Electric pumps for RIBs: Buying guide

No more tedious inflation sessions and sore muscles!

With electric inflators for rigid inflatable boats, say goodbye to the chore and hello to easy sailing.

In this article, Orca Retail tells you everything to make your purchase of an electric inflator easier.

Choosing the right electric inflator for your rigid inflatable boat

When choosing an electric inflator for your rigid inflatable boat, it is important to consider the following factors:

1. Budget

The price of electric inflators for rigid inflatable boats varies considerably depending on their features, ranging from less than 100 euros for entry-level models to high-end models that can exceed 300 euros.

• Economical inflators (less than 150 euros): Ideal for small boats (less than 4 meters) and occasional use.
• Mid-range inflators (150 to 300 euros): Offer a good quality-price ratio and are suitable for most rigid inflatable boats (4 to 6 meters).
• High-end inflators (more than 300 euros): Intended for larger boats (more than 6 meters) and demanding users, with advanced features and high durability.

2. Boat size

The power required for your electric inflator depends on the size of your rigid inflatable boat and its tubes:

• 4-meter rigid inflatable: 200 to 300 liters per tube
• 5-meter rigid inflatable: 300 to 400 liters per tube
• 6-meter rigid inflatable: 400 to 500 liters per tube
• 7-meter rigid inflatable: 500 to 600 liters per tube
• 8-meter rigid inflatable: 600 to 800 liters per tube

So be sure to check the size of your tubes to choose an electric inflator that can inflate your two floats within an acceptable timeframe for you.  

3. Power source

Electric inflators for RIBs are available in two main versions:

• AC inflators (220V): Powerful and efficient, they allow for faster inflation, ideal for large boats. They require a power outlet to operate and are less compact. Perfect for use at the dock or at home. 
• Battery inflators (12V): More compact and portable, these inflators connect to the boat's battery, and therefore offer lower performance. Ideal for use at sea or in remote locations.

4. Features 

Some electric inflators for RIBs offer additional features that can be useful, or even essential for some users. Here are some examples:

• Deflation: The deflation function allows you to quickly empty the air from the tubes of your boat, making it easier to store and transport. This function is especially appreciated for large boats or for people who sail frequently.
• LCD screen: An LCD screen allows you to view the air pressure in real-time during inflation and deflation. This information is important to ensure that your tubes are inflated to the appropriate pressure, which optimizes the safety and performance of your boat.
• Integrated battery: Some electric inflators are equipped with an integrated battery, making them completely portable and usable at sea or in remote locations. This option is ideal for boaters seeking great freedom of use.
• Automatic stop: The automatic stop allows the inflator to automatically shut off when the desired air pressure is reached. This function prevents overinflation of the tubes, which can damage your boat.
• Thermal overload protection: Thermal overload protection protects the inflator's motor from overheating. This protection is important to ensure the longevity of your device.
• Accessory storage: Some electric inflators have a storage space for keeping your equipment organized and easily accessible.

How to inflate your RIB?

1. Preparation: Unfold your RIB on a flat and clear surface. Make sure the air valves are easily accessible.
2. Connection:  Connect the inflator to a power source (main socket or battery) and connect it to the main tube of the boat via the provided air hose.
3. Inflation: Select the appropriate pressure according to your boat manufacturer's recommendations. Activate the inflator and let it do its job!
4. Monitoring: Monitor the air pressure during inflation and stop the process when the pressure recommended by your manufacturer is reached.
5. Connections: Disconnect the inflator and screw the valve caps back on.
6. Inflation of other tubes (if necessary): Repeat steps 3 to 5 for the other tubes of your boat.

Attention, for the inflation part, there are two steps:

1. Low-pressure inflation:In this phase, fill the tubes with air to give them their initial shape, with a low pressure between (0.2 and 0.3 bar).
2. High-pressure inflation: Then, bring your tubes to their service pressure, indicated by the boat manufacturer (generally between 0.7 and 1.2 bar). 

Additional tips:

• Consult the boat owner's manual for recommended inflation pressures.
• Inflate the boat in a clean and dry place.
• Never use an air compressor to inflate the tubes.
• Check the pressure of the tubes regularly and adjust if necessary.
• Never exceed the maximum service pressure indicated by the manufacturer.

Selection of 4 electric inflators for semi-rigid boats

Spinera 12V

Observed price: 100 euros

Features:

• Power supply: 12V 
• Flow rate: 70L/min
• Pressure: 20Psi
• Functions: Inflation, programmable pressure with automatic stop
• Weight: Unknown
• Dimensions: 23x14x12cm
• Accessories: 3m cable, 100cm hose with a nozzle

LOETAD 150PSI

Observed price: Between 150 and 250 euros

Characteristics:

• Power supply: 12V 
• Flow rate: Not specified
• Pressure: Adjustable from 0,3 to 10,3 bar (4,5 to 150 psi)
• Functions: Inflation, deflation, pressure measurement and pre-programming
• Weight: Not specified
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Accessories: 2 air nozzles, ball needle, user manual, 3m power cable

Advantages:

• Multifunctional inflation with pressure pre-programming
• Automatic stop at desired pressure
• Integrated LED light for better visibility
• Compact and portable for easy transport

Bravo Turbomax Scoprega

Observed price: 300 euros

Features:

• Power supply: 12V
• Flow rate: 1000 L/min
• Pressure: From 175 to 250 mbar - 3.6 psi
• Functions: Inflation and deflation
• Weight: 3.5 kg
• Dimensions: 31 x 18 x 19 cm
• Accessories: Nozzles, Battery clamps, 3 m cable, Carrying bag

Advantages:

• Quick inflation and deflation (7 min for a 7m boat)
• Adjustable pressure
• Robust and durable

Disadvantages:

• High price
• Only connects to a battery (car, boat)

Scanstrut Atmos

Source: Tecmar

Observed price: 557 €

Features:

• Power Supply: 12V
• Power: Not specified
• Pressure: 20 PSI (1.5 bar) 
• Functions: Inflation, deflation
• Weight:4.3 kg
• Dimensions:31x38x26 cm
• Accessories: hose of 2.5 m, 6 different connectors, sun protection cover

Advantages:

• Integrates directly into your boat (compact and shallow)
• Waterproof IPX6 at the front and back
• LCD display

Disadvantages:

• High price

FAQ

How long does it take to inflate a RIB?

The inflation time for a 6-meter-long RIB, with standard-sized tubes, is estimated at about 10 to 15 minutes with an electric inflator with a flow rate of 70 L/min. With an electric inflator with a flow rate of 1000 L/min, the inflation time can be reduced to about 1 to 2 minutes.

What is the cost of inflating a RIB in France?

The estimated cost of inflating a 6-meter-long RIB, with an electric inflator, is about 1 to 2 euros with an inflator of flow rate 70 L/min, and a few cents with an inflator of flow rate 1000 L/min, assuming an average electricity cost in France of 0.2516 €/kWh.

If you wish to hire a professional, count between 10 and 20 euros.

What features should you look for in an electric inflator for RIBs?

Some additional features may include integrated pressure gauges to measure pressure during inflation, multiple valve adapters for increased compatibility, automatic stops to prevent overpressure, and ergonomic handles for easy transport.