Do you need the best air compressor for blowing out sprinklers? There have been hundreds of models on the market to choose from, so we've spent six years searching for and trying out our favorites.
Whether you want a quality model that’s powerful, lightweight, or durable, we've identified the best solution for your needs.
Here are the best air compressors for blowing out sprinklers you can buy in 2024:
- Ultra-Quiet (Hot Dog Air Compressor): Stealth SAQ-1301
- Powerful (Hot Dog Air Compressor ): Makita MAC5200
- Easy To Operate (Hot Dog Air Compressor ): Campbell Hausfeld DC080500
- Durable (Pancake Air Compressor): CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K
- Lightweight (Pancake Air Compressor): BOSTITCH BTFP02012
- Powerful (Pancake Air Compressor): Metabo EC914S
| 6 Best Air Compressors For Blowing Out Sprinklers | ||
|---|---|---|
Ultra-Quiet | Stealth SAQ-1301
| |
Powerful | Makita MAC5200
| |
Easy To Operate | Campbell Hausfeld DC080500
| |
Durable | CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K
| |
Lightweight | BOSTITCH BTFP02012
| |
Powerful | Metabo EC914S
| |
Ultra-Quiet: Stealth SAQ-1301
- 65 decibels of noise level - Stealth’s innovative quiet systems
- Able to keep up multiple small jobs consistently – quick recovery
- Easy to maneuver and store – lightweight, handheld design
- Not include attachments
- The manuals could be clearer
For people who have to work indoors or/and around customers, we believe this model is what you are after.
Thanks to the Stealth’s innovative quiet systems, it operates with extremely little noise - around 65 decibels.
We'll admit that it is not the most powerful model here, but as it features quick recovery as the electric air compressor plus a 1HP motor, it is still able to finish multiple jobs with no interruption.
The lightweight, hand-held design is also a great plus, which makes the machine easily stored or carried around.
| Stealth SAQ-1301 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Size | 3 Gallons |
Horsepower | 1HP |
Noise Rating | 65 dB |
Air Flow Capacity | 3.5 CFM |
CFM @ 90 PSI | 2.5 CFM |
Highlight Features | Stealth’s innovative quiet systems quick recovery lightweight, handheld design |
Stealth is a trusted brand, and the SAQ-1301 Air Compressor comes at a great price, but its quiet operation is the thing making us pleasantly surprised the most.
Powerful: Makita MAC5200
- Ideal for large jobs – a 3.0HP motor
- Wear-resistant & durable - cast iron cylinder and oil-lubricated pump
- Run noisily
Our experts recommend the Makita MAC5200 for those shoppers looking for a hot dog air compressor that's more powerful yet mobile with a longer lifespan.
The 3.0HP motor allows it to create up to 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI while the cast-iron cylinder and oil-lubricated pump are low-maintenance and effectively wear-resistant.
On the other hand, the low-profile design along with a foldable handle makes it a breeze to transport.
| Makita MAC5200 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Size | 5.2 Gallons |
Horsepower | 3.0 HP |
Air Flow Capacity | 5 CFM |
CFM @ 90 PSI | 6.5 CFM |
Highlight Features | a 3.0HP motor cast iron cylinder and oil-lubricated pump |
Featuring a powerful 3.0HP motor, the Makita MAC5200 is especially ideal for larger jobs that require a lot of air/pressure.
Easy To Operate: Campbell Hausfeld DC080500
- Easy to operate – thoughtfully-positioned regulator and gauges
- Low-maintenance – an oil-free pump
- Quiet: only 68 decibels
- The wheels aren’t very sturdy
Campbell Hausfeld claims its hot dog air compressor is engineered for seniors or non-experience users, allowing them to finish their jobs like a pro.
This benefit purportedly comes from the regulator and gauges which are thoughtfully positioned for you to easily track the line and tank pressure.
The oil-free pump and quiet systems also make it very user-friendly.
But you should take note that this model isn’t as powerful as the two picks above. Its maximum air pressure is 125 PSI, which means the machine is especially for small home-garage jobs. In turn, its extra-large 8-gallon tank helps your jobs remain perfectly.
| Campbell Hausfeld DC080500 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Size | 8 Gallons |
Horsepower | 1 HP |
Noise Rating | 68 dB |
CFM @ 90 PSI | 2.4 CFM |
Highlight Features | thoughtfully-positioned regulator and gauges an oil-free pump 68 decibels |
If your top priority when looking for a new air compressor for blowing out sprinklers is easy to operate, then look no further than the Campbell Hausfeld DC080500
Durable: CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K
- Durable – a cast iron oil-free pump & made in the USA
- Versatile – multiple ports and fully adjustable air setting
- It is noisy
The CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K is a pancake air compressor made and fully assembled in the USA, which ensures quality.
It features a cast iron oil-free pump and an 8HP motor that can produce up to 150 PSI of maximum air pressure and 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI with quick recovery.
That incredible power is packed in a modest size, along with multiple ports and a fully adjustable air setting, making it versatile enough to keep up with demand between different workplaces.
We also love that it comes with all necessary attachments while the price is very affordable.
| CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K Specifications | |
|---|---|
Size | 6 Gallons |
Horsepower | 8 HP |
Noise Rating | 82 dB |
CFM @ 90 PSI | 2.6 SCFM |
Highlight Features | a cast-iron oil-free pump & made in the USA an 8HP motor & a 6-gallon tank multiple ports and fully adjustable air setting |
The CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K is the best value for a durable pancake air compressor for blowing out sprinklers.
Lightweight: BOSTITCH BTFP02012
- Great maneuverability – a comfortable carrying handle, 29-pound weight, and compact size
- Able to maximize its performance - high-flow regulator
- Allow for two users simultaneously – two universal couplers
- Not include a gun kit or hose
Considering my usual preference for a portable air compressor, our editors were very pleasantly surprised by how much we loved this one.
Weighing just 29 pounds plus a comfortable handle, we felt effortless to lift it up and carry it around.
But don't let that modest size fool you about its power. At 90 PSI, it can create 2.6 CFM. Its performance can be more thanks to the high-flow regulator. You'll also benefit from its universal couplers which allow for two users at a time.
| BOSTITCH BTFP02012 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Size | 6 Gallons |
Horsepower | 0.9 HP |
Noise Rating | 78.5 dBA |
CFM @ 90 PSI | 2.6 SCFM |
Highlight Features | a comfortable carrying handle, 29-pound weight, and compact size high-flow regulator two universal couplers |
If you’re looking for a lightweight air compressor for blowing out sprinklers, we highly recommend the BOSTITCH BTFP02012
Powerful: Metabo EC914S
- Versatile & powerful – delivering 200 PSI of max air pressure & 4 CFM at 90 PSI
- Reliable – awarded by Builder & Developer Magazine
- Lighter than conventional dual-stack compressors
- A bit loud
The Metabo EC914S can deliver 200 PSI of max air pressure and 4 CFM at 90 PSI, which is 25% to 30% greater than basic pancake compressors. So powerful that the Builder & Developer Magazine awarded it as the most preferred brand for pneumatic nailers in 2014-2019.
Regardless, it is lighter than conventional twin-stack models and requires little maintenance.
The 6-gallon tank is another favorite feature – which consistently provides air to meet your demand with no interruption.
| Metabo EC914S Specifications | |
|---|---|
Size | 6 Gallons |
Horsepower | 1.3 HP |
Noise Rating | 73 dB |
Air Flow Capacity | 4 CFM |
CFM @ 90 PSI | 4 CFM |
Highlight Features | 200 PSI of max air pressure & 4 CFM at 90 PSI awarded by Builder & Developer Magazine |
The Metabo EC914S is our recommendation for those looking for the most powerful pancake air compressor for blowing out sprinklers.
How To Choose The Best Air Compressor For Blowing Out Sprinklers?
Style Of Air Compressors
When it comes to air compressors for sprinkler blowout, there are two common style options:
- Hot dog air compressors
- Pancake air compressors
They literally have the same basic function to hence serve the same purposes. The main difference is the shape. Pancake air compressors have around and thick looks just like a pancake while hot dog models are longer and skinnier.
From there, pancake air compressors work best on uneven terrain while hot dog ones are more suited to flat surfaces.
Noise Level
Even if you're outdoors, having a quiet air compressor is helpful. This will keep your ears safe and your neighbors happy.
But as air compressors are built and operated differently, the noise they produce varies:
Screw air compressors: Their chassis is commonly engineered with sound insulation, anti-vibration, and good sound absorption materials, so the noise is less than the piston models.
Box-type piston models: Featuring the same body structure as the conventional air compressor, but the chassis side is intended to decrease noise by employing sound insulation, anti-vibration, and high-quality sound-absorbing materials.
Conventional piston models: When the machine runs with nothing blocking the sound, noise is created.
Sure, all compressors are noisy, but their noise levels vary – some generate 63 to 68 decibels while others are a bit louder, from 75 to 85 decibels. To find out what level you can endure, ask the vendor or consult other users’ ratings.
Portable Size
Since most sprinkler systems are very long, it’s hard to blow them all at once using just an air compressor. The better solution is doing it zone by zone.
So, seek a portable air compressor.
You do not have to go for the lightest and most compact option, but you don't want one that weighs hundreds of pounds, either.
Air Pressure
To blow out a sprinkler, a lot of power is required. However, an extra-high pressure air compressor is not necessary as most pipe systems have a maximum pressure limit, which is normally 50-80 PSI.
Using a strong air compressor may cause pipe bursts or leaks, leading to expensive repairing costs.
Which Brands Make The Best Air Compressor For Blowing Out Sprinklers?
Stealth
When it comes to demanding tasks, Stealth Air Compressor is a great stop where you can get high-quality products with the perfect balance of power and portability. The best part is their motor and pump are covered by the only lifetime guarantee available on an air compressor - something that other brands hardly could offer.
Makita
This is one of the most renowned Japanese manufacturers of power tools in the industry. Established in 1915, Makita operates factories globally, such as in the US, Thailand, Dubai, Germany, UK, etc. What sets them apart from the rest is the Big Bore™ piston, which makes their air compressors faster to recover than ever.
Campbell Hausfeld
Campbell Hausfeld began in 1836 by developing agricultural equipment. They have created air compressors to assist construct a developing America since 1940.
They distinguish themselves from the competition for their deep commitment to customer satisfaction and expert knowledge of airpower.
FAQs
How many CFM do I need to blow out my sprinkler system?
To blow out your sprinkler system, you’ll need at least 20 CFM to 50 CFM at <50 PSI, according to many professionals.
What PSI do I need to winterize my sprinkler system?
To winterize a sprinkler system, you’ll need not more than 50 PSI.
Is a 20-gallon air compressor big enough to blow out sprinklers?
Yes, it is. Actually, a 20-gallon air compressor is a bit excessive to blow out sprinklers.
When should I blow out my sprinklers?
You should blow out your sprinklers in early fall or at least 1 week before the cold season starts.
What temperature should I blow out the sprinklers?
You should blow out sprinklers before the temperature drops below 32 degrees F.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this ultimate buying guide and review list have keyed you into the best air compressor for blowing out sprinklers that you’re in need of. For any further informative articles, please follow our blogs. Thanks for reading!
