Frequently Asked Questions

Q.) How does Airchamber work?

A.) Fresh air is drawn through electrostatic filters into the Airchamber and flows over, around and underneath whatever is stored in it, exhausting through the zips and a specially designed vent in the entrance door.

Air naturally absorbs moisture, so by keeping fresh air flowing through the Airchamber we absorb any physical moisture that is present and also prevent the rapid changes in temperature that produce condensation. The filters prevent dust and dirt entering the Airchamber and depositing on your car, bike or possessions. Children can see, but can't touch whatever is on show in the Airchamber!

Q.) But air is often damp, won't that cause corrosion if you pump it through the Airchamber?

A.) No, let's explain that with the help of some basic physics and chemistry.
Water can exist in three distinct phases, as ice, liquid and a colourless gas known as water vapour. Rust corrosion and mildew can only form when physical moisture (i.e. water in its liquid phase) is in contact with metal, fabric or leather. The water vapour that is always present in air can't react with metal to start corrosion, nor does it cause mildew spores to develop. Water vapour is in fact a good thing, prolonged storage in air with a Relative Humidity of less than 60% causes leather and wood to dry out and even rubber seals can harden and crack. So we aim to keep water vapour in the air and just eliminate physical moisture. Unless you have just washed your car, or driven in wet conditions you will only find moisture on or in your vehicle as the result of condensation and that's caused by the temperature of the air around it dropping quickly, usually because the structure of the car is cold-soaked (for instance from low overnight temperatures or driving on a cold day). Because the air in the Airchamber is constantly flowing through it, it doesn't't have time to be cooled and so there's no condensation.

Q.) Why does Airchamber have a frame inside it?

A.) Unlike other systems Airchamber isn't a large and heavy plastic car cover that just blows up but first needs to be dragged across your car, bike or belongings. The internal frame takes up no extra space and is semi-rigid, so that it won't cause contact damage. It supports the Airchamber even when the fans aren't working so you can simply drive into and out of the Airchamber and walk around inside it for maintenance or cleaning.

Q.) Can I use Airchamber outside?

A.) Although Airchamber is designed for indoor use (garage, barn or warehouse) it can be used in carports sheltered from the wind. For use in these locations there are D-rings on the roof line of the Airchamber so that the Airchamber can be attached via guy ropes to the Carport structure. We do advise caution when assessing whether your carport is sufficiently sheltered from side winds which could damage the Airchamber when it is not held down by the weight of a vehicle.

Q.) How much does Airchamber cost to run?

A.) With its brushless 12 volt fans operating continuously the average electricity cost is less than £30 per year. The Airchamber is supplied with an efficient 240V (120V in Canada and USA) transformer which only needs a standard domestic power socket to plug into.

Q.) Do I need to assemble Airchamber myself?

A.) Yes it is a simple procedure that needs no tools or expertise, and takes about 40 minutes. We supply a CD-ROM showing how to do so as well as a clear instruction leaflet. Once erected Airchamber can be moved by one person (as long as the car isn't in it!).

Q.) What uses does Airchamber have apart from car storage?

A.) There are many, from protecting overhauled aircraft engines and engineering assemblies to home storage of tools, furniture, fabrics and possessions in dry and dust free conditions. Equestrian centres use Airchamber to store horse saddles and rugs to prevent mildew and antique dealers use them to keep furniture, artefacts and paintings in pristine condition.

Q.) I live abroad, where can I buy an Airchamber?

A.) We have distributors in many European countries as well as in the USA and Canada who will be pleased to help you and supply replacement parts if necessary. We are continually looking to expand our distributor network and welcome enquiries from suitable companies.

Q.) Who recommends Airchamber?

A.) Many car clubs, representing Marques as varied as MG, Porsche, Ferrari, to name a few. We make a branded version for Bentley Motors Ltd. which is sold as an official Bentley car-care accessory. But best of all are the many thousands of satisfied customers around the world to whom we have supplied Airchambers since 1994.