DeWalt has some top-of-the-line air compressors, and its d55146 is one of them.
This compressor has remained a target of critique for a long time.
Some users claim it to be the best version of air compressors until now. In contrast, a few deny this statement.
So, today we are here with the DeWalt d55146 review.
We’ll analyze each feature of this air compressor under the facts of light.
Also, we’d mention whom it is good for to ease your buying decision.
Up for review? Let’s get started.
Dewalt d55146 Review – Feature Analysis with Facts
Motor
A 1.6 horsepower motor backs the electric-powered unit. This potential of the motor makes it worthwhile. Unlike other compressors for framing nailers, it has a brushed motor. However, that makes no difference in its performance.
Considering the environmental pollution and dirt, the manufacturers have cased it into plastic. It is also integrated with Efficient High-Pressure Technology (EHP), which multiplies the lifetime of this air compressor.
Maximum Pressure
Since the maximum pressure of the Dewalt air compressor is 225 PSI, you can operate it at different pressures. There’s a regulator on the face of the compressor with a + and – sign. Use it to set it on your desired pressure to work with multiple nailers or air guns.
At 90 PSI, it gives off 5.0 SCFM. This power is sufficient enough to power the torque wrench and air nailer simultaneously.
Tank Size
The tank of this compressor is 4.5 gallons. It may not be able to help with the heavy-duty chores, but it’s worth it to pair with small air tools like nail guns. The tank is also mounted stable.
Besides the tank’s sleek adjustment, one flaw we noticed with the design is the placement of the drain valve. It is located at the back of the tank so getting the moisture out is quite challenging. If left with the water inside, the motor may fail.
Avoid doing drainage in both horizontal and vertical positions. Do it at the angle of 46 degrees for convenient drainage. That said, you need to prop up the unit, and we believe it isn’t practical.
Recovery Time and Maintenance
Just in 1.5 minutes, the air compressor reaches its maximum pressure. It has fast recovery times and keeps you from waiting so long. So, it will definitely satisfy you if you don’t appreciate waiting for long on the job site.
Another piece of good news with this DeWalt compressor is the maintenance. It is an oil-free air compressor that doesn’t need regular checkups. Even after the snowfalls, it demands no extra care.
Noise Level
At 78 dB, although it’s under the safe range for ears, it’s still loud. So, this might be a problem if you live in a society where loud noise is restricted. Out there are air compressors from California Air tools and Craftsman that produce very low noise and are equally compatible.
California Air Tools CAT-4610AC 4.6 gallon produces 60 dB of sound, for example. While CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K 6 gallon tank gives off 71 dB noise which is very easy on the ears.
Weight and Portability
The weight of this air compressor is 83 pounds. Again, the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC is better here at 45.5 pounds. However, the model of California air tools is stationary, while this one comes with sturdy wheels.
These wheels make maneuvering easy, so you can conveniently shift it from one job site to another. And, not to forget, you can hold its telescopic handle to drag it behind.
Measuring 33.5 x 23 x 15 inches, it’s the best option to have if you are running short on space. It stands upright and consumes very little space, which makes it convenient to store.
Best Operable With
There are two couplers in the air compressor. Fortunately, both of them are universal. That means you can plug it with any framing or roofing nailers.
Other than that, you can operate it with finish sprayers and chipping tools, and it will be perfectly fine. Thinking about the air ratchet or impact wrenches? Yes, the unit can handle that too. However, ½ inch impact wrench would be the best to go for.
Warranty
In terms of warranty, DeWalt is better than many air compressor suppliers in the market. However, its policies on Amazon differ from that of the original website.
When you buy a DeWalt air compressor from Amazon, all you get is one year warranty with one year of free service. While on the official website, it’s backed with three years warranty, one-year of free service, and 90 days refund policy.
- 225 PSI max tank storage pressure provides a user with 80% more usable air than the industry leader.
- 5.0 SCFM at 90 PSI allows the compressor to recover quickly after its initial tank charge is exhausted
- vertical stand feature and collapsible handle allows a user to save space by transporting or storing the compressor in a vertical position
- 78 dBA operational noise level for a quieter work environment
Customer’s Opinion of Dewalt d55146
Most customers give DeWalt d55146 a thumbs up for portability, maneuverability, storage, tank size, and power. After working with several air tools, they were satisfied with the outcome it gave.
For them, it worked like a charm, and a few of them felt other air compressors couldn’t beat its performance. No one commented negatively on the recovery time of more than 2 minutes. That proves the reliability of this air compressor over others.
When it comes to outlet panels or gauges, the unit is extremely good. The outlets are simpler to push along, and the regulator runs smooth. That means it’s easy to operate.
About the cord, Dewalt air compressor reviews recommend having an extension. A 15 amp extension cord is suggested, by the way. Otherwise, you may have to position the air compressor next to the outlet.
Being a self-standing design, the customers having small or packed spaces are happy. They credit the sturdy wheel design that holds the heavy load of the tank upright. Traveling with the unit is also convenient as the handle is telescopic.
One common complaint is about the drain valve position. Instead bottom, the valve is located at the back of the tank. Ultimately, the drainage turns out challenging this way.
Previously, there were issues recorded with the leaks around the regulator. But it’s been a long time now. We haven’t heard of such issues these days, and it appears as if manufacturers have fixed them.
Why Should You Have Dewalt d55146?
There are reasons you buy an air compressor. Particularly, there are reasons you should buy the DeWalt d55146 air compressor. Check them out here to make an informed decision.
Multi-Tasker
Dewalt d55146 is one of the best air compressors for framing nailers. Not only framing nailer, but it also gets the job done with the roofing nailer. Having it could be your best decision if you have a regular job with these.
If you have a hose, air chuck, and gauge, you can even inflate your vehicle tires with it.
Portability & Easy Operations
One strong reason to have it is its portability and ease of operation. You can maneuver the tank easily here and there since a sturdy handle and wheels are installed. Also, it has two couplers allowing you to operate two guns at a time and wrap up your job quickly.
Low Maintenance
As an oil-free air compressor, it allows you to stay carefree. Nothing could be better to have if you don’t want to add another duty to your life.
Warranty
With three years warranty, it’s quite a reliable deal available in the market for air compressors. It consents you to buy it freely, and rest assured that the manufacturers have your back.
Durable
The unit holds the weight of the compressor pretty well. From its gauges to the regulator, wheels to handles, everything is a plus. Betting the bucks in the Dewalt 4.5 gallon air compressor means getting durability.
Why Should You Avoid Dewalt d55146?
Backed with a 1.6 horsepower motor and the highest pressure of 225 PSI, Dewalt performs really well. Your job may not welcome it the most, though, for many reasons.
For instance, if you can’t bear plenty of noise and want a silent unit. Another reason is the drain valve. It demands additional energy and a correct angle for draining. Other than these, there’s no reason to avoid it.
- Two couplers
- Crystal clear gauge
- Operable with multiple air tools
- Sufficient tank size
- Telescopic handles
- Sturdy and inflated wheels
- Quick recovery
- Sturdy motor
- Save space
- Stands upright
- Asks for low maintenance
- Position of the drain valve
- A bit noisy
Our Verdict
There we end Dewalt d55146 review. This 4.5-gallon air compressor has a good enough tank size for small jobs. Being oil-free, it allows you to stay stress-free for maintenance, despite the weather. Thanks to its sturdy wheels and telescopic handles, you can easily move it around.
It is good for framing nailers and is one of the best air compressors for roofing nailers, impact wrenches, and air ratchets. Coming with two universal couplers, it gets your job done with ease and in no time.
We also admire its standing upright, tank size, and maximum pressure. The motor also backs up strong with very little recovery time. Must say, DeWalt offers quite good warranties on their air compressors.
So, check out the price of this compressor on this date and availability now.
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