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An inflatable pool on a scorching hot day is an absolute blessing.
The ability to sink beneath the cool water and let it wash your stresses away – or, at least, the gentle lapping of water on your ankles. And they’re the perfect way to keep excitable children occupied.
The only problem is actually getting the pool inflated in the first place.
For many of us, memories of pool inflation sends a shiver down the spine. Hopelessly blowing into a tiny opening only to find half an hour of puffing has made no difference.
Endlessly pumping a foot paddle until your knees are weak, and the pool is still only halfway there. It’s enough to make you give up on the whole endeavor.
The air compressor can change all that. This is a no effort system to get a pool inflated quickly. Simply plug it in, switch in on, and sit back and watch as it accomplishes in minutes the task that took you hours.
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best air compressors available, so you can actually enjoy the pool for once.
Table of Contents
Best Air Compressors For An Inflatable Pool
Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Kensun AC/DC Digital Air Compressor | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Kensun AC/DC Digital Air Compressor Now | |
![]() | AAA 300 PSI Air Compressor | Prime | Buy Now | Buy AAA 300 PSI Air Compressor Now | |
![]() | SereneLife Electric SUP Air Compressor | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy SereneLife Electric SUP Air Compressor Now | |
![]() | AGPtEK Electric Air Pump | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy AGPtEK Electric Air Pump Now | |
![]() | JACO Smart Pro Digital Tire Inflator Air Compressor | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy JACO Smart Pro Digital Tire Inflator Air Compressor Now | |
![]() | Etekcity Air Pump for Inflatables | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Etekcity Air Pump for Inflatables Now | |
![]() | EPAuto Air Compressor | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy EPAuto Air Compressor Now | |
![]() | Intex QuickFill Air Pump | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Intex QuickFill Air Pump Now | |
![]() | Airhead AHP-120 Kwik Tek Air Pump | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Airhead AHP-120 Kwik Tek Air Pump Now | |
![]() | Coleman QuickPump | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Coleman QuickPump Now |
Kensun AC/DC Digital Air Compressor
The multipurpose Kensun is a wonderful air compressor, and an all around useful item. Able to inflate pools, balls, bicycles, and even car tires, it’s an ideal buy for someone who likes to be outdoors.
As an AC/DC air compressor, the Kensun can be used both inside and outside the home. Use the cigarette lighter socket to charge for car tire inflation, or the simple wall plug for use at home.
It inflates quickly, with an automatic shut off when the correct pressure is reached. Constructed using durable materials for high quality, almost every household can benefit from the Kensun compressor.
Pros
- AC/DC – For use both in and out of the home, with different methods for power.
- Multiple nozzles – Adaptable for many uses.
- Digital screen – Easy to use in any situation.
Cons
- Overheats – Can get warm quickly, and needs time to cool before use.
- FAST INFLATION: With Kensuns advanced engineering, the 120W solid metal motor provide superb power, which will make your tire inflation super-fast and easy.
- AC/DC FOR CAR AND HOME: Kensun’s unique AC/DC switching with 12V car cigarette light plug as well as 110V wall plug for home outlet makes this inflator more useful since you can use it anywhere.
- AUTO SHOT-OFF DIGITAL GAUGE: Unit shuts off automatically when preset pressure is reached. Large, bright, back-lit LCD display with unit conversion (PSI/Bar/KPA) makes this unit super easy and safe to operate.
- MULTI-PURPOSE: Inflate tires of cars, bikes, sedan and midsize SUV. Adaptors for balls and inflatables included, in addition to the unique AC/DC capabilities and LED worklight makes this inflator useful in any situation.
- BUILT TO LAST: When you buy a Kensun product you know that you are getting high quality, durable construction that has been tested rigorously.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
AAA 300 PSI Air Compressor
If there’s anyone that understands the importance of a portable air compressor, it’s AAA. Designed for roadside assistance, this compact air compressor is also useful for pool inflation.
Don’t let the size fool you. The AAA air compressor can inflate quickly, and only needs a simple cigarette socket for power. With a 10-foot power cable that can be stored within the unit, it’s another great choice for a travel air compressor.
It also comes with nozzle adaptors, for different uses. Perfect for keeping in the car, and bringing into the yard when needed.
Pros
- Multiple nozzles – Not just for tire inflation, the AAA compressor works with many items.
- Compact – The small unit is incredibly portable, as even the long cable fits inside.
- Built-in pressure gauge – Monitor usage quickly.
Cons
- Not suitable for inflating large pools.
- AAA Quality: Inflate a standard spare car tire in 8 minutes with this AAA 300 PSI portable tire inflator. Featuring a heavy duty and powerful motor, this compressor is one of the essential automotive accessories for a car, pickup truck, van and SUV. Can also be used for an ATV or motorcycle tire when using a converter.
- Convenience: Simply plug the DC power cable into your cigarette lighter socket, attach the quick connect air hose to your tire and turn the compressor on. Watch the built in easy to read pressure gauge as you inflate the tire to the desired PSI.
- Compact: The 10 ft DC power cable and 1.5 ft quick connect air hose are easily stored inside of the compressor. The compressors measurements are 8 x 6 x 4.
- Versatility: Using the included nozzle adapters, this air compressor can be used for a bike tire, basketball, volleyball, football, inflatable pool toys and other inflatables such as an air bed or mattress.
- Peace of Mind: This air compressor is essential to keep in your vehicle in case of an emergency or disaster when on the road along with various other tools and gadge
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
SereneLife Electric SUP Air Compressor
The SereneLife electric air compressor might be designed for paddleboards, but it can be adapted for use with other type of water inflatables. If you prefer your water activities a little more “shallow pool” and a little less “dangerous outdoors”, the SereneLife pump can work for you.
One of the most fantastic things about this air compressor is it can run off battery and electricity. Take it away on vacation, or use it quickly at home. The compact design with clever cable storage will fit wherever you need it.
Pros
- Portability – Lightweight and small, the SereneLife fits wherever you need it.
- LED Light – Can be used at night, and useful for lighting tricky openings.
- Digital display – Easy to monitor pressure.
Cons
- Battery setting – The battery setting is fantastic, if you can struggle through confusing instructions to get it to work.
- 3.3FT AIR HOSE: This inflatable SUP electric pump air compressor is equipped w/ maneuverable 3.3ft long flexible air hose so you can easily inflate/deflate your stand up paddleboard in no time. Also inflates backyard pool water sport inflatable toys
- RECHARGEABLE AND PORTABLE - The paddleboard pump electric pump for inflatables has a built-in 12V LI-ION, 6000mAh rechargeable battery and can also be powered via integrated car cigarette plug power cable sou you can use it anywhere and everywhere
- LCD DIGITAL DISPLAY: Serenelife paddle board inflatable electric SUP pump features smart inflator design w/ air pressure preset and is equipped w/ a digital LCD screen and touch button control panel for easy operation. It also has an LED flashlight
- 0-16 PSI SETTING: The SUP pump electric 12 volt air pump for inflatables feature 0-16 PSI (Up to 1.10 Bar) adjustable PSI air pressure settings w/ selectable pressure units to PSI / Bar so you can set the target level to prevent over inflation
- SPACE SAVING: This paddle board pump electric portable air compressor for pool toys has a space-saving compact design w/ housing access lid to store power cable and a convenient carry handle for easy travel. Can be easily assembled and disassembled
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
AGPtEK Electric Air Pump
An air compressor is meant to make life easier, and the AGPtEK Electric Air Pump certainly has that covered. With 3 different sized nozzles, a portable design, and the ability to inflate and deflate, summer fun becomes simple.
The large nozzle is ideal for pools, flooding them with air in no time at all. Then simply switch to the medium or small nozzle, to fill any number of inflatables or pool toys.
Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, with an AC and DC cable. Plug it into your car to fill on the road, or into a socket for days at home.
Pros
- AC/DC adaptability – Can be used on the road, or at home.
- Multiple nozzles – Inflate different sizes of pool using the special nozzles.
- Inflate/deflate – Useful at both the start and end of the day.
Cons
- Short plug – Can be frustrating to use.
- Powerful Electric Air Pump -- The AGPtek air pumps are so powerful that it can not only inflate items but also deflate products by sucking air out! Car power adapter and home power adapter are included, making it possible for indoor and outdoor use. ( NOTE: This air pump is NOT rechargeable and DO NOT FOR BALLOONS!!!!!! )
- 3 Nozzles to Choose -- We have 3 nozzles of different size in the electric air mattress pumps – S, M and L, allowing you to inflate/deflate different items in any occasions!
- Easy to Use -- The inflatable mattress pump is compatible with 12V DC and 110 -120V AC power supply. To inflatable, just put the inflatable head at the filling hold, then press the switch. To deflate, you should put the inflatable head in the vent hole, then press the switch to deflate. Our electric air mattress pumps are simple to operate.
- Portable -- The inflatable mattress pump is small and lightweight, making it convenient to use it indoor and outdoor. At a travel-friendly dimension, you can easily take air pumps anywhere you go!
- Multi-Purpose -- Including car power adapter & home power adapter. This inflatable mattress pump is a powerful inflator and deflator for both indoor and outdoor use, especially for travel and outdoor activities. AGPtEK air pumps helps you saving time on inflating air cushions, air beds, air boats, inflatable furniture, swimming ring and mo
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
JACO Smart Pro Digital Tire Inflator Air Compressor
This smart air compressor from JACO gives you the technological edge when it comes to inflating pools.
The built-in gauge simply needs to be preset to the pressure you require, and then you can stand back and let the compressor do the work. Once it’s reached the correct level, the automatic shut off kicks in.
With a fast and efficient flow rate and changeable nozzles, the JACO is one of the best air compressor systems around.
Its compact design can be neatly stored, with compartments for the power cables improving portability. Easy to use for both tire and sports equipment inflation, it even includes an LED light.
Pros
- 10-foot power cord – Long reaching, for adaptable uses.
- Automatic shut off – A useful safety feature.
- Compact – Everything, including the long cord, can be tucked away in a small compartment.
Cons
- Durability – The casing can get scratched, and the lightweight machine doesn’t feel sturdy.
- Smart Pressure Technology: simply pre-set the built-in digital gauge to your target pressure (PSI) and it will automatically shut off when reached; inflates standard auto tires up to 45 PSI and bike tires up to 100 PSI
- Precision built-in digital air gauge features a bright LCD backlight display for night time use, measuring 0-100 PSI with precise accuracy of ±1 PSI; inflates air at an impressive rate of 25L/min
- Longer, heavy duty 24 air hose features a durable brass twist-connect chuck nozzle, ensuring a hands-free & secure seal to the tire valve stem; includes 2 pcs adapter set for sport balls, airbeds, and inflatables
- Equipped with a 10 foot long-reach power cord for easy access to each tire; includes premium quality power adapter that plugs directly into any 12 volt DC accessory outlet in your car, truck, or SUV
- Built-in bright LED light features 4 settings: off, flashlight, flashing red, and emergency SOS. Click Add to Cart or Buy Now with confidence, youre backed by our Lifetime No Questions Asked Guaran
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Etekcity Air Pump For Inflatables
Etekcity has created an air pump that is incredibly user-friendly. The lightweight casing makes it portable, and the large handle is easy to grasp.
Even children will be able to use this pump, and the small nozzle will allow them to fill inflatable toys with minimal supervision. A rechargeable air pump, there’s no tricky cords to deal with.
At full charge, the Etekcity pump works quickly. Simply attach the nozzle, and flip the switch. In no time at all, your pool is ready to go.
Then, the pump only needs to be plugged into either a DC or AC socket, and left to recharge. Fantastic for busy families.
Pros
- Rechargeable – No struggling with cords and cables.
- Inflate/deflate – Multi-use, for storing inflatables easily.
- Handheld – The durable handle makes this a pump that even children can get to grips with.
Cons
- Can’t be used plugged in – Charge is useful, but when the Etekcity loses charge, it’s useless.
- NOZZLE SIZES: S (0. 27), M (0. 35), L (0. 69) nozzle sizes on the included attachment grant you versatility and offer various uses. The compact rechargeable electric air pump both inflates and deflates a variety of things in a quick amount of time.
- RECHARGEABLE AND CORDLESS: 100-240V AC &12V DC Adapter included, AC power cord length 1.6M/5.3ft and DC is 14.M/4.6ft. It can be charged at home in a wall outlet, also it can be charged outdoors using a DC cigarette plug.
- RELIABLE AND QUIET: NI-MH batteries in rechargeable pump create less pollution and offer higher performance and longer battery lives in comparison to competitors’ pumps as well as reduces its noise in operation.
- USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: At a travel-friendly dimension and AC adapter and DC adapter for this rechargeable air pump, for both indoor and outdoor activities, you can easily take air pumps anywhere you go!
- EASY OPERATION: The EAP1-RC air pump makes inflating and deflating quick and easy. Just attach the nozzle to the inflation or deflation port, attach it to your inflatable item, then press the switch to inflate or deflate after the charge.
- VERSATILE USE: Etekcity air pumps helps you saving time on inflating air mattress/airbed, inflatable boat /raft,pool floats , inflatable pool, pool toys, inflatable furniture, swimming ring and more!
- PURCHASE WITH CONFIDENCE: Feel free to contact our California Based Support Team. We are always ready help if you have any question about our product.
- NOTE: DO NOT use it for inflating high pressure products, like tyres, basketball and balloons. DO NOT use the product during chargi
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
EPAuto Air Compressor
A versatile and powerful air compressor, the EPAuto is sure to be useful in any household. It’s great for filling an inflatable pool, but is also useful for smaller toys, balls, bicycle tires, and even car tires.
The digital display makes usage intuitive, and the automatic shut off can provide you with peace of mind.
If you’re interested in an air compressor for multiple uses, then the EPAuto is a fantastic choice.
It lacks the power and speed of the more specialized designs, but is such a strong all-rounder that you won’t feel the lack. EPAuto even provides a handy carry case, for travelling.
Pros
- Multiple nozzles – Adaptable for many uses, including car and bike tires.
- Digital display – Use and monitor the air compressor with no trouble.
- Automatic shut off – Avoid over inflation with this useful safety feature.
Cons
- Leaks air when unscrewed.
- Convenience: Plug directly into Cigarette Lighter Socket of your Vehicle. 12VDC, 10 to 15 amps, 120 to 180W. Equipped with 12V-DC Cigarette Lighter Socket Plug, NOT 110V AC plug.
- Multiple Uses: Inflate tires on cars, bikes, sedan and midsize SUV. (Engine size under 3.5 liter) Universal valve connector for schrader valve is ready to use. Additional adapters include needles value (for basketball, balls), short cone/long cone adapters (for inflatable kayak, swimming pool accessories, etc)
- Capacity: Does NOT Support truck tires, for instance: light truck tires (LT), heavy duty truck tires or any truck tires.
- Easy to Read: 4 Display Units: PSI, KPA, BAR, KG/CM; LED FLASHLIGHT: Bright Torch
- Prevent Over Inflation: Auto shut off when reaching the desired tire pressure. Overheat protection shuts off automatically when overloading. USPTO Patent NO:D875,
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Intex QuickFill Air Pump
With a maximum airflow of 650 liters per minute, Intex will inflate your pool rapidly. This is an incredibly popular system, and it’s easy to see why.
Compact and quick, it has all the basics covered. With 3 nozzles to fit a variety of equipment at a bargain price, this is perfect for anyone who wants their pool inflated, and fast.
Intex has created a solid basic system with a few different options available. Whether you prefer a wall socket, a rechargeable battery, or a car plug, Intex has you covered.
They even make air pumps with a mixture of power supplies. Whichever way you use your pool, whether it’s on the go or at home, Intex has a system to match.
Pros
- 650-liter per minute air flow – Releases air at an incredible rate, for fast inflation.
- 3 nozzles – Can be used with a variety of valves.
- Power options – Intex have options for home charge, car charge, and even a rechargeable battery.
Cons
- Lacks power – Powerful enough for a pool, but has limited other uses.
- Plugs into any standard 110-120v wall outlet
- Includes 3 interconnecting nOuncezles
- Max air flow: 650 L/
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Airhead AHP-120 Kwik Tek Air Pump
Airhead has been making products for water sports for over 25 years, so they should know what they’re doing.
This Kwik Tek air pump is a popular option for home inflatables, with a durable casing and a competent design. Everything locks together easily, preventing frustrating leakage, and the carry handle aids portability.
An air compressor for an inflatable pool shouldn’t be complicated, and the Airhead pump is simple but effective. There are areas where Airheads experience shines through.
The 10-foot long power cord is handy, the accordion-style hose is flexible, and lightweight construction is high quality. With a quick fill and a good price, the Airhead is a solid choice.
Pros
- 10-foot cord – A longer cord makes the Airhead easier to use.
- Inflates/deflates – Multipurpose, deflates as well as it inflates.
- Experience – Airhead have been in the water sports business for a while, manufacturing quality products.
Cons
- Slow – Lacks the power of other designs.
- Made using the highest quality materials
- Tested for durability
- Great fun for all ages
- 120-volt air pump for use with in-home AC power
- Provides inflation/deflation for a variety of inflatables
- 120-volt air pump for use with in-home AC power
- Provides inflation/deflation for a variety of inflatables
- 300 liter-per-minute airfill rate
- Includes three universal valve fittings
- Carry handle, 10-foot power c
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Coleman QuickPump
A neat handheld pump with a surprising amount of use, the Coleman QuickPump is good for anyone who wants a small and portable option. The large handle is easy to grip, and comfortable to hold as the pool inflates.
Coleman has created the basic QuickPump in three varieties, to suit your needs. The 12V charger plugs into a cigarette socket, for use on the go.
The 120v pump can be used with a home plug socket, for backyard fun. And the rechargeable option is perfect for someone who likes to get out and about.
The QuickPump isn’t the most durable design on the market, but the construction is reasonably solid. Good for limited use.
Pros
- Different power options – Find a design that suits you.
- Large handle – Comfortable to use.
- Inflate/deflate – Multi-use, sucks air out efficiently.
Cons
- Odd shaped nozzles – The Coleman comes with nozzle adaptors, but some of them aren’t standard sizing.
- Convenient electric pump plugs into the 12-volt outlet in a car or boat
- Lightweight, compact, and portable design
- Great for camping trips and boating
- Fast Inflate and Fast Deflate design works with any airbed with Double Lock valve
- Included Boston and pinch valve adapters let you blow up other common inflatab
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buyer’s Guide
The right air compressor can make inflating your pool a breeze, but the wrong one is nothing but more hard work. This buyer’s guide should help you understand exactly what to look for in an air compressor for an inflatable pool
Price
No one wants to waste money on a complicated machine that accomplishes a task we’re perfectly capable of ourselves. And while inflating a pool with a foot pump is difficult, for many of us it’s better than spending several hundred dollars on an air compressor.
A good air compressor for an inflatable pool doesn’t have to be expensive, so keep an eye out for unnecessary features that may be driving up the price.
Power Supply
An air compressor won’t work without a power supply, and for inflating a pool there are two main options: an external power source, or a battery.
An external power source will generally either connect to the 12V DC cigarette lighter in the car, or to a standard AC home socket.
Battery powered air compressors are often rechargeable. Some air compressors will have multiple power supply options.
Which is best for you depends on where and how you intend to use the air compressor. If you want it mostly for home use, an external source is best. For travel use, a rechargeable battery or DC connector is ideal.
Nozzle
The majority of portable air compressors come with a few nozzles, allowing them to inflate through a range of standard valves.
An air compressor will need to be compatible with your inflatable. That means the pump/nozzle is able to lock into the valve.
Liters Per Minute
This refers to how much air is supplied by the compressor per minute. The higher the number, the better, as more passes through the compressor.
An air compressor with a large number of liters per minute will fill a pool much quicker than those with a low number.
It’s also important to look for the PSI, or pounds per square inch. This indicates the maximum pressure of the compressor. How much PSI you require will depend on the size and construction of your inflatable.
Portability
An air compressor for an inflatable pool shouldn’t be cumbersome. Look for a compact and lightweight design that will be easy to move around the yard.
An air compressor should make pool inflation easy, so avoid anything that adds the difficulty back.
Versatility
An air compressor for a pool inflator doesn’t have to be limited to just pool use. If you want a more versatile piece of equipment, look for compressors that can inflate bike tires, other sports equipment, and even mattresses.
Another adaptable feature to look out for is the ability to deflate. Some air compressors are able to suck out the air they pumped in, which makes for fast storage. It can also be used to vacuum pack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an air compressor can be used to fill an inflatable pool. This saves the time and effort of a manual pump, and is an effective way of quickly inflating a pool. Look for a model that can be adapted to work with an inflatable pool.
For the most part, a tire inflator air compressor can be used to inflate a pool. However, be sure to check the user guide for your specific tire inflator. Some of them aren’t equipped to handle large inflatable pools, and will only fill small inflatables.
Others won’t work at all. An air compressor designed specifically for pool inflation will rarely have the pressure to inflate a tire.
Probably, but be sure to check the user guide for your air compressor. Many will come with adaptable nozzles, allowing them to be used for a multitude of valve openings.
However, some air compressors are unable to fill the large inflatable pools. Although they may work for the smaller inflatables, they don’t release air quickly enough to fill a full sized inflatable pool.
Remove the cap from the valve on the inflatable pool. Connect the hose of the air compressor to the valve. It should fit securely, to prevent leakage.
Turn the air compressor on, and let it fill the pool. With some designs, you may need to set the pressure.
Check regularly, to ensure it’s filling currently. When the pool is inflated, turn off the air compressor, and disconnect the hose.