Air Hockey Tables: Things to Consider When Buying One

If you have a game room that lacks an air hockey tables, then you are missing a lot. These recreational tables are suitable for any age range and can keep one occupied for hours because of the fun they provide. 

Nevertheless, all kinds of air hockey tables are not fit for everyone. Visit https://bargames101.com/history-air-hockey/ to read more about the history of air hockey. Therefore, it is important that you select the one that will meet your needs. Hence, in this article, we will discuss some important things that you should consider when you go shopping for one of these items.

1. Size of the Table

This is the first thing that you need to consider. The regulation size is 8 feet by 4 feet which is perfect for those serious about this game. In the same vein, the size makes it suitable for commercial purposes. Hence, with this regulation size, you can organize competitions that will be attended by pro players. 

While the regulation size is the best, your space might not be enough to accommodate this size. In such a case, you can opt for smaller tables. (https://jldancecenter.com/) You can find tables that range from 4 ft. to 7.5 ft. long. Hence, irrespective of your space, you should be able to find one that works for you. 

Although you can choose any size, you need to make sure that you have on the table’s ends a space of 36 inches. This space will allow you to easily move during gameplay. 

2. Size of the Puck

The size of the puck is the next factor that should be considered. Pucks come in two major category sizes: Small or large.

The small pucks could be either 2 ¾ inches or 3 inches large. The table’s design in most cases determines the kind of puck that is suitable. Hence, pucks that are 2 ¾ inches do not require heavy-duty fans since the pressure required to lift the pucks isn’t that much. On the other hand, the 3-inch puck needs a fan that has more power than that of the 2 ¾ pucks. 

Tables designed for small pucks such as these are more suitable for kids or young teenagers. This is because when one hits such pucks with so much force they can easily move off the hockey table. This is usually the case when an adult uses such a table. (amicusmongolia)

As you would have guessed, large puck tables are designed for 3 ¼ inch pucks. Hence, their fan motor is more powerful. They are perfect for adults and teenagers, more expensive, and can be used for commercial purposes.

3. Quality of the Materials Used

The quality of the materials used in making the air hockey table will determine how long you get to use it. Therefore, you need to know how to look for a table that is made from quality materials.

When you go shopping, ensure that you choose a product that the rink walls are manufactured using high-density aluminum. Another material that can be used as a substitute is nylon. 

The playfield’s coating material should be wear-resistant laminate. This substance is guaranteed to increase the product’s durability. 

As for the legs, they should be made from steel or solid wood. These materials ensure that the product is capable of standing the test of time and will not crumble under the weight of the playfield.

Also, look out for the UL seal of approval. This seal is put on air hockey tables as a guarantee that it will function properly. Click here to learn more about what the seal signifies. Furthermore, a table with a Plenum Chamber is bound to have an even airflow distribution. 

4. Method of Keeping Scores

Some air hockey tables come with a digital scoring responsible for keeping track of the goals scored, while others are fitted with manual scoring. The former allows you to enjoy ease during gameplay as you can focus on the game itself instead of the scores. 

However, if you would love to prevent accidental goals from being recorded or you would like to have your personalized house rules, then opting for manual scoring would be the best method for you.

5. Lightning 

A good number of tables come with a lightning unit that is usually located overhead the game. Hence, you can still play the game in a room that is dimly lit because the game’s lighting provides the light required. 

There are other special options to this feature which depend on the product itself. For example, some have black lighting which allows your pucks and paddles to become lit in a dark space.

With the points above duly considered, you can easily find cheap air hockey tables that serve you well as against basing your determination of quality and suitable of how expensive a product is.

Conclusion

The above are the major things you need to consider when buying an air hockey table. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to let us know.