Moisture in compressed air can cause rust, clogged tools, and ruined finishes. The fix is a refrigerated air dryer, but choosing the wrong one means either paying for capacity you don't need or ending up with moisture still reaching your tools. These four options cover a wide range: a used unit at $400, two new SCHULZ dryers, and a high-CFM LRSD model. The key is matching the dryer's airflow and compressor HP rating to your actual system. The price spread alone is enough to make this a decision worth slowing down for.
Quick take
- Highest airflow: LRSD 85CFM Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer
- Complete kit option from SCHULZ
- Compact high-pressure option: Schulz ADS 20
- Lowest price, used: Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10
Price comparison
| Product | Price | Airflow / Compressor Match | Price Bar |
|---|---|---|---|
| LRSD 85CFM | $980.00 | 85 CFM, up to 20 HP | |
| SCHULZ 50 CFM Complete Kit | $1,552.28 | 50 CFM, 10-15 HP | |
| Schulz ADS 20 | $1,381.80 | 20 CFM, up to 5 HP | |
| Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 | $400.00 | Used |
Decision matrix
- If your compressor is large and you want the highest airflow without paying the top price, the LRSD 85CFM is the strongest match.
- If you want a complete package with electronic controls and your compressor is in the mid-size range, the SCHULZ kit is the one to evaluate.
- If you're running a small compressor and want a high pressure input rating, the Schulz ADS 20 is worth a closer look.
- If your main constraint is upfront cost and you're open to used equipment, the Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 is the entry point.
LRSD 85CFM Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer, 15HP & 20HP Compressors, 110V 60HZ
This new dryer is rated for 85 CFM and accepts compressors up to 20 HP, making it the highest-capacity option in the group. Its working pressure range is 102-145 PSI, it uses R134a refrigerant, and it has a 1-inch connection. At $980.00, it undercuts both SCHULZ models while offering more airflow. The trade-off is that it operates on 110V/60Hz single-phase power, and its 145 PSI maximum is lower than the 200 PSI and 220 PSI max input ratings on the two SCHULZ dryers. Choose it when you need volume and your system fits within those pressure limits.
SCHULZ 50 CFM REFRIGERATED COMPRESSED AIR DRYER, 10HP & 15HP COMPLETE KIT, 115V
This is a complete kit priced at $1,552.28, the highest of the four. It's a new 50 CFM unit designed for 10HP and 15HP compressors, and it comes from Italy. The integrated electronic controller displays operating temperature and dew point, and it manages the automatic drain valve and condenser fan. If you want a hands-off setup and your compressor output is in the 50 CFM neighborhood, this package is the most turnkey choice here. The limitation is the price: it costs more than the 85 CFM LRSD while moving less air, so you're paying for the kit and controller rather than raw capacity.
Schulz ADS 20 Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer - 20 CFM, 115V
The Schulz ADS 20 is compact and rated for 20 CFM at 100 PSI, with a max input pressure of 220 PSI. It's intended for compressors up to 5 HP, and it uses a non-cycling design with an electronic controller, digital display, and quick-disconnect automatic drain. At $1,381.80, it's close in price to the 50 CFM SCHULZ, so the appeal isn't cost - it's the higher pressure rating and smaller footprint for lighter-duty systems. If your compressor is in the 5 HP range and you want a new dryer with a high pressure ceiling, this is the one that aligns best.
Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 Compressed Air Dryer Phase
The Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 is the lowest-price option at $400.00, but it's a used unit. The description says it has been tested and works, and it shows signs of wear such as scratches, scuffs, and marks. Only the items pictured are included, so the actual contents are limited to what you see in the photos. The reason to consider it is purely the low entry cost. The limitation is the used condition and the possibility that the visible wear may matter if you need a clean installation. For a tight budget and a willingness to accept used equipment, it's the least expensive way into this category.
Final recommendation by use case
- Need the most airflow and a price below the other new dryers? Choose the LRSD 85CFM.
- Want a complete, new kit with electronic control for a mid-size compressor? The SCHULZ kit is the match.
- Have a small compressor and want high pressure input capacity? The Schulz ADS 20 fits.
- Want the lowest cost and are fine with used condition? The Ingersoll-Rand Deltech HG10 is the pick.
