August 07, 2021 20 min read

GILI electric pump for iSUP board

Inflatable paddle boards are the way of the future. So why stick with a manual hand pump? A decent electric SUP pump can save you bags of time, and arm power, so you can get the most out of your paddle boarding session.

Electric pumps inflate paddle boards in a matter of minutes. Some even have a deflate option as well. Inflating and deflating your paddle board has never been easier. 

The days of sweating buckets and being fatigued before even getting onto the water are over. Make the switch over to an electric pump for inflatable paddle board inflation!

But how do you choose which electric pump is best for you? There are some key features you have to consider when buying an air pump for inflatable SUP use. We’ve weighed up the options and hand-selected the best electric SUP pumps available on the market today. 

So what are you waiting for? Upgrade your iSUP gear now to save you time and energy. You can thank us later!

GILI Top Picks – Best Electric Pumps for Inflatable Paddle Boards

Best Overall
GILI 12V electric iSUP pump for sale

GILI 12V Electric iSUP Pump

Efficient, powerful, and looks good while doing it’s thing! Our GILI 12V Electric Pump is phenomenal – and we’re not just saying that!

Why we like it:

  • Fits all GILI Paddle Boards and is fully compatible with iSUPs with a Halkey-Roberts valve
  • Built in overheat protection
  • Can also deflate your SUP
  • Comes with a 1 year warranty

What we don't like:

  • Not a wireless option, so you have to be close to a 12V power source
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Best Cordless
Ers 12 VDC + Go best cordless electric pump

ERS 12 VDC + GO

Want to take your adventures off grid? The ERS 12 VDC + GO is the way to go. This battery powered cordless pump is fantastic to take anywhere.

Why we like it:

  • The additional battery option makes this pump extremely portable with a great life to the battery
  • Takes around 10 minutes to inflate a 10’6 inflatable SUP
  • Only requires a 10 minute cool down period after 20 minutes of use
  • Dial system to set desired PSI level is super easy to use

What we don't like:

  • Can get expensive because the battery packs are not included in the standard price
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Best Budget
Dama 20psi portable SUP electric pump

DAMA 20PSI Sup Electric Pump

If you’re looking for an electric pump for under $100, consider the DAMA 20PSI Sup Electric Pump. Not only will you get great bang for your buck, you can also inflate up to 3 SUPs straight away.

Why we like it:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Fast cooling system
  • Inflating port and deflating port, with integrated dust covers

What we don't like:

  • Takes longer to inflate the SUP than the description suggests
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Electric Pump vs Manual Pump

Most inflatable paddle boards will come with a traditional manual hand pump so you can inflate your board right away. These SUP pumps are great because you can use them anywhere. The only restriction is how much power you have in your arms!

But what about electric? How can an electric paddle board pump help you? 

Well, for starters, you don’t have to pump. Using electricity, your inflatable paddle board will inflate before your eyes at the push of a button. While your board is inflating you can get the rest of your gear and paddle board accessories ready.

Other main differences include:

  • Electric pumps have a safety shut-off feature so you won’t over inflate your SUP
  • You can multi-task with an electric SUP pump whereas manual pumps require you to operate them manually (obviously)
  • Manual hand pumps typically take 5-10 minutes to inflate a paddle board. Electric pumps typically take under 5 minutes

How To Use an Electric SUP Pump

Electric SUP pumps are super easy to use. Every pump should come with an instruction manual that you should carefully read before using. 

Here is a quick step-by-step guide to help you out:

  1. Remove your SUP, pump, and other gear from your backpack. Unroll your paddle board and lay it flat on the ground. Grass is a good surface to inflate on!
  2. Unscrew the valve cap and ensure the valve pin is upright – this means the seal is closed and you won’t lose any air during inflation.
  3. Push in the pump hose and twist counter clockwise to lock in place. Connect the other end of the hose to the OUT port of the pump. 
  4. Set your desired PSI level (standard is 12 - 18 PSI). Note that some pumps only start to read and gauge as the pressure reaches 7 PSI.
  5. Carefully remove the pump hose by twisting it clockwise and put the valve cap back on the board.

The Importance of PSI and Air Pressure

PSI means pounds per square inch. This is the measurement used to gauge the air pressure inside your inflatable paddle board.

Individual manufacturers provide specific recommendations of PSI for their SUPs. The standard level is anything between 12-18, with 15 PSI for the best performance. This will give you a stable, buoyant, and rigid paddle board. When correctly inflated, an inflatable paddle board will feel just like a fiberglass paddle board under your feet!

It’s important to reach the recommended PSI level to avoid the board collapsing under the paddlers weight. A common mistake that beginners make is under inflating the board which leads to the center feeling flimsy and unstable. This makes balancing extremely challenging and will slow the speed of the paddle board. 

Equally, it’s important to not over inflate your paddle board. If you go over the recommended PSI level you risk damaging the seams of the inflatable paddle board and possibly tearing the material. 

Good quality electric pumps have the ability to set the PSI level and an auto shut off feature once this pressure is achieved. All pumps, manual and electric, should have a pressure gauge to display the PSI level while you are pumping up your board.

Best Electric Pumps for Inflatable SUPs

GILI 12V Electric iSUP Paddle Board Pump

Our GILI Sports 12V Electric Pump not only looks great but also does a fantastic job of inflating an inflatable paddle board. This must-have paddle boarding accessory is super easy to use, compact, and powerful, with built-in overheat protection, which prevents the pump from overheating during operation. 

Powered by your car’s cigarette lighter, simply plug in and pump! The digital gauge allows you to set a PSI level and the auto shut-off function turns the pump off once this pressure is reached.

GILI 12V electric iSUP pump for sale

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: GILI 12V iSUP Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI / 1.38 BAR
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V DC
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 9 ft. 9 in. / 297 cm
  • HOSE LENGTH: 3 ft. 7 in. / 110.5 cm

What we love:

  • Fits all GILI Paddle Boards and is fully compatible with iSUPs with a Halkey-Roberts valve
  • Built in overheat protection
  • Can also deflate your SUP
  • Comes with a 1 year warranty

What we don't love:

  • Not a wireless option, so you have to be close to a 12V power source

Overall, we love our electric pump – but of course we are biased! The GILI 12V Electric Pump performs exactly as needed, is compact to move around, and compatible with the standard Halkey-Roberts valve found on most paddle boards.

DAMA 20 PSI SUP Electric Pump

The DAMA 20 PSI SUP Electric Pump is an intelligent, portable, and lightweight electric pump designed for stand up paddle board inflation. Pressure is monitored constantly along with an automatic dual-stage function and auto switch-off when target PSI is met.

This electric pump can supposedly inflate three regular sized SUPS one after the other, however, just be cautious if you’re SUP is larger than 10 foot as it may need a cool-down period in between. And what’s more, for even more bang for your buck, this SUP pump also has a fast and effective deflate function, saving you even more time after your SUP session.

Dama 20psi portable SUP electric pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: DAMA Electric Air Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V DC
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 10 foot
  • HOSE LENGTH: 3-4 foot

What we love:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Fast cooling system
  • Inflating port and deflating port, with integrated dust covers 

What we don't love:

  • Takes longer to inflate the SUP than the description suggests

Compact, but it still: DAMA’s Electric Air Pump steals the show for us on effectiveness and price. For something under $100, this is surprisingly good at its job and will please most people!

iROCKER 12 V Electric Pump

iROCKER is a well known name for inflatable paddle boards, so it’s not surprising that we’re mentioning them here. Their electric pump is a good overall piece of equipment that can be powered from the cigarette lighter of a car or by using alligator clips on a 12V battery.

Compact and well designed – store the cables, hose, and valve attachments inside a neat compartment of the pump. You should be able to inflate two boards consecutively before needing to give the pump a break.

irocker 12v electric pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: iROCKER 12V Electric Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 3 meters
  • HOSE LENGTH: Approx. 1 meter

What we love:

  • Quick inflation time – one of the fastest electric pump for stand up paddle boards
  • Durable and hardy with a safety insurance of a 12 month warranty
  • Lightweight and compact, everything is stored in neat compartments
  • Heavy duty hose to withstand multiple use and warm climates

What we don't love:

  • The hose is not flexible and can be awkward at times
  • Requires a 30 minute cool down after use

It goes without saying the iRocker Electric Pump is one of the best available. It comes with all the necessary parts needed, as well as alligator clips for an alternative power source option.

OutdoorMaster Shark SUP Air Pump

OutdoorMaster’s Shark SUP Air Pump is highly rated by inflatable SUP users. This pump gets the job done effortlessly and can inflate up to three standard sized paddle boards in a row before needing a breather.

Well-designed and powerful. There is a lot to love about this air pump. A digital PSI display allows you to choose your desired inflation pressure. It’s clear and easy to use. So easy in fact that your kids will be able to take charge of their own paddle boards.

Outdoor master shark SUP air pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: OutdoorMaster Shark Air Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V
  • MAX RUN TIME: 30 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 9 feet
  • HOSE LENGTH: 4 feet 6 inches

What we love:

  • Fast inflation speed thanks to the dual stage inflation process
  • Can inflate three SUPs in a row
  • Super long hose and power cord to make it easier to inflate a collection of boards
  • Selection of nozzles to choose from

What we don't love:

  • Bulky in size so not as easy to travel with as other models

Despite the bulky size, this can be forgiven down to the sheer power and performance of this pump. The OutdoorMaster Shark SUP Air Pump really is a great product.

ERS 12 VDC + GO

The ERS 12 VDC + GO pump takes the podium for us as the best cordless and portable SUP electric pump. This dual stage pump reaches a 20 PSI effortlessly, and has a deflation option for post paddle ease.

Either plug in using a 12V cigarette lighter connection, or make use of the battery (an extra add-on). The battery is highly recommended so you can get the most out of this pump. It can handle 6-8 paddle boards inflated to a 15 PSI in just one charge!

Ers 12 VDC + Go best cordless electric pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: ERS 12 VDC + GO
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V Outlet or battery
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 3 meters
  • HOSE LENGTH: Approx. 1 meter

What we love:

  • The additional battery option makes this pump extremely portable with a great life to the battery
  • Takes around 10 minutes to inflate a 10’6 inflatable SUP
  • Only requires a 10 minute cool down period after 20 minutes of use
  • Dial system to set desired PSI level is super easy to use

What we don't love:

  • Can get expensive because the battery packs are not included in the standard price

If money isn’t an issue, then the ERS 12 VDC + GO is the best electric pump you can get your hands on. This is a perfect pump for a paddle board rental company or a group of friends hitting the water together.

NIXY Elite iSUP Electric Pump

NIXY’s Elite Electric Pump is a good reliable pump that comes with an extended 90-day warranty period for extra peace of mind. It has a maximum 20 PSI level, but it does struggle to reach 20PSI. but the final stages may feel like a bit of a stretch. 

As long as you keep the pump in the shade while inflating your padlde boards, then there is no reason why this pump can’t inflate a second board right away.

NIXY elite iSUP 12V electric pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: NIXY Elite iSUP Electric Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V Cigarette lighter or alligator clips
  • MAX RUN TIME: 15 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 10 feet
  • HOSE LENGTH: 4 feet 4 inches

What we love:

  • Automatic two-stage system that should inflate a standard SUP within 15 minutes
  • Comes with a travel bag to keep the power cord, hose, and nozzle neatly together
  • Multiple power source options
  • Short ten minute cool down period after use

What we don't love:

  • Reviews suggest the pump struggles for power at high pressure, so the 20 PSI maximum level is probably a stretch

Fast, portable, and an easy to use pressure dial. The NIXY Elite is a solid SUP electric pump that’s definitely worth your consideration.

SereneLife Rechargeable Pump

Don’t have access to a car? SereneLife’s Rechargeable Pump could be the best option for you. As you can guess, this electric SUP pump comes with an integrated rechargeable battery – perfect for getting off the beaten track and exploring further afield.

There is a handy carry handle that collapses into the pump when in storage. They’ve even fitted a flashlight feature which is ideal if you get caught short by the evening light.

Serene life rechargeable pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: SereneLife Rechargeable Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 16 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: Integrated 6000 mAh rechargeable battery or 12V Car Outlet
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 1 meter
  • HOSE LENGTH: 3 feet 3 inches

What we love:

  • Portable and perfect for a wild adventure with a built in flashlight feature
  • Integrated battery can inflate up to four paddle boards when fully charged
  • Comfortable carry handle and included travel bag for safe storage

What we don't love:

  • Short hose length 
  • Low maximum 16 PSI level 

It’s a shame the SereneLife Rechargeable Pump can only reach a 16 PSI maximum pressure level – you will still be able to reach a desired 15 PSI for your board, but will struggle to get higher than this. Otherwise, this electric pump is fantastic for portability and efficiency.

Thurso Surf SUP Electric Pump

Small, compact, and lightweight – Thurso Surf’s SUP Electric Pump gets the job done efficiently. However, the reason the pump is so lightweight is because it lacks a deflation feature, so this is something to keep in mind. 

You can set the desired pressure easily with the digital gauge that also lights up, perfect for those early morning paddles. The auto shut-off feature works seamlessly when the maximum pressure has been reached.

Thurso surf electric SUP pump for iSUP

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: Thurso Surf SUP Electric Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 15 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: DC 12V
  • MAX RUN TIME: 15 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 3 meters
  • HOSE LENGTH: Approx. 1 meter

What we love:

  • Fast inflation and can easily pump up two paddle boards if kept out of the direct sunlight
  • Digital PSI gauge is clear and easy to monitor levels
  • Super compact and lightweight

What we don't love:

  • Maximum PSI of 15 so will struggle to achieve top-quality inflation on the larger paddle boards
  • No deflation feature

While  Thurso Surf SUP Electrical Pump does fall short in a few areas, it makes up for it with its light weight and portability It’s a good option for smaller-sized boards, and we can live without the deflation option.

Bravo BTP Two-stage 12v Electric Turbo Pump

Bravo has a whole range of electric pumps in their collection. Choose between a single-stage option or the slightly upgraded BTP Two-staged 12V Turbo stand up paddle board pump. The two-staged model reaches the final higher pressure levels faster than a single-stage option.

It’s super compact (fitting in the palm of your hand) and comes with a battery, so you can go off-grid and take your adventure anywhere. You’ll be impressed with the power that’s packed into this little piece of equipment, perfect for small SUPs. 

Sea eagle bravo two stage high speed electric pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: Bravo BTP Two-Stage 12V Turbo
  • MAX INFLATION: 14.5 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V and battery
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 9 feet 10 inches
  • HOSE LENGTH: 6 feet

What we love:

  • Super lightweight and small design, perfect for traveling and storing
  • Long cord and hose length so you can use plenty of space while setting up your gear
  • Can easily  inflate two paddle boards consecutively

What we don't love:

  • Very expensive and low maximum inflation level

If a light weight and smaller size is important to you, then you can’t go wrong with the Bravo BTP Turbo. We only recommend you purchase this pump if your SUP is 10 feet or under as the lower PSI level will struggle with anything much bigger.

BOTE AeroPump

Fitted with the standard features of an electric pump, the BOTE AeroPump is an average performing pump. Designed for inflatable kayaks and water floats, this pump is also capable of inflating a stand up paddle board.

As a SUP electric pump, this isn’t the fastest or strongest. However, it is relatively cheap if the budget was a priority for you.

BOTE aeropump for iSUP

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: BOTE AeroPump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 1 meter
  • HOSE LENGTH: Approx. 1 meter

What we love:

  • Sturdy design
  • Dial to set desired PSI level
  • Auto shut-off function

What we don't love:

  • Durability is questionable – there are mixed reviews from customers

If you want to save money, and can run the risk of poor durability, then the BOTE AeroPump could be the one for you.

Seamax SUP20D Double Stage Pump

Super efficient with a mega quick cooldown speed, the Seamax SUP20D Double Stage Pump is in the premium SUP electric pumps category. It’s designed to be used in tropical regions, so is perfect for inflatable paddle boarding in Florida!

It has an LCD display showing the pressure gauge along with easy-to-use digital controls. Seamax provides the universal HR air valve adaptor and 3 different size O-Rings to fit most inflatable SUP types

Seamax SUP 20psi double stage electric air pump for iSUP

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: Seamax SUP20D
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V cigarette lighter and alligator clips
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 9 feet
  • HOSE LENGTH: 3.5 feet

What we love:

  • Noise reduction inflators for quiet operation
  • Fast cool downtime, 1-minute break in between inflating boards and can pump continuously for 20 minutes
  • Built-in sand filter, perfect for the beach

What we don't love:

  • Slow in the inflation process

Despite the fast cooling time, the actual pump speed is slower when compared to other SUP electric pumps. Despite that, the Seamas SUP20D is still a fantastic pump designed for life on the beach and in the sun.

Sevylor SUP Pump

The Sevylor SUP Pump is a 12V electric pump that is great to have kept in the car, ready to pump up your iSUP whenever you need it. It has a maximum 15 PSI range partnered with an auto shut-off feature.

It comes with a selection of nozzles and an additional hose for low-pressure inflatable inflation. The unit select button lets you choose from PSI, kPa, and mbar.

Sevylor SUP and water sport electric pump 12V

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: Sevylor SUP Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 15 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V cigarette lighter
  • MAX RUN TIME: 15 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 9 feet
  • HOSE LENGTH: Approx. 3 feet

What we love:

  • Low in price
  • Basic and easy to use
  • Durable and sturdy to keep up with life’s adventures

What we don't love:

  • Only a maximum of 15 PSI

The maximum PSI level could be an annoyance to people who like to get the most rigid deck to their paddle board. Apart from that, the Sevylor SUP Pump is a great budget option!

Airhead SUP Velocity Pump

Airhead’s SUP Velocity Pump lives up to the expectations of the name and the color scheme. This inflatable SUP electric pump is super fast and can run for up to 20 minutes before needing a break to cool.

This pump is designed with inflatable SUPs in mind. Even though the maximum inflation is rated 20 PSI, this could be a push when it comes to inflating larger watercraft.

Airhead SUP velocity pump 12V

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: Airhead SUP Velocity Pump
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V alligator clips
  • MAX RUN TIME: 15 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: 3 Meters
  • HOSE LENGTH: Approx. 3 feet

What we love:

  • Bright design so you will never misplace it
  • Super fast inflation speed
  • Comes with a selection of valve options
  • Auto shutoff function

What we don't love:

  • Only connects to power via alligator clips (not a cigarette lighter)

Despite the limitation of the power supply, Airhead’s SUP single-stage electric pump is one of the best on the market.

StartSmart Digital Electric Air Pump Compressor For Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

StartSmart Blowfish Electric Pump really is smart. A clear LCD display shows the pressure. You can set the desired goal and the auto shutoff will make sure over inflation doesn’t happen.

It’s lightweight, compact, and looks great. There is a lot to like about this electric SUP pump!

Startsmart 12V SUP electric air pump

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • MODEL: StartSmart Blowfish
  • MAX INFLATION: 20 PSI
  • POWER SUPPLY: 12V cigarette lighter
  • MAX RUN TIME: 20 Minutes
  • CORD LENGTH: Approx. 9 feet
  • HOSE LENGTH: 3.3 feet

What we love:

  • Comes with common valve adapters
  • Super fast maximum pump speed of 350L/min on the single stage setting
  • Accurate pressure gauge
  • Deflation function

What we don't love:

  • A very loud pump

This is one of the best electric SUP pumps money can buy. The StartSmart Blowfish gets the job done quickly and efficiently, is super easy to use, and will change your paddle boarding experience.

Key Features to Look For When Buying SUP Electric Pumps

Key features of best electric pumps

When shopping for SUP electric pumps there are a few things you need to look out for. From the valve compatibility and efficiency to the power source and maximum pressure range. Make sure you buy something that will suit your needs.

Compatibility

The electric pump has to be compatible with your paddle board and other inflatable items you have. Most pumps come with a selection of valve sizes.

The Halkey-Roberts is the most common valve type for inflatable paddle boards. They are easy to repair and can hold a high level of pressure.

Other watercraft valve types are Leafield, Boston, Pinch, Double Lock or Bravo valves. These are all military grade valves and are suitable for high pressure as well.

You can get adapters to fit an electric pump if it doesn’t have the correct attachments for your gear.

Functionality, Efficiency, and Deflation

One-stage or two-stage? 

  • One-stage: simply blow air until your paddle board is inflated, speed will vary depending on the power of the pump.
  • Two-stage: uses an initial stage of high pressure and then reduces for the final inflation PSI levels.

There is no right or wrong pump type. However, you may prefer one over the other. Different air pumps provide different speed and efficiency. 

The faster pumps may also be the loudest. This is something to think about if you plan to use it early morning in your backyard – the neighbors may not be that impressed.

Is deflation a must-have feature for you? Not all pumps have this feature. The deflating function is useful for storing your iSUP as compact as possible.

Power Source

Most electric pumps can be ran from the cigarette lighter in your car. This is a great power source that most paddlers will have when they visit their chosen destination. 

Some pumps offer alligator clip attachments as an alternative. While others even have a battery pack to give you complete freedom of movement. 

You need to determine where you are going to be inflating your paddle board. This will then help you choose what type of power source you need.

Pressure Gauge & Auto Shut-Off

Built-in pressure gauge and auto shut-off features are key to an electric pump. This will allow you to pump up your paddle board safety.

Most types of electric pump have these features so you can pump up your iSUP unsupervised while you prepare the rest of the kit.

Pressure Range

Inflatable paddle boards are recommended to be inflated to a 12-18 PSI level, with an average 15 PSI being optimal. The higher the air pressure inside the board, the more stable it will be underfoot.

Make sure you get a pump that can reach these high pressure levels. Most can comfortably inflate to a 15 PSI, some can go higher.

Optional Extras To Consider

You should also consider the following when buying an electric pump for iSUPs:

  • Hose and power cord length
  • Carry bag
  • Inflation speed
  • Noise

Safety tips for using electric SUP pumps

Safety tips for using electric SUP pumps

Electric pumps are built with safety in mind. However, due to human error and other factors, such harmless equipment can turn dangerous. 

To prevent this, you need to know how to remain safe while using your electric pump. Here are some of the things you need to do when using your electric pump that will enhance your safety. 

Avoid Water or Wet Places 

Electric pumps, like any other electrical equipment, do not go hand in hand with water. There is always a risk of electrocution or damage if your pump comes into contact with water or wet places. 

Make sure to stay away from water when inflating your board. Also, make sure that your board is dry before using your electric pump to deflate it after a paddling session. 

Watch Out for Overheating 

Overheating is a real and serious problem with most electric paddle board pumps. 

Pumps tend to overheat after consistent use and when this happens, it can damage the pump or hose. Most pumps have a screen that will let you know whether the pump is overheating or not. 

If you are planning on using your pump to inflate many paddle boards, consider keeping an eye on the temperature level and taking a few breaks after every board to keep it cool. 

Check the Nozzle Connection

This is important for the inflation and deflation of your paddle board. Make sure your nozzle connection is solid before you begin. A proper connection allows your pump to operate without losing air.

Protect your Pump from Dirt 

It is likely that your pump will encounter some dirt during the course of its operation. 

Always make sure you keep it as clean as possible because dirt, sand, and other debris can get inside when using it and damage the components. This will ultimately affect the pump’s ability to perform. 

You can easily do this by placing a blanket or tarp on the ground before placing your pump on it. 

SUP Pump Safety in a Nutshell:

In summary, there are a number of things you can (and should) do to keep yourself and those around you safe while using an inflatable SUP pump. Remember:

  • Don't use your electric SUP pump near the water or on a wet board

  • Do not over inflate your paddle board

  • Cover up the surface where you want to inflate your paddle board

  • Make sure your pump does not overheat

  • Make sure the nozzle is connected well before inflating or deflating

FAQ’S

🏆 Do I need an electric pump for an inflatable paddle board?

You don’t need an electric pump for using an inflatable paddle board, however, it will make inflation easier. Most iSUPs come with a manual hand pump as standard. An electric SUP pump is recommended to save time and paddle power that can be used out on the water. 


👍 How much psi do you need for an inflatable paddle board?

A standard 12-18 PSI, 15 PSI being optimum, is recommended for inflatable paddle boards. This will give you a good rigid and stable deck. Anything under this level will be too flexible and unstable. Inflating over this level runs the risk of damaging the SUPs seams.


🏝️ How do you pump up an inflatable paddle board?

Before you pump up an inflatable paddle board, you need to ensure the SUP is rolled out in a clear area. Grass is great ground to inflate on. Next, you need to remove the valve cap, ensure the valve pin is upright, and then insert the hose into the paddle board. 

Make sure you have set your PSI level correctly and then you can begin pumping. Once you have reached the recommended PSI level, simply remove the hose and put the valve cap back in place. 


❓ What is the best electric air pump?

The best electric pump is compatible, efficient, and portable. They also need an auto shut-off feature to ensure you reach the maximum PSI level safely. There are a lot of brilliant electric pumps for inflatable paddle boards, our GILI 12V Electric iSUP Pump being one of the best on the market.


📦 How long does it take an electric pump to inflate a paddle board?

An electric pump normally takes around five to ten minutes to inflate a paddle board. Some premium pumps even state they can inflate a standard size paddle board in under five minutes! Time to inflate varies on the electric pumps power and the size of the paddle board.


📦 If I over inflate, will my SUP be damaged?

Over-inflation can lead to damages seams on your SUP. It’s highly recommended to avoid any over inflation. If you have any queries regarding the correct PSI level for your paddle board, always check with the iSUP manual or manufacturer directly.


📦 Can I use an electric pump to deflate an inflatable watercraft?

Always check with the manual, but most electric pumps also have a deflate option. Deflation is even easier than inflation! First, make sure the paddle board is washed off and dry, ready for storage. Then, all you need to do is remove the valve cap and push the valve pin inwards and twist. 

There will be a loud gush of air at first, this is completely normal! You can then attach the hose and set the mode to deflate. As the air is sucked out you can roll the board from nose to tail, with the fins on the outside, ready to go into the SUP backpack.


📦 Should I store my SUP inflated or deflated?

You can store your paddle board either inflated or deflated – there is no right or wrong answer! If you are going to be paddle boarding frequently, it could be easier to leave your board inflated to save you inflating it over and over again. Just make sure you release a small amount of air for storage and then remember to top it up before you hit the water again. 

Deflating your paddle board makes transporting a whole lot easier. If you are limited on space in your vehicle, or don’t have a roof rack, then packing the inflatable paddle board away is your best option to get it home. And as inflating a paddle board with an electric pump doesn’t take a long time, then this shouldn’t be a problem at all!

Abi Leach
Abi Leach


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