Hi. I figured you intrepid eventers would know the answer. My brother is a diver and tells me the CO2 canisters need to be changed on a regular basis because they give out. When I bought my latest airbag, I told the rep it was kept in tack room which gets hot in summer and she said no need to ever change the canister except if it discharged. Do you know anything about this?
I manage a tack store (and wear an airvest) and have never heard this. I suppose it could be true if you go YEARS between falls. I’ve gone seven months between falls without any issues.
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Could be Divers go through variable pressure when going down but Riders run around at normal atmosphere.
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Both of my air vests are on a five year replacement / manufacturer check cycle - that is recommend for the vests. I suppose that means that the canisters are good for five years, if not used.
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Yep, that’s what I was going to say as well. Same for helmets! Always shocked how many people tell me they’ve been riding in the same helmet since 2017. 
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Your brother is not wrong, as the CO2 canisters for diving and even with the PFDs advise on checking before each use and making sure the cylinder has no leaks and is tightly secured. If I was relying on an airvest, I’d be checking the canister every time, as well. Warranty on an unused Co2 cartridge just says how long it is good for in perfect circumstances, temperatures, not getting bumped around.
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How do you know if the cylinder has leaks/is tightly secured? New air vests owner here!
