A DeVilbiss air compressor typically costs $50-$900 on the U.S. used market, with many portable models selling for $100-$300 and larger stationary units priced higher. Price depends on tank size, horsepower, condition, local availability, and whether the compressor is sold tested or with a warranty; comparable new compressors can cost $150-$1,200 or more.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Used portable DeVilbiss compressor | $50 | $175 | $400 | Small tank, working condition; local pickup common |
| Used stationary DeVilbiss compressor | $200 | $500 | $900 | Larger tank or higher output; condition and phase matter |
| Refurbished compressor | $250 | $600 | $1,200 | Price depends on testing, parts, and seller warranty |
| Comparable new compressor | $150 | $450 | $1,200+ | Current alternatives vary by tank, airflow, and duty cycle |
What DeVilbiss compressor buyers usually pay
DeVilbiss-branded compressors are often found through used-equipment listings, auctions, and resale shops rather than a consistent current retail lineup. A small portable unit with a 2- to 6-gallon tank commonly lists for $75-$250; larger 20- to 60-gallon models may bring $250-$900 when the motor, pump, and tank are in usable condition.
For a common working portable unit, a practical budget is about $100-$300 before any repairs or delivery. A tested machine with a clean tank, complete regulator, and operating pressure switch can command more than an untested “as-is” listing. Age alone does not determine value: model-specific parts availability and verified performance can matter more.
Used listings are often negotiated prices, and local supply can be thin. The asking price may not include sales tax, pickup, or a replacement hose and fittings. For comparison, a new compressor with similar capacity and airflow often costs $150-$500 for portable use, while shop-size units can reach $1,200 or higher.
Assumptions: U.S. private-sale pricing, ordinary working condition, no major tank corrosion, and buyer pickup.
How pump, motor, and tank costs shape a quote
A used compressor’s price reflects more than the tank. A seller’s asking price may include a working pump and motor, but accessories, delivery, and repair risk can change the buyer’s actual outlay. The ranges below are typical budget allowances, not guaranteed line-item charges.
| Cost item | Low | Average | High | What changes the price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Used compressor base | $50 | $250 | $900 | Tank size, output, brand condition, and testing |
| Hose, regulator, fittings | $20 | $60 | $150 | Length, connector type, and pressure rating |
| Pickup or local delivery | $0 | $50 | $200 | Distance, weight, loading help, and stairs |
| Basic service parts | $15 | $50 | $140 | Air filter, belt, oil, drain valve, or unloader |
| Shop diagnosis or repair labor | $75 | $150 | $350 | Fault, access, parts availability, and shop minimum |
Accessories and transport can add $20-$200 even when the compressor itself appears inexpensive. A complete, tested unit may be a better value than a cheaper machine missing its regulator or belt guard. For an older model, confirm the exact part number before budgeting for a repair because replacement parts may be discontinued or sold through specialty suppliers.
Repair labor varies by shop and region. A simple inspection or small adjustment may fit a one-hour minimum, while diagnosing a pump or electrical fault can take longer. At a typical $75-$125 per hour, two hours of work adds $150-$250 before parts.
Tank size and airflow move DeVilbiss prices
Tank capacity is an easy comparison point, but airflow at a stated pressure is more useful for tools. A small 2- to 6-gallon portable compressor suits intermittent inflation and light stapling; a 20- to 30-gallon model generally costs more and can support longer use, subject to its pump output. Larger tanks alone do not guarantee adequate CFM for an air-hungry tool.
Compare delivered CFM at 90 PSI, not just horsepower or tank gallons. A compressor rated below about 4 CFM at 90 PSI may struggle with many impact wrenches or continuous sanding. Tools requiring 5-8 CFM or more can push buyers toward larger two-stage or shop compressors, which usually cost more and may require a dedicated electrical circuit.
Motor configuration can create a substantial price gap. A 120-volt, single-stage portable unit is easier to place and often cheaper to operate; a 230-volt stationary model may deliver higher output but needs compatible wiring. If the motor is single-phase or three-phase, verify that the site can power it before paying a premium for a larger machine.
Condition thresholds also matter. A tank with visible deep rust, leakage, or uncertain inspection history can be a safety concern and may have little resale value. A compressor that reaches its rated shutoff pressure, restarts normally, and holds pressure is generally more valuable than one that merely turns on.
Used DeVilbiss versus a new comparable compressor
A used DeVilbiss can cost less than a new unit when the buyer needs occasional air and can inspect the machine in person. A tested portable model at $150-$250 may undercut a new compressor with similar basic capacity. However, a new unit typically includes a manufacturer warranty and current parts support, which can offset a higher purchase price for frequent use.
For daily shop use, compare total ownership expense rather than purchase price alone. If an older compressor needs a $200 repair and a $75 pickup, its apparent bargain may approach the price of a new entry-level model. Conversely, a well-maintained stationary compressor with strong airflow may justify $400-$900 when a new equivalent costs substantially more.
Check the seller’s return terms and ask for a cold-start demonstration. Listen for knocking, excessive vibration, or repeated breaker trips, and watch whether the unit reaches pressure without unusually long run time. A seller who cannot demonstrate operation should price the compressor as an unknown-condition project, not as a tested machine.
Regional listings vary with delivery and shop demand
Used compressor prices tend to be higher in dense metro areas where small shops and contractors compete for equipment, while rural buyers may find lower asking prices but face longer pickup trips. A reasonable planning allowance is about 10%-20% above a national used-market estimate in high-demand urban areas and 5%-15% below it in less competitive areas; individual listings can differ widely.
Freight and loading can erase a low rural asking price. Moving a 60-gallon compressor may require a trailer, lifting equipment, or paid delivery, adding $75-$300 depending on distance and access. Portable models usually avoid much of this expense, although a local delivery minimum may still apply.
Sales tax depends on the buyer’s state and purchase channel. Online marketplace purchases may also include platform fees or shipping, while private local sales may require the buyer to handle applicable tax reporting. Ask for the final out-the-door amount before comparing a listing with a retail alternative.
Repair labor and common parts change the bargain
Basic maintenance may include fresh compressor oil, a filter, belt adjustment, or a drain-valve replacement. Parts can cost roughly $15-$140 depending on the item and model. A pressure switch or unloader repair can raise the bill, and a pump rebuild may cost enough to make replacement more economical on a small portable unit.
Get a written diagnosis before authorizing major pump work on an older compressor. Small repairs may total $75-$200 including labor, while more involved electrical or pump repairs can reach $250-$600 or more. These ranges vary because some legacy DeVilbiss parts are readily available and others require substitutes or specialist sourcing.
Do not treat a leaking or badly corroded tank as a routine repair. Tank replacement can be expensive relative to the compressor’s value, and welding a pressure vessel is not a safe budget fix. If a shop identifies tank damage, compare the cost of a complete replacement compressor rather than planning around a patch.
Three purchase scenarios for a realistic budget
These examples show how condition and scope alter the total. They represent plausible local-market budgets, not fixed prices for a specific model. Tax and major electrical upgrades are excluded unless noted.
| Scenario | Equipment price | Other costs | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portable 6-gallon unit, tested | $125-$225 | $20-$60 for hose or fittings | $145-$285 |
| 30-gallon unit, needs service | $250-$450 | $100-$250 for service and pickup | $350-$700 |
| 60-gallon shop unit, tested and delivered | $450-$800 | $100-$300 delivery or loading | $550-$1,100 |
The lowest equipment price is not always the lowest total price. In the 30-gallon example, a slow fill rate or failing pressure switch could move the final bill above the tested-unit range. Ask for the model number, tank capacity, voltage, and measured shutoff pressure so that quotes can be compared on the same basis.
Keep the DeVilbiss purchase price under control
Set a ceiling for the complete purchase, including transport, parts, and tax, before negotiating. For a portable compressor, it may be sensible to reserve $50-$150 for missing fittings or basic service. For a stationary unit, reserve more for delivery and electrical compatibility, then avoid paying a premium until the seller proves the compressor works.
Buy only the capacity required by the tools and duty cycle. A larger tank or motor can add cost, weight, and electrical demands without improving results for occasional inflation. Use the tool manufacturer’s CFM requirement at operating pressure as the minimum comparison point, then allow a margin if several tools will run together.
Request a cold start, pressure build-up, and restart demonstration when possible. Check the tank drain for water and rust, inspect the cord or wiring, and confirm the safety relief valve and pressure gauge are present. A brief inspection can reduce the odds of accepting a machine that needs immediate shop work.
Compare at least three listings with similar tank size, voltage, and airflow. Ask whether the quoted price includes accessories, a warranty, delivery, and a return window. A seller’s small price reduction may be less valuable than a documented test or a short written guarantee, especially for a compressor that cannot be returned easily.