Getting a 5 HP air compressor is quite an investment. So, digging deep is justified. Hopefully, after reading our article, you won’t have to move to any other site.
A compressor with a 5 horsepower engine is generally used for commercial jobs. But if you are taking it for your garage, you are one hell of a DIYer. Anyway, as they are for commercial purposes, you need them to be durable and cost-effective at the same time. There should also be a level of convenience with multiple tools and runtime.
With these features in mind, we took some of the best 5hp air compressors and tested them in every available condition. And here we have five of our top picks.
What Does HP Mean for Air Compressors?
A lot of you will have an idea about horsepower from your trucks and cars. But with air compressors, it is far easier.
It is simply the measure of how much work the compressor can do or how much power the engines of the compressors can generate.
All compressors have engines or motors that convert electric or chemical energy to mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is used to suck in air and compress them in the tank with intricate mechanical processes.
But there is an upper limit to how much power can be generated from the engine. That is measured by horsepower.
Best 5hp Air Compressor Review
Portable air compressors are everyone’s first choice. While it comes to choose the best 5HP air compressor, then it becomes more difficult to determine. So, here we reviewed top-picked 5 HP air compressors.
1. SS5 5 HP Single Stage Air Compressor
Key features
- 100% duty cycle
- Belt-driven design
- 1 CFM at 90 PSI
- 60-gallon tank capacity
- Maximum pressure 135 PSI
- 2,000-hour oil change intervals
Ingersoll-Rand is a reliable name in the automobile industry. In this Ingersoll-Rand 5HP 60 Gallon Single Stage Air Compressor review, you will find why it is worth your investment. First of all, this 5HP compressor is the most budget-friendly option for thousands of hours of use.
Also, the noise is very low compared to the size 78dB. 60-gallon capacity and 100% continuous duty are the top features of this 5Hp air compressor. To use the compressor, you don’t have to wait to switch off the compressor due to its automatic switch on-off regulator feature.
This compressor can run on 30 amps and need a 230V single-phase power supply. Due to its large industrial air filter, it’s not hard to store and replace the air.
135 psi is the maximum pressure power of this powerful machine. At 90 PSI, the airflow rate is almost 18.1 CFM. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, this single-stage air compressor is a perfect option for you.
Pros
- Robust design
- Easy to maintain
- Double piston pump
- Stainless steel finger valves
- Fast recovery rate
Cons
- Poor ventilated area
- Not weather friendly
2. Makita MAC5501G 5.5 HP Gas Air Compressor
Key features
- Honda GX160 4-stroke engine
- 10-gallon twin tanks capacity
- 5 CFM at 100 PSI
- Recoil rope design
- Expedient oil drain valve
- Oil-lubricant pump
Are you looking for a powerful and noise-free 5HP air compressor? Well, Makita MAC5501G 5.5 HP Gas Air Compressor would be an excellent option for you. Its stable performance and faster recovery rate are the prime reason for the brand’s success rate.
For faster recovery, it is capable of delivering up to 12.5 CFM at 100 PSI. This gas-powered machine has a 10-gallon twin tank capacity. It’sIt’s effortless to turn on and off due to its recoil rope design.
The MAC5501G is designed to offer the highest durability with automotive industrial air filters and a large 5.5 HP motor. With the help of air filters, users can improve air intake and reduce contamination quickly.
Rubberized feet are there to get a firm grip on the surface and reduce crawling. They provide an enclosed drive belt with a fly-wheel to cool down the machine. Overall, a perfect option for extensive farming, roofing, and industrial tasks.
Pros
- Portable
- Durable build quality
- Lighter design
- Wheelbarrow-style layout
- Longer life span
Cons
- Pretty expensive
- No technical drawback
3. EMAX HULK Silent Series Compressor, Model HI05V080Y1S
Key features
- 18 CFM at 100 PSI
- 80 gallon capacity
- Maximum pressure 155 PSI
- Industrial TEFC electric motor
- Magnetic starter
- Pre-wired condor starter
A noise-free air compressor is everyone’s first preference. Emax 5HP air compressor is designed to offer continuous pressure for up to 70,000 hours of commercial or industrial use.
It has an industrial TEFC electric motor and magnetic starters to run the machine efficiently. Belt tension adjusters are also there to switch on and off to reduce vibrations. Cast iron cylinders are 100% removable and more efficient in heavy industrial work.
Unlike other air compressors, this one is more effective in reducing noise in the work environment. 80-gallon capacity and 18 CFM at 100 PSI recovery rate is the peak feature of this 5HP air compressor. It comes in a beautiful orange color with steel connecting rods.
It is engineered with an Intercooler that allows air to be cooled between stages to cool down the machine. Automatic tank drain and powder coated ASME tank 200PSI rating are unique features of this 5HP air compressor.
Pros
- Well-built
- Firmed feet
- Durable and noise-free
- Best for industrial use
- Four-year limited warranty
Cons
- Poor overload protector
- Too bright color
4. Ingersoll Rand 2340L5-V Compressor
Key features
- 60-gallon capacity
- 175 psi max pressure
- 3 CFM at 90 PSI
- Efficient Finger valves
- 100% duty cycle
- ASME coded air receiver tank
Ingersoll Rand 2340 air compressor is probably the best stationary compressor available in the market. This product will stand out first in the race of CFM, power, reliability, and cost. The maximum operating pressure is 178 PSI, and the oil capacity is almost 28 ounces.
Also, it can run up to 2,000 hours without any trouble. This robust two-stage compressor offers maximum flexibility and an incredible performance guarantee. You can use it in all types of environments and consecutively for 625 days without any complications.
Three hundred sixty degrees cooling of cylinders, integral flywheel, and finned high-efficiency copper intercooler are the noticeable features of this 5HP air compressor. The copper intercooler is there to cool down the compressor even in the most critical condition.
A sturdy cast-iron design is a cherry on the top. Manufacturers engineered precisely to fulfill the needs of fleet maintenance, machine shops, automotive service, and woodworking shops.
Although this powerful machine’s price is a little bit high for some buyers, it is still a high-performance pump to use for years.
Pros
- Robust and reliable
- Cast-iron build
- Larger capacity
- 5 horsepower pump
- Easy to maintain
- Long life span
Cons
- Quite expensive
- No anti-vibration pads
5. NorthStar High-Flow Electric Air Compressor
Key features
- 3-cylinder design
- 60 gallon capacity
- Maximum pressure 155 PSI
- 14 CFM at 90 PSI
- 230V induction motor
- Stainless steel flex leaf valves
- Oil-lubricated pump
Well, our last recommended 5HP air compressor is the High-Flow Electric Air Compressor from North Star. This compressor offers a long life span with a 60-gallon air capacity. 3-cylinder design and stainless steel flex leaf valves are the attractive features of this air compressor.
Very few machines come with an after-cooler feature. 24.4 CFM at 90 PSI is the recovery rate of this giant electric air compressor. For daily life usage, this compressor is the ideal choice. The ASME-Certified vertical tank is covered with a thick powder layer. One can easily install the machine and replace the tank.
Four styrene-butadiene rubber pads are given to get a firm grip on the surface. The 230V induction motor is the root source of the machine, and Stainless steel flex leaf valves are the primary reason for its longevity.
The drainage process is also straightforward as it has an easy-access remote tank drain. Overall the best choice for both woodworking projects and industrial works. All thanks go to its 5 HP electric air compressor motor and 60-gallon ASME-certified vertical tank.
Pros
- 100% duty cycle
- Easy to install
- Long pump life
- Best for the DIY user
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Quite expensive
- The drain valves can leak
How to Calculate the Horsepower of a Compressor
Air compressor 5 HP motor power is the most common requirement nowadays. But maximum people don’t know how to calculate the horsepower of a compressor. Horsepower is the mechanical energy that is needed to complete a task.
In terms of storing the air or liquids, air compressors convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. We all probably know that electrical power can be measured into Watts. So, a single joule of energy spent every second is equivalent to watts.
745.8 watts are equivalent to a unit of horsepower. You can calculate the horsepower with the help of a wattmeter. Get a wattmeter and find the wattage of your compressor. Divide the compressor wattage, such as 1500.0 watts, by 745.8. Then you can get your compressors’ exact horsepower, such as 1500/745.8= 2 HP.
Buying Guide of 5HP Air Compressors
A 5HP motor air compressor is powerful enough to run all types of air tools. These types of powered compressors are best for both professional and DIY users. Even after that, some things need to be considered before buying a five horsepower air compressor.
Air compressors type
First of all, you must check the type of air compressor. Air compressors can be categorized into two kinds. One single stage and the other one is two-stage compressors.
A single-stage compressor can be compressed only once. That means the compressor will operate at 120 PSI. These types of compressors are ideal for light work and smaller applications.
Similarly, two-stage compressors are perfect for industrial works. In this compressor type, the air is compressed two times. Compressed air sent to one chamber, then forwarded to another compressor. Lastly, the fully compressed air moves to the storage tank.
Maximum air pressure
Another important consideration is to check the capacity of air pressure. Air pressure can be measured in pounds per square inch of pressure.
The maximum air pressure of single-stage compressors is around (125-155) PSI. On the other hand, the two-stage compressor’s full PSI range is 165 to 175. So, try to be as near as the maximum value and don’t go below the minimum.
CFM rating
CFM rating means the amount of compressed air pumped in a minute. This consideration is significant because you can understand which compressor is suitable for your air tools.
The perfect rating for an air compressor is 11.5CFM at 90 PSI for a 5 hp compressor. But you can also calculate your required airflow (CFM) requirement. For that, find the tool you have that consumes the maximum airflow. Then multiply with 1.5 to get your required compressor rating. It is just adding a 50% buffer than your need.
For your benefit, here we are giving some of the power tools CFM ratings.
| Tools | Requirements |
| Angle Grinder | 6 |
| Nail Gun | 1 |
| Paint Sprayer | 13 |
| ½” Air Drill | 4 |
| Impact Wrench | 7 |
| Die Grinder | 8 |
Tank style
Most of the 5 HP air compressors are made with 60-gallon capacity. You will find several sized compressors with 5HP motor power. We have even tested 100 gallon compressors with this power rating.
Half of the air compressors you will find with vertical tanks, and half of them are made with horizontal tanks. Try to go for a vertical one as it takes far less space than the horizontal one.
Noise
Everyone wants a noise-free operation. 5 HP portable air compressors are primarily used for heavy-duty work. Therefore, they may make noises while compressing the air. However, if you are doing well-lit tasks, then it may produce less sound.
Old compressors also produced sound while compressing air. Therefore, choose an air compressor that you can use in every environment.
Other features
You also need to notice some additional features, such as stainless steel finger valves, a Low-oil monitoring device, splash lubrication, and firmed rubber feet. Stainless steel finger valves will make the machine long-lasting, and rubber feet are needed to get a firm grip on the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions about best 5HP air compressors
Well, you may have many questions about 5HP air compressors. Here we outlined some of the frequently asked questions for you.
Have a look!
Q: Which size of wire is suitable for a 5HP air compressor?
A: 5HP motor compressors are usually much more extensive than regular air compressors. Therefore, 10/3 wg Romex is well-enough to run a giant-sized 5 HP motor air compressor. According to the manufacturer and customer review, 10ga wire can bear a 230V power supply.
Q: How many amps does a 5 HP compressor draw?
A: Well, 16.2 amps are necessary to run a 5HP compressor. Although, few compressors like the Ingersoll-Rand air compressor require 15 amps 230 volts to operate.
Q: What are the advantages of a 5HP, 60 gallon air compressor?
A: The significant advantage of the 5HP, 60-gallon compressor is that they are almost compatible with every tool in the market. Generally, they have a large airflow rating with a longer duty time. That’sThat’s why they are great for commercial and professional jobs.
Q: CFM or SCFM, which one is appropriate?
A: The Air compressor’s speed of air delivery is expressed by the CFM (cubic feet per minute). To use powerful air tools, you need a larger tank air compressor. Machine pressure will last longer if it has higher CFM. On the other hand, SCFM is the calculated CFM rating based on inessential aspects. This constant score allows users to equate the models accurately.
Q: Which type of pump is suitable for compressors?
A: Two types of pumps are used in manufacturing air compressors. Both designs’ pumps are suitable for different units. One is reciprocating, and the other one is rotary.
Portable and smaller applications are made with reciprocating air compressors. On the other hand, a rotary pump is used to manufacture larger units or compressors.
Final Thoughts
Well, that should wrap up all your queries.
Air compressors are expensive. So, their reviewers must be professionals with years of experience on their side. Someone can’t just buy a few and review them.
Therefore, we hope that you will consider our picks for the best 5hp air compressor. The guide should also help you get the best one for you.
As a mechanical engineer, it’s easy for Jack to explain the functionality of the tool. Richer test most of the tools before writing a review. its help him to learn something new and suggest the best product for you.