Gas Air Compressor

Gas air compressors use gasoline engines to power compression pumps, offering portable compressed air anywhere without electrical infrastructure.

These gas powered air compressor systems dominate outdoor work, construction sites, remote locations, and mobile applications where running extension cords is impractical or impossible. A gas engine air compressor typically uses a small 4-stroke engine (similar to lawn mower motors) connected via belt or direct drive to a compression pump.

Common sizes range from small gas air compressor units (5-10 CFM) for contractors to larger industrial models delivering 20-30+ CFM for serious construction and manufacturing work.

Some facilities use a gas powered rotary screw compressor for high-output industrial applications requiring 50+ CFM without electrical service, though these are less common than reciprocating gas models.

Most units feature gasoline powered air compressor engines from reputable manufacturers like Honda, Briggs & Stratton, or Kohler, chosen for reliability and parts availability.

By Use Case

By Tank Capacity

By Type Of Compressor

Gas Air Compressor FAQs

How do gas air compressors work?

A gas engine spins the pump by belt or direct drive, compressing air into a tank. When pressure is reached, an unloader lets the engine run idle. This is the basic setup behind most gas powered air compressor designs used in the field.

Can you convert an electric air compressor to gas?

Technically yes, but it’s rarely worth it. Swapping motors for a gas engine requires custom mounts, pulleys, and controls. Costs usually exceed buying a purpose-built gas air compressor.

How often do you change oil in a gas powered air compressor?

Engine oil is changed every 50–100 hours. Pump oil, if oil-lubed, is typically changed every 500–1,000 hours. Regular oil service is key to long life in gas air compressors.

How much CFM can a gas air compressor produce?

Output ranges from 3–5 CFM for small units to 15–20 CFM for contractor models, with large systems reaching 30+ CFM. Higher-output options overlap with commercial air compressors used on heavy jobs.

Are gas air compressors better for outdoor use?

Yes. They don’t need electricity, handle rough sites well, and are ideal for construction and remote work. Exhaust and higher noise make them unsuitable indoors compared to electric units.

How loud are gas powered air compressors?

Most run between 80–95 dB, louder than electric models. Noise comes from both the engine and pump, so hearing protection is recommended on jobsites.

Do gas air compressors require more maintenance than electric models?

Yes. In addition to pump upkeep, gas units need engine oil changes, spark plugs, air filters, and fuel system care. The trade-off is portability and independence from power.

When should you choose a gas powered air compressor?

Choose gas for outdoor construction, remote locations, agriculture, or mobile setups where power is limited. They’re a practical alternative to large electric air compressors when portability matters most.