Scuba tanks, more accurately called cylinders, are the primary component for any diver to carry a breathable gas supply underwater. The initial purchase price for a new recreational cylinder typically falls between $300 and $600, depending on its technical specifications and material. This investment is solely for the container itself, excluding other necessary equipment like regulators or buoyancy control devices.
Key Factors Driving Initial Tank Cost
The material used to construct the cylinder is the largest determinant of its initial purchase price. Standard aluminum cylinders, such as the popular Aluminum 80 (AL80), are generally the least expensive option and resist corrosion in saltwater. Steel tanks are typically more expensive than aluminum because they are manufactured to withstand higher internal pressures and often provide a longer service life.
Tank size, measured by the volume of compressed gas they hold in cubic feet (cu ft), directly impacts the cost. A standard AL80 cylinder costs significantly less than a larger capacity steel tank, such as a High-Pressure 100 (HP100) or HP120. This price difference reflects the increased material and the more complex manufacturing process required for larger, high-pressure cylinders.
The pressure rating, expressed in pounds per square inch (psi), also dictates the price, with High-Pressure (HP) tanks commanding a premium over Standard-Pressure (SP) models. HP steel tanks are often rated to 3442 psi, allowing them to hold more gas in a physically smaller cylinder compared to the 3000 psi rating common for aluminum models. This higher pressure capability requires a more robust and costly steel alloy.
Current Price Ranges for New and Used Tanks
New cylinder prices reflect material and size differences. A new standard Aluminum 80 cylinder generally costs between $310 and $480, often including a basic valve. High-Pressure steel cylinders, which hold more gas, range from approximately $350 for a smaller capacity model up to $600 or more for the largest sizes.
Used tanks offer significant savings, typically reducing the purchase price by 30% to 50% compared to a new cylinder. A used AL80 in decent condition might sell for $100 to $150, while older tanks requiring immediate maintenance could be priced as low as $50 to $75. When purchasing used, confirm the date of the last hydrostatic test and visual inspection, as mandatory maintenance costs can quickly negate any initial savings.
Mandatory Long-Term Ownership Costs
Beyond the initial purchase, tank ownership involves recurring maintenance and fill expenses. The cost of filling the cylinder depends on the type of gas used. Standard compressed air typically costs between $7 and $12 per fill. Enriched air nitrox (EANx), which contains a higher percentage of oxygen, generally costs more, ranging from $12 to $18 per fill due to the added expense of oxygen blending.
Cylinders require an internal and external visual inspection (VI) every year to check for corrosion, pitting, or other signs of damage. This annual inspection typically costs between $15 and $25 and results in a dated sticker placed on the tank. A more rigorous hydrostatic test (HT) is mandated every five years. The HT involves pressurizing the cylinder with water to verify its structural integrity and costs between $35 and $55.