Introduction

Selecting the right-size and most energy-efficient air compressor can be a daunting task. Most major air compressor manufacturers have published energy performance data sheets. This tool organizes the published data from 3,000 air compressors. By answering a few use-case questions, subscribers can quickly and easily shortlist suitable compressors for most general applications. The compressors are ranked by efficiency and annual energy costs. You can compare and contrast compressors from different manufacturers or different compressors from a given manufacturer.

Plain Language Legal Stuff

This calculator is offered “as is” without implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. It is not an engineering design tool, does not cover every use case, or address systems with multiple air compressors. Before making any air compressor decisions, you should always do your independent due diligence with qualified professionals. For shortlisted results marked with a “below average confidence” indicator, it is especially crucial to confirm with the vendor as this indicates potential issues with reporting and calculations in the original data sheet.

Before Starting

To make the best use of your time, before starting, you should have a good understanding of the general use case requirements. As you proceed with the selector tool, you will be asked the following questions:

• What is the maximum operating discharge pressure required (psig)?
• What is the maximum flow required (scfm)?
• Typically, how many hours will the compressor be operated each week?
• Approximately how many no-run compressor days (holiday and planned shutdown days) per year?
• What is the average cost of power (cents per kWh)?
• Do you have a preferred air compressor brand (or consider any major brand)?
• Do you have specific needs for fixed speed (or variable speed), air-cooled (or water-cooled), lubricated (or non-lubricated), base load (or swing load) air compressors?