Deciding the Right Location for an Inflatable
Now that you’ve chosen a fun, colorful inflatable for your yard, you’ll need to understand a few things when it comes to placement. Choose a location where your inflatable will sit securely without damage from the elements, so you’ll get years of enjoyment out of your investment. Here are general tips for picking the perfect spot.
If you live in a neighborhood with Homeowners Association covenants or community guidelines, check them before purchasing any outdoor decorations.
1. Inspect Your Inflatable After Unboxing
Before setting up your inflatable, examine it to make sure it isn’t soiled or wrinkled, particularly if you’re using an inflatable stored from previous years. If you notice dirty spots, a gentle laundry detergent and warm water is usually enough to remove them. If you have access to a clothing steamer, it’s a fast, easy way to remove wrinkles. Test the fabric on the lowest setting in an inconspicuous area first.
Always defer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for inflatable cleaning and care.
2. Take Care of the Fan
After removing your inflatable from the packaging, check that nothing is blocking the airflow from the fan so it can fully inflate. To inspect it, lay the material flat on the ground before switching on the fan. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the maximum recommended run time. Operating the fan for longer periods of time than advised can significantly shorten the life of the fan motor. Consider only operating your inflatables during certain hours to preserve the motor.
3. Choose a Flat Location
Placing your inflatable on a steep slope, like the one pictured, increases its chances of toppling over. Instead, pick a location that’s mostly flat so your decorations have a sturdy foundation to sit on.
4. Secure Your Inflatable to the Ground for Stability
Most inflatables include lawn stakes or tie-downs to help secure the base. Don’t skip using them. Always make sure it’s fastened to the ground, so it won’t blow away. Use small weights or sandbags for extra help. Again, always refer to the manufacturer’s directions for proper installation.
5. Block the Wind as Much as Possible
In addition to securing your inflatables to the ground, it’s helpful to shield them from the wind. Set them up in areas where bushes, fences, outdoor walls or other structures will provide a barrier against a strong gust. Avoid open spaces where your inflatable is fully exposed, like on your roof or in an open area of your yard.
6. Give Your Inflatable Plenty of Space
If you’re displaying more than one inflatable, leave enough space in between each so they won’t bump into each other or get tangled up with other decorations. Avoid direct contact with nearby shrubbery or low-hanging tree branches that could snag or tear the inflatable’s fabric.
7. Plan for a Power Source
Place your inflatable near an outdoor electrical outlet to power the fan. If you don’t use your outdoor outlet often, test it before plugging anything in. In many cases, the inflatable power cord isn’t very long, but you can extend its reach with an outdoor extension cord.
Only plug your inflatable into an outdoor-rated GFCI electrical outlet using an outdoor-rated extension cord. Failure to follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions could result in serious injury. For all holiday lighting or outdoor decorations that involve electricity, it’s wise to keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
8. Read the Instruction Manual
Although this article provides helpful general guidance on how to set up your inflatable, each manufacturer includes specific care and installation instructions. While it’s easy to get excited about a new purchase and to be in a hurry to set it up, it’s important to follow the operating instructions to ensure your inflatable lasts.