What Is a Towable Air Compressor Used For?
A towable air compressor is a piece of equipment that produces compressed air. As its name suggests, you simply hitch it to a truck or trailer and bring it to any jobsite. By bringing compressed air directly to where the work happens, you keep work moving even without a permanent power source.
Towable air compressor rentals are typically used to run air-driven tools and equipment across construction, utility, and industrial jobsites. They’re especially suited for remote and rugged outdoor work environments.
Its applications include:
- Powering pneumatic tools such as jackhammers, impact wrenches, and air chisels used for construction and maintenance work.
- Supporting sandblasting and surface preparation, including cleaning, coating removal, and surface finishing tasks.
- Handling drilling operations such as rock drilling, anchor installation, and foundation-related work.
- Supplying compressed air for roadwork and utility projects, including pavement breaking, trenching, and underground installation.
Types of Air Compressors Available for Rent
Different jobs call for different air compressor rentals. BigRentz makes it easy to compare the specifications and capabilities of each industrial air compressor rental so you can match the equipment to your jobsite needs.
Towable Diesel Air Compressor for Rent
Towable diesel air compressors support outdoor and off-grid work by providing compressed air where electrical service is unavailable. You tow the industrial air compressor rental to the jobsite and use it to power tools like breakers, drills, and sandblasting equipment. This type of air compressor is commonly used in projects involving road construction and utility work.
Portable Air Compressor for Rent
For lighter work or indoor tasks, a portable air compressor for rent is a good, compact solution. You can move it easily and run smaller air tools when power is available on-site.
A portable air compressor for rent is best for short-term jobs, building maintenance, and situations where the portability of the equipment matters more than high output. Also, because they produce zero emissions, electric models are the top choice for work in enclosed spaces where exhaust from a diesel air compressor for rent would pose a safety hazard.
Mobile Air Compressor for Rent
A mobile air compressor rental can be mounted on trucks or service vehicles, allowing crews to move it between work areas without having to unhitch or reposition a trailer. You’ll find a mobile air compressor rental especially useful if your jobsite is large and your crews need air access at multiple points.
Towable vs. Portable Air Compressors
Choosing between a towable and a portable air compressor comes down to where you are working and how much air your tools require. Knowing the differences between the two can make it easier for you to identify the right compressor hire for your needs.
Towable Air Compressors
Also called a tow-behind air compressor, this type is designed for outdoor and high-demand work where power access is limited or unavailable.
- You tow the compressor directly to the jobsite and position it where air is needed.
- Diesel power allows operation on remote or off-grid sites.
- Higher air output supports heavy-duty tools and longer runtimes.
- Commonly used for roadwork, drilling, utility installation, and large construction projects.
Portable Air Compressors
Portable air compressors are best for lighter tasks and jobsites with available power.
- You can move the compressor hire by hand for quick setup and repositioning.
- Electric power is suitable for indoor use and smaller work areas.
- Lower air demand makes them suitable for short-term or maintenance tasks.
- Often used for smaller pneumatic tools and interior projects.
If your project involves extended runtime, multiple tools, or off-grid conditions, a towable or pull-behind air compressor is typically the better choice. For lighter, indoor, or short-duration work, a portable air compressor will likely meet your needs.
Choosing the Right Industrial Air Compressor Rental for the Job
The correct rental compressor depends on your application, operating conditions, and performance demand. To avoid underpowered equipment or unnecessary costs, start by reviewing these key factors:
- Required Airflow: Confirm the airflow needs of your pneumatic tools, especially if you plan to use them continuously or in demanding applications. A compressor that cannot meet airflow requirements can lead to inconsistent performance.
- Number of Tools: Running multiple tools simultaneously increases total air demand. Choosing a rental with sufficient capacity helps ensure steady operations across the jobsite.
- Jobsite Size: Larger or spread-out sites often require crews to move between work areas. For this reason, you should consider an air compressor trailer that can be repositioned as needed.
- Power Availability: If your site does not have reliable electrical power, a diesel-powered towable air compressor allows you to work without interruption.
Air Compressor Rental Price Factors
The cost of renting a towable air compressor depends on several factors, including performance specifications, rental duration, and delivery requirements. Common price drivers include:
- Compressor Size and Output: Larger, more powerful compressors typically cost more to rent than smaller units.
- Diesel vs. Electric Power: Diesel-powered towable compressors generally have higher rental rates than electric models due to their higher output and mobility.
- Rental Duration: Daily, weekly, and monthly rental periods are priced differently. Longer rentals often reduce the average cost per day.
- Location and Delivery: Rates vary by region. How far your jobsite is from the location of the rental yard also factors into the cost.
With BigRentz, you can view estimates from local yards simply by entering your location and rental dates. Being able to quickly compare options makes it easier to match the right compressor to both your job requirements and your budget.
Towable Air Compressor Rental FAQs
How much does it cost to rent an air compressor?
Air compressor rental costs vary according to size and flow capacity.
- A 185 CFM diesel air compressor that can power blasting pots or jackhammers can rent for $114 a day, $312 a week, or $754 a month.
- A larger 1,600 CFM compressor that can provide air at higher PSI for an extended period will run you $710 a day, $2,031 a week, or $4,914 a month.
Exact rates may vary depending on your worksite location. Check for quotes on other compressors that BigRentz offers including 375 CFM and 750 CFM machines.
What size air compressor do I need?
The easiest way to determine what size air compressor you need is to check the air requirements on your tools. The average drill requires 3-6 CFM at 90 PSI and the average orbital sander requires 8-12.5 CFM at 90 PSI.
Compressors can power an array of tools for tasks including sawing, nailing, chiseling, cutting, painting, and sanding. The tools you need for each of these jobs will likely require a different CFM—more for heavy-duty jobs that require a continuous flow of air.
How long can you leave an air compressor running?
Depending on the type of air compressor you’re using, it can be left running anywhere from a few hours to 24 hours a day (seven days a week for compressors on ships or planes). Rotary screw compressors, discussed below, have an internal cooling system that enables them to operate continuously. However, reciprocating compressors are not designed for continuous use. They need to stop and cool down, or the parts can become damaged.
Which type of air compressor do I need?
Air compressors fall into two categories: positive displacement and dynamic compressors. Within those categories, there are multiple types of air compressors. Positive displacement compressors store air from the outside in an internal cavity, where it’s slowly compressed.
Two common types of positive displacement compressors are:
- Rotary Screw Compressors: Good for continuous use at large construction sites. They don’t require much maintenance and can be lubricated with oil or run oil-free. Rated at 5 to 350 horsepower, rotary screw compressors generate energy by trapping air between two opposing rotors that turn in opposite directions to build up pressure.
- Reciprocating Air Compressors: More often found at smaller worksites. They are used for tasks such as home construction projects. They build pressure using a piston inside a cylinder, which displaces air. Single-stage compressors work adequately for small jobs, such as wood or metalwork, but you may need a multi-stage compressor (up to 30 horsepower) for larger tasks such as auto assembly.
- Dynamic Compressors: These can reach 1,000 horsepower or more. They use fast-rotating blades to pull air in rapidly, then create pressure by restricting the air.
Two types of dynamic compressors include:
- Axial Compressors: These types of compressors are expensive. They’re often found on ships or planes and not used in construction.
- Centrifugal Compressors: They use a multi-stage compression process that produces a high amount of energy. You may find them in chemical plants or manufacturing centers.
Where can I rent a diesel mobile air compressor?
Diesel-powered towable air compressors are available through BigRentz and can be delivered directly to your jobsite.