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An air pressure switch automatically controls when an air compressor turns on and off based on tank pressure. When pressure drops below a set PSI, the switch closes the circuit to activate the compressor. Once the desired pressure is reached, it opens the circuit to shut it off. In HornBlasters air systems, air pressure switches prevent overfilling and protect your compressor by maintaining a consistent PSI range without manual control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an air pressure switch do?
It turns your air compressor on and off based on how much pressure is in the tank. When the tank drops below the switch's kick-on point, the switch turns the compressor on to refill it. When the tank reaches the cut-off point, it shuts the compressor off. Every compressor in an onboard air system needs one. Voltage compatibility varies by switch, so check the product page for the one you're looking at.
What do the two numbers on a pressure switch mean?
The first number is the kick-on pressure and the second is the cut-off. A 165-200 PSI switch turns your compressor on when the tank falls to 165 PSI and shuts it off at 200 PSI. Every switch we sell is labeled this way, from 85-105 PSI up to 165-200 PSI, so you know exactly when your compressor will run before you buy.
What PSI pressure switch do I need?
Match the second number, the cut-off, to your air system's working pressure. Most of our horn kits run 150 PSI air systems, which is why the 110-150 PSI switch is the direct horn kit replacement. A 200 PSI system takes the 165-200. We carry ranges from 85-105 up to 165-200, plus the Oasis Adjustable if you want to set your own kick-on and cut-off points.
Do I need a relay with my pressure switch?
It depends on the switch. Some of our switches have a built-in 40 amp relay, and those don't need anything extra. Standard bottle cap and lead-style switches require a separate relay to be wired in, since the relay is what handles the compressor's current draw, not the switch.
What is a bottle cap pressure switch?
A compact pressure switch about the size of a bottle cap, with spade terminals on top for your wiring connections instead of preattached leads. Like any pressure switch, it threads into a port on your air tank. Most come with 1/8" NPT threads, which usually means adding a reducer to fit your tank, so our 1/4" NPT version threads into the most common tank port size with no reducer required.
Are air pressure switches and air compressor pressure switches the same thing?
Yes. Air pressure switch, air compressor pressure switch, and tank pressure switch all name the same part: the switch that reads tank pressure and controls when your compressor runs. Whatever you call it, every option in this collection does that same job.
Can a pressure switch handle weather?
Yes, if you pick the right one. The Weatherproof Pressure Switch with 40A Relay is fully encased and sealed with weatherproof sealant for harsh conditions. Our lead-style switches also come with a weatherproof coating on the wiring. If your compressor and tank mount somewhere that sees the elements, match them with a switch built for it.
PEOPLE ALSO ASK
WHAT DOES An air PRESSURE SWITCH DO?
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A PRESSURE SWITCH IS BAD?
Common signs of a bad pressure switch include the compressor not turning on or off at the correct pressures, rapid on/off cycling, or no response at all. You can test the switch with a multimeter to check continuity across the terminals when the system reaches trigger PSI. If the contacts don’t open or close properly, or the switch fails to engage at the right pressure range, it likely needs replacement.
IS A PRESSURE SWITCH THE SAME AS A FLOW SWITCH?
No—pressure switches and flow switches serve different purposes. A pressure switch activates based on air or fluid pressure levels inside a system, while a flow switch detects the movement of fluid through a pipe. HornBlasters air systems use pressure switches to manage compressor function. Flow switches are more common in HVAC or water-based systems where fluid movement, not pressure, needs to be monitored.
WHAT PSI PRESSURE SWITCH DO I NEED?
The correct PSI pressure switch depends on your air system’s compressor, tank size, and overall application. Common options include 85/105 PSI, 110/150 PSI, and 165/200 PSI. For train horn kits, 110/150 PSI switches are the most commonly used, offering fast fill times with reliable volume. For air suspension systems, 165/200 PSI switches are preferred to ensure adequate pressure for lifting and maintaining ride height. Always match your pressure switch to the compressor’s rated cutoff and your system’s operating range.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SEALED AND UNSEALED air PRESSURE SWITCH?
A sealed air pressure switch has a weather-resistant cover that protects internal contacts from moisture and debris, making them ideal for off-road, marine, or under-vehicle installations. Unsealed switches are better suited for clean, dry environments. If your air system is exposed to the elements, a sealed switch offers longer-lasting reliability.
CAN I WIRE A PRESSURE SWITCH WITHOUT A RELAY?
Some pressure switches come with an internal relay, while others require an external one. A relay helps handle the compressor’s current load without overloading the switch. For high-draw compressors, using a pressure switch with a relay (or wiring one in) is strongly recommended to avoid switch failure or overheating.
ARE AIR PRESSURE SWITCHES THE SAME AS AIR COMPRESSOR PRESSURE SWITCHES?
Yes, "air pressure switch" and "air compressor pressure switch" are different names for the same component. Both terms refer to the switch that automatically controls when your air compressor turns on and off based on tank pressure. In an onboard air system, the air pressure switch monitors the pressure inside your air tank and signals the compressor to start refilling when pressure drops below a set PSI, then shuts it off when the tank reaches the desired cutoff pressure. HornBlasters air pressure switches work with any standard 12V or 24V air compressor and come in PSI ranges from 85 to 200 to match any application.