Comparing vendor quotes isn’t as simple as looking at the total cost of each. There are a variety of factors that add—or take away—value, and it’s important to consider those variables when selecting your compressed air system provider.
Factors to Consider When Comparing Quotes
Does the quote reflect the quality of the equipment, and what happens after you put your purchase to work at your facility? You need to work with a vendor who offers a preventative maintenance plan and ongoing support while helping you ensure equipment efficiency and performance. There are four major factors to consider when comparing quotes:
- Out-of-Pocket Spend and Cost of Ownership
- Performance and Efficiency
- Reliability and Uptime
- Maintenance, Repairs, and Vendor Support
Out-of-Pocket Spend and Cost of Ownership (COO)
Your air compressor costs more than the amount on the page: this cost of ownership includes maintenance and repairs and energy to operate your system. If you’re looking at a quote with a lower price point, you have to consider that the equipment quality may not be as high, and it may not work as efficiently or it could require more repairs in the long-run—both of which increase your cost of ownership over time.
A compressed air system is an investment, and you have to make the purchase in a way that will work for your company’s cash flow situation. When and how much money comes out of your pocket can impact your operations for a long time. For some companies, a direct purchase with terms is an effective way to spread out your payments without the cost of obtaining a loan. A common negotiation may be a deposit when you place your order, a second payment when the equipment ships, and a final payment when the equipment is received.
At Airmatic Compressor, we offer flexible financing plans, which can include benefits like deferred payment programs and a low APR. During promotional periods, that APR can be as low as 0%.
Performance and Efficiency
First, make sure you’re getting an air compressor that’s the right size for your application. One that’s too small or large will lead to inefficiency and higher operating costs, and you’ll reduce the lifespan of the equipment because you’re asking it to perform in a way it wasn’t built to perform. You can continue to monitor your system’s performance with regular energy audits, which will help you identify opportunities to save energy and money. Remote monitoring and controls allow you to detect problems quickly and take action to prevent waste or downtime. Airmatic Compressor central controllers can be set to ensure equal running hours on multiple machines, preventing unequal wear and allowing for efficient maintenance scheduling.
While it’s important to read the performance and efficiency data published by the company, you’ll also want to check for third-party verification from the Compressed Air and Gas Institute (CAGI). You can go directly to their website to see if your compressor or dryer has been tested and approved.
Reliability and Uptime
An unexpected equipment breakdown results in lost time and money. Starting with a reliable compressed air system is good, but even the industry’s best compressors need maintenance and attention to optimize efficiency and ensure a long service life. Reduce downtime and maintain production with regular preventative maintenance.
Maintenance, Repairs, and Vendor Support
Does your provider have your back throughout the life of your system? Airmatic Compressor offers a 5 Year Bumper-to-Bumper Service and Warranty Plan for a fixed fee—no additional charges or surprises—or go with the comprehensive Mr. Nestor Service and Warranty Program, which includes the 5 Year Bumper-to-Bumper as well as 10 years of service and 10 years of airend coverage. It’s also good to know we’re there when you need us with 24/7 on-site service and repair.
Since 1975, we’ve established ourselves as New Jersey’s largest distributor of air compressors and vacuum pumps. With efficient, reliable equipment and responsive customer service, we’re proud to offer industrial air compressors, vacuum pumps, air dryer systems, and more, along with maintenance and repair services, parts, and equipment monitoring. Contact us to learn more about our products and services or request a quote today.