Let’s Talk About WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump
The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump promises to be a reliable and efficient solution for inflating towables, rafts, and other inflatables. Marketed by WOW Watersports, this DC-powered pump features a 3.0 PSI output, alligator clips for easy connection to a 12V power source, and inflation/deflation capabilities, all wrapped up with a one-year warranty. Let’s dive into a detailed look at whether this pump lives up to its promises.
I often found myself struggling with manual pumps or underpowered electric inflators on family trips to the lake. Inflatables would take forever to pump up, leaving everyone impatiently waiting to get on the water. This pump seemed like a solution to get more time on the water and less time setting up.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the relatively lightweight design. The accordian-style hose felt durable and flexible, and the alligator clips seemed robust enough for connecting to a car battery. My initial impression was positive; it felt like a no-nonsense, purpose-built tool.
Compared to other pumps I’ve used, such as the Sevylor 12V pump and a generic hand pump, the WOW Watersports pump stood out with its claimed 3.0 PSI output. Other pumps struggled to reach even close to that, resulting in under-inflated towables. I chose this pump hoping for the higher pressure and the convenience of alligator clip power.
I was cautiously optimistic. The build seemed decent, but I’ve been burned before by similar products that failed under pressure (literally). Only real-world testing would tell if this WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump could deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump through its paces during a week-long camping trip at Lake Tahoe. My primary test subject was a three-person towable tube and a large inflatable raft. The first test was to see how well the alligator clips would connect to my car battery terminals, and I had no issues.
The pump performed admirably in warm, dry conditions, inflating the tube in about 10 minutes, a significant improvement over my old pump. The long, flexible hose made reaching the valve easy, and I appreciated the inflation hookup. I did not experience any over-heating issues, as the pump remained cool throughout the entire process.
The initial use revealed a couple of minor quirks. First, the noise level is relatively high, which could be a concern in quiet campgrounds. Also, the alligator clips felt a bit flimsy after use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the WOW Watersports pump has held up reasonably well, inflating various inflatables nearly every weekend. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the pump body or the hose. However, the alligator clip housing did crack after about 5 uses.
Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I keep the hose coiled neatly to prevent cracking and always check the alligator clips for secure connections before use. The alligator clip issue was resolved by replacing the plastic housing.
Compared to my previous pumps, the WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump offers superior inflation power and faster inflation times. The higher PSI output results in firmer, more stable inflatables, leading to a better on-water experience. However, the alligator clip durability is a point of concern.
Breaking Down the Features of WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump
Specifications
- High Pressure Output: The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump delivers a maximum pressure of 3.0 PSI. This higher pressure is essential for fully inflating towables and rafts, ensuring optimal performance and stability on the water.
- DC Power: Powered by a DC (Direct Current) 12V source, this pump connects directly to a car battery. The direct connection provides a consistent power supply for efficient inflation.
- Alligator Clips: The pump utilizes two alligator clips for easy and secure connection to the car battery terminals. These clips are designed to provide a reliable electrical connection but could be a weak point in the design.
- Inflation & Deflation Hookups: The pump includes both inflation and deflation hookups. This versatility allows you to not only inflate your inflatables but also quickly deflate them for easy storage.
- Long, Flexible Accordion Hose: The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump has a long, flexible accordion-style hose. This design allows for better reach and maneuverability when inflating items of varying sizes and shapes.
- One-Year Warranty: The pump is backed by a one-year warranty from the manufacturer. This provides peace of mind and protection against manufacturing defects.
These specifications are significant because they directly influence the pump’s performance, convenience, and reliability. The 3.0 PSI output ensures proper inflation, while the DC power and alligator clips offer portability and ease of use. The inflation/deflation hookups and flexible hose add to the pump’s versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump performs its primary function – inflating towables – effectively and efficiently. It’s significantly faster and more powerful than hand pumps or lower-powered electric models. The higher PSI output results in properly inflated towables.
The pump’s strengths lie in its power and portability. It’s easy to connect to a car battery and quickly inflate various inflatables. A potential improvement would be a more robust alligator clip design and possibly a built-in pressure gauge for more precise inflation.
Overall, the pump mostly meets expectations, providing a convenient and powerful inflation solution. Its performance is generally reliable, but the durability of certain components could be improved.
Design & Ergonomics
The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump features a compact and lightweight design. The materials used appear to be durable plastic, but the overall feel is somewhat basic. The hose is flexible and easy to manage.
The pump is relatively user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to operate. Simply connect the alligator clips to a 12V battery, attach the hose to the inflatable valve, and turn it on. There is minimal learning curve associated with its operation.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump should last for several seasons of recreational use. The main concern is the durability of the alligator clips and the potential for the hose to crack over time. Replacing the alligator clip housing resolved the issue.
Maintenance is simple, involving cleaning and occasional checks for wear and tear. Keeping the pump stored in a dry place and handling the hose carefully will help prolong its lifespan. Simple fixes are all that is required to keep the pump in proper working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump comes with the essential accessories needed for operation, including alligator clips and inflation/deflation attachments. There are no significant customization options available for this pump.
This pump is designed to be universally compatible with most inflatable valves, making it a versatile tool for various towables and rafts. No aftermarket accessories or modifications are needed for the pump to do its job.
Pros and Cons of WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump
Pros
- High Pressure Output: The 3.0 PSI output ensures proper inflation, leading to better on-water performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple alligator clip connection and straightforward operation make it user-friendly.
- Inflation and Deflation: The dual-functionality offers added convenience for both inflating and deflating inflatables.
- Portability: Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to transport and store.
- Long Hose: The flexible hose allows for easy reach and maneuverability.
Cons
- Alligator Clip Housing Durability: The plastic housing around the alligator clips can be prone to cracking under stress.
- Noise Level: The pump can be quite loud during operation, which may be a nuisance in quiet areas.
Who Should Buy WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump?
This pump is perfect for families who enjoy frequent water activities and need a reliable way to inflate towables, rafts, and other inflatables. Boat owners and recreational users will appreciate its convenience and power. Anyone who wants to spend less time inflating and more time on the water would benefit from this pump.
Those who require an ultra-quiet pump or need an inflator for delicate items requiring very low pressure should skip this product. It is powerful and best suited for high-volume, high-pressure inflation. Also, if you do not have easy access to a 12V power source, this will not be a useful product.
A must-have accessory would be a set of higher quality alligator clips as replacements, just in case the originals fail. Consider a small portable battery pack for situations where a car battery isn’t readily available.
Conclusion on WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump
The WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump offers a compelling blend of power and convenience for inflating towables and other inflatables. While it’s not without its minor drawbacks, like the durability of the alligator clips and the noise level, its performance is generally impressive. The plastic alligator clip housing, in my opinion, is a point of failure.
At $114.49, the price is justified by the time and effort it saves compared to manual pumps or less powerful electric models. Its 3.0 PSI output ensures proper inflation, enhancing on-water experiences. The alligator clip issue was easily rectified, and the pump performed great ever since.
I would recommend the WOW Watersports 19-5200 High Pressure 3.0 Psi DC Pump to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient inflation solution. Just be prepared to possibly replace the alligator clips at some point. Spend less time inflating, and more time enjoying the water.