Compressor issues/pancake loud/new unit?

[GaryA]

I've got the older model Porter-Cable 135psi pancake compressor that came in my nailer kit a few years back. A couple of questions:

1. i've always been good about draining the compressor, but lately, I've been getting lazy. Is it absolutely necessary to drain it after each use (I'm an advanced DIY'er, dont use it daily for a living-probably 2-3x/week).

2. This thing is LOUD (I'm sure any of you that have it know what I'm talking about). I was considering a larger unit and keep this one for trim projects in the house. I've got a smaller 11x21 shop, so I dont think i'd have room for more than maybe a 10 gallon or 15 gallon on wheels - but are some of the bigger ones a LOT quieter? Any recommendations on a small/mid-sized reasonably priced unit? I was looking at the Kobalts, HF's, etc. Are the larger ones the same deal - do they need to be drained constantly, or could I leave it filled? Do I need to go with a really big one to drive an HVLP sprayer?

3. If I dont go with a bigger one, I was considering putting this one in a rolling box to supress the noise - any issues with this?

Thanks!

[BobSch]

I was always taught draining the tank is a good idea for a couple of reasons.
1. It keeps water out of your air lines, and therefore out of your air tools and keeps from spitting on you projects.
2. It keeps the inside of your tank from rusting out.

All compresors are loud, the only difference is the kind of noise. Direct-drive units have that very raspy sound, where the belt-drives have a lower-frequency thumping sound.

For a small shop you might consider an upright belt-drive unit.

Boxing in a compressor can be a problem because of the heat produced.

[MilDoc]

The PC is an oiless unit, the loudest of the loud. as are all oiless ones. If you want a quieter model you need an oiled unit.

I have the same unit and I drain it after every workday is done. Ever see a compressor with a rusted bottom explode? Not pretty. Not common, but .....