Filling waterbed tubes with air instead of water?

Question

I have a softside tube waterbed. Assuming I didn't overfill the tubes, what would be the consequences of filling the tubes with air instead of water, specifically in regards to a tube popping? If not overfilled with air would a waterbed tube filled with air instead of water be more likely, less likely, or just as likely to pop? What are the diffrences between a bed designed to be filled with air, and one designed to be filled with water?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Water is heavier so the tubes must be stronger, i.e. thicker wall. Otherwise all the other forces are the same, i.e. your body weight and activity exerts the same amount of force/stress upon the material regardless of what the medium is, water or air. Replacing the water with 100% air has its merits, but the bed will not feel the same. All comes down to individual preferences. Bottom line is water containers are built STRONGER and are thus heavier. As far as I know, air beds don't have to have heaters as air is a very good insulator. Whereas water sucks your body heat like a leach and without a heater, I think they are colder than a well digger's bottom.

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