How do I resolve issues with the AIRplus Inflator?

This article explains how to resolve issues with the AIRplus Inflator itself. It covers an inflator that does not start or cuts out, error codes on the display, film jams, and worn transport belts. For quality issues with the mattresses, such as poor seals or air chambers that are too soft or too firm, see the article How do I resolve mattress quality issues?

The inflator is reliable, and you can resolve most issues on site. The Soku Fieldkit contains the emergency service parts and tools you need. The system guide is included in the Fieldkit and can also be downloaded from the Soku support page. Always check the latest instructions on the Soku support page before a large deployment.

The inflator does not start or cuts out

How to recognize it: The inflator does not start when you press the 1/0 button, the display does not turn on, or the inflator stops during production.

Cause: The power source is not stable, or it does not deliver enough power. The inflator needs a stable power source of at least 600 W, in particular during start-up. If the display does not turn on at all, the fuse may need to be replaced.

What to do:

1. Make sure that the power source is stable and delivers at least 600 W.
2. Check that the power cable is connected to the inflator and to the power source.
3. Check that the main switch is set to "1".
4. If the display does not turn on, the fuse may need to be replaced. The fuse is at the back of the inflator, next to the power cable inlet. Disconnect the power cable, then replace the fuse with a fuse of the same rating (3.15 A F).

The display shows error code E3

How to recognize it: The display shows "E3" and the inflator does not produce mattresses.

Cause: The inflator does not detect film. The cartridge is empty, the film is not correctly placed around the nozzle, or the adjustable sealing unit lock is not in the locked position.

What to do:

1. Check whether the cartridge is empty. If it is empty, load a new cartridge.
2. Check that the film is correctly placed around the nozzle.
3. Check that the adjustable sealing unit lock is in the locked position. If it is not, set it to the locked position.
4. Press the R (reset) button.
5. Press the 1/0 button to start production again.

Film jam

How to recognize it: The film does not move smoothly, or the film bunches up in the machine.

Cause: Film or debris is stuck in the film path.

What to do:

1. Press the 1/0 button to stop production.
2. Set the main switch to "0".
3. Let the nozzle and the sealing units cool before you reach into the machine.
4. Set the adjustable sealing unit lock to the unlocked position, then tilt the lock and lift the adjustable sealing unit.
5. Carefully remove the jammed film and any debris. Use the slide-out knife to cut the film if needed.
6. Check for film fragments at the sealing unit and remove them.
7. With the sealing unit open, pull the film through by hand to check that it moves easily.
8. Re-feed the film and check that it runs smoothly.
9. Set the adjustable sealing unit lock to the locked position.
10. Set the main switch to "1", then start production again.

Note: If the film does not pull through easily while the sealing unit is open, there may be debris in the film path, or the custom AIRplus blade may be blunt. Remove any debris. To replace a blunt blade, see the system guide or contact your Soku supplier.

Worn transport belts

How to recognize it: The film does not transport evenly, or the Teflon transport belts look worn.

Cause: The Teflon transport belts wear over time.

What to do:

1. Set the main switch to "0" and disconnect the power cable.
2. Open the film guide with an Allen key from the Soku Fieldkit.
3. Replace the worn transport belts with the spare belts from the Fieldkit.
4. For the detailed procedure, see the system guide.

Note: Order replacement transport belts and other spare parts from your Soku supplier.

When the issue continues

If the inflator still does not work after these steps, stop production and contact your Soku supplier or Technical Support. Keep the emergency service parts and tools from the Soku Fieldkit on site, and check the latest instructions on the Soku support page before a large deployment.