FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can the Voltair run air tools?
The Voltair is capable of running a variety of air tools such as impact wrenches. A ½” impact wrench is a good match for this compressor.

How does the Voltair compare with gasoline powered air compressors?
We like to compare the Voltair to a 5.5hp gasoline air compressor with the added benefit of 25-30 additional psi. Most gasoline compressors pump up to 125psi where as the Voltair is set to shutoff at 150psi. Other benefits include the smaller size and its dependability to run in spite of rain or cold weather.

Does the Voltair have air tanks?
The Voltair is not shipped with air tanks, for the simple reason of not having the right size tank for your situation. We have designed a compact unit to be mounted in the bed of a pickup, and the air tank can be mounted out of the way, such as under the vehicle or under a toolbox, with only an air hose connecting the two.

Is the Voltair automatic?
Yes. The Voltair is run by a pressure switch. As long as the Voltair is hooked to a battery and the switch is on, the compressor is active. If the pressure drops below 135psi the compressor will kick on and pump the air storage tank to 150psi and then shutoff.

Is the motor similar to a starter motor?
No. A starter motor is an open wound motor, meaning that if you were to energize a starter without a load, it would spin at several thousand rpm, whereas the motor used in the Voltair is a permanent magnet motor with brushes. Thus, if you were to energize this motor without a load it will run at a consistent 1800 rpm. A starter motor is designed to run for short amounts of time, but the motor in the Voltair can be run for longer periods of time. See duty cycle below for how long the Voltair can run.

Does the Voltair have a duty-cycle?
Yes. The Voltair has a 78% duty cycle. This means that on an average day, the Voltair is capable of running 48 minutes per hour.

What kind of oil should be used in the Voltair?
Voltair, Inc. recommends using an ISO-40, non-detergent, synthetic compressor oil. Compressor oil is different than regular motor oil, in that it does not contain any detergents. The synthetic oil will allow you to use the same oil year round.

Can the Voltair be mounted in a toolbox?
Yes and no. Heat is a result of compressing air, so ventilation is always something that you need to be aware of. If you are going to put the Voltair in a box, such as a toolbox, you need to open the lid if you are going to run the compressor.

How long will this Voltair compressor last?
The first Voltair compressors were sold in 1990. Even today we get calls from our first original customers asking us this very same question. After 16 years of use, the only things replaced are a belt, solenoid, pressure switch, or compressor enclosure box. The two most expensive components pump and motor, when operated under the guidelines that we have set, should last at least 10 years.

What is the durability of the belt?
In 2005 we changed from using a B-belt to a flat timing belt. Since we made this change we have had few problems. The problems that we have had have been the result of a tool or other hard object being dropped in the enclosure, causing the fan to bend and tear the belt.