Nothing kills the spontaneous road trip vibe faster than the soft hiss of a deflating tire miles from civilization. You’re cruising down a scenic byway with the windows down, playlist perfectly curated, when that ominous TPMS light flickers to life. In that moment, the difference between a minor hiccup and a trip-ruining ordeal often comes down to one thing: whether you’ve got a compact tire care kit stashed in your glove box. These pint-sized powerhouses have revolutionized roadside preparedness, packing essential tire repair capabilities into packages smaller than a lunchbox. Unlike traditional trunk-mounted kits that eat valuable cargo space, glove box-sized solutions ensure you’re ready for anything without sacrificing an inch of room for snacks, souvenirs, or spontaneous thrift store finds.
The modern glove box tire care kit isn’t just a shrunken version of its bulkier cousins—it’s a thoughtfully engineered ecosystem of tools designed for rapid deployment and user-friendly operation. As vehicles become more sophisticated and drivers increasingly venture off the beaten path, manufacturers have responded with innovations that would seem like science fiction to previous generations. We’re talking about digital precision in tools that fit in your palm, sealants that can repair punctures in under five minutes, and compressors powerful enough to inflate a truck tire yet small enough to tuck beside your registration. Understanding what makes these kits tick, what features separate the merely adequate from the truly exceptional, and how to choose the right one for your specific adventure style isn’t just smart—it’s essential automotive literacy for the modern explorer.
Top 10 Tire Care Kits for Spontaneous Road Trips
Detailed Product Reviews
1. ORCISH Tire Repair Kit, 98 PCS Professional Heavy Duty Tire Plug Kit, Tire Patch Kit for Fix a Flat, Tubeless Tire Puncture Change Tool Kit for Car, Motorcycle, Truck, ATV, Tractor, RV, SUV, Trailer
Overview: The ORCISH 98-piece tire repair kit positions itself as a comprehensive solution for virtually any tubeless tire emergency. Designed for cars, motorcycles, trucks, ATVs, and more, this heavy-duty kit includes everything from insertion tools and repair strings to pliers and a knife, all housed in a compact carrying case.
What Makes It Stand Out: This kit’s sheer volume of components sets it apart—98 pieces ensure you’re rarely caught unprepared. The tools are constructed from refined high-quality steel and zinc alloy, resisting rust and wear. The repair strips utilize butyl rubber with natural rubber vulcanization, maintaining flexibility and resisting aging better than standard options. Its universal compatibility across vehicle types makes it a true multi-purpose emergency companion.
Value for Money: At $34.99, this kit delivers exceptional quantity without sacrificing quality. While premium kits exist, few offer this breadth of tools at the price point. For drivers wanting a single, comprehensive purchase rather than piecing together components separately, it represents significant savings and convenience.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros include comprehensive component selection, durable construction, universal vehicle compatibility, and organized storage. The 24/7 customer support adds peace of mind. Cons: the abundance of tools may overwhelm beginners, and the case, while compact, still requires meaningful trunk space. Some users might prefer simpler kits for basic needs.
Bottom Line: This ORCISH kit is ideal for drivers seeking maximum preparedness across multiple vehicles. It trades some portability for comprehensiveness, making it perfect for families with diverse vehicle types or those wanting a garage-based emergency solution.
2. GlueTread On Road Heavy Duty Tire Plug Kit - Tire Repair Kit with Plugs - Made in USA CNC-Machined T-Handles, 10 Plugs, Pliers and Razor Blade - Flat Fix for Car, Truck and Motorcycle Tires
Overview: GlueTread’s premium tire plug kit emphasizes American-made quality over quantity. This streamlined kit focuses on essential, high-performance tools for tread punctures, featuring CNC-machined aluminum T-handles and professional-grade components for cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
What Makes It Stand Out: The star feature is the precision-engineered, CNC-machined aluminum T-handles made in Montana, delivering superior grip and durability compared to cast alternatives. The “Made in USA” pedigree appeals to quality-conscious buyers. The kit’s focused design prioritizes reliability and ease of use over an overwhelming number of components, reflecting professional-grade sensibilities.
Value for Money: At $54.95, this sits at the premium end. You’re paying for American manufacturing, precision machining, and durable materials rather than bulk. For those who value tool quality and longevity over having dozens of spare parts, the investment is justified. However, budget buyers may find better value in more comprehensive kits.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros include exceptional build quality, ergonomic T-handles, professional performance, compact portability, and trusted American manufacturing. Cons: only 10 plugs included, limited components compared to cheaper alternatives, and a higher price point that may deter casual users. The kit assumes some user familiarity with tire repair.
Bottom Line: This is the choice for enthusiasts and professionals who demand premium tools. If you appreciate precision engineering and American craftsmanship, the GlueTread kit justifies its price. For occasional users, more economical options exist.
3. Slime 50161 Emergency Roadside Kit with Flat tire Repair and Booster Cables for Moto/Off-Road
Overview: Slime’s 34-piece emergency kit addresses the two most common roadside failures: flat tires and dead batteries. Specifically designed for motorcycles, ATVs, and off-road vehicles, it combines a tire inflator, sealant, booster cables, and safety equipment in one integrated package.
What Makes It Stand Out: This kit’s dual-functionality is its key differentiator—tackling both electrical and tire emergencies simultaneously. The inclusion of a 12-volt inflator that fully inflates a tire in 12 minutes, plus 14 oz of Slime Rescue sealant, provides a complete flat-fix solution. Added safety features like a glow signal and headlamp demonstrate thoughtful design for remote off-road scenarios where help is scarce.
Value for Money: At $22.00, this kit offers outstanding value. Purchasing an inflator, sealant, booster cables, and safety gear separately would cost significantly more. For off-road enthusiasts who risk being stranded miles from assistance, the price is negligible compared to the potential cost of a tow.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros include comprehensive emergency coverage, off-road-specific design, affordability, and inclusion of safety lighting. The 10-gauge booster cables are appropriately heavy-duty. Cons: sealant-based repairs aren’t permanent and may not suit all tire types; the kit is specialized for smaller vehicles and may not handle larger truck tires effectively.
Bottom Line: Perfect for off-road riders and motorcyclists who need compact, reliable emergency coverage. It won’t replace professional repair, but it’s an essential insurance policy for remote adventures where self-sufficiency is critical.
4. Slime 50154 Emergency Roadside Kit with Flat tire Repair and Booster Cables for Compact Cars, Standard Cars and Crossovers
Overview: This car-focused emergency kit from Slime combines tire repair and battery jump-starting capabilities for compact cars, sedans, and crossovers. It integrates a powerful tire inflator, Slime Rescue sealant with Thru-Core Technology, and heavy-duty booster cables in a coordinated package.
What Makes It Stand Out: The Thru-Core Technology sealant is a game-changer, allowing tire repair without removing the valve core—saving time and reducing mess. The inflator’s 0-100 PSI range with LED work light provides versatility beyond basic inflation. Unlike generic kits, this is specifically engineered for passenger vehicles, ensuring appropriate cable gauge and component sizing.
Value for Money: Priced at $46.60, this kit sits in the mid-range for comprehensive emergency solutions. The convenience of integrated components, car-specific optimization, and innovative sealant technology justify the cost. Comparable separate purchases would exceed this price, making it a smart bundled investment for car owners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros include car-specific design, innovative Thru-Core sealant, powerful inflator, integrated LED light, and quality booster cables. The kit is well-organized and road-ready. Cons: sealant repairs are temporary fixes, not all mechanics approve of sealant use, and the kit lacks advanced tools for severe damage. It’s less comprehensive than the ORCISH kit for pure tire repair.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-in-one emergency solution for everyday car owners. If you want battery and tire coverage without buying separate devices, this kit delivers. Keep it in your trunk for peace of mind during daily commutes and road trips.
5. Slime 2410 Mini Tire Maintenance Kit, Tire Care Essentials, Compact, 14-Piece Set, 3.5" L x 2.5" W x 0.875" D
Overview: Slime’s Mini Tire Maintenance Kit is designed for proactive tire care rather than emergency repair. This ultra-compact 14-piece set stores essential maintenance tools in a glove box-friendly case, focusing on valve core replacement, pressure checking, and minor adjustments.
What Makes It Stand Out: The microscopic footprint (3.5" x 2.5" x 0.875") is remarkable, ensuring you always have basic tire tools within arm’s reach. The translucent green case with organized compartments prevents the common problem of lost valve caps and cores. It’s one of the few kits designed for routine maintenance rather than catastrophic failures.
Value for Money: At $11.95, this is an impulse-buy price point for genuine utility. For less than a fast-food meal, you get a lifetime supply of valve cores, caps, and a functional pencil gauge. The organizational value alone prevents repeated purchases of lost components.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros include unbeatable portability, clever organization, essential maintenance tools, and incredible affordability. It fits anywhere and addresses common minor issues. Cons: this is NOT a repair kit—no plugs, sealant, or tools for punctures. The pencil gauge is less accurate than digital alternatives, and the tool selection is minimal.
Bottom Line: This is a must-have companion to a full emergency kit. Don’t buy it expecting to fix flats, but absolutely get it for maintaining proper tire pressure and replacing lost valve components. It’s the definition of cheap insurance for daily driving.
Why Glove Box-Sized Tire Care Kits Are Road Trip Essentials
The psychology of spontaneous travel demands gear that respects your vehicle’s limited real estate. Glove box kits eliminate the “out of sight, out of mind” problem that plagues trunk-mounted solutions. When your tire repair tools live within arm’s reach, you’re more likely to perform quick pressure checks before hitting the highway, catch slow leaks early, and address minor issues before they become catastrophic failures. This accessibility transforms tire maintenance from a chore into an integrated part of your pre-flight routine.
Beyond convenience, these compact kits fundamentally change your risk profile. Traditional roadside assistance might take 90 minutes in urban areas; in remote locations, you’re looking at multi-hour waits that can stretch into overnight ordeals. A glove box kit puts you back on the road in 15-20 minutes, preserving not just your schedule but your safety. For solo travelers, families with young children, or anyone exploring areas with spotty cell service, this self-sufficiency isn’t a luxury—it’s a non-negotiable layer of protection.
What “Glove Box-Sized” Really Means
Before you start shopping, understand that glove box dimensions vary dramatically between vehicles. A compact sedan’s glove box might measure 12" x 7" x 5", while a full-size truck’s could swallow 15" x 10" x 8". “Glove box-sized” kits typically target the smaller end of this spectrum, with most quality options measuring under 10 inches in their longest dimension and under 3 pounds in weight.
The magic lies in vertical integration. Manufacturers achieve compact footprints through nesting designs where components fit inside each other, flat-pack layouts that maximize surface area over depth, and multi-functional tools that eliminate redundancy. Look for kits that specify their exact dimensions rather than using vague marketing terms. Measure your glove box’s interior, accounting for any protruding hinges or latches, and always leave a half-inch buffer on all sides for easy retrieval when you’re stressed and in a hurry.
Core Components: The Holy Trinity of Tire Repair
Every legitimate glove box tire care kit centers around three non-negotiable elements: a puncture repair mechanism, an inflation solution, and a pressure verification tool. Without this triumvirate, you’re just carrying automotive-themed paperweights. The repair component typically involves either a string plug system or an aerosol sealant. Inflation solutions range from miniature compressors to CO2 cartridges or manual pumps. Pressure verification means either a dedicated gauge or a compressor with built-in digital readout.
The interplay between these components determines your kit’s effectiveness. A kit with a superb compressor but weak sealant leaves you with a properly inflated tire that still leaks. One with excellent repair tools but no reliable inflation method means you can fix the hole but can’t get back on the road. Premium kits optimize all three elements, while budget options often excel at one while skimping on others. Your job is to identify which compromise, if any, you’re willing to make based on your typical driving conditions.
Air Solutions: Compressors, Inflators, and CO2 Cartridges
The inflation component represents the biggest space and power challenge in miniaturization. 12-volt compressors remain the gold standard for reliability, drawing power from your vehicle’s cigarette lighter or auxiliary port. Quality glove box compressors deliver 30-35 PSI in under 10 minutes while measuring smaller than a water bottle. Look for units with built-in pressure gauges, automatic shut-off features, and thermal overload protection that prevents burnout during extended use.
CO2 cartridge systems offer extreme compactness, using threaded bicycle-style cartridges to deliver rapid inflation. A single 16g cartridge can add 5-7 PSI to a standard passenger tire, meaning you’ll need 3-4 cartridges for a full inflation. The trade-off is single-use waste and the need to restock after deployment. Manual hand pumps, while reliable and infinite in their power source, require significant physical effort and time—fine for topping off but exhausting for full inflation. Your choice depends on your fitness level, environmental concerns, and willingness to trade speed for sustainability.
Sealants: Temporary vs. Permanent Solutions
Tire sealants fall into two philosophical camps: quick-fix aerosols that get you to the nearest service station, and professional-grade string plugs that provide permanent repairs. Aerosol sealants combine compressed air with a latex-based sealing compound that temporarily plugs small punctures. They’re foolproof and fast but create a mess inside the tire that tire shops hate and can damage TPMS sensors in some applications.
String plug systems require more skill but deliver lasting repairs. You ream the puncture, thread a sticky rubber plug through an insertion tool, and force it into the hole. Trim the excess, and you’ve got a repair that can last the tire’s remaining tread life. The learning curve is steeper, and you’ll need pliers to remove the offending nail or screw first. For spontaneous road trippers who value true self-sufficiency, mastering the string plug technique pays dividends in confidence and cost savings.
Pressure Gauges: Digital Precision vs. Analog Reliability
Accuracy matters when you’re 200 miles from nowhere. Digital gauges offer easy-to-read displays, precision to 0.5 PSI, and often include backlit screens for nighttime emergencies. However, they require batteries that die at the worst possible moments and can fail after drops or moisture exposure. Analog dial gauges, particularly those with bourdon tube mechanisms, provide bulletproof reliability and infinite shelf life at the cost of slightly harder readability and potential calibration drift over years.
The sweet spot for glove box kits is a hybrid approach: a primary digital gauge with automatic shut-off to preserve battery, backed up by a tiny analog pen-style gauge that lives in the kit as insurance. Some premium compressors integrate digital gauges with auto-shutoff features, eliminating a separate tool but creating a single point of failure. Consider your technical comfort level and the typical climate you’ll encounter—extreme cold saps digital battery life, while desert heat can affect analog gauge accuracy.
Tools of the Trade: Pliers, Wrenches, and Valve Cores
Beyond the big three components, micro-tools make or break your repair success. Needle-nose pliers with wire-cutting capabilities let you extract puncturing objects and trim plug ends. A four-way valve tool allows you to remove and replace valve cores—essential for installing sealant or when a core becomes clogged with debris. Some kits include miniature vise-grips for holding the insertion tool steady during plug installation.
These tools must be full-functional despite their size. Avoid kits where tools are so miniaturized they compromise grip strength or leverage. Look for pliers with comfortable handles, valve tools with clearly marked sizing, and any included blades made from hardened steel that won’t dull after one use. The best kits house these tools in elastic loops or dedicated pockets, preventing the maddening rattle of loose metal that makes you question your life choices on every bump.
Material Quality: What Separates Premium from Budget
The difference between a $30 kit and an $80 kit often isn’t features—it’s material science. Premium compressors use metal gears and cylinders instead of plastic, delivering longer life and better heat dissipation. Quality sealants use synthetic rubber compounds that remain pliable from -40°F to 200°F, while budget versions turn to stone in winter or tar in summer. High-end plug strings are vulcanized and coated with accelerated curing agents that chemically bond with tire rubber.
Inspect product descriptions for terms like “brass fittings,” “steel cylinder,” “vulcanized plugs,” and “synthetic rubber.” These indicate durability. Budget kits work fine for occasional use but may fail when you need them most. For frequent travelers or those venturing into extreme climates, the premium investment pays for itself the first time you’re not stranded. Consider your kit’s expected usage rate and the consequences of failure when deciding where to allocate your budget.
Power Options: 12V, Battery, and Manual Alternatives
Your inflation solution’s power source determines its reliability profile. 12-volt compressors offer unlimited runtime as long as your vehicle starts, but require a 10-15 amp circuit that some older cars can’t sustain. Battery-powered units provide true portability for inflating tires away from the vehicle—useful for trailer tires or helping fellow travelers—but limited by battery capacity and charging logistics.
Manual pumps represent the ultimate reliability play. A high-quality foot pump can generate 100+ PSI without electricity, works underwater, and will outlive your vehicle. The trade-off is physical effort and time. Some innovative kits combine a manual pump with a CO2 backup, giving you rapid initial inflation followed by fine-tuning. Consider your typical roadside scenarios: if you mostly drive paved roads near civilization, 12V works. For remote overlanding, manual plus CO2 provides bulletproof redundancy.
Organization Systems: Keeping Chaos Contained
A disorganized kit is a useless kit when you’re kneeling on gravel at dusk. Premium kits employ thoughtful organization: mesh pockets for small tools, elastic straps for compressors, zippered compartments for consumables like plugs and valve cores. Some use clamshell designs that open flat, giving you a workspace that keeps everything visible and accessible.
The best organization systems account for the dirty-work nature of tire repair. They include waterproof pockets for clean items and easily cleanable compartments for tools covered in tire grime. Look for kits with clear labeling or color-coding that helps you identify components by touch alone. Reflective strips on the kit’s exterior make it easier to locate in a dark glove box or when dropped in leaf litter. Remember, you’ll be using this kit in suboptimal conditions—rain, darkness, frustration—so organization isn’t a luxury, it’s a requirement for success.
Weight Considerations for Performance Vehicles
For sports car enthusiasts and motorcycle tourers, every ounce matters. A heavy glove box kit can affect weight distribution in performance vehicles where engineers obsess over grams. Carbon fiber valve tools, titanium pliers, and aluminum compressors shave precious weight but multiply cost. The key is strategic weight allocation: invest in lightweight versions of items you’ll actually use, while accepting standard weight for backup components.
Motorcyclists face an even stricter weight and space budget. Their “glove box” might be a saddlebag compartment measuring 8" x 4" x 3". Motorcycle-specific kits prioritize extreme compactness, often using CO2 exclusively and omitting compressors entirely. They also include bead breakers for tubeless tires and patches for tube-type repairs. If you’re shopping for a performance vehicle, look for kits that advertise “racing” or “track day” specifications—these use the same weight-saving philosophy applied to professional motorsports.
Seasonal Adaptations: Summer Heat to Winter Cold
Your glove box experiences more extreme temperature swings than any other storage compartment in your vehicle. Summer sun can push internal temperatures above 160°F, turning cheap plastic components into goo and degrading rubber seals. Winter cold can make batteries useless and cause lubricants to congeal. Quality kits undergo testing across these extremes, with components rated for -40°F to 185°F operation.
Adapt your kit seasonally if you live in extreme climates. In summer, remove CO2 cartridges (they can explode above 120°F) and rely on compressor-based inflation. In winter, store batteries in your climate-controlled cabin rather than the glove box, and consider adding a chemical hand warmer to keep the compressor’s lubricant fluid. Desert travelers should prioritize dust-proof cases with rubber gaskets, while coastal road trippers need corrosion-resistant metals. The best kit is the one that works in your specific environment, not just in a laboratory.
Emergency Protocols: Using Your Kit Effectively
Owning a kit means nothing without a practiced plan. The first step in any tire emergency is safety: activate hazards, deploy reflective triangles if available, and position yourself away from traffic. Next, diagnose before you act. A visual inspection tells you if you have a simple puncture (repairable) or sidewall damage (requires professional replacement). Use your gauge to check all four tires—sometimes the TPMS light indicates a different tire than you expected.
If you have a puncture, mark the hole’s location before removing the object. Take a photo of the nail or screw for the tire shop later. Follow your kit’s instructions exactly, but understand the principles: clean the hole, size it with the reamer, insert the plug fully, trim excess, inflate to proper pressure, then spray soapy water on the repair to verify it holds. Practice this at home in your driveway first. A trial run in comfortable conditions builds muscle memory that pays dividends when you’re stressed, dirty, and losing daylight.
Long-Term Maintenance: Kit Care and Component Lifespans
A tire care kit is not a “buy and forget” item. Compressor O-rings dry out, sealant expires, and batteries corrode. Establish a six-month inspection routine: check compressor function by topping off a tire, verify gauge accuracy against a known-good reference, inspect pliers for rust, and examine plug strings for dryness or cracking. Replace CO2 cartridges every two years even if unused, as they can develop slow leaks.
Sealants typically have a 2-4 year shelf life; mark your calendar. Battery-powered components need annual battery replacement regardless of use—alkaline batteries leak and damage contacts. Store spare valve cores and replacement O-rings in a sealed plastic bag with a desiccant packet to prevent moisture damage. If your kit includes a manual, laminate it or store it in a waterproof bag. The 10 minutes you spend maintaining your kit twice a year translate directly into reliability when your adventure depends on it.
Budget vs. Premium: Making the Smart Investment
The $40 kit and the $120 kit might look identical online, but their differences emerge in your moment of need. Budget kits use thinner gauge wires on their 12V compressors, resulting in voltage drop and slower inflation. They include fewer plug strings (often just two), cheaper pliers that can snap under torque, and analog gauges with ±5 PSI accuracy. Premium kits justify their price through faster compressors (saving you 10-15 minutes per use), more durable tools, and comprehensive warranties that cover compressor burnout.
Calculate your kit’s value based on usage scenarios. If you drive 5,000 miles annually on well-maintained urban roads, a mid-range kit suffices. If you’re a 30,000-mile road warrior who chases national parks and scenic routes, premium becomes economical. One prevented tow at $150 pays for most premium kits. Factor in the intangible value of confidence: knowing your kit won’t fail when you’re alone on a mountain pass at midnight. That peace of mind often justifies the price difference alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to repair a tire with a glove box kit?
With practice, a standard puncture repair takes 15-20 minutes from park to drive. First-timers should budget 30-45 minutes to read instructions and work carefully. The actual plug insertion takes less than 2 minutes; most time is spent on setup, inflation, and verification.
Will using a tire sealant void my tire warranty?
Most tire manufacturers allow emergency sealants for temporary repairs, but require professional inspection within 50-100 miles. String plug repairs done correctly typically don’t void warranties, but check your specific tire’s documentation. Always inform the tire shop about any sealant used—they need to clean it from the wheel before permanent repairs.
Can I use these kits on run-flat tires?
Run-flat tires have reinforced sidewalls that make them extremely difficult to repair. Most manufacturers recommend replacement rather than repair. However, if the puncture is in the tread area and under 1/4 inch, a string plug can work temporarily. Never use aerosol sealants on run-flats as they can interfere with the internal support structure.
How many times can I reuse my tire repair kit?
Quality string plug systems allow unlimited repairs as long as you have replacement plugs. Compressors last for hundreds of uses with proper maintenance. Aerosol sealants are single-use only. Plan to restock consumables (plugs, CO2 cartridges, sealant) after each use, and inspect reusable components before every road trip.
Are glove box kits legal in all states?
Yes, tire repair kits are legal everywhere, but some states have restrictions on tire disposal and repair standards. California requires special handling for aerosol sealants due to VOC regulations. Always follow up emergency repairs with professional service within the timeframe recommended by your kit manufacturer.
What’s the maximum puncture size these kits can handle?
Most string plug kits effectively seal punctures up to 1/4 inch (6mm) in diameter. Aerosol sealants work best on holes under 1/8 inch. Sidewall punctures, cuts, or holes larger than 1/4 inch require professional repair or tire replacement. Never attempt to repair a tire that has been driven on while flat—the internal damage is invisible but dangerous.
Can I store my kit in the trunk instead of the glove box?
Absolutely. While designed for glove box storage, these kits work anywhere. The compact size simply makes them more versatile. In hot climates, the trunk might actually be cooler than a sun-baked glove box. Just ensure the kit is secured so it doesn’t become a projectile in an accident.
Do these kits work on trailer and motorcycle tires?
Most compressors handle trailer tires (typically 50-65 PSI) but verify the maximum PSI rating. Motorcycle tires require the same tools but often need higher precision due to smaller volumes. Motorcycle-specific kits include additional items like bead breakers and tube patches. Always check valve stem compatibility—some trailers use different valve types.
How accurate are the built-in pressure gauges?
Budget compressor gauges can be off by 3-5 PSI. Mid-range units achieve ±1-2 PSI accuracy. Premium digital gauges reach ±0.5 PSI. For critical applications or performance vehicles, always verify with a dedicated high-quality gauge. Calibrate your gauge annually against a master gauge at a tire shop.
What’s the shelf life of an unopened tire repair kit?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing kits every 4-5 years even if unused. Rubber components degrade, lubricants separate, and sealants can harden. Check expiration dates on aerosol cans and sealant bottles. Compressors should be tested annually. Think of it like a fire extinguisher: better to replace it before you need it than discover it’s failed during an emergency.'