How long can a full tank sit

[SeaHeid2288]

Hi all,

I have two 120 cu ft steel tanks, they are approx 15 years old. I had them serviced regularly until about 5 years ago, when they sat unused for a time period. last year, I had them VIP + Hydro'd. I did this thinking I was going to use them regularly. Sadly, I havent had time for any local diving. I am planning a local trip 2 weeks from now and have two questions:

1) its been a year since the air was put in the tank. do I need to drain them and refill them
2) do they need any additional inspection/work, given that they sat unused for 1 year since VIP/hydro.

Thank you!

 

[Bowers]

viz should be done yearly. clean tanks shouldn't have an expiration but there have been cases of rust or decomposition of insects causing decreased O2 levels in unused tanks. you would know better than i how "at risk" your tanks may have been to potentially having overlooked issues.

 

[Tug]

I think you should send them to me for safe disposal as they are far too dangerous to use.....

In all seriousness, I’ve used tanks with gas that have sat around for way over a year. I’d analyze them and call it good to go!

 

[SeaHeid2288]

Thanks all!

 

[Jonn]

I've bought tanks with 20 year old air, and I breathed it all. '95 was a very good year... That felt like a slightly sketchy thing to do, but I can't imagine any chemical changes it might undergo over time. If they're in hydro, they're good to go.

 

[tbone1004]

go dive the ones you have with the fills you have after checking with an O2 analyzer. When they're done, take them back for vip. No need to drain first unless it makes you feel better