air compressor size????

I was told by an electrician to stay away from 3 phase because the power companies wont send 3 phase to a residence only a business.

Most residences don't have 3 phase available, and if they did, it would cost a considerable amount to have 3 phase run into the house. But if you got let's say a good buy, a REALLY good buy on a 3 ph belt drive, you might be able to change the motor to single phase and still come out good. Just depends on "the deal."