How to Inflate Boats the Easy Way


boat gear
Step-by-step instructions and tips for inflating a boat quickly and easily

Basking in the sun while riding on an inflatable boat can be an enjoyable experience for your family. Inflatable boats are practical boat equipment because they don’t need a huge backyard or a big space to store them during winter. Unlike aluminum, wood or fiberglass boats, these boats are convenient to use and even their outboard motors are light and easily detachable for repair and safekeeping.

But you don’t want to wait until a hot summer day to learn how to properly inflate a boat because it is your first time using it. You need to know how to inflate a boat without damaging it, and how to do it quickly and efficiently.

Here are the tips on how to inflate boats:

1. Inflatable boats come in different brands, sizes and designs. If you are inflating small boats, there is no need for you to use an air pump. All you’ve got to do is to practice breathing exercises by employing deep breaths every time you blow the air. Slow but precise breathing will generate a well-inflated boat. But when you are in a hurry, for sure you will run out of breath that can be fatal. Always make sure that you clean the port with disinfectant before blowing air into the boat to avoid direct contact with germs. Large boats need air compressor while medium size boats need air pump.

2. Before blowing big boats with air compressor, check them first if there are tiny holes that are not visible. If you find out any damage to your boat, don’t waste your time because it is not safe to use.

3. Remove the valve covers and number them so you don’t have a hard time when you return them to their exact location. Then, start inflating them in sequence to avoid missing a valve.

4. See to it that each chamber is filled equally with air to keep the balance while in the water.

5. When you have filled the chambers with air, check the entire boat by starting from number one up to the last valve. Then try to feel the boat, if you hear a hissing sound and air every time you tap your hands, it means there is a leakage in the boat.

6. A clockwise inspection is important in inflating boats and their outboard motors to avoid accident while having some fun in the sun.

7. When you have checked the boat, you can start inflating the thwarts and check if the air is well-balanced. Fasten the port covers tightly.

8. After doing the task, test the buoyancy of the boat in the water by connecting them to the oars. Always secure extra oars in case of emergency.

An inflatable boat is made of lightweight material, therefore it should be deflated when not in use to avoid damaging the surface when you and your kids accidentally hit it with barbecue stick or gnawed by your pets. When you get out from the water, avoid placing your boat anywhere because some sea creatures like sea urchins, shells and even rocks can rip them. Before storing the boat, clean it with soap and water, then wipe them thoroughly and air dry. Keep them in an enclosed place to discourage rodents or insects from infesting them.


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Editorial Staff

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This article was written by MyBoatLife.com editorial staff.
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