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An air compressor is a vital tool in many industries, providing the power to operate air equipment and perform air-related tasks such as inflating tires or operating power air tools. Proper mounting of the compressor (using a compressor bracket) is essential for the safety and efficiency of the air device, as well as the convenience of the user.
In this article, we will explore various compressor mounting ideas and consider factors such as accessibility, noise levels, and weight limitations when selecting a location for the compressor mount bracket. I will also provide tips for successful compressor mounting, ensuring that the device is securely in place and ready to use when you need air again.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Compressor Mount Location
When selecting a location for mounting air compressors, there are several key factors to consider to ensure the safety and efficiency of the device. These factors include:
- Accessibility for maintenance and repairs: It is important to choose a location that allows easy access to the compressor for routine maintenance and repairs. If the air compressor is difficult to reach or requires special tools to access, it may be more challenging to perform necessary maintenance and repairs, which can lead to problems with the device or air flow over time.
- Noise levels and vibrations: An air compressor engine can be noisy and produce vibrations when using it for compressed air. It is important to consider the noise levels of the engine and vibrations when selecting a mounting location to minimize disruption to others in the area while using the pressurized air. For example, if the compressor will be mounted in a workshop or garage that is attached to the house, it may be best to choose a location that is furthest from living spaces to minimize noise and vibration when using the air.
- Proximity to electrical outlets: Air compressors require electricity to operate (or gas or diesel in some cases) to compress the air, so it is important to choose a location that is close to an electrical outlet. If the compressor is mounted too far from an electrical outlet, it may be necessary to use extension cords, which can be a safety hazard or make your compressor not put out as much air as when plugged directly into an outlet.
- Space and weight limitations: It is important to consider the size and weight of the air compressor when selecting a mounting location (and a compressor mounting bracket). Make sure there is enough space to accommodate the compressor and that the mounting surface is strong enough to support the weight of the device.
By considering these factors, you can select a location to mount the compressor that is safe, efficient, and convenient for your air compressor.
Types Of Air Compressor Installation Options
There are several different options to mount a compressor, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Below I will go into some of the popular options.
Wall-mounted Install
A wall-mounted compressor is attached to a wall or other vertical surface using bolts or brackets. This option can be a good choice if you have limited floor space and want to keep the air compressor off the ground.
It is important to make sure the wall is strong enough to support the weight of the air compressor and that the mounting hardware is securely in place. You will want to ensure that the mount can also handle the vibrations that the system running and producing air will cause.
Ceiling-mounted
A ceiling-mounted compressor is attached to the ceiling or other horizontal surfaces using bolts or brackets. This option can be a good choice if you have limited floor space and want to keep the air compressor out of the way.
It is important to make sure the ceiling is strong enough to support the weight of the air compressor. Also, make sure that you have a place for the air hose to come from the compressor without being in the way.
Portable
A portable compressor is designed to be easily moved from one location to another. These air compressors typically have wheels or handles, making them easy to transport.
Portable air compressors can be a good choice if you need to use compressed air in multiple locations or if you have limited space where you will be using the air at.
Floor-mounted
A floor-mounted compressor is placed directly on the floor using bolts or brackets to secure it in place. This option can be a good choice if you have a large workspace and want to keep the air compressor close at hand for air tools, inflating tires, etc.
One downside to floor mounting compressors is that you might have issues with the air hose getting lefty out and being a tripping hazard. To avoid this issue get a retractable reel for the air hose or a way to keep it off the floor.
Truck-mounted
A truck-mounted air compressor is mounted on the bed of a truck or other vehicle, allowing it to be easily transported from one location to another to have air wherever you go. This option can be a good choice if you need to use the air compressor in multiple locations or if you don’t have a permanent workspace.
It is important to make sure the truck is capable of supporting the weight of the air compressor and that the hardware for the mount is securely in place.
Each of these options to mount the compressor has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs for air as well as the circumstances.
Tips For Successful Air Compressor Mounting
Properly mounting an air compressor is essential for the safety and efficiency of the device. Some helpful tips for mounting an air compressor can be found below.
- Use a vibration-dampening pad or mount: Air compressors can produce vibrations when in use (especially in the engine compartment), which can cause the device to shift or become unstable. To reduce vibrations, consider using a vibration-dampening pad or mount to secure the compressor in place. These pads or mounts are designed to absorb or dissipate vibrations, helping to keep the air compressor stable and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Secure the air compressor to the mounting surface with bolts or brackets: To ensure you store the air compressor securely in place, it is important to use bolts or brackets to attach the device to the mounting surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended mounting hardware and techniques, and make sure all bolts and brackets are tightened to the appropriate torque when you store your compressor.
- Follow the manufacturer’s installation details and guidelines: It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines when installing your air compressor. These instructions will add important information on the proper mounting techniques and kit hardware to use, as well as any safety precautions to follow for the products. Failing to follow the manufacturer’s instructions could result in improper installation and potentially dangerous situations.
By following these quick tips, you can ensure that your compressor is securely mounted and ready for use. Proper air compressor mounting is crucial for the safety and efficiency of the device, so it is important to take the time to do it correctly.
Pros & Cons When Mounting An Air Compressor
When trying to determine if you should mount a compressor or not or which option to choose you should look at some of the different pros and cons of each option. To make it a bit easier I put some of these pros and cons into a table.
| Mounting Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-mounted products | – Can save floor space- Can keep the air compressor out of the way | – May be more difficult to access for maintenance and repairs- May not be suitable for heavy or large air compressors |
| Ceiling-mounted products | – Can save floor space- Can keep the air compressor out of the way | – May be more difficult to access for maintenance and repairs- May not be suitable for heavy or large air compressors- May require additional structural support |
| Portable products | – Can be used in multiple locations- Can be easily moved and stored | – May be less stable than other mounting options- May not be suitable for heavy or large air compressors |
| Floor-mounted products | – Easy to access for maintenance and repairs- Suitable for heavy or large air compressors | – May take up floor space- May not be suitable for small or light air compressors |
| Truck-mounted products | – Can be used in multiple locations- Can be easily transported | – May not be suitable for heavy or large air compressors- May require additional structural support in the cargo area |
As you can see, each compressor mounting kit option has its own pros and cons. The best kit option for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
Consider factors such as the size and weight of your compressor, the amount of available space, and your access needs when selecting a mounting kit option.
Final Thoughts
A proper compressor mount is crucial for the safety and efficiency of the device. There are several factors to consider when choosing a mount location, including accessibility for maintenance and repairs, noise levels and vibrations, proximity to electrical outlets, and space and weight limitations.
There are also several types of air compressor mount kit options, including wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, portable, floor-mounted, and truck-mounted. Each kit option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
To ensure successful air compressor mounting, it is important to use vibration-dampening pads or mounts, secure the air compressor to the mounting surface with bolts or brackets, and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and guidelines.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your air compressor is safely and securely mounted, ready to provide reliable and efficient service.