An adventure in a recreational vehicle (RV) sounds thrilling. But a flat tire does not sound nice when you are on the road or camping in a remote place. When you are living on your own, you must be prepared for all kinds of setbacks.
Keeping a portable air compressor in the trailer will save you from the hassle of flat tires. A guide to buying the best RV air compressor would help you to make the right choice.
Contents
RV Air Compressors Comparison Chart
Product's name | Price | Specifications | More Info | |
---|---|---|---|---|
epauto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump, Digital Tire Inflator | $32.67 | Maximum Pressure: 70PSI Flow Rate: 1.06CFM Dimensions: 9.7 x 7.8 x 5.5 Inches Weight: 3.8 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
Viair 400P - 40047 RV Automatic Portable Compressor Kit, Tire Pump,... | $349.95 | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2.3CFM Dimensions: 10.9 x 5.8 x 7.5 Inches Weight: 10.7 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator-Heavy Duty Double Cylinders Direct Drive Metal... | $65.99 | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2.12CFM Dimensions: 12.7 x 6.9 x 8.2 Inches Weight: 8.4 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor Kit, 1.5 Gallon, Oil-Free, Fully Shrouded, Hand... | $$$$ | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2.0CFM Dimensions: 15.5 x 13.2 x 20.5 Inches Weight: 20.0 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002) | $$$$ | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2.6CFM Dimensions: 19.0 x 19.0 x 18.0 Inches Weight: 34.0 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
VIAIR 300P Air Compressor Kit, 12V DC Portable Tire Inflator 2.3 CFM,... | $204.47 | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2.3CFM Dimensions: 9.0 x 4.9 x 7.5 Inches Weight: 8.7 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
VIAIR 400P - 40043 Portable Compressor Kit. Tire Pump, Truck/SUV Tire... | $229.95 | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2.3CFM Dimensions: 11.2 x 4.0 x 7.0 Inches Weight: 8.5 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
Sunvook Portable Air Compressor Tire Inflator 12V DC Auto Air Pump 150PSI... | $$$$ | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 1.41CFM Dimensions: 10.2 x 6.2 x 3.3 Inches Weight: 2.1 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
VIAIR 88P - 00088 Portable Compressor Kit with Alligator Clamps, Tire... | $88.95 | Maximum Pressure: 120PSI Flow Rate: 1.47CFM Dimensions: 9.8 x 3.2 x 5.6 Inches Weight: 4.7 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
VIAIR 450P- 45053 RV Silver Automatic Portable Compressor Kit, 1 Pack, Tire... | $374.95 | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 1.8CFM Dimensions: 12.4 x 5.8 x 7.5 Inches Weight: 13.0 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
Air Lift 25856 Load Controller Dual Heavy Duty Compressor | $$$$ | Maximum Pressure: 120PSI Flow Rate: 1.03CFM Dimensions: 6.2 x 13.5 x 8.2 Inches Weight: 7.5 Pounds | See Latest Price | |
No products found. | No products found. | $$$$ | Maximum Pressure: 150PSI Flow Rate: 2CFM Dimensions: 15.5 x 11.5 x 11.0 Inches Weight: 19.9 Pounds | No products found. |
RV Air Compressor Basics
Without a trailer air compressor, your travel plans might get derailed. There is no way you would want a flat tire to ruin your trip. When you are in a remote place for months, you better have all the right tools, including an RV tire pump.
What Is It?
In simple words, an air compressor for RV is a tool that inflates the tires. Other than tires, it can pump up almost any inflatable, including footballs, kayaks, paddleboards, and more.
The main function of an air compressor is to monitor and maintain the tire pressure. When you have it, there is no need to drive to the nearby gas station when one of the tires gives up in the middle of the journey.
How Does It Work?
An RV tire inflator compressor has a tank that is filled up with air when you connect the compressor with a power source. With the help of a piston and cylinder, a motor pushes the air to the tank. Inside the tank, the air gets pressurized to the level of your choosing. This pressurized air then passes from the tank to the tires of the RV through an air hose.
Use the compressor when the tires are cold to get the correct tire pressure reading. The pressure increases when the tires run for a while because of friction with the road and hot air inside them.
Each tire has a maximum inflation pressure recommended by the manufacturer. Don’t ever inflate the tires beyond that rating. Overinflation affects the traction of the tires, shortening their life or causing them to blow out.
Benefits of RV Air Compressors
The best RV air compressor would provide multiple benefits that will be worth its price. Following are a few advantages that you can expect from a quality compressor:
Versatile use
A compressor’s main function is to inflate tires. However, a good one would have multiple nozzles compatible with various inflatable items, like bike tubes, pull toys, beach balls, different tire types, and more.
Convenience
Using the best portable air compressor for RV tires means you can travel anywhere without fearing to deal with flat tires. Just attach it to the vehicle’s battery or cigarette lighter socket and fill up the tires.
Automatic functions
The best tire inflator for RV should relieve the user from any guesswork. The functions should be automatic, so all a user needs to do is setting the air pressure, attaching the hose to the tire, and plugging the pump into a power outlet. When the tire is inflated to the desired pressure, the machine should shut off automatically.
Long-lasting
The best RV tire inflator should last for several years. The use of stainless steel material and high-quality components, such as insulated rubber valves, ensure the tool’s longevity.
Types of Air Compressor for RV Tires
The air compressor for RV tires can be of several types. However, the portable ones are mostly used in travel trailers.
Reciprocating Air Compressors
By using the principle of positive displacement compression, these machines increase the air pressure inside their built-in air tank. They accomplish the whole task with the help of a piston.
Rotary Screw Compressors
They too utilize the principle of positive displacement compression. However, they have two rotors for compressing the air and increasing its pressure.
Centrifugal Air Compressors
Employing the dynamic compression theory, these tools have a rotating impeller to transfer the energy to an air shaft. There are shaft seals and atmospheric vents that keep the spinning gear separate from the air tank.
Portable Compressor
As the name suggests, these pumps are portable in design. This is the most common and popular type because of its portability. Many RVers, campers, and seasonal travelers use them because they are easy to move around.
These compressors are available in various versions based on horsepower, PSI (pound per square inch), and CFM (cubic feet per minute). They are lighter than the traditional compressor type.
Reviews on Best RV Air Compressors
Different people usually have different ideas but once it comes to the best RV air compressor, the following models tend to show up.
1. EPAuto AT-010-2 – Best Of The Best
Why This Is The Best:
Light and compact, AT-010-2 of EPAuto could be put to good use in an assortment of conditions and that makes it popular to RVing enthusiasts.
Being designed to plug directly into the cigarette lighter of vehicles, the compressor made by EPAuto only takes a couple of minutes to set up.
To use AT-010-2, all you need to do is to put in the pressure you want through the (+) and (-) buttons then hit the power button.
EPAuto AT-010-2 is going to shut down automatically as the desired air pressure is reached.
As it’s accompanied by several adapters, AT-010-2 is able to inflate a lot of things besides tires such as basketballs, swimming floats, inflatable kayaks, …
Because of that, in terms of versatility, EPAuto AT-010-2 is one of the leading air compressors at its price range.
In addition, to ensure safety, the EPAuto air compressor would immediately cease operation if the temperature exceeds a predetermined level.
The cable of AT-010-2 contains a 15Amp fuse as well and a spare fuse is also included in the package.
About price, the compressor from EPAuto is inexpensive so you don’t have to spend big bucks to get it.
AT-010-2 is a breeze to maintain too which means you should have an easy time keeping it in working order.
Naturally, RVers that frown at maintenance-intensive devices consider EPAuto AT-010-2 to be the best air compressor for RV tires.
New to RV lifestyle. Love this little guy. Just attach to the tire, set the PSI, turn on and it will auto stop when the PSI is reached. Will say that u may have to play around with the connection point to properly activate the airflow. If the compressor vibrates a lot, u do not have a secure connection. There should be a steady hum without any vibration. It’s not required but I recommend a little break in between consecutive fills to prevent overheating. I noticed better subsequent fills worked better after a break. Note that this is a small compressor so it may take some time if your item needs a lot of air. Stores nicely.
Shared Rob Dawg
Pros
- Reasonable price
- Outstanding portability
- Installation is child’s play
Cons
- Some units arrive inoperable
- Hose threads need to be strengthened
2. Viair 40047 – Editor’s Choice
Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:
Engineered for recreational vehicles, Viair 40047 is held in high esteem by RVers that opt to use purpose-design products.
With a maximum pressure of 150PSI and a flow rate of 2.3CFM, 40047 could fully inflate typical tires of recreational vehicles in just a flash.
Moreover, as it comes with two 30-foot hoses for a total length of 60 feet, the Viair compressor is capable of supporting rigs of various lengths.
For casual RVing enthusiasts, Viair 40047 is undoubtedly the best air compressor for RV tires.
Interestingly, the compressor from Viair can be paired with 45-degree and 90-degree twist-on chucks so accessing hard-to-reach valve stems is a piece of cake.
The inflation gun of 40047 incorporates a gauge too, hence, it’s a simple matter to monitor the tire pressure.
Boasting an automatic shutoff function, Viair 40047 eliminates the need to turn off the compressor manually while switching between tires.
That is a big plus for RVers that happen to own rigs with multiple wheels.
Thanks to the low-profile build, 40047 of Viair only occupies little space and could be relocated at short notice.
Viair provides a carry bag to people that pick up its compressor as well so you don’t have to worry too much about exposure.
I have an RV with duallies on the rear and valve extenders. For the life of me, I could not get any air through the extenders using several varieties of so-called heavy duty tire inflators. I even tried a fifty pound air pump. Couldn’t fill at the gas station either. Only at the tire store. FINALLY, I found the Viair. It is very expensive but it is also a serious piece of equipment and it actually puts air into my tires using a convenient professional system and a screw on chuck which is far better than the clip-ons. You can calculate the pressure during the inflation process right from the hose without stopping to use a separate gauge constantly. It doesn’t vibrate all over the place like most of them. It is relatively quiet. OK, it is a little heavy and it doesn’t plug into the cigarette lighter, but easy to work with on my house batteries. Every RV person should have one of these. Seriously.
Shared by TruthTraveler
Pros
- Stable and portable
- Sublime nozzle attachments
- Dependable and durable
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Quality control still leaves something to be desired
3. Tirewell TW2003 – Editor’s Choice
Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:
Packing a solid combination of first-class direct-drive motor and high-endurance double cylinder made from metal, TW2003 of Tirewell consistently delivers air in all kinds of operating conditions.
Naturally, the air compressor from Tirewell is known as the all-time favorite of RVing enthusiasts that enjoy off-roading.
Additionally, TW2003 is quite light too so moving it from spot to spot is essentially a walk in the park.
Upon purchase, Tirewell TW2003 comes alongside a rugged Oxford bag that facilitates storage and transportation.
About installation, TW2003 simply needs to be plugged into the cigarette lighter of vehicles which is why people can get it up and running in a blink of an eye.
Since it’s distributed with adapters, the Tirewell air compressor could be readily used to inflate sporting accessories, pool toys and so on if required.
Possessing a long hose, Tirewell TW2003 features an excellent reach compared to other air compressors for RVs on the market.
A flush pressure gauge is present as well and that permits RVers to keep a close eye on the pressure.
With four-rod fuselage and rubber feet, the compressor made by Tirewell superbly tackles vibration.
As a result, regarding noise level, TW2003 is the best air compressor for RV tires.
Perfect inflator for RV use
Bought this to use specifically with the Roy Pow AC to DC Converter 180W (Max 200W) 12V15A Power Supply Adapter (also purchased on Amazon). The set allows me to inflate RV tires via 120v source or 12v source (I use my portable Kodiak Solar Generator for the 12v source). Volume of airflow for inflation is understandably low, but the PSI for inflating RV tires (80-100 psi) is what I was looking for in this unit. When I first received the unit I performed a “break in” for the pistons by running without being connected to a tire (no pressure resistance). I did the “on for 5 mins then off until cooled” cycle about five times. So far so good with absolutely no problems. Knock on wood. Fairly good price, quick delivery.
Shared by JV
Pros
- Quiet
- Adaptable and long-lasting
- Setup process is instantaneous
Cons
- Certain RVers complain about getting dead units
- A couple of parts should be overhauled
4. Porter-Cable CMB15
Why We Love It:
As an oil-free unit that just needs basic maintenance, Porter-Cable CMB15 is deemed to be a must-have for RVers that travel extensively.
With a fully enclosed design, CMB15 runs reliably if it’s exposed to the outdoor elements on a regular basis.
Also, owing to the lightweight body and built-in handle, the compressor of Porter-Cable proves to be highly portable.
Thus, RVing enthusiasts could set up and put away Porter-Cable CMB15 without breaking a sweat in the usual cases.
Carrying a low-noise motor, the Porter-Cable air compressor guarantees quiet operation and that earns its countless compliments from RVing enthusiasts around the globe.
Since CMB15 arrives with a bunch of accessories and a 25-foot hose, it can inflate a wide range of tires as well as inflatable items.
Porter-Cable CMB15 is equipped with a water drain valve so draining water is by all accounts a straightforward task.
Available at a reasonable price, the compressor made by Porter-Cable is well-received by budget-minded RVers.
In terms of post-purchase support, Porter-Cable backs CMB15 with a one-year warranty.
If your Porter-Cable CMB15 fails due to manufacturing defects within the warranty period, you could claim a free replacement.
This little air pressure is a work horse for RV use! It fills quickly, recycles fast and has plenty of pressure to fill RV tires up to about 135 lbs without issue but remember, this is not 6 gallon pancake compressor. It’s lightweight, compact and the housing makes it ready to pack. If you need more, then her bigger compressor. It does not have any quick connect parts which I added to hook up the hose quickly. The little coiled air hose isn’t very tough and should be replaced with a better hose when you get the chance.
Shared by Rachael R. Wickery
Pros
- Affordable
- Space-saving
- Portability is top-notch
Cons
- Balance could use some work
- People notice fluctuations in pressure now and then
5. Porter-Cable C2002
Why We Love It:
Created to match modern standards, Porter-Cable C2002 is ranked highly by many reviews of air compressors for RV tires.
Being a pancake-style unit, the air compressor made by Porter-Cable only falls behind a limited number of models once it comes to stability.
Furthermore, since its motor starts smoothly even in low temperatures, C2002 allows RVing enthusiasts to inflate tires in cold weather.
If you intend to travel in winter, Porter-Cable C2002 is going to be the best air compressor for RV tires you could grab nowadays.
Though C2002 is not exactly light, it’s still portable and the inclusion of an ergonomic handle means you can move it around at will.
As the Porter-Cable air compressor incorporates up to two couplers, it’s able to run air to two separate applications at the same time.
In addition, to apply changes to the pressure, all you have to do is to turn the adjustment knob while monitoring the integrated pressure gauges.
Porter-Cable C2002 is oil-free with well-shielded components so its maintenance is undemanding.
As proof of confidence, Porter-Cable offers RVing enthusiasts that choose its air compressor a decent one-year manufacturing warranty.
If you like to have an insurance policy, you should add C2002 to your shortlist.
This compressor was purchased for one main purpose to maintain the tires in my RV properly inflated. It does a great job, it fits perfectly in a compartment on the side of my RV directly under a 115v outlet. So I can run it inside compartment no extension cord and it is so quiet because compartment absorbs sound like a sponge. I used a plug-in meter that monitors volts, amps, watts, hertz, watt hour and my RV is connected to my home via shore wire. Here are results: No load voltage 119.2, load voltage 110.6, watts varied from 1068 to 1100 as pressure increased, amps varied from 9.6 to 10.1 by pressure. I also have a 1200 watt inverter however I will need to upgrade to run compressor to a 2000 watt pure sine wave. I advise never to run compressor on a modified inverter the sine wave is almost square and it will ruin your compressor motor right quick. I am extremely happy with my compressor, perfect blend of size, power and prize.
Shared by Mayra
Pros
- Economical
- High endurance
- Intuitive installation
Cons
- Slightly loud
- Owner’s manual is poorly written
6. Viair 300-P
Why We Love It:
Capable of providing air at an accelerated pace, Viair 300-P could fully inflate deflated tires in a matter of moments.
As it boasts a long 25-feet hose, 300-P should have no trouble reaching and inflating tires located away from it.
With a 5-in-1 pressure gauge, the compressor of Viair also lets RVers monitor pressure easily.
Viair 300-P is sold alongside an assortment of accessories that could be stowed in the accompanying carry case so its adaptability is outstanding as well.
Featuring a small body, the Viair air compressor takes negligible amounts of space and that is advantageous in rigs with constricted interiors.
For power, 300-P just needs to be connected to a 12V battery bank via the supplied alligator clamps.
Since it possesses thermal protection, Viair 300-P would automatically shut down if temperature appears to get too high in use.
When the temperature returns to normal levels, the air compressor of Viair reset on its own without requiring outside interactions.
As for maintenance, 300-P needs rudimentary care from RVers so you don’t have to pay special attention to it.
Unsurprisingly, those that wish to spend more time on enjoying themselves and less time on maintaining equipment believe 300-P of Viair to be the best RV air compressor.
Pros
- Great handling
- Rugged construction
- Simple to set up
Cons
- Inoperable pressure gauge is reported
- Quality control is less than ideal
7. Viair 400-P
Why We Love It:
Versatile and tough, 400-P of Viair never fails to meet the expectations of RVing enthusiasts which makes it a pretty popular model among RV communities.
With its motor mounted on a heavy-duty tray, the Viair air compressor controls vibration well so noise level is low.
Aside from that, as it takes mere minutes to connect Viair 400-P to batteries and valve stems of tires, you could resolve deflated tires quickly and effortlessly while traveling.
As a lightweight unit, the RV tire pump made by Viair is highly portable too.
Since it packs a maximum pressure of 150PSI, 400-P suits the pressure ratings of the average tires of recreational vehicles.
The compressor from Viair contains a convenient pressure gauge as well, thus, monitoring the tire pressure is child’s play.
Distributed with a zippered carry bag that integrates plenty of compartments, Viair 400-P is a breeze to store and transport.
Last but not least, 400-P happens to have plain maintenance requirements so years would pass before you need a replacement.
Regarding affordability, the air compressor of Viair comes at a price that fits the shopping budgets of ordinary RVing enthusiasts.
To reassure potential customers, Viair willingly backs 400-P with a one-year warranty and that speaks volumes about its quality.
Pros
- Nice packaging
- Fast delivery service
- Flow rate is sublime
Cons
- Might get kind of hot
- Fittings could use some improvements
8. Sunvook 002
Why We Love It:
Optimized for portable use, Sunvook 002 is widely considered to be a superb companion for people that like to travel light.
The body of 002 is made from resilient ABS plastic so RVing enthusiasts could transport it as they like and its durability is excellent as well.
Boasting a built-in digital display that shows pressure in up to four units (PSI, BAR, KPA and Kg/Cm2), the Sunvook air compressor would allow you to monitor pressure at your own leisure.
To increase and decrease pressure, you just have to press the adjustment buttons under the display.
Similar to many of its contemporaries, the air compressor of Sunvook draws power from cigarette lighters on vehicles so its installation takes moments to complete.
Moreover, 002 of Sunvook includes a bright LED light so you can use it to inflate your tires and avoid potential dangers in low-light conditions.
Needless to say, for RVers that regularly hit the road at night, 002 is the best air compressor for RV tires.
Finally, since the compressor from Sunvook comes with a number of nozzles, it could inflate numerous inflatable items besides tires.
About safety features, Sunvook 002 is well-protected against thermal and it would automatically turn off in the case of overload.
Since it’s engineered with a vent in the rear, the compressor made by Sunvook disperses heat in use well.
Pros
- Fair cost
- Great portability
- Convenient control and supervision
Cons
- Barely acceptable packaging
- Tech support is mediocre
9. Viair 00088
Why We Love It:
Basic and practical, Viair 00088 adapts well to a multitude of settings and that is why it’s an all-time favorite of full-time RVers.
Thanks to the lightweight construction, the air compressor made by Viair is superior to traditional models in terms of handling. Since 00088 is accompanied by battery clamps for 12V batteries, powering it is a cakewalk too. Packing a catchy LED indicator,
Viair 00088 lets owners of recreational vehicles determine its status at any time with a glance.
With a maximum pressure of 120PSI and a flow rate of 1.47CFM, 00088 is compatible with standard RV tires and only needs minutes to inflate them.
The presence of a pressure gauge mounted right on top of the Viair pressure means it’s possible to monitor the pressure of the tires.
In order to check the pressure, 00088 of Viair needs to be temporarily turned off though.
As 00088 is distributed with a box, transporting and keeping it from direct exposure would be a walk in the park.
Introduced at an economical price, the Viair compressor is the best RV air compressor for those that have tight wallets but still desire quality products.
Additionally, 00088 is backed with a solid one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects as well so you have something to count on if issues occur.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Noise level is low
- Compact and enduring
Cons
- Short cable
- Several RVers notice air leaks
10. Viair 45053
Why We Love It:
Since it arrives with practically everything, Viair 45053 tends to be sought after by RVers that need an all-inclusive air compressor kit on the go.
Featuring an inflator gun with pressure gauge, 45053 is easy to use and it facilitates the supervision of pressure as well.
Besides that, the Viair air compressor comes with special attachments (twits-on angled chucks) so it could access valve stems of tires in awkward positions.
To power Viair 45053, all you have to do is to connect it to battery banks using the provided battery clamps.
Being a highly compact model with fantastic portability, the air compressor of Viair requires minimal effort to relocate and position.
Also, the robust handle of 45053 let RVing enthusiasts maintain a tight grip in various conditions.
Owing to the adapters that come with it, Viair 45053 can be put to good use in an assortment of applications.
The portable air compressor for RV tires from Viair and its accessories fit nicely in the supplied carry bag so you don’t have to worry too much about storage.
For post-purchase support, Viair backs its air compressor with a one-year warranty that brings people peace of mind.
The maintenance of 45053 of Viair is straightforward, therefore, keeping it running is a simple matter.
Pros
- Extended coil hose
- First-rate adaptability
- Flow rate is decent
Cons
- Precision of pressure reading receive some complaints
- Inconsistencies between units
11. Air Lift 25856
Why We Love It:
If you seek a no-nonsense RV tire inflator compressor that could adapt to variable settings then you would come to like 25856 of Air Lift.
Consisting of a series of tough but light components, the compressor of Air Lift is known for having fast installation which involves basic mechanical tools.
Through the flush pressure gauge that doubles as the control interface, you could monitor and set pressure as you like.
As it employs a long air line, 25856 is able to deliver air across considerable distances to tires of recreational vehicles.
With a low-profile construction, Air Lift 25856 can fit a narrow space so finding a spot for it in typical rigs is a piece of cake.
Since 25856 is pre-wired, RVers likely have no trouble connecting it to a suitable source of power on recreational vehicles.
About maintenance, the Air Lift compressor just needs to be washed from time and time to stay in working order.
Because of that, Air Lift 25856 is the number one choice on the market for RVing enthusiasts that like to travel and prioritize hassle-free equipment.
The compressor of Air Lift is sold at a price that RVers could accept so it’s an economical model.
Backed with a sixty-day money-back guarantee and a two-year warranty, 25856 put owners of RVs at ease too.
Pros
- Stable and sturdy
- Budget-friendly
- Undemanding setup process
Cons
- Owner’s manual should be rewritten
- Some users report blown fuses
12. SuperFlow MV-90
No products found.
Why We Love It:
Designed to be speedily set up and pumping out air in times of need, SuperFlow MV-90 gives a splendid account of itself in numerous environments.
MV-90 is sold alongside alligator clips for batteries so securing a source of power for it is child’s play.
Furthermore, as it boasts a pretty long air hose, the air compressor of SuperFlow could reach and inflate tires without having to be moved often.
SuperFlow MV-90 is rather light and incorporates an ergonomic handle so people could still relocate it if the situation requires.
One interesting thing about the SuperFlow air compressor is that it can be fitted with adapters to inflate items from sports balls to swimming floats.
Hence, by owning MV-90, you would have an easy time handling inflating needs while traveling.
The duty cycle of SuperFlow MV-90 exceeds that of other models as well so you could inflate your stuff from start to finish without stopping.
The air compressor made by SuperFlow also packs a low noise level so it rarely becomes a bother in use.
Upon purchase, MV-90 as well as its accessories come in a nice bag and that means storage is a breeze.
With basic maintenance requirements, the air compressor from SuperFlow needs little attention from its users.
Pros
- Versatile adapters
- Durable construction
- Light and compact
Cons
- Reports about water accumulation show up from time to time
- A couple of units experience hose failures
How to Choose The Best RV Air Compressor
There are certain criteria to consider if you want to get the best air compressor for RV tire in the market.
Power Source
A pump can draw power from various sources. Compressors compatible with 12V DC are the most common and they have to be connected to a vehicle’s 12V power port.
Some models can get their power from a traditional electrical outlet, which is 110V AC. There are some wireless models that have a built-in lead-acid or lithium-ion battery as the power source.
The most convenient ones are the multi-powered devices that are compatible with various types of power sources. They are most likely to have integrated batteries too for cordless operation.
PSI and CFM
PSI refers to the working pressure while CFM is the measurement of the air discharge speed. Both of these factors are highly important in determining the functionality of the best RV air compressor.
Depending on the model of the pump, PSI could range between 0 and 150 and this PSI also regulates the CFM. A compressor with a low PSI will take longer than a high-PSI device to inflate a tire.
Features: Gauge, Cylinder, and Power Cord
An air compressor normally has two pressure gauges that do the job of measuring the PSI. The cylinder or tank size is important because this is where the air gets stored. Its size indicates the volume of air pressure the pump is capable of storing.
Also, the power cord length is another feature to focus on because its length determines how far you can take the tool from the power outlet. Usually, a power cord could be between 4 and 30 inches.
Weight and Size
The weight and size of an RV air compressor give an idea about if it would be portable or not. For easier transportation, the device should be below 40 pounds. If the hose length is short, you may need to move the compressor around to inflate all RV tires. In that case, you must want to avoid a heavy unit.
Similarly, the size plays a part when you need to carry this tool around. A compact unit is desirable if you want to carry it in your car’s trunk when traveling to remote places.
Noise Level
Some cheap units create a loud sound when operating but the best RV air compressor should have a sound range below 65 decibels. It’s normal for the pumps to have a sound range between 40 and 90 decibels. However, a noise level below 65 decibels is safe for human ears.
Best RV Air Compressor Brands
All things considered, you don’t have to worry too much about brand as the brand of an air compressor rarely influences its actual values.
Nonetheless, if you look for a good buy then you should keep an eye out for models from these brands
Viair
Being a long-established brand with substantial experience in putting together air compressors, Viair is deemed to be the number one choice for RVing enthusiasts.
Models of Viair come at an assortment of price points too so they suit the shopping budgets of many people.
Senco
As it continuously updates its technologies and production techniques, Senco is able to keep its compressors versatile and long-lasting.
Moreover, air compressors made by Senco tend to be blacked with reassuring warranties which bring owners of RVs of mind.
Porter-Cable
When it comes to electric goods as well as associated accessories, Porter-Cable is essentially one of the leading brands.
With a wide range of models, Porter-Cable possesses excellent options for virtually every setting.
FAQs About Compressors For RV Tires
If you are still confused about choosing the best RV air compressor, the answers to these questions will further help clear your doubts:
1. How to inflate RV tires with an air compressor?
If you need to inflate a tire, let it cool down properly. Take off the cap sealing the valve of the tire before putting the pressure gauge’s plug into that valve. Now, press down the gauge and keep applying pressure until the hissing sound of air escaping stops.
The next step involves plugging the compressor into the power socket in your car. Connect the hose’s nozzle to the tire’s valve. Switch the machine on and let the pressurized air pass from its tank to the tire.
When the tire is inflated to the desired PSI, turn off the compressor, disconnect the nozzle, and seal the valve off with the cap.
2. What size air compressor do I need to inflate RV tires?
The size actually does not matter when it comes to air compressors. The thing you need to make sure of is whether its PSI rating is enough for your RV tires. For example, if your RV tires require 50 PSI, the compressor needs to be rated more.
3. How long does an RV air compressor last?
Even the best RV air compressor will wear out over time, just like all machinery and tools. It can last around 4 to 8 years but the lifespan also depends on maintenance and storage. Regular cleaning and storing in a dry place save the device from unwanted rust and corrosion.
4. Should RV tires be inflated to max PSI?
No. The “maximum cold pressure” should be imprinted on a tire’s sidewall. You should never inflate the tire at or over that PSI.
5. What PSI should RV tires be?
Checking the owner’s manual is the best way to find the correct PSI for the tires. However, the tires of recreational vehicles generally need 100 PSI or slightly more.
Also in RV Tires & Accessories, we’re providing thorough reviews and buying guides which help RV campers have peace of minds choosing the best RV tires, best 12V air compressor, best brake pads for towing, best RV leveling blocks, best RV jack pads on the market today.
Thanks for the great info!
I even thought that I already found the lightest portable air compressor on the market when I bought a 6-pound model. However, VIAIR 00088 is even lighter with its 4.5-pound weight. Despite its reasonably small construction, this compact air compressor can pump air to many vehicles. It can provide air to tires of up to 33 inches in one operation.
I use VIAIR to air up LT and RV tires to 80psi while on road trips. Works great, is fast and the combined length of the power cord and two air hoses allow me to tire of a 35 foot fifth wheel with no problems. Compressor shuts off automatically, allowing you to air tires a long distance from it without having to manually cut it off. This is the best compressor I have owned. It is pricey, but I firmly believe you get what you pay for.
I use the air compressor Viair 400P-RV to air up LT and RV tires to 80 psi while on road trips. It works great, is quick, and the combined length of the power cord and two air hoses allows me to easily tire a 35-foot fifth wheel. The compressor shuts off automatically, allowing you to air tires a long distance from the unit without having to manually cut them off. Everything goes into a very nice carrying case and stows away easily.