Choosing the right blower is an important part of setting up and operating a commercial inflatable. Your blower needs to provide enough airflow to keep the inflatable correctly pressurised throughout use – so it performs as intended.
But what size blower do you need? Is a 1HP, 1.5HP or 2HP inflatable blower right for your equipment?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The correct blower depends on the inflatables size, design, internal volume and airflow requirements. Some larger or more complex inflatables may also require more than one blower. Always use the blower type and quantity specified by the inflatable manufacturer.
HP stands for horsepower and refers to the power rating of the blower's motor. You'll commonly see commercial inflatable blowers described as 1HP, 1.5HP or 2HP.
However, horsepower shouldn't be considered in isolation. Blower performance also depends on things like airflow and pressure, so two blowers with a similar HP rating aren't necessarily identical.
That's why checking the specification for your individual inflatable is so important.
A 1HP blower is generally suited to smaller inflatable applications where lower airflow is required. While compact and convenient, it may not provide sufficient airflow for larger commercial bouncy castles, slides or obstacle courses. Always refer to the manufacturer's specification before choosing or replacing a fan.
For many commercial inflatables, 1.5HP is a popular all-round option. Airquee would recommend standard 1.5HP fans for everyday bouncy castle use.
The Gibbons 1.5HP is a proven commercial blower offering strong, consistent airflow for bouncy castles, slides, games and obstacle courses.
Alternatively, the new Huawei REV-1.5E Slim combines 1.5HP performance with a lighter, slimmer design, making it particularly convenient for operators regularly transporting and storing equipment.
Larger inflatables often require a 2HP blower. Airquee's Gibbons 2HP is specifically designed for larger commercial products, and many Airquee obstacle courses and pool inflatables specify this fan.
However, bigger isn't automatically better. The correct blower is the one specified for your inflatable.
Not necessarily. It's easy to assume that buying the most powerful inflatable blower is the safest option, but that's not how blower selection should work.
Your aim is to provide the airflow specified for the inflatable, rather than simply connecting the largest fan available. If a product specifies a 1.5HP blower, use the appropriate 1.5HP blower. If it specifies a 2HP blower, use the specified 2HP model.
The same applies to inflatables requiring multiple blowers: follow the manufacturer's instructions for the number and type of blowers required.
Both Gibbons and Huawei can provide solutions for commercial inflatable operators, but your choice should start with compatibility with your inflatable.
Gibbons’ blowers are well established within the commercial inflatable industry, with Airquee offering 1.5HP and 2HP options. Airquee also provides dedicated operating manuals for its Gibbons fans.
The newer Huawei range, including the brand new REV-1.5E Slimline blower provides an alternative for operators wanting 1.5HP performance in a slimmer, more transport-friendly format.
For hire companies regularly loading and unloading equipment, factors such as size, weight, storage, connections and ease of handling can be important considerations alongside blower performance.
Don't assume that blowers are interchangeable. If your existing blower needs replacing, first check the inflatable's operating manual or product specification. This should tell you which blower, or blowers, the manufacturer recommends.
It's particularly important to check before changing from 1HP to 1.5HP or from 1.5HP to 2HP. If you're unsure, speak to the inflatable manufacturer or supplier before using the equipment.
As a simple guide, 1HP may suit lower-airflow applications, 1.5HP is widely used across commercial bouncy castles, slides and games, while 2HP is commonly specified for larger and more demanding products.
But treat that as a guide rather than a rule. The right blower is ultimately the blower specified for your individual inflatable.
If you are not sure which blower you need, get in touch with the Airquee team and we'll help you find the right option. Click here for more information.
