I’d go as far to say that air compressors are the unsung heroes of your RV adventures, ensuring your tires are adequately inflated for those long, scenic drives.
The thing is that navigating the world of RV tires and air compressors can be a bit difficult as the market is filled with contradictory information, particularly when you’re trying to find the correct size of air compressors to inflate RV tires.
So, here I’ll explore the roles, benefits, and applications of RV tires and air compressors. I’ll guide you through choosing the right size air compressor, provide usage tips, and even review some top picks.
So let’s get started.
Understanding RV Tires and The Role of Air Compressors
RV carry the weight of your vehicle, and their performance is directly tied to the safety and smoothness of your journey.
I’d even say that a well-maintained RV tires can make your trip more enjoyable and worry-free.
I’d also say that regularly checking your RV tire inflation pressure is essential, especially before embarking on a trip, and while you’re on the road.
This regular maintenance is not just about performance; it’s about safety as properly inflated tires are less likely to fail and can handle the load of your RV better.
They also contribute to better fuel efficiency, which can make a significant difference in your travel budget over time.
In that context, air compressors are responsible of making sure your RV’s tires are inflated to the correct pressure for optimal performance.
What Size Air Compressor To Inflate RV Tires?
When it comes to inflating RV tires, the size of the air compressor you need depends on several factors.
Let’s break it down into small, medium, and large-scale applications.
Occasional Use
For occasional use or smaller RV tires, a portable air compressor will suffice as they are compact, lightweight, and easy to carry around, making them perfect for occasional use or emergencies.
These compressors should have a CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating of at least 2 to 4, a PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) rating of between 30-60, and horsepower in the 2-5 range.
The gallon size should be around 4 gallons or higher.
Medium-Scale Applications
If you have standard-sized RV tires, which are typically either 22.5-inch or 24.5-inch, you’ll need an air compressor that can deliver at least 10 CFM at 90 PSI.
This size of compressor provides a good balance between portability and power, allowing you to inflate your tires quickly and efficiently without needing a large, bulky compressor.
Heavy-Duty Applications
For larger tires, such as those found on some Class A motorhomes or commercial trucks, you’ll need an air compressor that can deliver at least 15-20 CFM at 90 PSI.
These larger compressors can handle the extra volume of air needed to inflate larger tires and are typically more robust and durable.
Tips For Using Air Compressor For Inflating RV Tires
Inflating your RV tires is not just about hooking up your air compressor and filling them up, there are certain tips and tricks that can make the process easier, more efficient, and safer.
Pre-Inflation Checks
Before you even start inflating your tires, it’s important to check their current pressure.
Always check the pressure when the tires are cool, as driving heats up the tires and can give a false reading. Also, remember to check your tire pressure regularly, especially before embarking on any trips.
Check Correct PSI
When inflating your tires, it’s crucial to know the correct pressure for your specific RV tires.
Overinflating can lead to a blowout, while underinflating can cause the vehicle to pull to one side. If your tires require high pressure, ensure your air compressor can handle the task.
For instance, if your tires need 110 PSI, and your air compressor is currently at 105 PSI and not running, there is no way to get 110 PSI into your tire from a 105 PSI source. It will let air OUT of your tire instead!
Post-Inflation Checks
After inflating your tires, don’t forget to check the pressure again to ensure it’s at the correct level.
Also, keep an eye on your tires during your trip. Changes in altitude and temperature can affect tire pressure, so regular checks are necessary.
Remember, maintaining the correct tire pressure is not just about performance; it’s about safety. So, always take the time to ensure your tires are properly inflated before hitting the road.
Now that we’ve covered some tips for using an air compressor to inflate your RV tires, let’s move on to our next section where we’ll review one of the best air compressors for inflating RV tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pressure should compressor be for filling RV tires?
Typically, the pressure ranges between 80 to 90 PSI for most RVs.
However, it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the exact pressure needed. Over or under-inflation can lead to tire failure, so it’s essential to get this right. Always use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure accurate readings.
What do they fill RV tires with?
While most tires, including those on RVs, are filled with regular air, some people opt to fill their RV tires with nitrogen.
Nitrogen molecules are larger than oxygen molecules and are less permeable, meaning tires filled with nitrogen maintain their pressure longer. This can lead to less frequent need for inflation and potentially better fuel economy.
Are RV tires different than regular tires?
RV tires have a narrower tread width and thicker sidewalls than car tires. These thicker sidewalls are crucial for supporting the weight of the RV, a load that regular car tires are not designed to handle.
Therefore, even if the tire size seems to match, it’s not advisable to use regular car tires on an RV.