Pump It Up
It may be surprising that one of the most overlooked facts about interactive inflatables is also probably the most obvious. Whether it's a water trampoline or bounce platform, an inflatable depends on proper inflation and deflation in order to function. How to get air in and out of any air-filled apparatus should be considered whenever purchasing an inflatable. A vast selection of high-speed, automatic air pumps and deflators are available to choose from. Decisions regarding the model or size that's right for you will depend on several considerations.
Home Use
Inflatables designed for backyards or residential swimming pools have the option of using either AC or DC battery-operated air pumps. Because they usually remain inflated for longer periods of time, speed of inflation and deflation is not normally a big factor. Many less-powerful and less-expensive models will work just fine for the smaller inflatable trampolines used at home. If your water inflatable is a large and permanently anchored, it may call for a greater PSI than a smaller air pump can deliver.
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Public Lakes and Parks
Because many people enjoy their water trampolines, water bouncers, and water tubes while boating or vacationing, their inflation devices need to be portable, easy to store, and able to inflate and deflate quickly. A more powerful high-speed air pump capable of running off of 12V battery power is highly recommended. There are numerous high-speed air blowers on the market that can have your trampoline's flotation tube inflated or deflated within minutes.
Additional tips:
- The high PSI that most air compressors generate makes them unsuitable for recreational uses.
- Never leave unanchored water trampolines inflated overnight.
- Always inspect the bouncing apparatus before and after each use to detect leaks and prevent injury.
- Read instructions carefully before inflating to prevent damage caused from over-inflation. Most inflatables should not exceed 2 PSI.
Always keep a manual air pump on hand in case of power failure or air pump malfunction.
