The DeWalt DWFP55130 Air Compressor is suitable for use in small shops and manufacturing plants, but it excels at home and garage DIY projects. It's a solid performing trim and finishing compressor that's lightweight and extremely portable. Not only does this compressor offer a very low noise output compared to its competitors, but it's also oil-free, and crafted by one of the leading power tool manufacturers in the world.
Air compressors are specially designed to power the pneumatic tools commonly found in workshops, construction sites, and garages. Our comprehensive review will discuss the performance, best features, maintenance, and shortcomings of this compressor. If you're looking for a portable, compact trim compressor that can easily tackle light to moderate jobs, the DeWalt DWFP55130 is definitely worth a look.
DeWalt DWFP55130 Air Compressor Review
[amazon box="B00HQYFZGM"]
Company Overview
DeWalt specializes in the woodworking, manufacturing, and construction industries and currently sells over 800 accessories and 200 power tools. This American-based company has seven other facilities across the US besides its headquarters in Baltimore, MD.
DeWalt is a trusted brand chosen by millions of professionals worldwide due to their solid focus on technology and innovation. The DeWalt company was founded by Raymond DeWalt in 1924 and has always excelled at providing quality industrial tools and excellent customer service since it's beginning.
Buyers know that they're getting a piece of equipment that's solidly constructed, durable, and high-performing when they choose DeWalt.
Specifications
- Tank Size: 2.5 gallons
- Pump Lubrication: Oil-free
- Pump Speed: 2,300 RPM
- Drive: Belt
- Amps: 8 amps
- Peak Horse Power: 1.1 Max HP
- Air Delivery @ 40 psi: 4.0 scfm
- Air Delivery @ 90 psi: 3.0 scfm
- Decibel Loudness: 71.5 dBA
- Weight: 36 pounds
Features
- Roll Cage
- Ball Valve Drain
- Two Universal Air Couplers
Watch the Video
Design of the DeWalt Air Compressor for Trim
When purchasing an air compressor there are a few critical design features you should consider. We'll cover the DeWalt DWFP55130 features here, but we also recommend reading our air compressor's buyers guide for a deeper dive into how to purchase an air compressor.
Motor
The electric motor for the DeWalt DWFP55130 is encased in a roll cage for extra protection, and it uses only 12 amps, which makes it very easy to start. It also reduces breaker tripping and can generate enough power to use around the house. This air compressor has a low dBA of 71.5, which makes it quieter than many other compressors on the market.
The DWFP55130's motor automatically comes on when the pressure in the air tank drops lower than 165 PSI. It also stops once the pressure reaches 200 PSI, and this particular unit operates on 110-120v voltage, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor projects.
Pump
The oil-free pump speed of the DeWalt DWFP55130 is 2300 rpm. This is partially why it's so portable and doesn't make much noise when in use. The pump requires close to two minutes to fill at start-up, but it cycles relatively quickly when it's already in use.
There are two standard size 1/4-inch quick connectors, which means you can operate two tools at the same time. However, as with any air compressor, you'll want to pay attention of overloading.
Tank
The DeWalt Air Compressor has a tank capacity of 2.5 gallons, which is a bit small for a compressor, but the smaller size makes the unit extremely portable. That being said, this is a great size for a trim compressor, making it ideal for tasks such as stapling and nailing.
For a unit of this caliber, 200 PSI is really quite impressive, and you'll get more shots of air from your compressor before it has a cycle to recharge the tank.
Safety Features
This unit hosts many safety features to give you even more value from the purchase outside of its performance. On the compressor, there's a safety valve that pops out to relieve the pressure that's built up inside the air tank in the instance that the unit doesn't shut-off at the pre-programmed pressure cut-off setting.
Additionally, a thermal overload protector is installed to help prevent the motor from overheating due to excessive use. It functions by automatically stopping the power supplied to the motor if the internal operating temperature goes higher than the indicated safety level. The DWFP55130 also has a built-in cooling fan that delivers forced air into the electric motor.
You'll even find a rubber protector over the top of the power switch, which is useful for the prevention of dust and moisture into the compressor.
Maintenance
One of the best features of the DeWalt Air Compressor is that it's oil-free. As it relates to maintenance, the upkeep is minimal, which isn't the case when you have a compressor that needs to be lubricated. There's no need to add oil or change it out on a regular basis with the DWFP55130.
The only responsibility you'll have to keep your unit in top shape is to clean it regularly to prevent dust buildup, which could become damaging to the parts. Other than that, you should check the safety valve before every use and drain the tank after each use.
This is important because it'll prevent a buildup of moisture which could eventually lead to an air leak. You can drain the tank from the ball joint valve, which is located at the bottom of the unit.
Performance
If you're looking for an air compressor that can stand up to heavy-duty use or complete projects that require lots of work, this won't be the compressor for you. However, it's a great trim compressor and it's lightweight design makes it a perfect fit for families who enjoy fixing things around the house and engaging in various DIY projects.
The DeWalt DWFP55130 Air Compressor is a solid performing compressor that has many satisfied owners. It's ideal for small trim jobs with a brad nailer, a framing nailer, or a pneumatic stapler. You can even use this compressor with a tire inflator or another small nail tool used for interior design.
Like many other compressors in this category, the DeWalt DWFP55130 air compressor has a 50% duty cycle, which indicates that the motor shouldn't be in use for more than 30 minutes of each hour.
DeWalt Air Compressor
Model DWFP55130
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a solid unit that would be a great choice if you're looking for a trim air compressor, especially if portability, durability and quality is important to you. It's well-built and rivals some of the more expensive compressors in it's category.
The quiet operation of the DeWalt DWFP55130 makes it perfect for home use. If you're looking for a reliable compressor that's a good match for light amateur or semi-professional work this air compressor delivers.
If you want a little more horsepower, you may want to consider the Rolair FC2002 Twin Stack Compressor with Overload Protection. It's high-powered, has a high tank capacity, and is still relatively quiet.
Pros
- Features an oil-free pump which allows for minimal maintenance effort
- Operates at only 71.5 dBA, which makes it very quiet when in use
- Motor only requires 12 amps at full power, which makes start-up easy and reduces the possibly of tripping a breaker
- Very compact and portable, weighing only 36 pounds with a width of 12.5 inches. It's easy to carry and store around the house
Cons
- Only has a 2.5-gallon tank capacity
- Not very versatile. It's only suited toward home use and light DIY projects
[amazon box="B07Y2WSG9J,B00UHNM41S,B084GYHQFY" grid="3"]