Craftsman 33 Gallon Portable Electric Air Compressor

Investing in a good air compressor can be a game-changer for anyone who frequently takes on DIY projects, auto repairs, or needs a reliable source of compressed air. I recently had the opportunity to test out Craftsman's 33 Gallon Portable Electric Air Compressor (model CMXECXM331), a model that promises a blend of portability, power, and convenience. Here's my comprehensive take on this tool.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Craftsman compressor gives off an impression of robust build quality. With a tank capacity of 33 gallons and a maximum pressure of 175 PSI, this unit is aimed at users who require high air volume and pressure for varied tasks such as tire inflation, painting, and powering air tools.

The compressor arrives equipped with an oil-free pump, which is a significant plus for those of us who want low-maintenance operation. The cold start capability down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit also caught my eye, suggesting that this unit is designed to work reliably in a variety of environments.

Setup and Portability

Setting up the compressor is straightforward. The instruction pamphlet is clear, and getting the unit up and running took me less than 15 minutes. One of the standout features is the portability. Despite its 109-pound weight, the hard rubber wheels make it relatively easy to move around the workshop or garage. However, I did find the lack of a proper handle to be a bit of a drawback. Lifting and maneuvering could definitely be more ergonomic.

Performance

When I first powered on the compressor, it was noticeably quieter compared to older models I’ve used. Craftsman claims a noise rating of 80.3 decibels, and this seems accurate. It’s not entirely silent, but the noise level is certainly manageable, especially if you're used to louder compressors.

The air delivery rate at 5.1 SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) at 90 PSI is decent. During my tests, the compressor handled various tasks efficiently. It powered my air tools with ease, and I managed to inflate my car tires in no time. One minor gripe, though, is the initial fill time. Filling the tank from empty to the maximum pressure of 175 PSI took about 15-20 minutes, which felt a bit slow.

Durability and Maintenance

The oil-free pump is a fantastic feature for those who want hassle-free maintenance. I found the compressor to be well-made, with sturdy components. However, one design flaw quickly became apparent: the tank’s water drain valve is positioned so low to the ground that accessing it is cumbersome. I had to get down on my hands and knees each time I needed to drain the tank, which is less than ideal.

Moreover, I experienced an air leak near the safety valve. While it’s something that can be fixed, it’s disappointing to encounter such issues out of the box. I also noticed that the regulator didn’t allow me to achieve the full 175 PSI, maxing out at around 150 PSI. This discrepancy could be problematic for tasks requiring higher pressure.

Features

The compressor comes with two high-flow quick couplers and a high-flow regulator, which are handy for switching between tools quickly. The auto shut-off feature works well, ensuring the unit doesn’t run unnecessarily once the desired pressure is achieved. However, the high-pitched whistle that accompanies the compressor’s operation can be quite annoying.

Conclusion

The Craftsman 33 Gallon Portable Electric Air Compressor offers a blend of impressive features and solid performance but falls short in a few critical areas. The oil-free pump and cold start capability make it a convenient choice for those who want low-maintenance operation in various environments. Its portability and relatively quiet operation enhance its usability, making it a suitable option for both hobbyists and more serious DIY enthusiasts.

However, the issues with air leaks and the regulator not reaching the stated maximum pressure are concerning. Additionally, the awkward positioning of the water drain valve and slow fill time are notable drawbacks.

Would I recommend this compressor? It depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a mid-range compressor with decent capabilities and can overlook some of its shortcomings, this Craftsman model could be a worthwhile investment. However, if you need a highly reliable and efficient unit for frequent use, you might want to explore other options. The mixed bag of benefits and issues makes it essential to weigh your priorities carefully before making a decision.