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What general troubleshooting recommendations would you make for my inflator?

Problem: The inflator makes a loud, high-pitched noise when inflating balloons.

Solution: This happens when the balloon is not properly placed over the filling outlet. If you hold the neck of the balloon with two hands over the filling outlet, the helium flow entering the balloon will cause vibrations and make a loud noise. The balloon should be held in one hand between your thumb and index finger.

Problem: Push valve sticks or leaks.

Solution: It is possible that Hi-Float is in the outlet. If you believe that Hi-Float is in the outlet, you should replace the outlet. If the unit was exposed to moisture, we recommend spraying silicone lubricant on the push valve.

Problem: Tilt valve leaks.

Solution: It is possible that Hi-Float is in the outlet. If you believe that Hi-Float is in the outlet, you should replace the outlet. When gas leaks from the tip of the outlet, it is necessary to replace the tilt valve.

Problem: Inflator leaks.

Solution: Conduct a leak-check test to confirm the exact location of the leak. If the inflator leaks at the cylinder connection, close the cylinder valve, bleed the pressure out of the inflator, and firmly tighten the cylinder connection. Repeat the leak test.

If the inflator continues to leak, remove the inflator from the cylinder and try it on another cylinder. Repeat the leak-check test. If the inflator does not leak on the new cylinder, we recommend returning the original helium cylinder to the supplier for credit. (In some cases, the cylinder valve will have bad threads that cause the inflator to leak.) If it is not the cylinder valve, replace the O-ring for the cylinder connection.

If the inflator leaks somewhere other than the cylinder connection, return the inflator for service.

Problem: Pressure gauge concerns

Solution: If the pressure gauge goes up and down every time a balloon is inflated, this is an indication that the cylinder valve is not fully open. Make sure that the valve is open completely to correct the problem.

If the pressure reading on the gauge is inaccurate, it is more than likely that the inflator has been dropped or bumped during transit. The gauge cannot be re-calibrated and must be replaced

Problem: Foil balloon inflation is too slow.

Solution: If the automatic foil balloon inflator seems to operate too slowly, confirm that the balloon is pointing downward during the inflation process. If the internal valve on the foil balloon is folded over, the flow will be restricted and inflation will be very slow. Please note that Conwin's automatic shutoff foil balloon inflators are designed to inflate foil balloons at a slower flow rate than latex balloons to insure that the foil valve is not damaged during the inflation process.

Problem: Inflator makes a loud popping noise when inflating balloons.

Solution: This is caused by the pressure alert valve being activated by a sudden change in pressure. We recommend trying the inflator on a cylinder that has less than 2400 PSI. First, close the cylinder valve and release the pressure from the inflator, then slowly reopen the cylinder valve -- this will avoid the extreme pressure spike from opening the valve too quickly. If the problem persists, return the inflator for service.

Problem: How do I test my inflator for a leak?

Solution: Use a spray bottle filled with soapy water and spray around the area where you suspect the leak is located. If large bubbles appear in one area, then you may have a leak. Be sure to thoroughly clean your inflator immediately after testing to avoid water damage. Please call the Service & Repair Department.

My Air Force 4 is overheating, what should I do?

Try the following:

1. If you are inflating 9-inch and larger balloons be sure to remove the extension tips from the outlets. Restricted flow for a prolonged period of time can cause the unit to overheat. This is also the case when inflating double stuffed balloons.

2. If you're using the yellow plugs on 2 of the outlets for inflating 260Q balloons, remove the plugs and inflate the 260Q balloons on the blue extension tips. For best results, pull and stretch the body of the balloon upward until it starts to inflate.

3. The Air Force 4 should be operated in a temperature controlled environment. Do not use the unit outdoors in hot weather for prolonged periods of time.

4. Check to see that the air intakes around the base of the inflator are free and clear. Make sure balloons or confetti have not entered the inflator.

If your question is still unanswered, please contact the Service & Repair Department at (818) 246-9233 ext. 207