Tyre Inflators

Tyre Inflators pretty much just do that. Inflate tyres or balls or an air mattress. It may need a rest while pumping up a large air mattress. They don't have air storage tanks so only pump air when turned on.

Air Compressors have an air storage tank so do not need to be on to deliver air. The pump fills it full of air and when the air pressure drops to a certain level it refills the tank. They can also deliver a greater air pressure and can be used to run air tools, spray paint and a host of other things.

• The first thing is Air Pressure. What is the maximum pressure you need to inflate the tyre or whatever it is you need to fill with air. The inflator needs to handle this and buy one slightly more powerful than what you need. EG if the item needs a maximum of 80psi buy a 90 or 100psi inflator.
• Power Source if required. Do you need portability or is it only going to live in the garage.
• Inflation Time or Air Volume in litres per minute. When on, how much air can the inflator push out. The greater this is, the quicker it pumps things up.
• Gauge Accuracy and how easy it is to read.
• Duty Cycle if electric. When inflators get hot, which they all do as they pump constantly, how long is it off compared to being on. The off time is always longer. This is not always that vital unless you are pumping large volumes of air.