0-20 CFM Air Compressors

Air compressors delivering 5-20 CFM at 90 PSI are ideal for light to moderate pneumatic work in home garages, small repair shops, and hobbyist spaces.

This low to moderate output air compressor range supports tools with intermittent air demand, such as brad and finish nailers, a 7 CFM electric air compressor for trim work, impact wrenches under 1/2", blow guns, tire inflators, and airbrush systems.

Most 5 CFM to 20 CFM air compressors are powered by 1.5–5 HP motors and paired with 6–60 gallon tanks, offering a practical balance between portability and performance. For example, a 10 CFM air compressor works well for general DIY tasks, while a 20 CFM air compressor with a 60-gallon tank can support one mechanic handling automotive tools with recovery time between cycles.

This category covers the majority of everyday use cases found in 0-20 CFM air compressors and compact electric air compressors, where tools run in short bursts rather than continuously.

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0-20 CFM Air Compressors FAQs

What tools require less than 20 CFM?

Tools that require less than 20 CFM are designed for intermittent operation and work well with 0-20 CFM air compressors used in DIY, home improvement, and light professional settings.

Common examples include brad nailers (0.5–1 CFM), finish nailers and crown staplers (1–2 CFM), palm nailers (2–3 CFM), tire inflation equipment (around 2 CFM), blow guns (3–4 CFM), airbrush and detail spray guns (1–3 CFM), 3/8" impact wrenches (3–4 CFM), small ratchets (3–5 CFM), 1/4" die grinders (4–6 CFM), framing nailers (2–4 CFM), and small cut-off tools (4–6 CFM).

Occasional use of higher-demand tools like 1/2" impact wrenches (5–8 CFM) or dual-action sanders (6–9 CFM) is possible with properly sized electric air compressors, provided they are used in short bursts. Continuous operation or multiple tools running at once typically requires airflow above 20 CFM.

0-20 CFM Air Compressors

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0-20 CFM Air Compressors FAQs

What tools require less than 20 CFM?

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