Can I use an air compressor outdoors in freezing temperatures?

Question

I need to do several days of outdoor work with a nail gun (framing/roofing a shed) in freezing temperatures this fall. I have an inexpensive oil-free 6 gallon Rigid compressor for the job. I can bring it indoors overnight, but will I have any issues using it in ~25 degree weather during the day?

Answer 1

Warning: speculation from first principles:

Compressing air produces a lot of heat, so I suspect the compressor would be fine if it starts at all, which it should. If there's a lot of humidity in the line and you don't have an air dryer, there might be an issue at the tools, for the reverse reason.

And again, if there's enough humidity to cause serious build-up of water in the tank that might eventually be an issue if it freezes and can't be drained until the tank warms back up.

But in most places winter air tends to be relatively dry anyway ..

Answer 2

Compressors vary, but my experience is that some compressors really don't like the cold. Storing warm overnight is good. Leaving it in the sun during the day probably helps. Running it regularly during the day (ie, drain/refill) might help. Definitely don't use an extension cord for power. Use extension hoses if you need distance. Yours is oil free, so I won't suggest an oil change, but for posterity, that might help others.

Answer 3

There should be no problem using that compressor in 25 degree weather. Let it run for a few minutes after start up to let it get up to operating temperature. It's air cooled so it will probably run better than it would at 90 degrees since it has a high temp reset cutout. Since the air could be more humid, you might have to drain the condensate more frequently than normal and remember to drain it at night in case to forget to bring it indoors.