What is an Electric Air Pump? Definition, Parts, Working, How to Choose?

The application of an air pump is to pump out air.  The pumping of air is carried out by an electric air pump using electrical energy. Air is pumped by the electric power input, using a pump that uses electricity. In order to draw air into the pump, the impeller is rotated by an electric motor. In most cases, the air is pushed through an air pump within the chamber.

Among the most common examples of electric air, pumps are bicycle pumps used to inflate aquariums and ponds, gas compressors used to drive pipe organs, and pneumatic or air-borne pumps. 

What is an Electric Air Pump? Definition

Electric air pumps are used primarily for inflating and aerating water aquariums, ponds, and vacuum cleaners. The main purpose of the electric air pump is to push and force the air into the chambers.

what electric air pump definition parts working how choose
what electric air pump definition parts working how choose

The airflow in electric air pumps is a continuous process in the air pump. Unlike conventional air pumps, electric air pumps have little or no back pressure.

The atmosphere in which electric air pumps operate is relatively low. As air passes through the air pump, it flows continuously. In contrast to vacuum pumps, electric air pumps have little to no backpressure and flow freely.

Why is an Electric Air Pump Useful?

There can never be enough emphasis placed on the importance of having an electric air compressor. There can never be too much emphasis placed on these items at home. Various types of electric air compressors are available, including inflatable and portable models. An air pump is essentially the same as any other, except it is driven by electricity instead of by air.

It is important to understand that electric air pumps are not the same as any other kind of air pump. It is important not to confuse this air pump with any other air pump.

  • Pumping up your inflatable items with electric pumps is great because they are quiet and do not consume much energy. Electric air pumps are therefore soundless and efficient, so you should look for them.
  • Pumping air in inflated or punctured objects by manual air pumps requires a lot of hassle and strength and you need to manually pump air into the object required by using your feet.
  • If ever you want a little rest for your fatigued legs, you can choose designs that use bellows or electricity. Inflatable items are able to be inflated using the suction energy that is strong enough to pull large amounts of air at once from the atmosphere.

Why Should You Choose an Electric Air Pump Over a Manual Air Pump?

Let us see the why should you choose an electric air pump instead of manual air pump:

  • In some electric air pumps, the weight is higher than in manual air pumps, increasing energy and battery costs. However, a manual air pump cannot perform tasks that an electric air pump can. This is by far their most significant advantage.
  • Air pumps that are operated manually cannot perform as efficiently as air pumps that are operated electrically. The compressor in most electric air pumps stops automatically when the item inflates due to an automatic pressure gauge. Several hours of continuous operation can be achieved with an electric pump, thereby saving money, time, and effort.
  • Electric air pumps are available with different extensions and can be attached to a variety of threads and nozzles. There are, however, most manual air pumps that can only be attached to one or two nozzles, and they are designed specifically for this purpose
  • A manual air pump must be repaired with your feet and hands, while an electric air pump can be repaired with your hands and feet.
  • Ultimately, the manual air pump will be cheaper, but it won’t be as convenient or satisfying as the electronic one. The advanced electric air pump is primarily used for insulation purposes, while the traditional air pump is used for all-purpose applications.

Built of an Electric Air Pump

There is a mobile piston on the most fundamental device, which fills the air in your things. Compressors powered by electricity are bulkier and use more energy. Electric bicycle air pumps are similar to bicycle air pumps, but they are powered by electricity.

Pumps like Electric air pumps and other similar pumps have various types of movable objects and parts like the impellers, pistons, blades, diaphragms, crankshafts, etc. which is there to drive the airflow of the pumps. In response to air moving, an area of low-pressure forms, which fills with more air as it travels.

A top-of-the-line electric air compressor comes with the air compressor. A compressor draws in air and compresses it at extremely high pressures and temperatures.

AGPTEK Electric Air Pump, Portable Quick-Fill Air Pump with 3 Nozzles, 4.5kPa, 110V AC/12V DC, Inflator/Deflator Pumps for Outdoor Camping, Inflatable Air Mattress Beds, Boats, Swimming Ring Opens in a new tab.
  • Powerful Electric Air Pump -- The AGPtek air pumps are so powerful that it can not only inflate items but also deflate products by sucking air out! Car power adapter and home power adapter are included, making it possible for indoor and outdoor use. ( NOTE: This air pump is NOT rechargeable and NOT FOR BALLOONS!!!!!! )
  • 3 Nozzles to Choose -- We have 3 nozzles of different size in the electric air mattress pumps – S, M and L, allowing you to inflate/deflate different items in any occasions! Tip: Not applicable to Intex Challenger K1!!
  • Easy to Use -- The inflatable mattress pump is compatible with 12V DC and 110 -120V AC power supply. To inflatable, just put the inflatable head at the filling hold, then press the switch. To deflate, you should put the inflatable head in the vent hole, then press the switch to deflate. Our electric air mattress pumps are simple to operate.
  • Portable -- The inflatable mattress pump is small and lightweight, making it convenient to use it indoor and outdoor. At a travel-friendly dimension, you can easily take air pumps anywhere you go!
  • Multi-Purpose -- Including car power adapter & home power adapter. This inflatable mattress pump is a powerful inflator and deflator for both indoor and outdoor use, especially for travel and outdoor activities. AGPtEK air pumps helps you saving time on inflating air cushions, air beds, air boats, inflatable furniture, swimming ring and more!

Benefits of an Electric Air Pump

If you have a top-of-a-line electric air pump then you are able to do activities like when are at the gas station, you are inflating your tires with compressed air which will not only save you time but also some amount of money. Their effectiveness is excellent, but they are perhaps a bit large in size. This type of air compressor is most suitable for those who wish to keep one in their garage or working area.

It is recommended that you purchase a powerful electric compressor. The inflation technique in your item to be inflated is another essential factor to consider when purchasing electric air propellers. Check whether there is a one-way control device on your mattress or sofa before you inflate it because you need lots of air to sleep or sit comfortably.

It may be possible to use a lower-speed electric air compressor if it includes a one-way regulator. Unless your item contains a one-way valve or regulator, you will need to purchase an electric air compressor with higher energy. Compressed air must be used to avoid pumping air back into the system, regardless of what power source is used.

It is also important to consider that the electric pump requires little maintenance and does not take up too much space in your garage. It is a plus for brave men to have a taste for adventure as it would act as a useful tool in travelling and trekking. You will benefit from purchasing an electric air compressor with a battery backup option in case of a power outage.

Basis of Air compressor

When air is compressed and pressurized, it is converted into kinetic energy by transferring power from electric motors, diesel engines, or gasoline engines.

In order to operate an air compressor, two primary elements are required which are airflow and pressure. The most common measurement of pressure is pounds per square inch gauge (psig), and the most common measurement of airflow in cubic feet per minute (cfm).

Air compressors’ performance depends largely on volume and pressure, not horsepower, and while horsepower identifies engine output capacity, it is not indicative of how the machine will perform. In order to maximize efficiency, you should choose the compressor that consumes the least horsepower while creating the most pressure.

Working Mechanism of an Electric Air Pump

A mechanical electric air pump works in the same way as another normal air pump, but it is powered exclusively by electricity. There are three types of impellers, one with blades, one with vanes, and one with diaphragm pumps. Electricity drives the vacuum pump to draw air from the atmosphere through a vacuum suction.

Air is compressed and pushed into a chamber, such as a balloon, tire, or aerator, under pressure. Depending on the requirement, the electrical power can either be supplied by direct electrical power supplies or by DC power supplies with batteries.

A pressure gauge or a manometer is usually attached to these pumps, along with an automatic on and off switch. The manometer provides feedback information to the control device about the level of pressure inside the chamber. In response to the feedback signal, the controller stops the air pump once the desired pressure is reached.

How Can You Choose a Proper Electric Air Pump?

There are some various factors that are to be kept in your mind so that it will be helpful for you in selecting an electric air pump. They are listed below as follows:

The type of operation

The first thing we should do is decide whether we want an automatic pump or a manually operated pump. A manual pump requires human presence to operate, but it is less expensive.

A manual pump requires human intervention, while an automatic pump operates without it. The automatic pumps work continuously with ease and require no effort on the part of the operator. 

Requirement of power

Nextly, you are going to need to think about the energy and power that is going to be required by your pump.  A fixed electrical power source is one that is fixed in one place. Pumps that are portable are powered by batteries and have voltage ratings of 12 to 24 volts. In order to ensure long life and complete pumping operations, battery-operated pumps must be properly powered.

Nozzle of an electric air pump

It is possible to interchange the nozzles of the pumps according to our needs with their replaceable hose pipes. Depending on the pump, the nozzle may be fixed, which can’t be changed. In order to operate effectively, it is important to choose a pump fitting that is appropriate for our needs.

Flow rate of the pump

Depending on your requirements, you should choose a pump that will provide you with an appropriate flow rate. The use of high-pressure pumps is necessary for applications such as inflating tires and blowing up parachute balloons. Gallons per minute (GPM) are the units of measurement used to determine flow rates.

Power outlet cord

Power cables for the pump need to be selected in terms of length and type of connection. Choosing an electrical air pump also requires consideration of the length of the power cables. To keep water away from the pump, long power cords are required for applications like pumping shallow water in swimming pools.

Application of an Electric Air Pump

Air pumps and Electric air pumps are very useful and have a lot of applications and use. Some of the major uses are going to be discussed.

Inflating tires with an electric air pump is one of the most common uses of these pumps. A portable air pump is usually recommended for people whose job requires a lot of travel. By using an air pump, you can save time, money, and labor. An electric pump is always carried by salespeople.

Some other applications of Electric Air Pumps are as follows:

  • A vacuum cleaner uses the same mechanism as an Electric Air Pump. A vacuum cleaner uses suction to pull air from a chamber and capture dust particles to clean the floor.
  • Sports balls, kids’ toys, rafters, kayaks, and camp houses can be inflated with these pumps.
  • Water is aerated using air stones in aquariums and small ponds by using electric air pumps.
  • Pneumatic tools and pneumatic horns are driven by electric air pumps.
  • Electric Air Pumps can be used as shoe pumps, although these pumps are still not that popular and not widely used. Reebok-made shoes that feature small pumps that cushion our feet in the right places. Running and walking are both made easier with this. The purpose of this pump is to make the customer’s experience more comfortable.
  • Water aquariums and inflatables can also be aerated using these pumps.

Electric Air Pumps: How to use them?

It is always advisable to wear closed-toe shoes and safety glasses before using any device. Check the oil level in the electric air pump before using it and make sure it is on a level surface. Once the air hose has been connected to the control valve, the power tool will be connected to the hose.

Once all these steps are completed you are ready to use the pump.

  • Make sure the pressure switch handle is in position and then press the off button. The power cable should be plugged into a grounded electrical outlet immediately. An extension cord can overheat the motor, it is not recommended it. The air hose should be replaced with an extra one.
  • Press the auto-on switch on the pressure switch box handle. Air compressors use this process to create pressure in the air storage tank. The air compressor automatically increases the working pressure when the pressure drops.
  • You will need to adjust the pressure control knob so that it meets the PSI specifications of the pump in order to achieve the desired pressure. Keep the pressure below the tool manufacturer’s recommendation.

By providing you with the additional power needed to finish your job quickly, this 5-gallon portable electric air pump makes your job much easier.

  • Disconnect the plug from the socket and detach the air hose when you are ready to turn off the air pump. Move the handle on the pressure switch and turn it in the “off” position.
  • With the help of a control valve, remove air from the air tank. The air tank drain valve needs to be opened when the pressure in the tank drops below 10 pounds.
  • Make sure the air pump is cooled down before using it.

You might have an extension cable attached to your air pump that is causing it to stop suddenly.

Cost or Pricing of Electric Air Pumps

Electric Air Pumps are a little more on the costly side than manual Air pumps but the cost is justified for the advantages and features that it brings to the table. The price range for electrical air pumps varies in the price category from 25 dollars to 50 dollars and some advanced and premium versions of the pump are available from 200 dollars to 500 dollars.

Best Brands for Electric Air Pumps

There are many things in our homes that require air pumps, including beds, sofas, tires, sports balls, rafts, floats, etc.

Inflatable paddle boards and kayaks can be inflated easily using an electric air pump, which allows you to enjoy using them without having to manually inflate them.

It can be difficult to choose the right electric air pump when there are so many options on the market.

Hence the best Electric Air Pumps that you can currently buy from the market are listed below

Outdoor Master Shark II

It is the second generation of the same corded electric air pump, the outdoor Master Shark I. Inflatable boats, paddle boarders, and kayakers love the new model due to its improvements.

Inflatable boats and boards are particularly easy to blow up with this device.

Having proven a welcome accessory that makes getting out on the water easier and faster for inflatable SUPs and kayaks in the summer, the Shark II has proven to be a welcome addition to both.

This electric air pump’s main selling point is that it has a frost-activated cooling system that allows you to inflate three paddle boards for up to 30 minutes.

Among the most popular products on the market, this electric air pump is no surprise. Using your car’s 12V power, you can inflate your iSUP or inflatable kayak using this simple and easy-to-use device.

The only con about this specific pump is that there is no in-built battery inside so you will be needing some kind of power supply in order to use this electric pump.

Mi Portable Electric Air Pump

This electric air pump is one of the best-selling Electric Air Pumps on the market. This air pump is manufactured by the tech giant company Xiaomi and is extremely popular in the markets of India, Europe, Bangladesh and China.

Small enough to fit in any space, the Air pump is lightweight and compact. It can be easily carried in your backpack or car and fits in your palm.

The device comes with a Pressure Gauge which is digital and with the capability of auto shut down, thus preventing the worry about overpressure.

High-precision measurement of die-casting alloy cylinders can easily be pressurized to high pressure. An aeration force of 145psi is required to achieve the desired results

The pump can be used to pump air into bikes, cars even bicycle tyres.

The pump does not need any kind of electric supply as it has a 2000 mAh, and the device also comes with a USB port for charging so you can even charge the device with just using a power bank on the go.

The device might be small but it has the power to fill up to eight bicycle tires and just takes three minutes to fill one tire. The device can also fill up to 5 car tires and just takes six minutes to fill up each tire.

HausBell Portable Digital Car Air Pump

This is a popular electric air pump and has a  12V DC air compressor that delivers a 35L/min inflation rate with 120W of high power. No matter what you are inflating, you can do it within minutes.

 With a 9.8-foot power cord, a digital tyre pressure gauge, 3 extra nozzles, auto-shutoff functionality, and a bright LED flashlight, this tool has all you need. There is a price tag of just $54 dollars.

Viair 88P Portable Electric Air Pump

It is quiet and can fill up 33-inch tires fairly quickly for a 12-volt compressor pump. A size of 6.75 by 6.25 by 10.75 inches, it weighs 4.5 pounds, and it measures 6.25 by 6.25 inches. The Viair has a maximum pressure of 120 PSI and a maximum airflow of 1.47 CFM.

With a power cord of 9 feet and an air hose of 12 feet, this car tire air inflator is the perfect solution for larger cars and trucks.

This air pump is unique because of its power to inflate the tires of big cars like buses, trucks, wagons etc without any hassle.

NIXY Ventus Electric Air Pump 

As one of the best electric pumps, the NIXY Ventus is very much portable and affordable. The machine uses 12V and is portable, light, and easy to use. Other inflatable products such as surfboards, inflatable kayaks, and inflatable dinghies can be used with this product.

Active cooling technology on the NIXY Ventus electric pump allows you to continually inflate more than one board without overheating the pump.

Using this electric air pump, you can inflate three paddle boards or similar inflatable products for up to 30 minutes due to the frost-activated cooling system.

Among the most popular electric air pumps on the market, this one has good reason for that. Use the 12V power from your car to inflate your inflatable kayak or inflatable SUP. It is easy to use and portable, and it gets the job done by inflating your inflatable kayak or inflatable SUP.

The only cons that this pump has is that it does not have the use of a battery so you will require a jump pack or a car to power the pump. Also, the electric air pump could get heathen up when it is used for a long period of time so it is suggested to keep the device under some kind of shade while the device is being used.

Aquaglide Accelerator Electric air Pump

This is one of the most portable electric air pumps that are available on the market. The Aquaglide Accelerator is an electric air pump used specifically for inflating paddle boards and inflatable kayaks.

This pump is very portable, has a unique ergonomic handle, and is auto-shutoff and deflated automatically.

With a number of features that make it a great addition to your paddle boarding arsenal, the Aquaglide Accelerator is a 12V electric air pump that can easily be attached to a paddle board or kayak.

First and foremost, you can set the pressure you want the pump to inflate at easily and conveniently. Moreover, it has a handle that makes it easier to carry around and enhances its portability.

In order to prevent overheating and shutting down, the Aquaglide Accelerator will need a 10-minute break after 20 minutes of use.

This pump is not compatible with all inflatables since it comes with 3 valve adaptors, but should be fine with most inflatable paddle boards and kayaks.

SereneLife Electric Air Pump

You can inflate your inflatable paddle board or kayak anywhere with the SereneLife electric air pump, thanks to its ergonomic design and rechargeable battery.

An ergonomically designed electric pump with a foldable carry handle, SereneLife electric pumps are ideal for paddling enthusiasts. The pump also has a LED indicator and LED flashlights.

With this electric pump, you can inflate your paddle board without being plugged into your car thanks to its rechargeable battery. Furthermore, you can use the 12V power cord if the battery runs out.

There is a major drawback to this electric pump which is that it can only inflate up to 16 PSI at a time. The majority of paddleboards only need 15 PSI of inflation, so that should be enough to inflate them.

There is also the issue of only coming with a nozzle intended for use with Halkey-Roberts valves. However, most inflatable paddle boards have Halkey-Roberts valves on them.

Black and Decker Max Portable Electric Air Pump

An electric inflator for cars and heavy trucks, the Black and Decker Max is cordless and wireless.  It is also possible to power this air pump by using the 12-volt DC cigarette lighter outlet in your car or a 120-volt AC outlet, which is available in many newer models.

With a threaded chuck, you won’t overinflate your tires and with an automatic shut-off max PSI, you will never overinflate them. When you do not pump air into your tires, the easy-to-read digital tire pressure gauge will show you your tire’s PSI. It measures 11.6 by 7.6 by 8.7 inches and weighs about five pounds, so it won’t take up a lot of space in your trunk.

Inflating an air mattress is also possible with this digital tire inflator because it comes with inflating options for low or high pressure. Easily pack up with the deflate function, which quickly clears the air. As well as bicycle tires and sports balls, it comes with accessories for filling them.

It is important to note, however, that this road air compressor is sold with a separate battery and charger if you do not already have one in your garage. The cost of this air pump is $68 on the market.

iRocker Electric Air Pump

You can also inflate your paddle board and tires or anything in need with the efficient iRocker electric air pump. Due to its thickness, the hose does not heat up too much, making the pump a reliable choice.

With its LCD screen and lightweight design, the iRocker electric SUP pump makes SUP pump operation easy and convenient.

In addition, once the selected pressure has been reached, the pump will stop automatically. For ease of packing, you can easily remove the air from your paddle board with the included deflation function.

Despite its lightweight design, this pump is durable and reliable, and because it has a thick air hose you will be able to pump two paddle boards simultaneously.

There is a disadvantage with this electric pump since it only comes with a Halkey-Roberts nozzle, which limits its compatibility with inflatables. In addition, every 20 minutes of running, it should take a 30-minute cooldown break.

Seamax SUP20D Electric Air Pump

A water pump with an integrated sand filter such as the Seamax SUP20D is a great option for blowing up paddle boards in dusty or sandy conditions.

Its one-way diaphragm valve provides a fast inflation speed, making the Seamax SUP20D versatile and reliable.

In addition to its integrated sand filter, the pump features an outtake chamber that reduces its operation’s noise.

Unlike iRocker’s, this pump has a handle for portability, and a deflation feature makes it easy to pack up your paddle board.

The main drawback with this pump is that its piston seals can melt if it overheats. Pumps cannot function without their piston seals, which are internal parts. Whenever you only need to inflate one or two SUPs, it should not be a problem.

You will also need a car or battery pack to power this pump since it does not come with a rechargeable battery.

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