Moisture in your compressed air lines can cause rust, tool wear, and poor paint finishes. If you're shopping for a dryer to clean up the air from your compressor, you're likely torn between going new or saving money on a used industrial unit. In this head-to-head, we're comparing the 21 CFM Compressor Source Refrigerated Air Dryer for 5 HP compressors at $999.95 against the Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 Compressed Air Dryer at $400.00.
Quick verdict: If you have a 5 HP compressor that delivers up to 21 CFM and you want a new dryer with automatic draining and a digital dew point readout, the Compressor Source unit is the more complete package. If your budget is tighter and you're comfortable with used gear, the Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 is a tested and working dryer for $599.95 less, but it comes with visible wear and only the items pictured.
Here's a quick look at the listed details:
| 21 CFM Compressor Source | Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $999.95 | $400.00 |
| Price indicator | ||
| Condition | New | Used |
| Brand | Compressor Source | Ingersoll-Rand |
| Known inclusions | Auto timer drain, electronic dew point display, 1/2" NPT inlet and outlet | Only items pictured |
Where the 21 CFM Compressor Source wins: It's new and comes with an automatic timer drain and an electronic display that shows dew point and error codes. It's rated for compressors delivering up to 21 CFM (typically 5 HP), has a max working pressure of 232 PSI, and uses 1/2" NPT ports for straightforward hookup. It runs on 110V and uses R134a refrigerant.
Where the Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 wins: It costs $400, which is $599.95 less than the other dryer. It's a used Ingersoll-Rand unit that has been tested and works. It shows signs of wear like scratches and scuffs. If you want an Ingersoll-Rand dryer without the higher price tag, this is the direct path.
21 CFM Compressor Source Refrigerated Air Dryer
Choose this dryer if you're running a 5 HP compressor and want a new unit with features that make maintenance easier. The automatic timer drain removes condensate without you having to remember to do it, and the electronic display gives you dew point and error codes at a glance. With a 21 CFM rating and a 232 PSI maximum working pressure, it's designed for compressors in that typical range. The 1/2" NPT inlet and outlet make it easy to fit into your existing air lines. On the downside, the $999.95 price is the higher of the two, and the product includes a California Prop 65 warning about chemicals. It's also a new unit, so there's no history of wear, but you're paying for that peace of mind.
Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 Compressed Air Dryer
If you want to spend less and don't mind a used component, the Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 is a way to get an Ingersoll-Rand dryer for $400. It has been tested and works, and it shows visible wear in the form of scratches and scuffs. Only the items pictured are included, so what you see is what you get. The big advantage is the $599.95 price difference compared to the 21 CFM dryer. The limitation is that this is a used unit, and its cosmetic condition means it may already have a history you can't fully know. If you're on a budget and okay with a scarred but functional dryer, this is a straightforward pick.
Final choice by use case: For a new, feature-rich dryer that's rated for a 5 HP compressor and includes an auto drain and dew point display, go with the 21 CFM Compressor Source Refrigerated Air Dryer. For a budget-conscious purchase where you're willing to accept used condition and limited included items, the Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 is the one to consider.
