The short version
- Typical range: £50 – £300
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Tools & DIY
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used compressor is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for compressors, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £300 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £255 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £195 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £135 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £75 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a compressor
- Tanks with no external corrosion or pitting
- Pumps building to full pressure and holding
- Recognised brands with parts available
- Complete with hose, gauges and fittings
What lowers it
- Corroded or pitted tanks, a safety risk
- Pumps that will not reach rated pressure
- Leaking tank drain valves
- Missing hoses and fittings
How to work out what yours is worth
- Run it up to pressure and check it holds with the motor off
- Inspect the tank underneath for corrosion
- Open the drain valve and check for water and rust
Once you have those three answers you can place your own compressor on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
Is a corroded compressor tank dangerous?
Yes, genuinely. Tanks hold pressure and corrosion weakens them, so a pitted tank should not be sold as serviceable.
How do I test a compressor?
Run it to full pressure, switch it off and see whether it holds. A dropping gauge means leaks somewhere.
Why does the drain valve matter?
Water collects in the tank and must be drained. A seized valve means water has been sitting there, which causes the corrosion.
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