MRO Field Guide

LRSD 85 CFM vs Schulz ADS 20: Which Refrigerated Air Dryer Fits Your Compressor?

Comparing the $980 LRSD 85 CFM refrigerated air dryer for 15-20 HP compressors with the $1,381.80 Schulz ADS 20 for 5 HP systems. The LRSD wins on airflow and price; the Schulz wins on compact fit and electronic drain controls.

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Quick verdict

In the world of compressors, blowers, and air treatment, both the LRSD 85 CFM and the Schulz ADS 20 are new, non-cycling refrigerated dryers that pull moisture out of compressed air. They are built around very different compressor sizes, so the real question is matching the dryer to your air demand.

If you are running a 15 HP or 20 HP compressor and need a dryer that can handle roughly 85 CFM of airflow, the LRSD at $980.00 is the stronger numeric fit. If your system is built around a 5 HP compressor and you only need about 20 CFM at 100 PSI, the Schulz ADS 20 at $1,381.80 gives you a more compact package with an electronic controller and automatic drain valve.

Price and fit at a glance

ProductListed pricePrice barBest fit
LRSD 85 CFM Refrigerated Air Dryer$980.0015 HP | 20 HP compressors, 85 CFM
Schulz ADS 20 Refrigerated Air Dryer$1,381.805 HP max compressor, 20 CFM @ 100 PSI

The difference in listed prices is $401.80. The LRSD is the lower-priced option and the higher-capacity option.

Where the LRSD wins

The LRSD delivers more than four times the rated airflow of the Schulz: 85 CFM versus 20 CFM. It is positioned for 15 HP and 20 HP compressors, so it belongs on larger shop air systems. The maximum pressure spec is 145 psi, and the listing includes a 1-year warranty. For buyers who need volume, this is the product that lines up with higher-output compressors.

Where the Schulz ADS 20 wins

The Schulz ADS 20 is sized for compressors up to 5 HP and is rated for 20 CFM at 100 PSI. It is designed to match smaller compressor displacement, which can help avoid oversizing the dryer for a modest shop system. The unit includes an electronic controller with a digital display showing temperature and dew point, a timer-controlled automatic drain valve, and a temperature probe that regulates the condenser fan. The description calls it a compact non-cycling design with a quick-disconnect automatic drain valve. It also has a higher maximum input pressure spec of 220 PSI.

Product notes

LRSD 85 CFM Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer

LRSD 85CFM REFRIGERATED COMPRESSED AIR DRYER, 15HP & 20HP COMPRESSORS, 110V 60HZ

The LRSD is the right match for a higher-volume shop running 15 HP or 20 HP compressors. The 85 CFM airflow rating makes it the clear capacity pick between these two. The operating pressure range is listed at 102-145 psi, with an intake air temperature limit of 113°F. It runs on 110V/60Hz and uses R134a refrigerant. The listing also includes a 1-year warranty. The trade-off is that this is a much larger-capacity unit; if your compressor output is closer to the 5 HP range, this dryer is likely oversized for your needs.

Schulz ADS 20 Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer

Schulz ADS 20 Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer - 20 CFM, 115V

For a 5 HP compressor setup that only needs around 20 CFM, the Schulz ADS 20 is the more proportionate choice. The airflow rating is 20 CFM at 100 PSI, and the maximum compressor input rating is 5 HP. The electronic controller with digital display helps you monitor temperature and dew point, while the automatic drain valve operates on a timer and the condenser fan is regulated by a temperature probe. The description highlights a quick-disconnect automatic drain valve and a compact non-cycling design. The unit is made in Italy and carries a California Prop 65 warning about lead/chemicals. The higher list price buys you a smaller, control-rich package for lower-CFM systems.

Final choice by use case

Pick the LRSD 85 CFM if your compressor is in the 15-20 HP range and you need a dryer that can keep up with roughly 85 CFM of airflow.

Pick the Schulz ADS 20 if you are working with a 5 HP compressor and want a compact 20 CFM dryer with electronic monitoring and automatic drain controls.

Products in this article
LRSD 85CFM REFRIGERATED COMPRESSED AIR DRYERUSD 980.00View on eBaySchulz ADS 20 Refrigerated Compressed Air DryerUSD 1,381.80View on eBay
LRSD 85CFM REFRIGERATED COMPRESSED AIR DRYERUSD 980.00View on eBaySchulz ADS 20 Refrigerated Compressed Air DryerUSD 1,381.80View on eBay

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