DeWalt Vertical Stationary Electric Air Compressor (60 gal)

When I first laid my hands on the DeWalt Vertical Stationary Electric Air Compressor (model DXCMLA3706056), I was filled with anticipation. DeWalt, a brand synonymous with reliability and performance, had a lot to live up to with this piece of equipment. However, my experience with this compressor has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, leaving me with mixed feelings.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the compressor looks robust and well-built, with its iconic yellow finish that DeWalt is known for. The 60-gallon ASME air receiver is quite substantial, promising extended run times for various air tools. The unit stands tall and commands a presence in any workshop. However, upon closer inspection, some design choices left me questioning its durability.

The compressor features a plastic guard which, in my opinion, feels somewhat flimsy compared to the metal guards found on other models. The overall finish is matte, which, while aesthetically pleasing, tends to attract dirt and is harder to clean. These might seem like minor issues, but they contribute to an overall impression of cost-cutting.

Performance

On paper, the performance specs are impressive: 13.4 CFM at 40 PSI and 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI, with a maximum pressure of 155 PSI. This should be more than adequate for most home and light commercial applications. The compressor comes pre-filled with synthetic oil, which is a nice touch, aiming to improve performance and longevity.

During the initial break-in period, the compressor ran smoothly and filled up the tank relatively quickly. However, as I started to put it through its paces with various air tools, issues began to surface. The compressor is quite noisy, registering 83 dB, which is louder than I expected for a stationary unit. This can be a significant drawback if you're working in a residential area or a small workshop where noise levels are a concern.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is where my experience took a nosedive. Within a few months of intermittent use, I encountered several issues. The pressure switch failed multiple times, which is frustrating because it's a critical component for safe operation. I had to replace it twice within the first year, and sourcing the part was neither easy nor cheap.

Another major issue was the motor. After about a year of light use, the motor started making a loud clanking noise and eventually blew out, emitting smoke. This was a catastrophic failure that rendered the compressor unusable. Given that this unit is marketed as a commercial-grade product, such failures are unacceptable.

Customer Support

Dealing with customer support was another ordeal. While DeWalt has a generally good reputation, the support for this particular unit was subpar. Getting through to a representative was challenging, and when I did, the solutions offered were less than satisfactory. Replacement parts took weeks to arrive, and in some cases, the wrong parts were sent. This added to the downtime and frustration.

Ease of Setup

Setting up the compressor was relatively straightforward, but it does require some knowledge of electrical wiring since it operates on 240V. The manual, however, left much to be desired. It lacked detailed instructions on wiring and plumbing, which could be a hurdle for someone not familiar with such setups. I had to consult additional resources to ensure everything was correctly installed.

Pros

• Large Tank: The 60-gallon tank is a significant advantage, providing extended run times for various tools.
• Synthetic Oil: Pre-filled with synthetic oil, which is supposed to enhance performance and longevity.
• Pressure Gauge and On/Off Switch: Conveniently located and easy to read.

Cons

• Durability Issues: Multiple component failures, including the pressure switch and motor, within a short period.
• Noisy: At 83 dB, it is louder than many other compressors in its class.
• Poor Customer Support: Difficulty in getting timely and effective support from DeWalt.
• Flimsy Components: Plastic guard and other parts feel cheaply made, detracting from the overall build quality.
• Lack of Detailed Instructions: The manual is not comprehensive, making setup more challenging than it should be.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the DeWalt Vertical Stationary Electric Air Compressor has the potential to be a solid performer, but it falls short in several critical areas. The design and initial performance are promising, but the durability and reliability issues are significant drawbacks. The lack of robust customer support further exacerbates these problems.

Would I recommend this compressor? Unfortunately, no. The frequent component failures and poor customer support make it a risky investment. For those looking for a reliable air compressor in this price range, I would suggest exploring other brands or models that have a proven track record of durability and better customer service. DeWalt has a stellar reputation for many of its tools, but this compressor does not live up to the brand's high standards.