Energy Requirements and Generator Selection
The bouncy castle runs on a 750w motor, and therefore costs around 10p per hour to run. If you are playing outside or want “rave volume,” then you will probably want to have 10 watts per person. The energy needs could easily be met with a 2.5 Kva Digital Inverter generator.
A bouncy castle or inflatable is manufactured using robust commercial thread and an industrial sewing machine. The fan provides a constant air flow into the inflatable. It’s possible to stop the blower for 10-15 minutes every 4 hours or so.
DO YOU REALLY NEED A BIGGER GENERATOR DURING LOADSHEDDING?
The simple answer is: No, you do not need a generator to run a bounce house. Bouncy castles are powered by an electric fan with air leaving via the seams. Generators offer the advantage of powering the castle wherever it’s needed, such as in the middle of a field. However, generators increase costs and noise, with a heightened risk of failure.
If you have a 2000 watt generator, it can power almost any size of bounce house blower. What size generator do you need for a bouncy castle? Most manufacturers recommend a minimum of 2000 watts for a bounce house.
Generators for Bounce Houses: Do You Need One?
In general, most bounce houses come with a 115-volt blower that can be plugged into a household outlet. If no outlet is available, a generator is the next best option.
Here’s a helpful chart:
| Bounce House Dimensions | HP |
|---|---|
| Add dimensions | Add HP |
Starting a Bounce House Business
Startup costs range from $9,000 to $16,000, with the main expense being the bounce houses themselves, costing $7,500 to $12,500 for packages that include dollies and a blower. You’ll also need:
- Dollies
- Air blower
Bounce House Wattage and Usage Duration
The bouncy house needs continuous power to remain operational. Larger bounce houses may require a more powerful generator and additional circuits. A blower rated for 115 volts and between 7 to 14 amps is needed to properly inflate a bounce house.
Safety and Maintenance
Blowers require power to inflate the bouncer and need to be in accessible power areas or supported by a generator. While air leakage from the seams is normal, ensure proper inflation for safety.
Regarding cancellation policies, companies understand the need for flexibility in case of bad weather. For generators, a 2300-watt option might cost $75, while a 3000-watt could be $100.
A large Bounce House will require at least a 2000-watt 20-amp generator. For tipping setup crews, 10 to 15 percent is the norm for good service.
Setting Up for Your Event
Bouncing castles require a minimum of 2000 watts to operate. If using multiple castles, ensure the generator has enough capacity. Generators and supervisory staff are available for hire. Always ensure adult supervision, and for public park setups, council permissions are necessary.
- Ensure you have 1 to 2.5 kilowatts per castle available from the mains.
- A 2000 watt generator provides sufficient power for one blower, but more blowers will require a larger generator.
- Expect 1-1.5 hours of runtime per gallon of fuel, with current prices around $4 per gallon.
Specify the delivery and setup times, keep sufficient clearance from walls, and consider height limitations. Choose from various shapes and themes, and use certified companies for safety and cleaning. Rentals can last up to 8 hours, with extra amenities available for purchase.
Recommendations and Tips
- No need for a generator if near an outlet.
- A 5500-watt generator is suggested for full power requirements.
- Assess damages on a case-by-case basis.