Industrial Petrol Air Compressor Guide: How the UNIMAC 115PSI 150L Powers Aussie Crews and Households
Ever tried to start a tough job—blowing out sprinklers, pumping up vehicle tyres, or running air tools—only to realise your little compressor just can’t cut it? Or maybe you’ve been out on a fireground, needing reliable, portable air, and couldn’t afford to waste time with unreliable gear. That’s where something like the UNIMAC 115PSI 150L 18HP Industrial Petrol Powered Air Compressor with Electric Key Start steps in. It’s a beast built for serious work—at home, on the job, or out with the crew.
In this guide, I’ll break down exactly how this kind of compressor works, who it’s for, and how to get the best out of it—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned hand. You’ll find practical advice, common mistakes to avoid, and real-world tips for families, business owners, rural crews, and emergency service volunteers. There’s no hype here—just the facts, shared in plain language. Ready to build some confidence? Let’s dive in.
Why a Big Petrol Air Compressor Makes Sense
Let’s be honest—most cheap compressors are fine for topping up a footy or blowing dust out of the shed. But when you need real muscle—think cleaning up after storms, running rattle guns, painting fences, or powering gear on remote worksites—those little tanks just run out of puff.
The UNIMAC 115PSI 150L is designed for heavy lifting. With a massive 150-litre tank, 18HP of petrol grunt, and electric key start, it delivers reliable air anywhere—no power points needed. Fire crews use this kind of setup for everything from running rescue tools to quickly clearing debris. Tradies love them because they’ll run impact wrenches and nail guns all day. And families or rural properties get peace of mind: there’s always power, even when the grid’s down.
Everyday Uses
- Powering air tools and paint sprayers
- Inflating tractor, car, and caravan tyres fast
- Cleaning gutters, sheds, and machinery
- Quick blow-down of dusty gear and PPE
Fireground & Emergency
- Running pneumatic rescue tools
- Supporting rapid decon or cleaning tasks
- Restoring critical infrastructure after a storm
- Supporting backup power for remote teams
Whether you’re prepping for fire season, supporting your local brigade, or just wanting gear that never lets you down—knowing your compressor is up to the job brings real peace of mind.
How the UNIMAC 115PSI 150L Compressor Works
This machine packs an 18HP petrol engine, which means it’s got plenty of muscle—no need for a mains connection. If you’re out in a blackout, or miles from a power point, you’re covered. The electric key start is a real time-saver (especially in emergencies—no more pull cords when your hands are cold or gloved up).
150 litres is a seriously big tank. That means you can run air tools for ages without the compressor needing to cycle on and off. It’s ideal for heavy, continuous jobs, or for multiple people sharing tools on site.
115 PSI is more than enough for any standard air tool, rescue device, or tyre. If you’ve ever run out of air pressure halfway through inflating a big 4WD tyre, you’ll know why this matters.
The unit is built tough, with wheels and lifting points. It’s not light, but it’s designed for real-world use—roll it to the job or mount it on a ute or trailer for mobile response.
Features like pressure relief valves, dual gauges, and sturdy construction mean it’s safe, easy to read, and built to last. You don’t want leaks or sudden pressure loss during a job—this model is built to avoid that.
How to Prepare and Use Your Industrial Air Compressor Safely
Starting with a machine like this can be daunting if you’re new—or if you’ve only ever used little plug-in compressors. The good news? The basics are the same. Here’s how to get going safely, whether you’re at home, on the fireground, or supporting your local brigade.
At Home or On the Farm
- Choose a flat, solid surface—well away from open flames or sheds with poor ventilation.
- Read the manual before you start. This will save you from expensive mistakes.
- Fill the tank with clean, unleaded petrol—avoid old fuel, which gums up the carburettor.
- Check oil levels and top up if needed. Never run the engine dry—damage is costly.
- Open the outlet valves and run the compressor for a few minutes, listening for any odd noises or leaks.
- Fit your air tools or hoses securely—double check connections before you power up.
On the Fireground or Job Site
- Do a full team briefing—agree who’ll start, monitor, and shut down the compressor.
- Use proper PPE—eye and ear protection, gloves, and hi-vis as required.
- Keep clear zones around the compressor, especially if hoses will be running across the site.
- Test air supply before committing tools—check for leaks, and confirm pressure at the tool end.
- Monitor engine noise—if anything sounds off, stop and check.
Take five minutes to walk through these steps with your team, family, or workmates. A little planning up front prevents a world of drama later.
Staying Safe and Productive During Use
Once you’re up and running, the focus shifts to safe, smooth operation. Here’s what works on busy days, on the fireground, or in everyday life:
Experience teaches that it’s better to stop and check than to press on and hope for the best. Crews who do this rarely face breakdowns in the middle of a crisis.
Maintaining Your Petrol Air Compressor for Years of Service
Like any bit of serious kit, a big compressor needs regular care. But don’t stress—it’s mostly simple stuff that anyone can learn.
After Every Use
- Drain condensation from the tank (stops rust—don’t skip this!)
- Let the engine cool before moving or storing
- Wipe down with a dry rag to remove dust and residue
Weekly or Monthly
- Check and top up oil if needed
- Inspect all hoses and fittings for cracks or wear
- Run the compressor at full pressure for a minute to check safety valves
Yearly or Before Fire Season
- Change oil and replace the spark plug
- Check all safety valves and pressure relief gear
- Store in a dry, sheltered area away from weather and pests
One of the most common mistakes? Forgetting to drain the tank—rust can ruin even the best machine in one season. Build it into your end-of-day routine, and your compressor will last for years.
Common Mistakes and Little-Known Tips
- Using old or dirty fuel: Always use fresh, clean petrol. Stale fuel clogs up the works and causes starting headaches.
- Ignoring the manual: It’s tempting to “just get on with it,” but each compressor is different. Quick read = fewer repairs.
- Letting pressure drop too low: For air tools or rescue gear, low pressure can mean weak performance. Keep an eye on the gauges.
- Leaving water in the tank: Draining after each use is the cheapest insurance you’ll ever buy.
- Storing outside or in damp sheds: Weather and condensation wreck seals and cause rust. A simple tarp or sheltered spot makes a huge difference.
- Not practicing a safe shutdown: Always bleed off pressure and let the engine cool before storage. That way, there are no nasty surprises later.
Adapting the Compressor for Every Situation
No two days—or jobs—are ever the same. Here’s how different Aussies make the most of a big petrol compressor:
Whatever your background, a bit of forward planning—and regular team or family walkthroughs—makes a big difference.
Getting Your Compressor Ready for Emergencies
Fire seasons, storms, and outages don’t wait for a convenient time. Here’s how to make sure your compressor is ready when you are:
Checklist for the Shed:
- Fuel can (fresh petrol, safely stored)
- Spare oil, funnel, and rags
- Extension hoses and connectors
- Basic air tool kit (inflator, blower, wrench)
- Manual & safety data sheet
Emergency Readiness:
- Test run every 3 months—don’t wait until you need it
- Keep a dry, waterproof cover handy
- Agree a “startup checklist” with your family or crew
- Log all maintenance and test runs in a simple notebook
If you’re new to this, start simple. Walk through a practice run with your team, family, or neighbours before you ever need it in a hurry.
Explore our best outdoor power equipment guide
or check out our article on
home upgrades for bushfire protection
for more practical, step-by-step advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all—the electric key start makes it as easy as turning a car key. Just keep your battery charged and fuel fresh, and it’ll fire up even on cold mornings.
Absolutely—just check local noise and storage rules, use it on hard ground, and keep it locked away from kids. For basic tyre and backyard jobs, it’s overkill—but handy if you have bigger projects in mind.
Check oil and hoses monthly, and drain the tank after every use. Full service—including oil change and spark plug—once a year or before the fire season starts.
Yes—with the right training and team procedures. Many rural and SES crews rely on this exact type of unit. Just be sure to run regular drills and always operate as a team, with one person monitoring at all times.
Forgetting to drain the tank (rust risk) and letting the oil run low—both can be avoided with a simple end-of-use checklist.
It’s no louder than a ride-on mower. Always use in daylight and store under cover—don’t leave it in the weather. A simple lock-up shed or even a tarp works well.
Ready to Step Up Your Air Power?
Whether you’re on the tools, the farm, the fireground, or just want to be prepared at home, investing a little time in learning your gear makes all the difference. Talk it over with your crew or family, set up a simple routine, and enjoy the confidence that comes from being ready—no matter what life throws your way.
Want to see all the details? View the Industrial Petrol Powered Air Compressor here
