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How Long Does Air In Scuba Tank Last?

by Robert Bauer
(La Feria, TX USA)

I bought a new scuba tank 12 years ago and never used it. The tank is now 12 years old. Is the air still safe to use?

Hi Robert,

Thanks for getting in touch. Whether the air in your tank is good or not is actually now a secondary question. The tank in question is long past due for inspections.

All tanks, whether steel or aluminum, have to pass a hydrostatic test every 5 years and a visual inspection every year. Obviously this has not been done.

Since the tank has not been inspected in so long, I would definitely get it tested before using it. Corrosion could have started inside the tank which could affect the oxygen levels.

While there may be nothing wrong with it, I think it is better to be safe than sorry.

Let us know how it goes.

Dianne

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How Long Does Air In Scuba Tank Last?

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Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Does anyone know?
by: Leonard

I'd be interested in the answer to this as well. Tanks are supposed to be visually inspected every year, however, so I would think it unwise to use air older than that. As someone else mentioned, corrosion could have set in and affected oxygen levels. Enough to make the air dangerous to use? I don't know. Hopefully someone who does will answer.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Does the air go bad?
by: Rob

Okay this question has been here awhile. If the air was properly installed the tank was in good condition and there is no corrosion, then would there be anything wrong with the air?

Just curious because I have a tank 5 years old, I moved and haven't gotten to use it. So I want to give it a whirl.

Is it safe?
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Does the air go bad?
by: Rob

Okay this question has been here awhile. If the air was properly installed the tank was in good condition and there is no corrosion, then would there be anything wrong with the air?

Just curious because I have a tank 5 years old, I moved and haven't got to use it. So I want to give it a whirl.

Is it safe?

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