What Size Air Compressor Should I Use for the Cleaning Gun?

A cleaning gun is one of the most powerful car detailing tools, but to get the best performance, it must be paired with the right size air compressor. If your compressor is too weak, airflow will drop, and dirt won’t be effectively removed. Let’s look at the recommended specs.

Choosing the right size air compressor for a cleaning gun depends on several factors, primarily the air consumption requirements of the cleaning gun itself. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

Air Consumption of the Cleaning Gun: Check the specifications of your cleaning gun to find out its air consumption rate. This is typically measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or liters per minute (L/min). The compressor you choose should provide at least this amount of airflow to ensure proper operation.
Air Pressure Requirements: Ensure that the air compressor can supply the necessary pressure for your cleaning gun. Most cleaning guns operate effectively with a typical air pressure range of 60 to 90 psi (pounds per square inch).
Tank Size: While cleaning guns do not typically require a large tank size, having a small to medium-sized tank can help maintain consistent pressure and airflow, especially if you are using the cleaning gun intermittently.
Duty Cycle: Consider the duty cycle of the air compressor, which indicates the amount of time it can run continuously without overheating. For intermittent use with a cleaning gun, a compressor with a higher duty cycle (e.g., 50% or more) is preferable.
Portable vs. Stationary: Decide if you need a portable air compressor for mobility or if a stationary compressor will suffice for your cleaning tasks.

As a general rule of thumb, for most cleaning guns used in automotive detailing or household cleaning, a small to medium-sized portable air compressor with a tank size of around 20 to 30 gallons and a CFM rating matching or slightly exceeding the cleaning gun's requirements should be adequate. However, for industrial or heavy-duty applications, larger compressors with higher CFM ratings may be necessary.

Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for both the cleaning gun and the air compressor to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. If you're unsure, consulting with a knowledgeable supplier or professional can help you determine the best air compressor size for your specific cleaning gun and intended applications.

Key Air Compressor Requirements for Cleaning Guns

PSI (Pressure)

Most cleaning guns perform best at 70–110 PSI.
Below 70 PSI = weak cleaning performance.
Above 110 PSI = may damage delicate surfaces.

CFM (Airflow)

Cleaning guns require 4–6 CFM (cubic feet per minute).
Steady airflow ensures continuous cleaning without interruption.

Tank Size

Small Jobs / Occasional Use: 20–30 liters (5–8 gallons).
Professional Workshops: 50–100 liters (13–26 gallons).
Larger tanks = longer operation without frequent motor cycling.

Choosing the Right Compressor Setup

Mobile detailers: Lightweight 20–30L compressor for portability.
Car wash shops: 50L+ for multiple vehicles per day.
Heavy-duty professionals: 100L+ with stable PSI/CFM for uninterrupted work.

Why BrilliaTech Cleaning Guns Deliver Superior Performance

BrilliaTech’s detailing tools are engineered for maximum compatibility with professional compressors. Our advantages:

SGS Certified – Verified safety and reliability.
ISO Certified – Manufactured to strict global standards.
BSCI Certified – Ethical, responsible production.
Optimized Design – Works efficiently within 70–110 PSI and 4–6 CFM range.

With BrilliaTech, you get consistent airflow, durability, and cleaning power trusted by professional workshops worldwide.

FAQ – Air Compressors & Cleaning Guns

Q1: Can I use a small portable compressor?

Yes, but ensure it provides at least 4 CFM at 90 PSI for effective performance.

Q2: Does a bigger tank mean better cleaning?

Not directly, but it allows longer operation without pressure drops.

Q3: What happens if airflow is too low?

Cleaning efficiency decreases, and dirt may not be fully removed.

Q4: Are BrilliaTech cleaning guns compatible with all compressors?

Yes — as long as the compressor meets PSI and CFM requirements.

Final Thoughts

The ideal air compressor size for a cleaning gun is 4–6 CFM at 70–110 PSI, with a tank size suited to your usage needs. Smaller compressors are fine for light use, while larger tanks are better for professional detailing shops.

Paired with BrilliaTech’s SGS, ISO, and BSCI-certified cleaning guns, you’ll achieve professional-grade cleaning power with reliability and safety you can trust.