Buying guide for Best electric air pumps
Inflatables like pools, pool toys and rafts are convenient because they don’t take up much room when deflated. When you’re ready to use them, however, inflating them can be a chore. That’s when an electric air pump comes in handy. You can get the job done with a manual pump, but it takes a lot more time and effort, especially if the inflatable is large.
An electric air pump does all the hard work for you, inflating or deflating your pool or air mattress in seconds. Electric pumps are typically compact enough to be held with one hand, but some are as large as a soccer ball. However, it’s best to look for one with an ergonomic handle so your hand and wrist don’t get fatigued as you use it.
There are a few things to consider before buying an electric air pump. For example, one with a larger motor is typically more powerful than a smaller one and can inflate objects faster. Some pumps also have a feature that enables you to let the air out of an inflatable just as quickly.
Check out our top pick, the Etekcity Electric Air Pump, to see what we look for in a quality device. It has a powerful motor and inflates quickly. The extra-long power cord makes it more convenient to use, and its safety features keep it running smoothly. The Coleman QuickPump is a terrific bargain pick that comes with two nozzle attachments for various inflatables like air beds and pools.
Electric air pumps
This portable electric air pump has a 250-watt motor and uses a high-pressure design for fast inflation. It has an extra-long power cord and three nozzles for fitting all kinds of valves, including those of standard air mattresses and inflatable boats, pools, pool toys and furniture. The advanced wheel design and high-quality metal impellers let it operate quietly, and it has an integrated safety feature that protects it from overheating.
If you’re looking for an air pump to inflate an air mattress quickly, you won’t be disappointed with the Coleman QuickPump. It plugs into any standard 120-volt power outlet, and it comes with two valve adapters. The double lock valve works with all Coleman air beds and other inflatables, such as pool floats, while the pinch valve works on anything with a valve similar to that on a standard beach ball.
Not all air pumps are conveniently designed for travel, but this mini version fits in the palm of your hand and works surprisingly well for its size. It features an air-flow speed of 300 liters (nearly 80 gallons) per minute and is effective for quickly inflating air mattresses and other inflatables. It works for 45 minutes on a full charge and comes with five different nozzles. Plus, it has an ingress protection rating of IPX4, which means it resists splashes.
Those looking for a comprehensive electric air pump set need look no further. The Jasonwell pump packs a high-quality motor for fast inflating and comes with three interconnecting nozzles, a US adapter and a car-powered 12V-DC cigarette lighter plug for use while on the go. It works with most inflatables, such as air beds and inflatable pools, and its compact design makes it perfect for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities.
This cordless pump offers fast inflating and deflating of all compatible inflatables, including most pool toys, pools, air mattresses and rafts. It can also be used as a portable sweeper for cleaning work surfaces, and it includes an integrated accessory compartment for storing the pinch valve when it isn’t in use. Unlike other electric air pumps, this one is shaped like a power drill, making it much more comfortable to hold. And it works on the same battery platform as the company’s other cordless tools.
This 110-volt high-output electric air pump is perfect for inflating pools, rafts, air mattresses and more, and it has an easy-grip handle for increased comfort while holding it. The deflation system works quickly, and it includes five interchangeable nozzle tips that work with various inflatables. This one is a bit pricier than others, but the durable build and fast operation make it worth it.
This high-pressure 400-watt pump offers an air-flow speed of over 600 liters (158 gallons) per minute and a maximum pressure of 2.0 psi, making it suitable for large regular and commercial-grade inflatables. It has a sturdy build, a 12-foot cord, and it comes with five detachable nozzle adapters. Plus, the flexible hose allows for safe use while inflating things like towable tubes, air beds, rafts and more.
If you want an electric air pump that’s a little more robust than some of our other picks, this one is worth a look. The Seachoice can inflate or deflate anything from pool toys and inflatable boats to air beds and beach balls and comes with multiple nozzles to fit different valves. It has an extra-long 10-foot power cord and a 2-foot hose, so you have room to maneuver and don’t need to worry about it accidentally coming unplugged.
What to know before buying an electric air pump
Pumping speed
The speed at which an electric air pump fills your inflatables is measured in liters per minute (ranging from about 70 to 1,000) and corresponds to the tool’s motor size. However, just because you have an electric air pump doesn’t mean you want to be standing around waiting for it to do its job. The best can fill up most inflatables, including boats, pools, beach balls and pool floats, in just seconds. If it’s taking a while, there could be a problem with the connection or the battery may be low.
Pounds per square inch
Pounds per square inch (psi), is a unit of measure that indicates how much pressure an electric air pump can put out. A standard pump doesn’t need a high psi since all you’re doing is inflating things like air beds and inflatable pools, which don’t require much air. Look for an electric air pump with around 2.0 psi. Anything more than that is unnecessary.
Power
All electric air pumps draw power from a wall outlet via an AC power cord. However, some have a portable design with an integrated battery that lets you recharge them and use them while camping or otherwise away from an outlet. You’ll typically get 30 to 45 minutes of run time from a rechargeable pump. Some air pumps can be powered through a vehicle’s DC cigarette outlet, which is convenient when camping and your only power source is your car.
Nozzles
Not all inflatables have the same air valve, which means you’ll want an electric air pump that comes with various nozzles. Some come with only one nozzle attachment, but others include up to five, enabling you to use the pump with more different types of inflatables. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that similar inflatables can have different valves. For example, not all air beds have the same type of valve.
Size
There are electric air pumps that are so compact that they fit in the palm of your hand or a glove compartment. Naturally, these don’t offer the same power or battery life as larger pumps. However, they’re excellent for use while traveling and filling up small to medium inflatables like pool toys and air beds. There are more robust portable electric air pumps, but they take up more room.
FAQ
Q. Can I use an air compressor and air pump to inflate the same objects?
A. Air pumps are suitable for filling inflatables like pools, pool toys and air mattresses. Air compressors can do that as well, but they’re more versatile because they can also pump up things like tires and run power tools that use compressed air.
Q. Do electric air pumps require any maintenance?
A. No, but a portable air pump won’t work to its full capacity unless it’s fully charged. A pump with a low battery might take longer to inflate things or suddenly die during the process.
Q. How much do electric air pumps cost?
A. Electric air pumps with a smaller motor and a power output of 250 watts or less typically cost $20 to $50. However, if you want something more powerful and durable, expect to pay up to $100.
Q. How long do electric air pumps last?
A. Electric air pumps don’t have a particular life expectancy, so yours might last a relatively short time or several years.
