What Size Generator is Required for Full-Size and Commercial Bounce Houses?

June 20, 2024

Key Takeaways:

Bounce house blower wattage varies by size (cheap: 1000-1500W, full-size: 1500-2000W, commercial: 2000W+), so calculate the total wattage and add 20% for safety margin to choose the right generator size.
The blog offers a guide (cheap: 1000-1500W, full-size: 2000-2500W, commercial: 3000-5000W) and highlights factors like portability, fuel efficiency, and noise level for choosing a generator.
It emphasizes using heavy-duty extension cords, proper generator placement, and regular maintenance. Dura-Lite™ Vinyl bounce houses are durable, lightweight, and safe for use with generators.
For adult-size bounce houses, ensure the generator can handle the stronger blowers needed. The blog also offers a checklist for choosing generators and power tips for managing multiple inflatables.
Planning large events might require multiple generators, strategically placed with backups. Consider professional help for safe setup, and choose the generator type (portable, inverter, standby) based on your event size and power needs.

When planning an event with inflatable attractions, one crucial aspect often overlooked is power supply. Understanding what size generator you need for a bounce house is vital for ensuring continuous fun without any interruptions.

This comprehensive guide will help you determine the right generator size for your full-size bounce house or commercial size bounce house, ensuring a seamless experience for both kids and adults.

Understand the Power Requirements

Before diving into generator sizes, it's essential to grasp the basic power requirements of bounce houses.

Bounce houses, whether cheap bounce houses or high-end commercial ones, typically operate using blowers that need a steady power supply.

Standard Bounce House Blower: Usually requires 1,000 to 1,500 watts.
Full-Size Bounce House Blower: Needs around 1,500 to 2,000 watts.
Commercial Size Bounce House Blower: Can require between 2,000 to 3,000 watts or more, depending on the size and number of blowers.

Calculate Generator Size

To find the right generator, you need to sum up the total wattage of all the blowers you will be using.

Identify Blower Requirements: Check the wattage rating of the blower(s) for your bounce house.
Total Wattage: Multiply the number of blowers by the wattage per blower to get the total wattage requirement.
Safety Margin: Add an additional 20% to the total wattage to ensure the generator can handle power surges and additional loads.

Example Calculation

Single Full-Size Bounce House:

Blower Wattage: 1,800 watts
Safety Margin: 1,800 x 0.2 = 360 watts
Total Requirement: 1,800 + 360 = 2,160 watts

In this case, a 2,500-watt generator would be suitable.

Choosing the Right Generator

When selecting a generator, consider these key factors:

Power Output: Ensure it meets or exceeds your total wattage requirements.
Portability: Look for lightweight models for easy transport and setup.
Fuel Efficiency: Opt for generators with longer run times to avoid frequent refueling.
Noise Level: Choose quieter models to minimize disruption during your event.

Recommended Generator Sizes

Here's a quick reference guide to help you choose the right generator size for different bounce house types:

Cheap Bounce Houses: 1,000 to 1,500-watt generators
Full-Size Bounce Houses: 2,000 to 2,500-watt generators
Commercial Size Bounce Houses: 3,000 to 5,000-watt generators

Additional Considerations

When using generators for bounce houses, keep the following in mind:

Extension Cords: Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords to connect the blower to the generator.
Location: Place the generator at a safe distance from the bounce house to minimize noise and ensure safety.
Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain the generator to ensure reliable performance.

Advantages of Dura-Lite™ Vinyl

Choosing bounce houses made with Dura-Lite™ Vinyl offers several benefits, especially when paired with a generator:

Durability: Ensures long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Lightweight: Easier to handle and transport, making setup and takedown quicker.
Safety: Provides a robust and secure structure for hours of safe play.

Power Adult-Size Bounce Houses

For events catering to adults, adult-size bounce houses require more robust blowers and, consequently, more powerful generators. Ensure you calculate the wattage accurately and choose a generator that can handle the increased load without faltering.

Ensure Continuous Fun

Using the right generator ensures that your bounce house remains inflated and operational throughout your event. Whether you're renting out bounce houses or hosting a party, having the proper generator is key to providing a seamless experience.

Checklist for Generators

To help you get started, here’s a quick checklist:

Determine the total wattage requirement.
Add a 20% safety margin.
Choose a generator with sufficient power output.
Ensure portability and fuel efficiency.
Consider noise levels.

Power Tips for Multiple Inflatables

When managing events with multiple inflatables, it’s essential to understand how many you can power with one generator. Here are some tips to help you out:

Assess Total Wattage: Calculate the total wattage requirement for all the inflatables combined.
Generator Capacity: Ensure your generator can handle the cumulative load with a safety margin.
Distribution: Use power distribution units to safely split the load between multiple blowers.
Monitor Usage: Regularly check the generator's performance and fuel levels during the event.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Generator

Choosing the right generator for your inflatables comes with several benefits. Here’s a brief overview:

Uninterrupted Fun: Ensures continuous operation without power outages.
Safety: Prevents overloading, which can cause electrical hazards.
Efficiency: Reduces fuel consumption and operational costs.
Versatility: Allows you to power multiple inflatables simultaneously.

Choosing the right generator is crucial to the success of your event. By following these tips, you can ensure that your inflatables are powered efficiently and safely.

Plan for Large Events

If you're planning a large event with several inflatables, you might need multiple generators. Here are some steps to ensure everything runs smoothly:

Map Out Power Needs: Create a layout of where each inflatable will be placed and determine the power requirements for each zone.
Strategic Placement: Position generators in central locations to minimize the length of extension cords.
Backup Generators: Have a backup generator on hand in case of any unexpected failures.
Professional Assistance: Consider hiring a professional electrician to help with setup and ensure all connections are safe and secure.

The Different Generator Types

Generators come in various types, each suited to different needs. Here's a quick guide to help you choose:

Portable Generators: Ideal for small to medium-sized events. They are lightweight and easy to transport.
Inverter Generators: Provide clean power for sensitive electronics. These are quieter and more fuel-efficient but might have lower power output.
Standby Generators: Best for large events with high power demands. They offer robust power output but are more expensive and less portable.

Selecting the right type of generator ensures that your inflatables receive the appropriate power, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.

Ready to Ensure Continuous Fun?

For more details on selecting the perfect generator for your inflatables and exploring our range of cheap bounce houses made from Dura-Lite™ Vinyl, contact Hero Kiddo at 650-731-3150.

Discover how our lightweight and durable inflatables can make your next event a memorable success! Let us help you create an unforgettable experience with the right power solutions!