Generator for Inflatable Rentals: Choosing the Right Power Source
Finding a good generator for inflatables boils down to a single consideration – does your generator meet the power requirement of all your blowers during an event? Inflatables remain erect as long as air is pumped into them through the blower mechanism. This means that your inflatables will collapse in case of a power outage. A generator is the perfect solution to such power disruptions. There are several things to consider when choosing a proper generator including the specifications of the blowers, how many blowers will run at once, among others. The considerations are explained in detail in this guide.
Why Does an Inflatable Rentals Need a Generator?
When your event lacks convenient and accessible power source, you definitely need a generator. Situations that call for a generator include:
- Public parks and open fields
- School carnivals and field days
- Company’s family days
- Community fairs
- Backyard birthday parties where an outlet cannot reach
- Event that features several inflatable rentals in the same place
Sometimes, a generator is not required. If there exists an available electrical outlet in your event site and approved for use with your inflatable rentals, a generator is not necessary. Confirm the ratings of the outlet beforehand.
How to Choose a Generator for Inflatable Rentals
The following four things help decide on whether a generator is suitable for your inflatables or not: blower specifications, starting vs. running power considerations, number of blowers that will run simultaneously and the kind of generator you choose.
- Know the Blower Power Requirements
Look for the power specifications of the blowers. This can be found on the name plate, owner’s manual, or manufacturer documents. You have the voltage, amperage, running watts and, sometimes, any starting requirements of your inflatable blower. You can get a rough idea on the kind of power you need using the formula below:
Watts = Volts × Amps
However, that is just the tip of the iceberg. Proper generator sizing should take into account the startup loads, any other power requirements like the power factor and all the appliances connected to your generator, among other factors. Whenever in doubt, talk to the blower’s manufacturers.
- Find Starting Watts and Running Watts
Running (continuous) watts refer to the power needed for steady operation of your appliances or machines. Starting (surge) watts are the additional watts that certain motors require during startup.
This varies according to the motor design. Thus, do not assume all the inflatables blower behaves in the same way in terms of power requirements. Take the specifications and compare them with the rated running and starting power of your generator.
- Number of blowers to Run Together
The sum of all the electrical loads connected to your generator, including blowers, lights, music and, perhaps, other equipment. You must go through all the blower specifications and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. There is no universal standard of generator wattage suitable for all inflatable rentals. Each rental set-up needs to be individually sized.
- Choose an Appropriate Generator Type
While portable generators are commonly used in outside events, there are other sources of energy. Whatever you choose, will be dictated by the place where your event is going to be conducted, electrical load, noise concerns, fuel accessibility and, of course, the need for safety. Pick a particular model based on its specifications.
What Size Generator Do You Need for a Bounce House?
The answer is based on your own individual blower’s running and starting power requirements, the number of blowers and other electrical loads. Let me illustrate the process using a hypothetical situation. Please keep in mind these are fictional numbers; not the real blower ratings:
- Nameplate Blower A (for example only): 120 V × 5 A = 600 W
- Nameplate Blower B (for example only): 120 V × 5 A = 60 a
- Combined continuous load 600 W + 600 W = 1,200 W
Continuous rated generator must comfortably accommodate your own verified totals. Not only this but your generator must also take care of the starting loads. Allow yourself a margin for capacity according to the manufacturer’s advice. Operating a generator at its max capacity is dangerous and troublesome.
Generator Power Requirement for Different Inflatable Rentals
The requirement varies greatly depending on the kind of inflatable. It is important for you to check specifications in each and every inflatable rental you pick for your party.
You need to verify the specifications and ensure that your power source can withstand your equipment for the entire rental period. View the variety of the bounce house rentals available on the Fun Time website.
- Inflatable Slides
The needs may differ according to different models. Dried and wet slides have different requirements and thus need to be checked for the exact model. You can see both categories (the dried and wet slides) here.
Large inflatables, especially the kind featuring more than one blower, may require more generator capacity. Please check obstacle course rentals.
- Combo Inflatable Rentals or Multiple Attractions
Combine the electrical loads of the equipment instead of sizing a generator based on the size or complexity of each inflatable. Specifications provided by the manufacturer determine the actual power requirement.
Can a Single Generator Run Multiple Inflatable Rentals?
It is possible but you need to make sure that your combined load falls within the generator rated capacity and all limitations of the connected electrical system. Check the following:
- Combined running load
- Starting loads
- Generator continuous output
- Number of blowers
- Connected equipment
- Outlet and circuit ratings
- Required cables and electrical distribution
It is important never to connect devices in a way that exceeds outlet/circuit capacity.
Generators: Fuel, Noise Level and Other Considerations
Apart from the generator power or wattage, you must take into consideration:
- The fuel type and supply, run time and refueling needs
- The noise level relative to your neighbors/guests
- Manufacturer maintenance requirements
- Weather-proofing of your equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Transportation and setting up
- Restrictions of your venue concerning the generators
- Fuel storage and handling with proper fuel containers far away from guests
Any generator fueled by fuel must never be operated inside or in enclosed spaces since the generator’s engine emits carbon monoxide (in invisible, odorless form).
Generator Placement and Safety for Inflatable Rentals
Safety is of the first importance! Follow the instruction of the generator manufacture, and observe the following rules:
- All fuel-fired generators must be kept outside, away from buildings, windows, doors and vents
- Stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding clearances as well as local requirements
- Prevent moisture of the generator equipment using appropriate ways that never impair ventilation
- Protect electrical connections from moisture
- Use appropriate rated cables and electrical distribution equipment
- Prevent the occurrence of tripping hazards with the cables
- Keep your generator and fuel away from children and guests
- Allow unrestricted access for your personnel and monitor the equipment while in operation
The portable generator safety alert from the Consumer Product Safety Commission states that the majority of received reports of generator-related incidents involves carbon monoxide poisoning cases in which generators were operated indoors or partly-enclosed spaces. CDC generator safety fact sheet provides additional recommendations on the matter. For generator configurations requiring expert electrical knowledge, you are advised to seek the help of certified electrical professionals.
Generator Mistakes to Avoid
- Depending on the advertised maximum generator power. Compare your load to the rated continuous generator output.
- Disregarding continuous rated generator output. Compare with your load.
- Ignoring the blower starting requirements. Confirm in the documentation.
- Not accounting combined load. Include all the blowers and accessories.
- Connecting equipment using damaged or underrated extension cords. Inspect the cables and match ratings.
- Placing your generator too close to people and structures. Follow instructions in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Overlooking the noise restrictions and venue regulations. Contact the venue in advance.
- Failing to read the instructions. Read everything in all equipment manuals before the event!
Generator Checklist Prior to Inflatable Rental Event
- Confirm power requirements in each inflatable rentals
- Check voltage and amperage needs
- Find running and starting power needs
- Calculate your combined electrical load
- Verify the generator’s continuous output
- Fuel and runtime requirements verification
- Cable and distribution equipment ratings
- Venue regulations and local restrictions
- Generator proper placement and safety
- Weather related requirements
- Arrangement of qualified professionals whenever needed
- Test and inspect the equipment according to manufacturer guidelines
How Fun Time Entertainment Can Help With Inflatable Event Planning
Fun Time Entertainment features inflatable rentals, obstacle course, bounce houses and interactive games throughout New Jersey and Rockland County, NY. As stated on the Fun Time Entertainment website, their services include delivery, professional installation and uninstallation of inflatable rentals.
Before your event day, you need to verify power needs for your selected inflatable rental. In case of your inquiry with Fun Time Entertainment, you are advised to ask the following questions:
- Are the blowers included?
- Electrical requirements of your selected rental
- Suitability of power supply available at your site?
- Any limitations of site access and/or setup?
- Needed arrangements when suitable power supply is not available at your event site
FAQ
What size generator do I need for a bounce house?
Depends on the running and starting power needs, the number of blowers and the other electrical loads. You will need to look for the voltage and amperage on the blower name plate or in owner’s manual and multiply them.
Can one generator run multiple inflatable rentals?
Maybe, if your load combined falls within the generator capacity and rated of the electrical system. Your generator must be able to handle all the running/starting load of all the equipment you are planning to use and cables/outlets to be properly rated for the load.
How many watts an inflatable blower needs?
Depends on blower model. No uniform standards in this field. Just find the voltage and amperage in the blower name plate or owner’s manual and multiply volts and amps. Verify running/starting power according to the documentation.
Can I use a portable generator for inflatable rentals?
Sure, if it meets your power load with adequate margin and used according to its instruction manual. Only operate the fuel generator units outdoors and out of buildings. Use appropriate cables.
Do inflatable rentals always need a generator?
Not necessarily. Sometimes a convenient electrical power supply source available. Make sure to check outlet and rental requirements. Mainly a generator is used when there is no power available on-site.
What is the appropriate distance between the generator and a bounce house?
Follow the instructions of the generator manufacturer as well as local regulations and requirements.
If it is your home event then according to CPSC and CDC you are supposed to operate generator far away from windows, doors and vents.
What happens if the generator provides insufficient power?
Your generator is overloaded, shutdown or fails to operate properly; you will have your inflatables without air. Try not to make this happen by estimating your total load and maintaining your equipment.
Can fuel-powered generators be used indoors?
Never. They emit the lethal invisible odorless gas called carbon monoxide. According to CPSC and CDC guidelines, never run them indoors or enclosed (or partly-enclosed spaces). Use only outdoors and strictly following manufacturer’s directions.
