As autumn’s chill sets in, protecting your sprinkler system from costly freeze damage becomes a top priority. Performing a proper blowout is the most effective method, but it requires an air compressor with the right combination of power, portability, and pressure. Choosing the wrong unit can lead to incomplete water evacuation or a frustratingly slow process.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best air compressors for the job. We’ve evaluated a range of models, from compact portable units perfect for a single home to powerful stationary compressors for professional landscapers. Our goal is to help you find the ideal compressor that delivers the necessary CFM and PSI to efficiently clear your lines and safeguard your irrigation investment through the winter.
Our Top Picks for Sprinkler Blowout Compressors
- DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon
- Metabo HPT Quiet Air Compressor, 1 Gallon
- DEWALT Air Compressor, 4-1/2 Gallon
- Bostitch 2-Tool and Compressor Combo Kit
- Senco PC1010 1-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
- 6 Gallon Pancake Air compressor, Max 150 PSI
- Craftsman Air Compressor, 10 Gallon
- Industrial Air 80 Gallon Two Stage Compressor
- Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
- NorthStar 30-Gallon Two-Stage Air Compressor
DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon
The DEWALT 6-Gallon Pancake Compressor is a popular and reliable choice for sprinkler blowouts. Its 165 max PSI provides the necessary pressure to push water out of sprinkler lines effectively. The 6-gallon tank offers a good balance of portability and air storage, allowing for a decent run time before the pump needs to kick in for recovery.
This model is built for convenience and durability. It features a high-efficiency motor designed for easy start-ups in cold weather, which is ideal for fall blowout conditions. With a noise level of 78.5 dBA, it operates quieter than many comparable models, making it a considerate option for residential neighborhoods.
Metabo HPT Quiet Air Compressor, 1 Gallon
If noise is a major concern, the Metabo HPT Quiet Air Compressor stands out with its ultra-quiet operation at only 59 dB. This is quiet enough to hold a normal conversation nearby, making it perfect for early morning or late evening work in noise-sensitive areas. Its compact 1-gallon size and lightweight design, at just over 25 pounds, make it incredibly easy to transport and store.
While the tank is smaller, its quick-recovery pump is designed to keep up with demand. It includes a universal quick coupler for fast tool changes and an integrated control panel for precise PSI adjustments, which is critical for safely performing a sprinkler blowout without damaging the system.
DEWALT Air Compressor, 4-1/2 Gallon
This DEWALT model offers a unique hand-carry design with wheels, blending portability with a robust air supply. With a high 225 PSI max tank pressure, it provides a significant amount of usable air, which can lead to longer cycles between pump run times during a blowout. This is a major advantage for efficiency.
The unit is built with a protective metal console panel that houses large, easy-to-read gauges and couplers. The high-flow coupler helps maximize air tool performance, ensuring you get a strong, consistent flow of air to your sprinkler lines. Its design is focused on both performance and user-friendly operation.
Bostitch 2-Tool and Compressor Combo Kit
The Bostitch Combo Kit is an excellent value, providing not only a capable 6-gallon compressor but also two useful pneumatic tools. The compressor itself delivers 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI, which is sufficient for sprinkler blowout duties. The oil-free, maintenance-free pump ensures easy upkeep and long life.
This kit is ideal for the homeowner who needs a compressor for seasonal blowouts but can also use it for other projects like nailing or stapling. The high-efficiency motor is designed for reliable starts in cold weather, and the 150 max PSI provides the pressure needed to clear water from your irrigation system effectively.
Senco PC1010 1-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
The Senco PC1010 is a classic “hot dog” style compressor known for its extreme portability and reliability. Weighing in at a light and compact form factor, it is effortless to carry around your property to different sprinkler zone connections. Its 1-gallon tank is paired with a pump that delivers consistent performance.
This compressor is a workhorse for finish nailers and is equally capable of handling the task of a sprinkler blowout for an average residential system. Its straightforward design and proven durability make it a trusted choice for professionals and DIYers who value a no-fuss, easy-to-transport air source.
6 Gallon Pancake Air compressor, Max 150 PSI
This 6-gallon pancake compressor offers a solid performance profile for sprinkler blowouts at a competitive point. It delivers 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI, providing the consistent airflow required for the job. The oil-free pump design means less maintenance and a readiness to work whenever you need it.
Built with a sturdy alloy steel structure, this unit is designed for durability and stability. It features a rubber-coated handle for comfortable carrying and non-slip feet to keep it secure during operation. Weighing only 27.6 pounds, it maintains a highly portable form factor without sacrificing tank capacity.
Craftsman Air Compressor, 10 Gallon
The Craftsman 10-Gallon Compressor steps up in capacity, making it a strong candidate for larger residential properties or for users who want to minimize pump cycle times. Its 175 max PSI and 4 CFM at 90 PSI provide a powerful and steady stream of air, which can speed up the blowout process significantly.
This model is versatile enough for a wide range of projects beyond sprinkler winterization. The oil-free, maintenance-free pump ensures long-term reliability with minimal upkeep. The larger tank means the compressor motor runs less frequently to maintain pressure, resulting in a more efficient and slightly quieter overall operation compared to smaller pancake models.
Industrial Air 80 Gallon Two Stage Compressor
For professional landscapers or those with very large, complex irrigation systems, the Industrial Air 80-Gallon Compressor is a powerhouse. This two-stage cast-iron unit delivers an impressive 17.0 CFM at 175 PSI, providing a massive volume of air that can handle multiple zones or large-diameter pipes with ease.
This is a stationary compressor built for a workshop or garage. Its heavy-duty, industrial design includes protection for the motor against voltage fluctuations, ensuring longevity and reliable operation. The 5.2-horsepower motor operating on 230 volts is made for continuous, demanding use.
Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
The Stealth 20-Gallon Compressor combines significant air capacity with remarkably quiet operation. At only 68 decibels, it is much quieter than standard compressors, reducing noise pollution during use. Its 150 PSI maximum pressure and 5 CFM at 90 PSI offer strong performance for sprinkler blowouts.
This model features a quick recovery time, meaning it can replenish its air supply rapidly to maintain consistent pressure. The oil-free pump ensures low maintenance, and the included wheels make moving this larger-capacity tank around a garage or workspace relatively simple. It’s an ideal balance of power, capacity, and quiet operation.
NorthStar 30-Gallon Two-Stage Air Compressor
The NorthStar 30-Gallon Two-Stage Compressor is a portable yet powerful solution for serious users. It bridges the gap between small portable units and large industrial stationary compressors. The two-stage pump and 30-gallon tank provide high CFM output and substantial air storage, allowing for extended run times on larger sprinkler systems.
Its portable design means you can move it to a job site, though it is substantially larger and heavier than the pancake compressors on this list. This compressor is built for demanding applications and is well-suited for professional contractors or homeowners with extensive irrigation needs who require a reliable, high-volume air source.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Air Compressor for Sprinkler Blowouts
Choosing the right air compressor for your sprinkler blowout isn’t just about grabbing the biggest one you see. I’ve learned that getting the wrong tool can mean a long, frustrating day and potentially even damage to your irrigation system. The key is to match the compressor’s capabilities to the specific demands of blowing out sprinkler lines. Let’s break down what really matters.
First and foremost, you need to think about CFM, or Cubic Feet per Minute. This is the volume of air the compressor can deliver, and it’s the single most important number for this job. For sprinkler blowouts, you typically need a compressor that can sustain at least 20 to 25 CFM. Why so much? You need a continuous, high-volume flow of air to push all the water out of the pipes and sprinkler heads effectively. A small, low-CFM compressor will just sputter and fail, leaving water in the lines to freeze and cause expensive cracks.
Next is PSI, or Pounds per Square Inch. This is the pressure. While CFM does the heavy lifting of moving the water volume, you still need adequate pressure. Most residential sprinkler systems are designed to handle water pressure between 40 and 80 PSI. You should never use more than 80 PSI of air pressure during a blowout, as higher pressures can damage the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads. A good compressor for this task will have a regulator that allows you to dial in the correct PSI and keep it steady.
The third major consideration is the type of compressor. For this job, you’re almost certainly looking at a tow-behind or a wheeled portable model. These are the only types that can produce the necessary sustained CFM. Small pancake or hot dog compressors are great for nail guns but are completely inadequate for blowing out a sprinkler system. You’ll also need to decide between gas-powered and electric. Gas-powered models offer complete portability, which is essential if your sprinkler valves are far from an outlet. Electric models are quieter but require a power source and a long, heavy-duty extension cord.
Finally, don’t forget the practical stuff. Look at the tank size. For blowouts, a large tank isn’t as critical as a high CFM, but it can help smooth out the air delivery. Check the horsepower (HP) of the motor, as this relates to its power and ability to generate the required CFM. Also, ensure it has standard fittings that will work with your sprinkler blowout adapter. Investing in the right air compressor for your sprinkler blowout will make this essential autumn chore faster, safer for your system, and far less of a headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my small 6-gallon pancake compressor to blow out my sprinklers?
I strongly advise against it. Those small, portable compressors are fantastic for powering tools like nailers, but they simply don’t produce the sustained Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) required to evacuate water from a sprinkler system. They’ll run continuously, overheat, and still not push the water out effectively, leaving trapped water that can freeze and destroy your pipes. You need a much larger, high-CFM unit specifically designed for this kind of volume-based work.
What PSI should I use when blowing out my sprinkler system?
This is a critical safety question. You should never exceed 80 PSI. Most residential systems are perfectly safe using air pressure between 40 and 80 PSI. I always recommend starting on the lower end and only increasing the pressure if necessary to clear the water. Using too high of a PSI is a primary cause of damage to sprinkler heads, plastic pipes, and valves. Always use a regulated air source and keep a close eye on the pressure gauge.
How do I connect the air compressor to my sprinkler system?
You don’t connect it directly to a sprinkler head. The proper way is to use a specialized sprinkler blowout adapter. You attach this adapter to your system’s mainline, usually at the blowout port located after the backflow preventer and before the zone valves. This allows you to push air through the entire system from a single, central point. You can find these inexpensive adapters at any irrigation or home improvement store.
Is it better to rent or buy an air compressor for a sprinkler blowout?
This depends on your situation. If you only have a small system and don’t mind the annual trip, renting a tow-behind compressor from a local equipment yard is a cost-effective choice. However, if you have a larger property, multiple systems, or simply value convenience, buying your own can be a great investment. Owning one means you can do the blowout on your own schedule and ensure the job is done correctly. For many homeowners, finding one of the best air compressors for sprinkler blowouts is a long-term solution that pays off.
Do I need to blow out each sprinkler zone individually?
Yes, absolutely. You must activate one zone at a time from your irrigation controller, just like you would for watering. Blow out the first zone until only a fine mist comes from the sprinkler heads, then move on to the next zone. Trying to blow out the entire system at once is ineffective and won’t build up enough pressure in any single zone to clear the water properly. Be patient and methodical for the best results.