FYI- Part of my moderator responsibility is to verify accuracy of statements. The comment of "stay away from the rotary vane compressors... they are very very loud, regardless of what some say. The Vertex Pond-Lyfe systems operate at about 48 db's at a distance of 15ft... they are quiet."
The Gast Manufacturing engineering department informed me that the standard Gast Rotary 0523 �hp sound db (decibles) is 55db at the compressor. The compressor used for the Pond-Lyfe (rocking or wobble piston) is also 55db at the compressor. Thus noise level is basically the same for both compressors although they produce a different type of sound. In fairness the older Gast Rotary vane 0523 pre 1980�s did not have a quiet running head on them thus they were noticeably noisier than the more recently produced rotary vane compressors (post ~1985).
Various styles of compressors have their benefits and specialty applications which is why they have several models. IMO rotary vanes are easier and quicker to rebuild than the rocking piston. I can rebuild 2 or 3 rotary vanes in the time it takes me to rebuild one rocking piston compressor. Each style of compressor has a useful life span for the air producing mechanism and motor bearings. Do your homework.
If time is money or you are 'unhandy', then consider buying buy a package system. If you have more time than money and are on a limited or small budget then explore DIY systems.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 03/25/15 09:20 AM.
