Choosing how to handle compressed air in your shop often comes down to whether you need to improve the air coming out of an existing compressor or start with a bigger compressor package. This comparison looks at a dedicated 21 CFM Compressor Source refrigerated air dryer built for 5 HP compressors and a used 30 hp Atlas Copco rotary air compressor with dryers (model Z1-22). The right pick depends on your air volume, your current setup, and how much you want to spend. One is a bolt-on moisture fix; the other is a complete compressor package.
Quick Verdict
For a shop running a 5 HP compressor and dealing with moisture in the lines, the new Compressor Source refrigerated dryer is the lower-cost way to get dry air. It is priced at USD 999.95 and sized for up to 21 CFM. For higher-volume industrial work that needs a strong rotary compressor, the Atlas Copco Z1-22 gives you 30 hp of pumping power along with dryers, but it is a used unit and costs USD 2,900. If you already have the compressor, the dryer is the minimal investment. If you are starting from scratch with high demand, the Atlas Copco package jumps straight to that capacity.
Comparison at a Glance
| Product | Price | Type | Key Spec |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compressor Source 21 CFM Refrigerated Dryer | USD 999.95 | Refrigerated air dryer | 21 CFM, 110V, automatic drain |
| Atlas Copco Z1-22 Rotary Compressor with Dryers | USD 2,900.00 | Rotary compressor with dryers | 30 hp, used, horizontal |
Where Each Product Wins
Where the Compressor Source dryer wins: it is a new add-on for a compressor you already own, designed to handle up to 21 CFM. The refrigerated system uses R134a refrigerant, and the automatic timer drain cuts down on manual maintenance. The 1/2-inch NPT inlet and outlet make hookup straightforward for smaller compressors.
Where the Atlas Copco wins: it is a complete 30 hp stationary rotary compressor package that already includes dryers, for businesses that need more than just moisture removal. The horizontal orientation and electric operation suit a permanent industrial install, and it is built in the United States.
21 CFM Compressor Source Refrigerated Air Dryer
If you already have a 5 HP compressor, this refrigerated dryer is an easy add-on to wring moisture out of the air before it reaches your tools. The R134a refrigerant does the cooling work, and the included automatic timer drain and electronic dew point display with error codes keep maintenance simple. The 1/2-inch NPT inlet and outlet make hookup straightforward. Its clear limitation is capacity: it is rated for 21 CFM, so it is built for compressors that deliver up to that level, meaning it should be matched to a 5 HP or smaller unit. If your air demand is higher, you will outgrow this dryer quickly.
30 hp Atlas Copco Rotary Air Compressor with Dryers Z1-22
This is a full rotary compressor package from Atlas Copco, with the dryers already included, so it is a one-piece solution for a shop that needs substantial compressed air output. The 30 hp electric motor drives a stationary, horizontally oriented unit designed for medium-duty industrial use. It is a used machine, which is a significant factor: you are getting Atlas Copco engineering and the ability to run larger air-demand applications without needing a separate dryer purchase. The trade-off is that buying used means the unit has prior service life, so you should be comfortable with a pre-owned compressor in your facility. This makes more sense for an operation that already knows it needs 30 hp of air supply.
Final Choice by Use Case
If you are running a 5 HP compressor and moisture is a recurring problem, the Compressor Source 21 CFM refrigerated air dryer is the right tool at the lower price. It is a new, ready-to-install dryer with features designed to protect your tools from water damage. If you need a 30 hp rotary compressor and want dryers bundled into the same unit for an industrial install, the Atlas Copco Z1-22 is the stronger option despite being used. The decision comes down to whether you need a dryer for an existing compressor or a larger compressor package entirely.
