Some people think that the trampoline mat is made of elastic and that is what provides the bounce. Not true. Trampoline springs, which connect the mat or jumping surface to the metal frame, are responsible for the amount of bounce on the trampoline. For this reason, it is important to keep your trampoline springs in good shape.

A good spring should look tightly coiled with very little or no gaps between the coils. If you pull it from both ends, it should provide a good deal of resistance. If the pull is soft or too easy, the spring needs to be replaced. Also take a look at both hooks (on the end of the springs) to ensure that they are in good shape. The bounce on your trampoline also reveals what shape your springs are in. If an adult "bottoms out" (hits the ground before the bounce is complete), the springs need to be replaced.

To ensure longer life to your trampoline springs, make sure to remove snow from the trampoline mat and don’t store heavy objects on the trampoline. Too much weight on the mat pulls the springs out of shape. Replace springs at the first sign of wear or of oxidation. Not replacing a defective or loose spring puts more work on the surrounding springs and wears them out faster.

When it’s time to replace your springs, measure the trampoline springs from outside of the hook to the outside of the other hook when the spring is completely relaxed. Buy springs in bulk to cut down on the cost.