The Ultimate Guide to Extension Cords for Inflatables: 5 Must-Know Tips


The Ultimate Guide to Extension Cords for Inflatables: 5 Must-Know Tips

Whether you're running a party rental business or setting up an inflatable for a backyard bash, extension cords are a crucial part of the setup—but they’re also one of the most overlooked. Using the wrong type or length can lead to blower failures, fire hazards, or frustrated customers.

At Big and Bright Inflatables, we’ve seen it all. Here are the five most important things you need to know about extension cords when powering bounce houses and inflatable water slides:

 

1. Cord Length Matters—A Lot

Most blowers recommend using no more than 25 feet of cord. But let’s be honest—real-world setups often require 50 or even 100 feet to reach a power source.

✅ Pro Tip: If you need extra length, use one continuous cord rather than daisy-chaining multiple cords together. Chaining cords can cause power loss and overheating.

2. Use the Right Gauge: 12 or Heavier Only

Not all cords are built the same. Here’s the rule of thumb:

  • Use 12-gauge cords or thicker.

  • 14 and 16-gauge cords can’t handle the 8–15 amps that blowers typically draw.

Undersized cords can lead to:

  • Voltage drops

  • Blower failure

  • Overheated cords (a real fire risk!)

  • Tripped breakers due to overworked motors

In short: Short and thick beats long and skinny when it comes to cord safety and performance.

3. Avoid Sparks and Damage—Inspect Regularly

Cords spark for a reason—usually poor connections or damaged wires. Make it a habit to:

  • Inspect cords before every use

  • Look for wear, melted tips, or exposed wires

  • Keep connection points dry and off the ground, especially if rain is in the forecast

💡 Bonus Tip: Buy cords with black tips instead of clear ones. They hide scorch marks better and prevent customer concerns—even when the cord works perfectly.

4. Roll Cords the Right Way: The Paratrooper Method

Tired of tangled cords that take forever to unroll? Try the Paratrooper Method:

  • Hold both ends of the cord in one hand

  • Roll it in a figure-8 pattern with the other

  • Leave a loop at the end and wrap it through to create a handle

This makes cords easier to:

  • Store

  • Throw out for quick setups

  • Keep organized on hooks, trucks, or dollies

✅ Fast. Tidy. Tangle-free.

5. Always Mark Your Cords

Don’t lose another cord to a customer who “swears it’s theirs.” Use tape, labels, or paint pens to mark your cords with:

  • Your company name

  • Phone number

  • Or a unique color code

This small step can save you $50+ per cord and avoid uncomfortable disputes.

Final Thoughts

Extension cords might seem like a small detail, but they can make or break your inflatable setup. By following these five simple tips—right length, right gauge, regular inspections, proper rolling, and marking—you'll have safer setups, happier customers, and fewer headaches.

Need premium inflatables built for pros? Visit us at BigAndBrightInflatables.com and level up your rental game.

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