How to choose a pump for an inflatable boat

A boat pump is a very useful device, greatly facilitating the process of inflating the product. In some cases, people prefer general-purpose models or pumps for cars. But there are a number of advantages to using the device, assembled specifically for the boat.

The benefits of buying a special pump

Specialized equipment always has a number of advantages over conventional, whether it is an electric pump for a boat or something else. The main criterion is instrument performance. Compressor power is calculated taking into account the parameter of the rubber product, so there should be no problems during operation.

Many are wondering why to buy a specialized device if you can pump your own PVC boat with a car compressor? Of course, you can pump up the boat, but there will be a number of difficulties. A car pump is not designed to pump such volumes of air, therefore, to completely fill the PVC product with air, it will take a very long time. Not everyone is willing to spend so much time waiting, sitting on the banks of the river. In addition, in most cases, an adapter may be required for inflating the boat with a car compressor.

Types of pumps

Pumps for PVC boats are divided into two categories. Models that can create low pressure, as well as medium and high.

1. Low pressure type provides relative rapid inflation of air, but such pressure is kept relatively short-lived, and it is not enough to bring the boat into operational condition. Most often for pumping it is necessary to resort to using a foot pump.
2. Medium and high pressure. Models that inject medium and high pressure can pump the boat as quickly as possible. They do not require additional devices for swapping.Another significant advantage is the complete autonomy of the process without human intervention. It is enough to connect the device to the outlet and turn on the button.

Pumps are also divided into manual, foot and electric. The latter are able to provide high pressure in the shortest possible time. Basically, pumps are selected depending on the size of the boat. Each PVC product manufacturer equips their model with the simplest frog pump. But in order to pump up the boat with such an apparatus, you will have to put a lot of effort into it. That is why many fishermen prefer to initially purchase a more productive model.

Foot and hand pumps

Everything is relatively simple here. If the method of foot inflation is the most preferable, it remains to choose a model suitable for the characteristics of the available boat.

1. For PVC boats no more than three meters, having a chamber volume of 5 liters and a pressure of 300 mbar.
2. For a boat with a length of three to four meters, the volume of the chamber is up to 6.5 liters and the pressure up to 400 mbar.
3. For any PVC boat whose length is from four meters, the allowable volume is 6.5 liters and the pressure is 500 mbar.

Manual pumps for inflatable boats can only be distinguished according to two main parameters.

1. For boats of short length (up to 4 meters), double action, having a cylinder volume of 1.5 liters. The pressure is 500 mbar and the length of the cylinder is 410 mm.
2. For all other boats with a length of more than 4 meters, having a double action and a volume of 2.5 liters. The pressure in this case is 600 mbar, the cylinder has a length of 510 mm.

The convenience of using hand and foot pumps for pumping up the boat is rather dubious, but they do not require power supply, and they can be used in any, even the most remote places. In addition, they are light and compact.

Electric pumps

The electric pump for the boat is the most convenient and functional solution. Only a power supply is required to use it. There may be two options.

1. Battery pump. As the name implies, the model can be powered by a portable battery. Very convenient to use, because there is no attachment to the outlet. The boat can be pumped in close proximity to water. Most often comes bundled with a 12 volt battery.
   
2. Network. Compressor for the boat, mains powered. It is capable of delivering high power.Unfortunately, in spite of the advantages, not every user is suitable, since Not everyone has the opportunity to move an inflated boat to the river.
   

Also, electric pumps are divided on the principle of centrifugal and piston. The first of them provide a pressure level of up to 200 mbar, and models with a piston principle of operation - up to 800 mbar.

Tips for choosing an electric pump

There are a few simple rules, adhering to which, it will be possible to purchase a model that fits exactly with the existing PVC boat.

1. You must select models with the greatest degree of protection of the case. This is very important if the device will be operated in extreme conditions.
2. When choosing a model, you should be guided by reasonable principles, you should not choose what is known to be cheaper or more expensive. Often, the question does not depend on the price, but on the parameters of the existing PVC product. In the case of an electric pump, it is necessary to take into account that its performance is strictly consistent with the parameters of the boat.
3. You should not buy a “nouneym” model, on which there is not even the name of the manufacturer, but only the index. The best thing give preference to famous brands, well proven in the market.
4. It is important that membrane pumps prevail. metal elements - This will significantly prolong its service life.
5. A significant advantage will be the presence of the pump pressure sensor as well as a regulator.

Review of the best models of pumps for boats

We give 5 models that deserve positive feedback from many fans of fishing. In the mini-rating there are both manual and electric models (mains and battery) - everyone can choose a product to their liking.

5. Intex 68614

The fifth line is hand pump from the famous manufacturer "Intex". This model is intended primarily for those who prefer to travel light. It is easy and convenient to work with such a pump, and most importantly, after prolonged pumping, your palms do not hurt at all. The body is made in black color, with no possibility of choice. Manufacturing material strong and durable plastic. For hand pumps, the last item is not a minus, since they lack an automated supercharger. On the contrary, the plastic case is much lighter, and therefore easier to transport.

The device copes with pumping any PVC products. Comes with a set of various nipples and nozzles for connection to various subjects. The cost of the device is 528 rubles. In addition to a set of nozzles, a durable corrugated hose is attached to the pump.

4. Bestway

In search of which pump to buy, you should pay attention to the model from "Beesvete." This is a great device from the Chinese brand. The company has already been presented to the market for a sufficient time and has positive reviews about its products. The device is offered in large retail networks at a price of 1299 rubles. Very favorable price for the electric pump, given the models of competitors. A distinctive feature of this device is work from a network of 220 V. Simply connect it to the outlet and wait for the result. The pump will cope with any PVC product: boat, pool, mattress. The device has a small size and is easily transported.

Important! In the delivery set there is only the unit and the hose. A set of adapters are available for purchase separately.

A wonderful solution for those who have in stock big boatrequiring a productive compressor at hand. The weight of the model is only 441 grams. The pump checked by time and users.

3. STERMAY

Three leaders opens famous manufacturer "Stermey." This PVC boat pump is widely popular with fishermen. First of all, the model is acquired for a successful combination of cost and operational characteristics. You can buy a model in just 4940 rubles. The main advantage of this unit is battery operation. Included you can find special tweezers (crocodiles), with which the device is connected to the battery. This is very convenient in conditions where there is no place to connect to the outlet.

The device is able to pump up to 230 liters per minute. The maximum working pressure is 1.37 bar. Time of continuous work no more than 15 minutes.

Device made of plastic and operates on a voltage of 12 V. The number of degrees of discharge intensity is two. Very good device that can be used far from civilization. Indispensable for anyone who enjoys fishing in the water.

2. GP-80

One of the most popular pumps for boats today. GP-80 is rarely found on sale only because it is often bought. The average cost is 6362 rubles. This is a battery supercharger, complete with special “crocodiles” for connecting to the “plus” and “minus” of the battery. Also supplied with a pump durable corrugated hose and as many as eight nozzles for different types of boat nipples. The weight of the device is 3 kg. The model is made of impact-resistant plastic in a bright yellow color. A feature of the device, like the model above, is battery operation. This makes it possible to operate in nature.

1. Bravo bp12

The best pump of today's top-5, model Bravo bp12, the best choice in the middle price category. The cost of the device is only 4195 rubles. It is a durable and reliable unit capable of create pressure up to 1000 mbar. This indicator is a decisive criterion, since for most modern boats, this pressure is enough in abundance. What is important, the device is equipped air pumping function. The weight of the device is only 1.7 kg, it is very convenient to take it with you to the boat. Thanks to the “crocodiles” included in the kit, the pump can be powered from almost any 12 V battery. The maximum current consumption is 20A, a standard figure for most electric pumps.

Conclusion

It can be easy to choose a pump for a PVC boat, but for this you need to take into account the parameters and criteria described above. To purchase the required model, you should be well aware of the characteristics of the boat itself, as well as familiarize yourself with the nuances of operating the selected type of pump.