Choose Your Air Compressor Dealer

One of the best ways to ensure your satisfaction with your air compressor is to choose a dealer that is able to meet your specific needs. Air compressors vary in brand, type and function. Air compressors are also subjected to a great deal of wear and tear. These hearty machines can take on a lot of abuse and do require maintenance. This is why finding a dealer who knows the ins and outs of air compressors and stands behind their brand is crucial. You'll want to talk to at least three or four air compressor dealers before choosing a dealer.

When speaking to different air compressor dealers, there are certain questions you should ask to help you decide which representative will work best for you. Air compressors can be an expensive investment so you want to be sure you do your homework before choosing your air compressor dealer. Since air compressor dealers generally specialize in one specific brand, talking with multiple dealers will help you get to know the strengths of a wide variety of brands so you can find out which is right for you. It will also help you to figure out exactly what your needs you have so you can make an informed decision. When interviewing potential air compressor dealers, ask the following questions:

1. How long have you been in the business of selling air compressors?

How long an air compressor dealer has been in business can say a lot about the company. If one has been in selling air compressors for 10 or 20 years, they have obviously built a solid business. They will also likely be around in the future should you need any support for your purchase.

2. What percentage of your business is specifically focused on air compressors?

As with any purchase, buying from a speciality store versus a big-box chain store has its differences. Some box stores may carry air compressors as a convenience for their customers, but really they specialize in tools, supplies or other equipment. However, if air compressors are the main focus of the business, they likely have a better understanding of the systems and will be more helpful with specific questions. They will also likely be able to better assist you and your business should you need any maintenance or further assistance with your purchase.

If you are looking to purchase an air compressor for hobbies or woodworking activities, you can generally purchase a cheaper air compressor to meet your needs. This is when a box store may be a better choice. However, if you are only spending a couple hundred dollars, you should not expect long-term reliability or maintenance assistance. If this is your purpose for a air compressor, you should consider finding a cheap one on sale at a big-box chain. But do not expect much beyond basic warranty service.

3. Have you sold air compressors to any other businesses like mine?

Asking this question can give you insight into how well an air compressor dealer can help you with your specific needs. You can even ask the dealer to provide references that you can contact to learn more about their service and products. Your own personal industry contacts will probably be able to give you more insight than an air compressor dealer reference. Contact one to ask what they liked and did not like about their air compressor dealer.

4. How long have you sold specific brands of air compressors?

Many dealers specialize in selling one brand of air compressor. You will want to find out the strength of the manufacturer. Most manufacturers are well-established but may not specialize specifically in air compressors. Like big-box stores, they may only make a handful of air compressors but have the bulk of their business in another area. For the best service and product, look for those that sell a full like of air compressors.

5. Do you perform on-site repairs?

Find out about the air compressor dealers service by asking specific questions. Ask if they perform on-site repairs. Find out how much you will have to pay for any repairs? Will the air compressor dealer sell you a maintenance contract or sell you the parts to do the work yourself? Do you get to choose which option will work best for you? Ask how often the air compressor will need repairs and how prompt the dealer makes them. Does this dealer purchase air compressors from the same source? If so, how happy is the dealer with the manufacturer?

6. How many repair technicians do you have on staff?

Find out about the staff and if there are enough people available to meet your needs. Does the air compressor dealer have enough support and maintenance technician to assist you when you need service. Air compressors can be a big investment and crucial in your business operation. You need a well-trained and experienced staff that is able to protect and service your product.

7. What kind of maintenance do the air compressors require?

Talk to a dealer about different brands' reliability. Ask what kinds of problems do specific air compressors have. What is their average lifespan? How often do they break down? How much regular maintenance is required? Find out what is covered by your warranty and what you will need to pay for out-of-pocket. A standard warranty usually lasts for a year or so but will only cover mechanical failures. You may want to consider wear and tear issues and what they will costs to maintain. Find out about a maintenance contract, unless you have qualified techs on your staff. Like a car, you can prevent problems with scheduled maintenance, such as inspecting the air compressor and changing oil and filters.

Don't get overwhelmed! While looking into purchasing an air compressor, it is easy to be overwhelmed with information. Air compressors can be a big investment and an important part of your business. By taking the time to ask questions and choose the right air compressor, rather than just choosing the cheapest one, you will be far more happy with you purchase. It is important to figure out exactly what your needs are and to get those needs met. The best way to do this is to speak to multiple air compressor dealers and choose the one that offers you exactly the product and service you need.