If you‘re in the market for a new air compressor, you‘ve likely come across the Husky brand during your research, especially if you‘re a frequent shopper at The Home Depot. Husky has become one of the most popular and trusted names in air compressors and pneumatic tools in recent years. But who actually makes Husky air compressors behind the scenes?
In this in-depth guide, we‘ll take a closer look at the Husky brand, uncover the manufacturer behind their renowned lineup of air compressors, and provide expert insights to help you decide if a Husky is the right choice for your workshop or jobsite. Let‘s dive in!
The History of the Husky Brand
Husky has a rich history dating back nearly a century. The brand was founded in 1924 by Sigmund Mandl, a Czech immigrant to the United States. Originally named the Husky Wrench Company, Mandl started out making and selling a single product – a specialized wrench with a 1-3/16" jaw.
In the ensuing decades, Husky steadily expanded its product line to include a wide range of hand tools, but largely remained a professional-grade brand geared toward mechanics, contractors and other tradesmen. This began to change in 1992, when Husky entered into a partnership with The Home Depot to be the exclusive retailer of Husky hand tools.
This partnership gave Husky much broader exposure to DIY consumers and weekend warriors. Over time, the brand expanded into power tools, garage storage, air compressors and more. In 2011, Home Depot acquired the Husky brand outright, making it a subsidiary and growing it into the $1+ billion business it is today.
Who Manufactures Husky Air Compressors?
So who is the company working behind the scenes to produce Husky‘s top-rated air compressors? The answer is Campbell Hausfeld, a fellow American manufacturer of air compressors and pneumatic tools that is now a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway.
Campbell Hausfeld has been in the air compressor business for over 180 years, getting its start way back in 1836 making agricultural equipment. It produced its first air compressor in 1940 and quickly became an industry leader. Husky forged its manufacturing partnership with Campbell Hausfeld in the mid-1990s as it expanded its offerings into pneumatic tools and equipment.
The present day Campbell Hausfeld operates eight manufacturing facilities across the United States, China, India and Italy. While some Husky compressors are still assembled here in the U.S., the company has shifted more production overseas in recent years to take advantage of lower costs.
An easy way to tell if your Husky air compressor was made in America is to look for a "Made in the USA" label. But even if you don‘t see this label, it‘s likely that many of the major components, such as the motors, pumps and tanks, are domestically made before final assembly abroad. Both Husky and Campbell Hausfeld still pride themselves on the quality, durability and performance of their products regardless of origin.
Types of Husky Air Compressors
Husky offers one of the widest selections of air compressors on the market today, with a model to suit virtually every application, budget and user. Let‘s take a quick look at the various types of Husky air compressors you can find at The Home Depot:
Portable Air Compressors – These lightweight, compact units are ideal for home garages, small workshops and taking to the jobsite. Power output ranges from 0.8 HP to 1.8 HP. Tank sizes are typically 3 gallons or 6 gallons. Prices start around $100.
Hotdog Air Compressors – Named for their distinctive horizontal tank shape, these are a step up in size and power from portables. HP ratings run from 1.0 all the way up to 5.0, with tank capacities of 8 to 30 gallons. Expect to pay $300-$800. Great for heavier residential and light commercial use.
Vertical/Wheelbarrow Air Compressors – With 15 to 30 gallon tanks and up to 4.7 HP motors, these heavy duty compressors can handle demanding applications like running pneumatic tools, paint sprayers, impact wrenches and more. The upright or wheelbarrow-style tank designs provide stability and easier transport. Prices are in the $400-$1000+ range.
Stationary Air Compressors – For the highest CFM output and capacity, Husky‘s line of stationary electric and gas air compressors have you covered. Rugged cast iron pumps, 60 to 80 gallon tanks, and up to 14 HP deliver serious air power for professional, continuous use. Be prepared to make an investment of $1,000-$2,000+ for these top-of-the-line machines.
What Do Customers Think of Husky Air Compressors?
Husky air compressors continue to earn overwhelmingly positive reviews from both DIY and professional users. Homeowners and hobbyists frequently praise Husky‘s bang for the buck, citing the excellent performance, features and reliability they provide at very competitive price points compared to brands like DeWalt, Makita and Ingersoll Rand.
Contractors and tradesmen also rank Husky compressors highly for their solid construction, powerful output and durability. Many say they have relied on the same Husky for years of daily jobsite abuse. The portability of Husky‘s hotdog and wheelbarrow models is another big plus for pros.
No matter which type of user you are, Husky makes a compelling case with robust warranties backing their products. All compressors include a minimum 1-year limited warranty, with many extending to 2-3 years. Husky‘s higher-end models even come with a generous 4-year warranty. This demonstrates the confidence Campbell Hausfeld has in the quality of the compressors it builds for Husky.
Choosing the Right Husky Air Compressor
With such a wide array of options, selecting the ideal Husky compressor for your needs can seem daunting. Here are the key factors to consider when weighing your choices:
Portability – Will you be using your compressor in a fixed spot like a garage or shop, or do you need to move it around frequently? Porta
ble and hotdog models emphasize light weight and compact size for easier carrying. Stationary compressors are bulky but more powerful.
Power (HP) – The more air power your tools require, the higher HP rating you‘ll need from your compressor. Nailers, brad guns and airbrushes can get by with 1-2 HP, while sanders, grinders and paint sprayers generally call for 3+ HP.
Tank Size (Gallons) – Think about the duration of your average air tool usage. Quick, intermittent bursts (like nailing) are fine with a smaller tank that refills frequently. Sustained use (like sanding) requires a higher gallon tank for continuous operation without waiting.
PSI – Most air tools require 90-100 PSI (pounds per square inch) to operate properly. Verify that your compressor can provide sufficient pressure or you may find your tools underpowered. Note that higher PSI does not equate to higher air volume.
CFM – The CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating is vital because it measures the volume of air your compressor can supply to your tools. Grinders, sanders, and paint guns are particularly air-hungry and may need upwards of 6-9 CFM at 90 PSI. Always check your tool specs and err on the side of more CFM.
Noise Level – Will you be running your compressor indoors in a confined space? If so, pay close attention to the noise output, measured in decibels (dB). Anything above 80-85 dB can become annoying and even dangerous with prolonged exposure. Luckily, Husky offers many quiet-series compressors specifically engineered to keep the racket down.
Getting the Most Out of Your Husky Air Compressor
To enjoy peak performance and a long service life from your new Husky, be sure to follow these tips:
- Always break in your compressor properly as outlined in the owner‘s manual, which typically involves running it for 30-60 minutes with the tank drain valve open.
- Check and top off compressor oil daily (if your model is not oil-free). Only use the oil viscosity specified by Husky.
- Drain air tanks completely after each use to prevent moisture buildup and rust.
- Inspect air filters weekly and replace when dirty to maintain proper air intake.
- Keep your compressor clean and dust-free, especially the cooling fins on the pump.
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner‘s manual, which will include items like changing the oil, replacing filters, checking belts, and inspecting valves.
- Protect your compressor from the elements if it will be stored outside or in an unheated space. Extremely cold temperatures can cause issues with startup and operation.
- Use a regulator to dial in the exact PSI your tools require to prevent over-pressurization and premature wear.
-Invest in high quality, properly sized air hoses and fittings to minimize pressure drops and leaks.
The Bottom Line
Whether you‘re a professional contractor, serious DIYer, or casual hobbyist, Husky likely offers an air compressor that will fit your needs and budget. With Campbell Hausfeld‘s nearly two centuries of experience and manufacturing expertise behind them, Husky compressors deliver the performance, reliability and value that have made them a fixture in garages and on jobsites across America.
By choosing a Husky, you‘re getting a hardworking, well-designed machine backed by the unmatched convenience and customer support of The Home Depot. And with the wide selection available both in-store and online, you can bring home a Husky compressor and put it to work the very same day.
So if you‘re ready to step up your DIY game or knock out your next big project, head to The Home Depot and pick up a Husky air compressor. You‘ll be enjoying the benefits of air power in no time!
