06/10/2026
STEEL TANK OWNERS — CHECK UNDER THOSE PLASTIC HANDLES
We recently removed the plastic neck handles from two steel tanks during inspection and found a significant amount of rust hidden underneath.
Both tanks cleaned up well; the interiors were fine, and we found no noticeable pitting — but corrosion around the neck of a steel tank is not something to shrug off.
If you have one of these handles, it should be removed at EVERY visual inspection so the neck and shoulder can actually be examined. At Stuart Scuba, we remove these handles and the boots as part of our visual inspection process.
A few simple things matter:
• Never run your tank completely empty. Keep a few hundred PSI in it. (minimum)
• Rinse your tank with fresh water after diving.
• Check valve O-rings and convertible valve inserts regularly.
• If you see salt, calcium buildup, or corrosion on the chrome of the valve, get it serviced.
• Have your cylinder visually inspected every year by a properly trained and certified inspector. Ask to see their certification.
• If you have boots (especially steel tanks), remove them periodically to inspect to see if there is rust or pitting that is hiding from you.
• Regularly look for pitting and paint chipping on your tank (especially steel tanks) this will be a point where your tank will rust.
• Store your tanks somewhere cool, dry, and protected from salt exposure.
The important part: corrosion can hide where you cannot see it.
If your tank has a plastic neck handle and boots, don’t assume everything underneath it is fine. Remove it, inspect it, clean it, and make sure your inspector is doing the same.
Your tank is life-support equipment. Treat it that way.
