DeWalt DWFP55126 Pancake Air Compressor Review

Editor Rating: 4.7/5

Great Product

DeWalt DWFP55126 Review

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Jul 31, 2023 @ 6:22 am

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

DeWalt DWFP55126 Review Summary:

The DeWalt DWFP55126 is geared towards contractors and DIYers who desire a portable unit for those finishing tasks.

This six-gallon compressor comes equipped with a high-efficiency motor, two high-delivery hose connection points, and a regulator — which all help you get the most out of your pneumatic tool.

Also, it’s interesting to note that the DWFP55126 incorporates an oil-free pump. This means the unit requires almost negligible care and also eliminates the necessity of regular maintenance.

What’s more, its airpower delivery is another standout feature. It can hold a max pressure of 165 PSI and create airflow of 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI — which is equivalent to providing air for more than three trim guns.

You can use air-driven tools such as brad nailers at 0.3 CFM, framing nailers under 2.2 CFM, standard airbrushes, and smaller impact hammers.

DeWalt Co. is renowned for its production of high-quality power and hand tools for the construction, manufacturing, and woodworking industries since 1924. The company currently boasts of a worldwide market supplier of tools such as drills, grinders, saws, nailers, and staplers among others.

Specifications:

  • Voltage – 120 volts
  • Max Pressure – 165 PSI
  • Weight – 30 pounds
  • Dimensions – 16 x 16 x 17.5 inches

Pros:

N
Convenient to store.
N
Suitable for both DIYers or contractors.
N
Features straightforward-to-start motor.
N
Easy to shut down and drain.
N
Rubber feet — offers protection.

Cons:

N
Additional purchases are required — hose not included.
N
Not ideal for high-demand air tools.

DeWalt DWFP55126 Compressor Features and Benefits


The DWFP55126 compressor has incredible benefits that provide satisfaction to its users — either to newbie or professional mechanics.

Here are some outstanding paybacks you’ll get from this tool.

165 PSI Tank Storage Pressure


Most 6-gallon pancake compressors follow the trend of holding around the 150 PSI mark. However, this little powerhouse goes beyond that — 165 PSI. At this level, recovery is rapid, so you won’t have to wait for the unit to catch up.

That said, it does have its limits. With a 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI delivery rate, it won’t manage air-hungry tools that demand continuous use, such as paint sprayers, sanders, or drills. However, for ‘quick burst’ pneumatic tools, like staplers, nail guns, or for tire inflation — it’s ideal.

Oil-Free Unit


Regular maintenance is comparable to the cleanup after you’ve finished a task — it’s a dirty job, but someone’s gotta do it.

However, I have good news — the DWFP55126 is built with an oil-free pump.

Although air compressors require some form of lubrication to keep the internal pistons running, this type of pump doesn’t need any input from you. It’s coated with an alternative, which cuts out this regular maintenance element from the equation — saving you time and money.

High-Flow Regulator


This compressor is also designed with a high-delivery regulator, which is able to boost your air-driven tool’s performance. This means you’ll be able to control the airflow based on your needs with a given application.

High-Efficiency Motor


You know how difficult it is to get motivated in the cooler months, the drop in temperature doesn’t do much for me. This compressor comes equipped with a robust motor that will allow an easy start-up in cold weather — ensuring reliable operation regardless of when you need to use it.

Low-Decibel Operation


The DWFP55126 is one of the quietest in its class. With an operational noise level of around 75.5 decibels, the 6-gallon air compressor is suitable for use around the home or when working in close proximity to others.

Admittedly, I’m not talking whisper-like, but so you can gauge it — a washing machine has an average volume of 70 decibels.

Console/Pump Protection


When using an air compressor, you may experience vibration issues. Now, there are several reasons why this occurs, but one of the most convenient ways to rectify this dilemma is to make certain its legs are in working order.

DeWalt has included rubber feet on the DWFP55126, which not only ensures protection of the machine, but also adds a level of grip — preventing it from ‘walking.’

Another protection plus point is its cover for the console. This safeguards the controls from any accidental knocks, drops, or other potential hazards that could arise during your project.

Portability


Weighing 30 pounds with dimensions of 16 x 16 x 17.5 inches, it’s compact and lightweight — for an air compressor. This allows you to conveniently move it around your workspace, whether that’s at home or at the job site. It also enables you to carry out projects where space is limited.

What’s more, the tank arrives with a sturdy handle, which further enhances the transportability factor. And, as it has a small footprint, storage shouldn’t be an issue.

Multiple User Capability


The DeWalt DWFP55126 compressor incorporates two hose couplers.

Possessing the ability to connect two tools is significant for time management. For one, you can work twice as fast, which when on-site, time is money. And, if you’re trying to complete that decking project on a Sunday afternoon, it means you’ll be done in time to light the grill and sink a few cold ones.

Additionally, if you’re working on a multi-tool project, you can hook both up, then chop and change between them as and when the need arises. All without having to disconnect and reconnect.

Heat Protection


When you do something strenuous, your temperature rises, and that’s the same for air compressors. DeWalt suggests placing the unit in a well-ventilated area and to avoid covering the compressor when in use.

However, it also comes equipped with a fan system to keep the internals cool. And, should overheating occur, the thermal overload protection function will kick in and shut the machine down. Thus safeguarding you from a fried compressor.

DeWalt DWFP55126 Specifications


DeWalt DWFP55126
Weight30 pounds
Power0.9 Horsepower
Height17.5 Inches
Width16 Inches
Length16 Inches
Air Tank6 gallons
Cut-In-Pressure135 PSI
Cut-Out-Pressure165 PSI
CFM2.6 @ 90 PSI
Noise Level75.5 decibels
Voltage120 volts
Circuit Requirement10 amps
Connector0.25 inches (6.4mm)

What Users Say About DeWalt DWFP55126


In addition to the benefits of the DEWALT DWFP55126 air compressor highlighted above, I scoured the internet and found some user appraisals that seemed rather positive.

Users love the fact that the compressor is a bit lighter, with a sturdy handle to carry it to any workstation. Plus, they appreciate the quick start-up, and how it’s user-friendly.

Moreover, the fact that the 165 PSI storage pressure recovers quickly when using nailers and staplers, among other tools, was also outstanding among the appraisals.

There were a couple of minor moans about the lack of accessories, and some found the fill-up longer than anticipated. However, overall the consensus is that it’s a handy unit that makes a number of light to medium pneumatic tool applications possible.

Alternatives to the DeWalt DWFP55126 Pancake Air Compressor


As we’ve seen, the DeWalt packs in plenty to keep a wide range of pneumatic tools running. However, it may not be quite what you’re after. Hence, I’ve selected a few up-to-the-mark alternatives that may be better suited to your needs.

Bostitch BTFP02012
The EC914SM from Metabo could appeal to anyone who desires a compressor for projects that require more heavy-duty air tools. With a max pressure of 200 PSI, it exceeds the average output for a six-gallon pancake compressor.

Further to its PSI, the compressor is built in a way that it can adapt to many different functions. For instance, you can comfortably run — two framing, sliding, or roofing nailers at the same time.

What’s more, this six-gallon tank is made up of high-quality aluminum that can handle the harshest demands of the job site.

  • With a delivery rate of 4 CFM @ 90 PSI, the Metabo beats the DeWalt’s 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI.
  • The EC914SM is more expensive than the DWFP55126.
  • Accommodates up to five users, in comparison to the DeWalt’s dual-use capacity.
Craftsman CMEC6150K
While the DeWalt has plenty of features and impressive output, it’s a ‘compressor-only’ option. Hence, if you would prefer something that’s task-ready straight-out-of-the-box, the Craftsman might be the solution.

This compressor comes with a 13 piece accessory kit, including — hose, couplings, adaptors, blowguns, and tire inflation adaptors. Like the DeWalt, it has an oil-free pump, delivers 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI, yet the CMEC6150K’s max pressure is slightly lower — 150 PSI.

  • Even with the kit, the CMEC6150K comes in at a lower price point, compared to the DWFP55216.
  • Both compressors weigh 30 pounds.
  • The Craftsman is slightly down on pressure — 150 PSI as opposed to 165 PSI of the DeWalt.

Small-Benchtop-Drill-Press-DRL-300-00

For those who have a lower budget in mind, the Bostitch BTFP02012 might fit the bill.

While it boasts comparable highlights — two-user compatibility, low-maintenance design, and performance-enhancing instruments, it does have a lower pressure storage rating — 150 PSI. However, at 90 PSI, the airflow is identical — 2.6 CFM.

  • The Bostitch is lower in price in contrast to the DeWalt.
  • At 78.5 decibels, the BOSTITCH is louder than the DeWalt.
  • Weighing 29 pounds, the BTFP2012 is a touch lighter than the DWFP55126.

Conclusion


As we’ve discovered, the DWFP55126 is designed for both DIYers and those on a commercial level.

Its portability factor enables fuss-free workspace logistics, and the noise operation level of 75.5 decibels means it’s kinder on the ears than other compressors in the same category.

What’s more, with the ability to offer a maximum of 165 PSI air pressure, you can easily expect to complete tasks such as nail gun handling, airbrush painting, and standard car tire filling.

Finally, as it’s low-maintenance friendly and capable of coping with multiple operators, you can cut down your task times considerably. So, if you’re looking for an air compressor that’s compact, portable, yet still packs a punch, then check out the DeWalt DWFP55126.

DeWalt DWFP55126 FAQs

Q: How Do You Drain a DeWalt Pancake Compressor?

To avoid corrosion, draining the tank after use is essential. Here’s how:

Step 1: Turn off the compressor. Now, rotate the regulator switch counterclockwise to zero pressure and remove your power tool.

Step 2: Pull the ring on the safety valve and reduce the tank pressure to the 20 PSI mark. Please use protective eyewear while doing this.

Step 3: Locate the drain valve, and place a container underneath it — to catch the condensation buildup.

Step 4: Open the valve and release the fluid from the tank.

Step 5: Once all water has been emptied, shut the valve. You can now store your compressor.

Q: How Much Does a DeWalt 6 Gallon Air Compressor Cost?

Operating a max tank pressure of 165 PSI, is low-maintenance, and compact for convenient storage and transportation. To check out the current cost of the DeWalt DWFP55126.

Q: What Is SCFM vs CFM?

SCFM measures the compressor’s airflow rate on ideal temperature and pressure conditions, while the CFM measures the actual airflow rate. In the US, the latter is the recognized value.

Q: Is It Ok To Leave an Air Compressor Full?

Yes, it’s Ok to leave an air compressor full, if you’re using it on and off all day. However, for extended periods of non-use, it should be depressurized and drained.

Q: Where Can I Find the DeWalt DWFP55126 Manual?

You can view model-specific manuals and parts lists on the official DeWalt website. For rapid access to the DeWalt DWFP55126 manual.

Q: Does the DeWalt Pancake Compressor Need Oil?

Unlike other standard air compressors that use oil to lubricate the piston — that pushes the air into the tank — the DeWalt DWFP55126 features an oil-free pump. This means it’s self-lubricating — removing this maintenance task.