[Summary: When deciding between a new or used air compressor, each option comes with advantages and trade-offs:
- Consider an upgrade first if your machine has low operating hours, current technology and readily available spare parts.
- New air compressors offer the latest technology, higher efficiency and warranty coverage, but come at a higher up-front cost.
- Used air compressors cost less up front but may lack modern technology, carry warranty limitations and come with an unknown maintenance history.
Factor in your budget both now and long term, how often you’ll use the machine, the air pressure your tools need and whether the efficiency gains of a new unit outweigh the savings of choosing a used machine.]
Buying a new air compressor can seem like a huge investment, but don’t rule out a high-quality used unit. The best option for you depends on the quality of your current machine, your air pressure needs and your budget. Upgrading is also an option that may be more cost-efficient if your air compressor is still relatively new. So which is best? We’ll outline the differences as well as the advantages and disadvantages below to help you make your choice.
What’s the Difference Between New and Used Air Compressors?
New air compressors have never been used before. Used air compressors have operational hours on the clock. Used air compressors may come from companies that have decided to upgrade their systems or businesses that have downsized their equipment needs. Ideally, you can find a used air compressor that wasn’t used often but was well-maintained.
When you buy a new air compressor, you’ll have access to all the specs you’d expect to receive with a new purchase. You get a current product that’s backed by decades of research and development. No one owned it before, so there’s no history of problems or repairs to look into.
When buying a used air compressor, you may receive information such as how long the previous owner had it for, how well they maintained the system and any issues they had.
Sellers may also assess the equipment and either make repairs or advise you on any maintenance or replacements the air compressor needs. All that will depend on who you shop with and if the information is available from the previous owner.
Should You Get a New Air Compressor?
A new air compressor is a good choice if you have the budget for a high-quality machine and will use it often, but it may not be the optimal choice for everyone. Compare the pros and cons of buying a new air compressor to see if it’s the right choice for your operations.
Benefits of Buying New Air Compressors
Purchasing a new air compressor offers several advantages compared to getting a secondhand one. As long as your operations use the new equipment regularly, you’ll get these benefits:
- Latest technology: New air compressors use the latest technology to make your operations smoother. You can increase productivity and have more flexibility or consistency when you use an air compressor with the newest technology.
- Higher efficiency: A new air compressor may use power more efficiently than a used one. New machinery won’t have initial damage or require immediate maintenance.
- Longer lifespan: A new machine has never been used, so it offers an extended lifespan. You can further extend your air compressor’s lifespan by following maintenance tips and getting an air compressor audit, which helps protect your investment.
- Higher return on investment: You’ll get the most value from a new unit, thanks to its longer lifespan and quality components. Perform regular air compressor audits to ensure your machine keeps being an asset.
- Warranty options: Depending on the model and where you buy it, you may be eligible for a warranty, which can help lower costs if your air compressor needs repairs or replacement parts. If there are any defects with your brand-new equipment, a warranty may cover replacements.
Disadvantages of Buying New Air Compressors
The primary disadvantage of buying a new air compressor is its cost. You’ll likely pay significantly more for a new system than a used one, because you’re paying for all the benefits that come with a new machine.
The machine also doesn’t have a history, unlike used options. If you can afford the cost of buying a new air compressor, it may be worth it in favor of all the advantages you gain.
Should You Buy a Used Air Compressor?
A used air compressor is a good option if you have a lower budget or won’t be using it often. With proper prior maintenance and a trustworthy seller, you could get a quality secondhand air compressor that suits your needs. Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of purchasing a used air compressor to see if it’s right for you.
Benefits of Buying Used Air Compressors
Compared to a brand-new machine, you’ll get these benefits of buying a used air compressor:
- Lower cost: The most appealing benefit of used equipment is a lower price. In some cases, you can purchase multiple used compressors for the same price as one piece of new equipment.
- No initial depreciation: When you buy new machinery or equipment, its value immediately depreciates. You don’t have that problem with used equipment. Since someone has used it before, it has already gone through its initial depreciation.
- Quality refurbishments: Depending on the manufacturer and seller, you might get a high-quality refurbished machine. Components may be new, which would give you a more efficient and long-lasting system. Not every secondhand air compressor will have this level of care, though, so be sure to look into the specs if you buy a used machine.
Disadvantages of Buying Used Air Compressors
When it comes to purchasing used equipment, you get what you pay for. A trustworthy manufacturer and seller will help eliminate some concerns about the process. While the lower price can be attractive, used air compressors may come with these potential disadvantages:
- Lack of the latest technology: Used machines may be a few years old, so their technology could be outdated. Not having the latest technology could mean anything from less efficient equipment to slower production and turnaround times.
- Unknown lifespan: When you buy a new machine, you have an idea of its lifespan. When you buy used equipment, it’s hard to know how long the air compressor will last. Buying from a trusted seller and maintaining the air compressor properly can extend its lifespan, but the expected time frame for older air compressors is still unclear.
- Few warranty options: Used equipment may come with a partial warranty, an extended warranty or no warranty at all. There’s a chance you may end up paying out-of-pocket for repairs or replacements much sooner than you would with new equipment.
- Limited selection: When you buy a used air compressor, your options are limited. If you’re looking for a particular model, you may need to wait or shop around. If you do want a used air compressor, consider focusing on the specs you need for your job instead of a particular make or model.
Which Option Is Best for You?
With the advantages and disadvantages of both air compressor buying options in mind, you’ll have to decide which will work for your operations.
- Your initial budget: Your biggest concern will be your budget for the equipment’s initial expenses. A new unit will almost always cost more than a used one, but you should also factor in the cost of replacement parts and repairs.
- Your budget down the line: If you have an estimate of your long-term budget, incorporate that into your decision. You may be able to afford a higher price tag now, but a used unit could cause financial trouble if your budget ever tightens. Remember that a new machine offers higher efficiency and a longer lifespan, potentially lowering power and maintenance costs.
- The amount of air and pressure you need: Consider your operations as you select an air compressor. If you need more air at higher pressures, you may consider an option with a large storage tank, which you could find in either used or new varieties.
- The tools you use: You can operate pneumatic tools more consistently with a large compressor. If you need air purity or a steady stream of lightly pressurized air, consider a smaller machine.
- How often you’ll use it: If you use an air compressor multiple times throughout the day, you may want a new machine that will last longer and provide better energy efficiency. If you don’t use it often, a used one could be a more cost-effective option for you.
Upgrade or Replace Air Compressor FAQs
Here are the answers to some common questions about upgrading or replacing your air compressor:
Is It Better to Upgrade My Old Air Compressor or Buy a New One?
Consider your compressor and your future needs when deciding.
Upgrade your air compressor when:
- It’s got low operating hours.
- The technology is still new.
- Spare parts are readily available.
Replace your air compressor if:
- It’s an old model and spare parts are hard to find.
- Performance has dropped far below your needs.
- Maintenance and repair are becoming more complex and costly.
What Questions Should I Ask Before Buying a Used Air Compressor?
Ask about the compressor’s age, operating hours, service history and part repairs. Check that replacement parts are still available and see if the seller can provide performance testing results.
Can a Used Air Compressor Be Upgraded?
Some used air compressors can be upgraded, but it depends on the condition, model, parts availability and whether the cost of upgrading makes sense.
How Do I Know What Size Air Compressor I Need?
The right size air compressor depends on your tools, the pressure you need, air demands and how often it will run. Compare each model’s cubic feet per minute, pounds per square inch, horsepower and tank size against your daily operating needs.
Shop Quincy Compressor’s New and Used Equipment
Both new and used air compressors can serve you well. If you still can’t decide, our professional air experts can help you pick the most fitting type for your operations. Whether you choose new or used, we offer uncompromising reliability and performance.
From air compressors to parts and service, Quincy Compressor provides what you need to keep your business running. We also offer industry-leading warranty protection and extended warranty plans for a wide range of products.
Contact Quincy Compressor today to find out how we can help you with solutions tailored to your needs.
