A Guide To Air Bed Valve Replacement

Air bed valve issues are one of the most frustrating issues owners of air beds can face. Often, they are ready to throw the air bed away as soon as they notice something wrong with the valve. What they don’t realize is that broken air bed valves are easy to replace. Instead of discarding the entire air bed, simply get a suitable replacement valve, and the bed will seem brand new. We’ll guide you through air bed valve replacement in this article.

To replace an air bed valve, first, identify the manufacturer brand and model of your air bed. Next, order the replacement valve through the air bed company or Amazon. Then, check the installation instructions and gather all the tools needed. Remove the broken valve and attach the hinge of the replacement valve to the hinge support, then fit the vinyl ring into the valve opening. Ensure everything fits correctly and inflate the air mattress. 

There is no doubt that air beds are ideal options for both indoor and outdoor settings. They are incredibly comfortable, lightweight, easy to move, and much cheaper than regular beds. Read our article that discusses why air mattresses are good for your back and how to choose the right one. Our comprehensive guide to air bed benefits will also provide you with tons of additional information. While custom firmness and the low price of a typical air bed make it popular around the globe, air beds can develop problems, especially with air loss.

Consider replacing the broken air bed valve instead of spending extra money on a brand-new air bed. Image Source: Amazon.

How Do I Know If The Valve In My Air Bed Needs To Be Replaced?

If you have noticed that something is wrong with your air bed or that it is no longer as comfortable as it once was, there might be some issues with the valve. 

Replace an air bed valve if the air bed is older than 5 years or if the air bed valve is broken and air is leaking out of the valve.

Age Of The Bed

According to the statistics and manufacturer warranties, high-quality air beds can last for about 8 years. In some cases, they might even last over 10 years. However, an air bed might need a valve replacement several times during those 8-10 years.

How frequently the air mattress is used affects the lifespan of the valves. If an air bed is occasionally used by guests, the valves will last much longer. If you have a daily-use air bed, then the lifespan of the valves will be shorter. If the mattress is used for camping and exposed to the elements then you might need to replace the valve sooner if it starts to deteriorate. Read our article on how to make a comfortable truck camping bed using an air mattress if you need an air bed for camping. 

The weight of the individuals using the air bed also influences the overall condition and lifespan of an air bed and its valve. Air beds used by relatively heavy people might develop leaks earlier than those used by lightweight individuals due to the added pressure placed on the valve. The majority of inflatable beds can hold up to 300lbs (136kg), but weight limits vary based on the air bed size, material, construction, and manufacturer. 

You might also find interest in our tips to fix an air bed that is cold, so make sure to check out that related article too.

Broken Valve

If your air bed has a broken valve, you will obviously need to replace it. Luckily, it is pretty easy to determine whether your air bed valve is damaged. While damaged air bed valves often develop air-losing leaks, a malfunction of the valve could also make it impossible to deflate the bed. Read our article on how to inflate an air mattress for tips to blow up your air bed.  

Some of the most common signs that you have a broken air bed valve include:

•  Air is leaking out quickly.
• The air bed deflates overnight.
• It takes too long to inflate the air bed.
• It is difficult to deflate the air bed.

Rapid air loss is almost always caused by a broken valve. Air beds do gradually lose some air in cool temperatures which is not caused by a broken valve. It is normal for air beds to lose pressure due to substantial drops in air temperature. This is why air beds deflate more rapidly in winter and do not lose that much pressure in the summertime.

You might also find interest in our in-depth article helping troubleshoot what to do if your air bed keeps losing air in addition to our step-by-step guide on how to fix an air bed leak so make sure to check both of those out too. Also, you should check out some tips and tricks to air bed long-term use here too.

What Kind Of Replacement Air Bed Valve Do I Need?

If you have determined that your air bed valve needs to be replaced, then it is time to find a suitable valve replacement. 

Generally, there are two options for replacing an air bed valve. Either purchase a brand-specific valve through the manufacturer or get a universal valve that fits air beds manufactured by different companies.

Here is what you need to know before buying a replacement valve for your air bed.

Brand-Specific Air Bed Valves

Air bed companies usually manufacture and sell replacement parts for their products and valves are no exception. The majority of brands make original valve replacements. In some cases, they even include an extra valve in the original air bed package. If you have purchased an air bed that did not come with an additional valve, you can usually buy the part from the manufacturer.

Getting a brand-specific valve for your air bed will ensure that the part perfectly fits the rim. This way, you will not have to worry about compatibility or leaks. These products often include a warranty from the manufacturer stating that a defective replacement valve or the one that breaks too quickly will be replaced. This user instruction manual for the Aerobed mattress illustrates the type of valve that is specific to this brand, and the manufacturer recommends only using brand-specific replacement parts so that the warranty isn’t voided. 

Universal Air Bed Valves

Universal air bed valves can be used on air beds manufactured by different companies. As long as the dimensions of the universal valve match the size of the original product, you can use it as a replacement.

One-size-fits-most valves are cheaper than brand-specific replacement valves, but they may be less reliable than products from the original manufacturer, because they do not always precisely match the size of the original valve. Even minor differences in dimensions can lead to leaks.

Air Bed Replacement Valves	Pros	Cons	Example from Amazon	Price
Brand-Specific Valves	Brand-specific valves are reliable and durable, and you can be assured that the replacement part will fit your air bed.	Brand-specific valves are sometimes more expensive, and they are not always suitable for air beds manufactured by other companies.	AeroBed Air Release Valve for Standard Pump Beds	~$15
Universal Valves	Universal valves are more affordable and can be used for a variety of air beds manufactured by different brands.	Universal valves are less reliable and often have a shorter lifespan. Universal valves do not always fit the rims perfectly, leading to leaks.	3-in-1 Air Valve Replacement Universal Fit for Inflatable Airbed Mattress	~$10

Steps to Replace an Air Bed Valve

Most air beds will gradually lose firmness over time. This doesn’t necessarily mean the air mattress has a leak. Read our article on what to do if your air bed deflates during the night for some troubleshooting tips and solutions. If you have noticed that your air bed is rapidly losing air the valve could be broken or leaking, it may be time to replace the valve instead of discarding the entire air bed.

To replace an air bed valve first identify the manufacturer brand and model of your air bed, then order a replacement valve. Review the installation instructions, then remove the broken air bed valve by peeling away the soft vinyl rim and lifting the hard plastic part. Attach the hinge of the replacement valve to the hinge support and fit the vinyl ring into the valve opening. Finally, ensure there are no wrinkles around the valve opening.

The following steps are general instructions for air bed valve replacement and are not intended as a substitute for the specific directions provided by the valve and air bed manufacturers.

Step 1. Determine the Brand and Model of Your Air Bed

To order and replace an air bed valve, you need to identify the manufacturer brand and model of your air bed. This will help you find the exact dimensions, size, and other characteristics of the desired valve. Manufacturers often list valves that fit specific air bed models, making it much easier for you to get the right one. This Intex replacement valve fits many of the most popular Intex air mattress models. 

While the manufacturer brand is usually indicated on the air bed itself, a specific model number is not always printed on the product. Do not forget to check the label or packaging to get detailed information on your air bed brand and version. (Tip: Keep this information in a safe place when you first receive your air bed, and you will be able to find it easily if you need it.) If your air bed comes with a storage bag, then keep your information booklet containing the model number in the storage bag along with the mattress when it is not being used. Alternative, purchase a storage bag like this one to protect your air mattress from dust and to keep your instruction manual safe. 

Determining the brand and model of your air bed is key to getting a suitable air bed valve replacement. Image Source: Amazon.

If might also be useful to know the dimensions of your air mattress. Take a look at our guide to air bed dimensions for more detailed information.

Step 2. Order a Replacement Valve Through the Air Bed Company or Amazon

After determining the correct air bed valve dimensions and type, you should decide whether you will order a brand-specific replacement valve or a universal one. You can order a replacement valve directly through the air bed company or from Amazon, as long as you find the right one for your bed.

While some air beds feature universal valve openings, others are characterized by specific features and proprietary designs. For some air bed brands, including AeroBed, it is not usually possible to find a universal valve that will adequately fit the opening. In this case, you should get the brand-specific valve to ensure that it properly matches the dimensions of the soft vinyl ring. This video tutorial explains the steps to replace an Aerobed valve. 

AeroBed air beds usually require brand-specific valve replacements due to the specificity of the valve opening and the size of the soft vinyl ring. Image Source  Amazon.

Step 3. Review the Air Bed Valve Installation Instructions Provided by the Manufacturer

To ensure that you do not damage your air bed or the valve as you replace the old one, always review the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. In some cases, these details are included on the air bed packaging or on the company website. The installation instructions might also come with the valve replacement part. In either case, you should carefully follow all the directions. Even though replacing the valve is usually simple, it needs to be done correctly. If you don’t, it is possible to cause irreversible damage to your air bed. This instruction manual for the Aerobed replacement valve will help you replace an Aerobed valve like this one from Amazon. 

Step 4. Carefully Remove the Broken Valve by Peeling the Soft Vinyl Rim

Start the replacement process by carefully removing the damaged valve from the air bed. Typically, the spots where valves are installed consist of a soft vinyl rim. To remove the valve, you should gently peel this soft vinyl rim away from the valve and lift the outer edge of the valve toward the center.

Sometimes, the vinyl rim is too stiff and it is challenging to release the valve. You can soften the vinyl rim simply by warming it using a regular household hair dryer —it takes just a couple of seconds for the vinyl to soften. Ensure that the air is not too hot and avoid using a heat gun because too much heat may damage the bed.

Step 5. Fit the Hinge Area of the Replacement Valve into the Hinge Support

After removing the broken valve, fit the hinge of the replacement valve into the hinge support. The hinge support goes right in the middle of the valve hinge area. Attaching the replacement valve can be done with minimal effort. If it seems like the valve cannot easily fit into the hinge support, you may have an incorrect size valve. Contact the manufacturer for further guidance.

Attach the hinge area of your replacement valve to the hinge support of the soft vinyl rim. Image Source: AeroBedHowTo.

Step 6. Fit the Soft Vinyl Ring Through the Valve Opening

After attaching the hinge to the hinge support, fit the soft vinyl ring through the opening of your valve replacement. Make sure there are no crimps or creases in the vinyl ring. You can smooth the inner edge of the valve opening by sliding your finger around the soft vinyl that has already been installed through the valve.

This step is crucial, so make sure you complete it carefully, otherwise your air bed may develop leaks, and you may have to re-install your valve replacement. 

If the vinyl ring is too stiff, consider using a hairdryer to warm the area briefly to make it softer. Avoid applying too much heat to prevent damaging the air bed.

When fitting the soft vinyl ring into the replacement valve, make sure everything is smooth and there are no kinks. Image Source: AeroBedHowTo.

Step 7. Inflate Your Air Bed to Check If the Replacement Valve Works

Now it is time to test the effectiveness of your replacement valve. Shut the cap and keep it locked to inflate the air bed. After fully inflating the air bed, observe the valve area and make sure there are no air leaks. This video explains how to test for air leaks on an air mattress. 

The easiest way to test for an air bed leak is to inspect the valve. Wet a sponge in soapy water and wipe it on the valve area. If you notice some bubbles forming at the valve area, then the air bed is losing air. To solve the issue, dry everything and reinstall the replacement valve, making sure the vinyl ring is tightly attached to the valve opening. If the air bed continues to leak air, contact the manufacturer for assistance. 

Before using an air bed, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide to air mattress weight limits to ensure you’re using the proper air bed for your needs.

Key Takeaways

Air Bed Valve Replacement Over Buying a New Bed

Instead of replacing the entire air bed due to valve issues, considering a valve replacement is a cost-effective and straightforward solution. Identifying the brand and model of your air bed is the first step to ensure the correct valve replacement.

Types of Replacement Valves

There are mainly two types of replacement valves – brand-specific and universal. Brand-specific valves ensure a perfect fit and often come with a manufacturer warranty, while universal valves are more affordable and fit a variety of air bed brands but may have a lesser degree of reliability.

Steps to Replace an Air Bed Valve

Replacement begins with removing the broken valve by peeling away the soft vinyl rim, following which the new valve’s hinge is attached to the hinge support. Ensuring a smooth fit of the vinyl ring into the valve opening is crucial to prevent future leaks. Post-replacement, inflate the air bed and check for any air leaks around the valve area to confirm a successful replacement.

Life Span of Air Bed Valves

The lifespan of air bed valves can be influenced by the frequency of use, exposure to outdoor elements, and the weight of the individuals using the bed. Air beds used more frequently or by heavier individuals may require valve replacements sooner.

Identifying a Broken Valve

Common signs of a broken valve include rapid air loss, difficulty in inflating or deflating the bed, or the bed deflating overnight. Understanding these signs can help in timely identification and replacement of the valve, prolonging the life of your air bed.