There are multiple kinds of air hockey tables available in the market. All of them come in different sizes and have different features. According to the air hockey table regulation, a standard air hockey table measures 84 inches. The durability of an air hockey table depends on various features and factors. However, it mainly revolves around how it is being taken care of. Air hockey table owners should consider the maintenance of their table as their top priority if they want to avoid any inconvenience or disturbance during their game.
Why You Need To Replace Air Hockey Table Parts
A good quality air hockey can easily last up to 8 years or more depending on how well it has been maintained and serviced over the years. To enhance the lifespan of your table and maintain smooth gameplay, you may be required to replace a few accessories and parts after some time. These parts may have either worn out with occasional use or may have gotten lost. If you are someone who is planning on buying an air hockey table then know that you will be required to spend your time and money on its maintenance.
What Could You May Need To Replace And Why?
There are various kinds of air hockey tables available in the market. Even if you have a good-quality table, you will be required to change some of its parts and accessories after a certain time. This will not only make your table durable but will also ensure sustainability.
There are various parts that may be required to be replaced or repaired. Since the process may get confusing, this guide will help you get through it. We have a list of things that you may need to upgrade:
1. Pushers/Mallets
Mallets play a significant role when it comes to playing air hockey. Whenever you are replacing mallets, make sure that you consider their durability, weight and strength in contrast with the table. Lightweight strikers can become a huge problem during the game as they may not provide the required force to push the pucks. This may hinder a smooth game of air hockey.
2. Pucks
Pucks are super delicate and may easily wear out, break or lose their ability to slide from one corner of the table to another. Some pucks also fly off the table during a match which ruins the excitement of the game. Fortunately, replacing a puck is not a difficult task and they do not even cost a lot. If you buy them in bulk, you will be able to save a few extra bucks as well. Buying them in bulk is useful as you always have a few extra in stock which can be used if you lose one in the middle of a game. When you are buying a new puck, make sure that it does not have any rough surfaces as it prevents them from sliding effortlessly from one corner of the table to another. Also, ensure that the size and weight of the puck is compatible with your table.
3. Score Counters
A scorekeeper is an essential part of an air hockey table and is really useful during a match. However, it may need to be repaired or replaced if it faces any technical issues or if it breaks. If your manual scorer breaks, you should look for options that are compatible with your table. You can also try to get it repaired. However, if your table has an electronic scorer and if it stops working then you should replace the batteries and see if it starts working again. If it does not work, then you can contact the manufacturer or buy a new one. When you are buying a new scorer system consider factors like durability, design, etc.
4. Fan motors/Blowers
A scorekeeper is an essential part of an air hockey table and is really useful during a match. However, it may need to be repaired or replaced if it faces any technical issues or if it breaks. If your manual scorer breaks, you should look for options that are compatible with your table. You can also try to get it repaired. However, if your table has an electronic scorer and if it stops working then you should replace the batteries and see if it starts working again. If it does not work, then you can contact the manufacturer or buy a new one. When you are buying a new scorer system consider factors like durability, design, etc.
5. Table Legs
Table legs are a significant part of an air hockey table as they keep the playing surface even and also provide support. In case a leg of your table breaks, goes missing, gets damaged or is not providing the right support then you would not be able to play a smooth game. You will then be required to either replace the table or get it repaired. You can contact its manufacturer or get an appropriate leg leveler to even the surface.
6. Tabletops
The playing surface is an important part of your air hockey table and it rarely requires any replacement if you clean it regularly and provide proper maintenance. However, there is still a little possibility that you may have to replace it. If there are bumps on your table which make it difficult for the puck to glide back and forth, then you can resurface it. However, you may have to replace it if a huge damage has been done and it is beyond repair.
7. Wires/screws/bolts
All of them are small yet they are important enough to disrupt the whole gameplay. It is essential that you check for any loose wires or screws to avoid disturbance in the middle of your game.
Where To Find Replacement Parts
There are various places where you can easily find replacement parts if you are planning on refurbishing your table. Some of these places have brand new, while other second hand parts. It may not always be an easy task to find what you are looking for. Luckily, we have a few places listed down where you can easily find accessories and parts of your air hockey table.
Whenever you are looking for a replacement part, the first thing you should do is check if your table is in warranty or not. If it is still in warranty, you may be able to get it replaced by your supplier. Suppliers can also help you find a similar product. If that does not work out, try finding the replacement parts at a local sports or convenience store. Along with this, there are various online stores as well where all of these things are available conveniently. Some of these stores include:
- Amazon
- Sears
- Game Room Guys
- Medal Sports
- Valley-Dynamo Parts
- eFamilyFun
- Money Machines
- Thompson Sporting Goods
- Ali Baba
Conclusion
Whenever you are buying an air hockey table, make sure that you invest in a good-quality table to avoid the hassle of repairing and replacing parts. Try to not compromise on the quality because saving a few bucks now may cost you more in the longer run as you may end up spending a lot on replacing parts and accessories. Proper maintenance, service and careful use of the table can save people from replacing and repairing. They also increase the lifespan of the product and make them last longer. If the damage on the table is beyond repair then you will have to find replacement parts. You can go through this guide and use the resources given in this article to find replacement parts