Why do they call the pressure test a “hydrostatic” test?
For this test, the cylinder is filled with water and then pressurised to its test pressure. This allows the tester to measure the permanant expansion of the cylinder (if any) and is much safer due to the incompressible nature of water. How much does cylinder testing cost? Prices as of January 2006 – Cylinder test and air fill – $40. Tumbling, if required (to remove rust) – $22. Valve service, if stipulated – $14.50 plus parts. Some older aluminium cylinders require electronic testing for cracks around the cylinder neck this costs an additional $10. How often should my regulators be serviced? The amount of use a regulator gets and how well it is looked after will determine its service interval. A regulator thrown unwashed into the corner of the shed, would probably need to be serviced before the next dive to restore its performance. Conversely, one that is washed thoroughly and used little, may need some attention after two years. As a general rule, regulators should be serviced yearly.
