Rain moisture popped my inflatable pfds!

[mickjetblue]

I have 2 inflatable pfds, and instead of putting them into the storage shed,
I left them in the boat. They were strapped to a pfd seat cushion, and the
boat was covered with its canvas top. No rain got inside to them, but the
moisture from a heavy rain caused both of them to pop last night.

This morning I had 2 mostly deflated pfds, and now 2 empty cartridges that
I need to replace. Probably about $50 to learn this lesson. Hope that it
doesn't happen to you.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Rain moisture popped my inflatable pfds!

What brand and model?

 

[mickjetblue]

Re: Rain moisture popped my inflatable pfds!

They are 2 different brands, a Sospenders and a Mustang.
I don't feel like going out to the garage again to get the model numbers.

The worst realization of this is that if someone was to become unconscious,
or was knocked out, then they wouldn't be able to use the built-in straw to keep it
inflated over hours. Not a comforting thought...

 

[newbster]

Re: Rain moisture popped my inflatable pfds!

The older versions had a tablet that dissolved in water. Newer models can also have hydrostatic releases that rely on increased pressure. You are supposed to inspect the tablets at least twice per year and replace once per year so they don't dissolve over time and go off inadvertently.

 

[bhammer]

Re: Rain moisture popped my inflatable pfds!

Depending on the model, this can happen. I doubt they fully inflated?? Are they CO2 based or capsual based? The capsual based ones can weaken over time and not fully inflate a vest. Some of the newer CO2 models, you can buy off the shelf canisters for a couple dollars. Home depot sells about 6 for under $10. You'd be surprised just how little air it does take to keep 200# afloat.