A flat tire in the middle of driving can ruin your entire plan and even the whole day. Before going out, check the tire air pressure and inflate the tire if you find it insufficient. Luckily an air compressor is instant solution to inflate tires. However, you should know how to use an air compressor for tires. In this article, we will explain the process deeply step by step.
Since the flat tire is a common issue among vehicle owners and an air compressor is a cheaper option, so why not apply it? Doing so will both save your time going to the gas station and save some money as well.
Most importantly the process is so much easy that any car owner can do it without any assistance from a professional. It’s a great idea to maintain a car properly and regularly to enjoy a reliable and comfortable journey.
How to use an Air Compressor to fill Tires
Our experts spend extensive time to complete the article with the most effective way of using the best air compressor to fill a tire as well as some crucial tips and relevant information to ensure a safer and precise operation. So let’s read the guide till the end and move a step ahead of proper maintenance of your vehicle.
Before you know how to put air in a tire with an air compressor, let’s have a look at the gears required to complete the task.
Tire Inflation Tool:
- A regulator
- Tire chuck
- Air compressor with 30-50 PSI
- Pressure gauge
Know the Tire Pressure
Know the exact amount of air pressure needed into the tire. Usually, construction vehicles need 100 pounds per square inch in each tire. The amount can vary depending on several conditions including tires per axle, weather, and axle load. Checking the vehicle’s user manual can help you know the proper pressure amount of the tire.
Don’t follow the PSI amount set on the tire as it usually prefers the highest amount of pressure. It will help you pick the right type of air compressor needed for a certain tire.
Another part to check is the tire gauge to ensure the amount of existing compressed air has been added to the tire. Putting too much air into the tire can harm driving performance and effect tires durability. Conversely putting insufficient air will cause extra friction that will lead to increased rubber’s temperature.
Try to fill up the tires during cold temperatures as it will deliver you a more accurate reading. If you find a flat tire after driving, wait half an hour so the tire becomes cool.
Prepare the tire
Most of the tires include a stem cap fastened above the valve stem. Remove the cap from the valve stem and keep it safe. After removing the cap, some of the available air could come out immediately. So it is better to prepare the compressor before removing the cap.
Turn on the Air Compressor
Since the electric air compressor is used mostly, we will go forward considering this option. Plug-in the air compressor so it can accumulate with air. Use outlets with the right voltage for the air compressor. It is recommended to use a portable air compressor so you can set it close to the flat tire.
So how to use an air compressor to fill a tire? Start with connecting the air hose to the compressor and attach the coupler at the end part. This fastener will drive the compressed air into the valve stem. After securing the hose to the valve stem, switch on the air compressor.
Considering the type of flat tire, it can take up some time. Most of the air compressor comes with a gauge that helps the operator add the proper amount of air. Moreover, some inflators turn off automatically once the tire gets desired air. Don’t go far leaving the running compressor alone as it can over-inflate the tire.
Detach the Hose
Check tire pressure regularly while the compressor running on. If you don’t have digital inflators to observe the pressure and unfortunately add much air, then discharge some of the air by pushing down the tire gauge. Once the tire gets the right amount of air, take out the hose from the air compressor. Don’t worry if you hear a hissing noise while removing the hose as it is completely normal. Finally fix the stem cap on the valve.
Why you should apply proper pressure to the tire?
One should always maintain proper tire pressure in terms of saving money and prevent long-term troubles. Even if you buy an air compressor for home garage, just using for tire, it well worth it.
A tire filled with optimal pressure levels delivers better performance as well as a comfortable ride. Thus it will lead to the overall control of the vehicle. Another key advantage that the proper tire pressure provides is trusted traction ensuring ideal surface area.
Conversely, over-inflated tires decrease the tire’s area results in reduced performance, cushioning the shocks and bumps. Finally, you will experience a bumpy ride and it will increase the repairing cost. So better if you filled the tire with proper pressure and enjoy a relaxing drive.
Is it ok to driving a vehicle with Low Tire Pressure?
Driving with low tire pressure will lower the fuel efficiency which is harmful to the vehicle. However, some people had to continue driving in this harsh condition due to the demand of the situation.
In case if you must drive in such a condition remembers the following things:
- Don’t drive long-distance and drive at low speed. Driving at a higher speed or going a long distance will cause tire failure.
- Don’t drive with excessive weight and better if you can remove unnecessary weight. Extra weight puts much stress on the tire especially when it’s under lower pressure.
So driving a car with a low-pressure tire is dangerous both for the rider and the vehicle. If you face this frustrating situation, find out the nearest gas station so you can inflate the tire.
Tips to use an air compressor for inflating tires
Many people make mistakes with flat tires or when inflate tires using an air compressor. To prevent unwanted danger remember the following tips:
- If there is an alternative way, don’t drive with a low tire pressure. It will not only cause wearing out the tire but also decrease the vehicle performance.
- Don’t under-inflate or over-inflate the tire to ensure consistent and long-lasting performance.
- Call for the experts if you don’t have enough knowledge or if you aren’t confident enough.
- Follow the vehicle’s manual setting strictly.
- Apply a pressure regulator to ensure the proper amount of compressed air.
- Check the compatibility of the compressor, valve, power source, vehicle tire, and other related parts.
- Always consider safety first.
FAQs on How to use an air compressor for tires
Which is the ideal PSI to set at the air compressor to fill tires?
Set the regulator with recommended pressure to inflate tires without bothering. Usually, a light truck or car tires need 35 PSI. But it will be better if you check the tire or the car’s door post to ensure the recommended specs.
How much time required for an air compressor to fill the tire?
It usually depends on the tire pressure. If the pressure is low about 5 or 6 psi it then the air compressor won’t take more than 30 seconds to fill the tire.
How to fill a tire using an air compressor at a gas station?
Drive up the air pump near the car and open the vehicle door. Now take the spout and Set the needed psi rating. Remove the air valve cap from the tire and attach the spout to the air valve and start filling. Once finished, remove the spout and attach the air valve cap.
How to check the air in tires?
You can check the air in tires by discharging the inflation lever. The tire gauge will also help you know about the existing amount of air in the tire.
Hope you got how to use an air compressor
Inflate the vehicle tire is a vital and most common task for a car owner which can be done easily using an air compressor. Rather than going to the gas station one can do it himself and save some penny however he should know how to use an air compressor for tires.
The step-by-step processes we have mentioned above will guide you to complete the job perfectly. Plus keep those crucial tips in mind to avoid mistakes and perform like a pro.
