Ryobi High Volume Power Inflator Kit

When I first got my hands on the Ryobi High Volume Power Inflator Kit (P738KN), I was intrigued by its promise of high-volume, low-pressure inflation and deflation capabilities. This cordless inflator is specifically designed for tasks such as inflating air mattresses and pool toys, but I quickly found that it has a variety of other uses that make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about this inflator is its compact and ergonomic design. Weighing in at just 0.7 pounds, it's incredibly lightweight and easy to handle. The pistol grip handle is comfortable to hold, and the locking trigger feature is a thoughtful addition that helps reduce user fatigue during extended use. The build quality feels solid, and the inflator has a robust construction that suggests it can withstand regular use.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Ryobi inflator is quite impressive. It can inflate a standard twin air mattress in approximately 45 seconds. I tested this claim, and it held true, making it a quick and efficient tool for inflating larger items. The inflator has a flow rate of 7.1 SCFM, which is more than adequate for most household and outdoor tasks.

One of the standout features is its dual functionality for both inflation and deflation. This makes it incredibly versatile, allowing me to quickly deflate air mattresses and pool toys, which is often a tedious task. The pinch valve adaptor is particularly useful for inflating pool toys, and it fits snugly, preventing any air leakage.

Versatility

While the primary function of this tool is to inflate and deflate, I found it to be incredibly versatile. I've used it to blow sawdust off my workbench, clean out the nooks and crannies of my car interior, and even stoke a charcoal grill. Its high-volume air output makes it a handy portable blower for various cleaning tasks around the house and workshop.

Battery Compatibility

One area where the inflator falls short is its compatibility with newer Ryobi batteries. I experienced intermittent issues where the inflator would randomly shut off when using the newer PBP005 and PBP006 batteries. However, it worked flawlessly with older Ryobi batteries. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially since Ryobi markets the One+ system as universally compatible. It's something to be aware of if you plan to use newer batteries with this tool.

Noise Level

One drawback of the Ryobi inflator is its noise level. It is quite loud, comparable to a blow dryer. This isn't a deal-breaker for me, but it's worth noting if you plan to use it in environments where noise could be an issue. For tasks that require prolonged use, some hearing protection might be advisable.

Battery Life

The inflator's battery life is another strong point. Even with the smallest Ryobi 1.5Ah battery, it lasts a surprisingly long time. I was able to inflate multiple air mattresses and still had battery life to spare. For more demanding tasks, a higher capacity battery would be beneficial, but for most household uses, the 1.5Ah battery is sufficient.

Ease of Use

The tool is incredibly easy to use, thanks to its straightforward design and intuitive controls. The locking trigger feature allows for hands-free operation, which is particularly useful when inflating larger items. Switching between the inflation and deflation modes is simple, and the included nozzles cover a wide range of applications.

Durability

Durability is a bit of a mixed bag. While the tool feels solid and well-built, there have been instances where it stopped working after a few uses. This seems to be related to issues with the trigger mechanism or thermal protection that causes the tool to shut down prematurely. It's something to keep in mind if you plan to use the inflator frequently.

Additional Features

One feature I wish the inflator had is a more efficient deflation nozzle for air mattresses. Deflating larger items can be a bit cumbersome, as the current setup requires pressing the deflator directly against the larger port. An additional nozzle designed specifically for deflation would make this process much smoother.

Price and Value

Considering its versatility and performance, the Ryobi High Volume Power Inflator Kit is reasonably priced. It's an excellent addition to the Ryobi One+ system, especially if you already own other tools in this lineup. The fact that it doesn't include a battery can be a downside if you don't already own Ryobi batteries, but for those who do, it's a cost-effective solution for a variety of tasks.

Conclusion

In summary, the Ryobi High Volume Power Inflator Kit is a versatile and powerful tool that excels in its primary function of inflating and deflating large items. Its additional use as a portable blower adds to its value, making it a handy tool for various cleaning and maintenance tasks. However, the compatibility issues with newer batteries and the noise level are notable drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with some reservations. If you already own older Ryobi batteries and can tolerate the noise, this inflator is a fantastic addition to your toolkit. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable asset for both household and outdoor tasks. However, if you rely on newer Ryobi batteries, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for potential compatibility issues. Overall, it's a solid tool that offers good value for its price.