Coin Air Machines

Coin and bill operated air machines are a great addition to high-volume businesses with a lot of vehicles passing through the lot. They’re useful to folks who don’t have an air compressor or pump at home but want to keep their tires at the proper pressure level. They’re also a welcome sight to drivers who find themselves in the unfortunate circumstance of having an unexpected flat or leaking tire.

For convenience stores and gas stations, air machines can be an easy revenue stream from regular customers who top off their tires while stopping for the products they already buy regularly. In other cases, free air machines are offered as a complimentary service to entice customers onto the lot, with the hope that they spend money on gas, drinks, and other goods.

Car washes are another key spot where air machines are used, often placed near self-serve bays or vacuum islands as a complementary service to the standard wash offerings.

Tough commercial air machines provide excellent profit and return on your investment with minimal service. Various models are available with different payment options and duty capabilities. They can be mounted on walls, or mounted on pedestals that allow you to place them just about anywhere you want on your lot. They have durable housings that stand up to the demand of frequent use in outdoor environments, plus quality inner components that ensure customers quickly inflate their tires and get back on the road safely.

What is an Air Machine?

Air machines are compact units with a compressor inside that quickly pushes air into tires and other inflatables. They are typically housed in a stainless steel cabinet and have a hose with an inflator affixed to the end. Most machines are powered by electric and include either a digital or analog pressure gauge. Air machines are commonly mounted on a pedestal base, but some units can be installed on walls.

Types of Air Machines

A pay air machine for tires includes a bill, coin, or credit card acceptor so customers can insert money to get air. If you have a coin operated air machine, it's a good idea to have a change machine nearby for customer convenience.
A free air machine has a push button of some type that turns the machine on and off. This is the type you choose when you want to offer air as a complimentary service or place it in a shop for employees to use.
Vac and air combo machines are convenient units that offer multiple services in one machine. Customers can fill their tires and vacuum their vehicle interior.
Air and water combo machines have the standard air line for tire filling, plus a low-pressure water line for quick vehicle cleaning or to fill radiators and windshield wiper fluid reservoirs.

See a selection of our multi-function machines here.

Installation of Air Machines

Here are some basic instructions regarding the installation of an air tire machine. Always consult the manual or data sheet provided with your air machine to get the most accurate, safe instructions.

Determine location to install the machine. The area should provide enough room for a vehicle to park without blocking other traffic on the property. Additionally, the area should be at least 20' away from gas pumps and fuel tanks.
Run an electrical service to the location you chose. Pay attention to the voltage and other electrical requirements of your air machine to make sure you run the proper wiring.
If you're using a pedestal, mount that first on a sturdy surface like concrete or asphalt. Drill out holes for bolts at least 4" into the surface. Position the pedestal and install bolts.
Next, mount the cabinet. If you're installing on a wall, drill your holes at least 4" into the wall. Open the cabinet door and align the cabinet with the holes and install bolts. If you're using a pedestal, open the cabinet door and align the cabinet to the base before bolting together. Always use two people to position the cabinet for safe, proper installation.
Make sure the electrical power is shut off, then connect the wiring inside the cabinet.

Maintenance of Machines to Put Air in Tires

An air for tires machine generally doesn't require much maintenance. Unless they're placed under abnormal stress, they can go long periods of time without needing work. If your air machine isn't working or is performing poorly, it's a good idea to check the electrical connection. If that's in good working order, your compressor may be failing. If you need a new compressor, hose, or other replacement part, check our air machine parts category to find what you need.