Why is my inflatable paddle board not inflating?
The lack of pressure buildup is caused by a lack of lubricant in the pump or unevenly distributed lubricant. If the pump won’t build pressure all you need to do is add some sort of lubricant, like Vaseline. Unscrew the top of the pump and add a glob of lubricant to the cylindrical piece on the inside. Look at the factory specifications for your pump and ensure that it is receiving the correct electrical power supply in order to work properly. Ensure that all electrical wiring is in good condition, that there are no loose connections and that the electrical current is reaching your pump in the first place.My manual pump is losing suction! Take the handle off and make sure the little o-ring is present and hasn’t fallen off, which can also affect suction. Make sure the plastic part of the handle is fully connected to the squishy part, pressed in snugly.Run the pump for a few moments without water. If the noise is gone, it’s mechanical. Gauge reading will direct you the problem side of the system if it’s a hydraulic noise.
What PSI should I inflate my paddleboard?
The best inflatable stand-up paddle board PSI level is anywhere from 10 to 15. Most people inflate their board to about 10 to 12 PSI. A higher PSI will help if you are riding in cold or choppy water. If you need a bit more stability, try increasing the PSI of your board as well. Generally speaking, lighter paddlers (under 180 lbs) can inflate the board to 15-18 PSI, while heavier paddlers (over 180 lbs) should inflate to 15-22 PSI.Not inflating your paddle board correctly You need to inflate your paddle board to the recommended PSI. If you don’t inflate it enough, it’ll lose its rigidity and flop around, making it harder for you to paddle. On the other hand, inflating it too much will cause your board to pop due to excess pressure.Performance Limitations: Inflatable paddle boards might not offer the same level of performance as hard boards. They are often less rigid, which can impact their speed and maneuverability.All paddle boards have maximum weight guidelines, if you’re nearing these weight limits (remember to include the weight of belongings, pets and passengers!Overinflation is the most direct path to a paddle board bursting. Boards are designed to operate safely within a specific range of air pressures, measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Exceeding this limit can strain the board’s materials and seams, potentially leading to a burst.
Is it bad to leave an inflatable paddle board inflated?
For short term storage, leaving your board inflated is absolutely fine, permitting it’s in the perfect storage spot as we outlined above. All inflatable paddle boards will lose air pressure over time when left inflated, but it’s also key to remember that air pressure expands in extreme heat. You can generally keep an inflatable paddle board inflated for a short duration, ranging from a few days to a week, particularly if you use it frequently. However, leaving it inflated for extended periods could lead to gradual wear and tear.With proper care and maintenance, a well-built inflatable paddle board can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the lifespan of your iSUP may vary depending on how often you use it, the conditions in which it’s used and stored, and the quality of construction.See Starboard’s tips on caring for your inflatable paddle board. In general, it’s a good idea to store your iSUP in a cool, dry place when it’s fully inflated. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot, humid environment, as these conditions can cause the board to degrade over time.With proper care and maintenance, a well-built inflatable paddle board can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the lifespan of your iSUP may vary depending on how often you use it, the conditions in which it’s used and stored, and the quality of construction.Over Expansion in Paddle Boards There is no rule saying you can’t leave your paddle board inflated; however, we strongly recommend that if you’re leaving your paddle board in storage for long periods of time, you should deflate it to keep it in its best possible condition.
How do I know if my paddle board is fully inflated?
Your paddle board is fully inflated when it feels firm to the touch and does not flex under pressure. Most boards have a recommended psi, typically around 12-15 psi, which you can check using the gauge on your pump. The electric paddle board pump is about 1 minute per psi. So about 10-15 minutes for any of the inflatable paddle board. This item does not come included and would have to be purchased separately. Although the two pumps take about the same time to inflate an isup, they differ greatly in the amount of effort required.