What Size Air Compressor For Framing Nailer to Pick? [Detailed Guide]

Air compressor manufacturing companies mention the CFM value that you can compare with your calculated CFM value and choose the best product. The question thus arises, what size air compressor for framing nailer to pick?

To calculate CFM of the nail gun, check the highest CFM rating and then divide it with 1.5. This is the average CFM required for your framing nailer. Having both CFM values, i.e. air compressor and framing nailer is very useful to get the best combination. Usually, the CFM rate of the framing nailers isn’t high and they can work smoothly on low CFM values.

Don’t confuse between CFM and PSI. They both are in a correlation and inversely proportional to each other. If one quantity increases, the other decreases. Small nail guns usually require 120 psi and they can work well even with low CFM. You can easily operate them at 2 CFM as they don’t need a continuous supply of air, rather need air pressure in bursts. On the contrary, larger nail guns or framing nailers can’t work well at low CFM and the minimum CF required for these is 4CFM.

Hold on, we are further elaborating on what size air compressor for framing nailer should you pick!

Now, the last thing is calculating the HP value of the air compressor. Many people think that an air compressor with a higher number of HP works better. Horsepower is also known as the output of the air compressor. This concept is valid for other types of devices, but you can’t implement this concept in air compressors as some companies mention the motor power as HP power while others consider the peak power as horsepower. Due to the different manners for measuring the HP of the air compressor, don’t rely on it. In general, 5HP-10Hp compressors go well with framing nailers.

What is the Best Size of an Air Compressor for Framing Nailer?

Framing nailers don’t need a continuous supply of air, rather they need air only when they have to push the nail into the wood or material. It specifies that you don’t need bulky air compressors for framing nailers and can get the job done from a compact air compressor.

However, it’s not mandatory to use a compact air compressor for framing nailers. For bigger projects, you can opt for a big air compressor as you might not need a continuous supply of air pressure, but it’s essential to have a good storage of air pressure for that you need a bigger air compressor.

Compact air compressors are also known as portable air compressors while larger air compressors are denoted as stationary air compressors. The former type can run on both batteries and electricity while stationary air compressors need extensive energy supply and can’t be run on batteries. They work on grid electricity only and are capable of producing 30-1000 CFM. If you have gas or batteries only, then don’t plan to buy a stationary air compressor as they won’t work with it.

Features of an Air Compressor that Impact the Performance

Determining what size air compressor for framing nailer to pick, requires technical knowledge as well.

Let’s make it understandable by mentioning the features!

Technical features and specifications are very important to get the best performance of an air compressor. However, there are many other factors that are equally important and one shouldn’t ignore them. For instance, check the noise level of the air compressor. Oil-driven air compressors produce immense noise that is very annoying and difficult to tolerate for a longer time. If you are buying the air compressor for domestic usage, then opt for the one which works quietly.

Air cooling and thermal protection systems are two very useful features of an air compressor. They keep the air compressor cool and stop the operation if it gets too hot. This helps you protect the device and the people around you as the excess heat can cause fire or trigger a serious accident.

Buy an air compressor that requires minimum maintenance. Compact air compressors are ail-less and don’t need a regular oil change. They never need oil lubrication over again and can be used instantly.

Importance of Tank Size for Framing Nailer

Tank size also determines the size of the air compressor. In some cases, tank size is known as the size of the air compressor. Smaller size air compressors come with a smaller tank size while bigger air compressors have larger tanks. International and well-reputed companies measure tank size in gallons. If you want an air compressor for small projects, then you can choose a lesser number of a gallon for the air compressor while more number of gallons are useful for tasks where you need a continuous supply of air pressure.

Smaller tanks usually have 4-6 gallons. They can be used for different tasks including airbrushing, decks, balloons, etc. They work well for small to medium tasks and even in some situations, you can use these air compressors for bigger tasks too. However, if you want to buy an air compressor for bigger projects such as steel manufacturing plants, trucks’ tires, and automotive, they prefer bigger air compressors with more gallons. These tanks can carry extra air and are capable of delivering more air pressure.

I have noticed one thing on different forums of the internet. Most of the people have asked about the 6-gallon air compressor and they want to know whether or not the 6-gallon air compressor can work well. The answer is yes, an impact wrench can run on a 6-gallon tank air compressor. Many impact wrenches need the same air pressure level. However, it’s recommended to buy an air compressor with 1.5 times higher air pressure than the required level of the device so you don’t face any inconvenience later.

Framing Nailer Maintenance Tips

Simply figuring out the air compressor size for framing nailer doesn’t imply the job is done!

Once you have bought the right air compressor for the framing nailer, the next step is to start taking care of the whole assembly from now on; rather it’s the first step in the right direction. To ensure the efficient working of the air compressor and the framing nailer, pay attention to the maintenance of the air compressor. Here are some useful maintenance tips you should follow to increase the lifespan and improve the performance of the air compressor.

Don’t Leave Power Button On

Always turn off the framing nailer and air compressor once you complete the task. Leaving it on would cause a waste of energy and will affect the internal parts of the air compressors due to the increased temperature level.

Check and Fasten the Screws Regularly

Air compressors and framing nailers work on air pressure. The continuous air pressure and vibration loosen the grip of the screws. Using the air compressor and framing nailers without tightening it can trigger an incident. Tighten the screws and bolts regularly so they don’t fall off once you start working on the project. For bigger devices, you should tighten the screws and bolts after every week, and for smaller devices, perform this practice after every month.

Do Regular Oiling to Improve Lubrication

The continuous use of the machine affects the internal parts of that machine. Friction level increases if you don’t oil the parts regularly. To make devices work smoothly, check the lubrication of the machines, and add a few drops of oil into the internal parts of the machine. It will keep the machine lubricated and friction of the machine will reduce automatically.

Air fitting parts need more oil. You can use your finger for that purpose, but check the nails first as any nail present in the air fitting would hurt your finger.

Check Battery and Replace Broken Parts

If you are using a compact air compressor, then don’t forget to check its battery. A low battery will affect the performance of the air compressor as well as the working of the framing nailer. Likewise, if the air compressor has any broken part or a damaged screw, then replace it instantly. A broken part can trigger an accident during work.

Clean Out the Feed System with Air Compressor

Oiling the feed system isn’t a good idea. Oil attracts dust and debris that accumulate in the feed system and reduces the productivity of the air compressor. If you have a pneumatic device, then use it for removing air from the feed system. You can also use a soft rug for this task, but make sure no strand or thread of the rug is left inside the device.

Recommended Air Compressor Size for Framing Nailer

As we have mentioned earlier, portable or compact air compressors are the best options for familiar nailers and nail guns. They are portable and can be moved from one place to another with great comfort. Usually, compact air compressors have 2-20 gallons and they are enough for small to medium level tasks.

• For indoor tasks, a 2-4 gallons of air compressor is best. They also work well with semi-professional tasks and best for small nail guns that require low air pressure in bursts.
• 4-6 gallon size is best for framing nailers which require more air pressure. People who are buying an air compressor for outdoor nailing guns should choose this size as these tasks can’t be done with a 2-gallon air compressor.
• A 6-10 gallon air compressor is ideal for both professionals and DIYers. With this type of air compressor, nailing guns can easily drive two to three nails at a time.

By now, we hope you are clear about what size air compressor to go with for the framing nailer which you will be picking and HOW!

Last update on 2023-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Final Words

If perfection is something you are looking for in your work, then always study the features and requirements of your devices and tools. Otherwise, you will waste your time and money and will study for the right device later. Choosing the right air compressor for your framing gun is the first step towards the right direction, but proper maintenance is something you shouldn’t miss if want to enjoy the perks for decades.

Choose the latest model of the air compressor as they give a lot of innovative features to the user. For better and uninterrupted finishing, 2 CFM air compressor size is best for nailing guns and 4 CFM air compressor with 6-gallon tank is recommended for framing nailers.