your air compressor up and running! Regards, Leah
I have an air compressor and it is an old one, 20 some yeas old. It was working great, untill now. It is blowing oil. How to fix.