How do I read a lifejacket bottle ?
An inflatable lifejacket has a percussion system and a gas cylinder to fill its bladder. Knowing how to read a lifejacket cylinder means understanding the information on it, such as weight and validity date. Mastering this information is essential for knowing when and how to refill your automatic lifejacket.
Reading a lifejacket gas cartridge
There are several indications available on a lifejacket tag. These are engraved to prevent them from being erased by natural wear and tear. On a cartridge, you can see the weight of the cylinder, and depending on the refill model, its validity date. The weight depends on the vest category. So you can find the size associated with your vest.
The date on gas cartridges actually corresponds to the date of manufacture. Although current regulations do not stipulate any obligation, it is advisable to change this date every 10 years, if no problems arise before then, and to have your vest serviced every 3 years.
We advise you not to neglect the maintenance and checking of your equipment. It's all about ensuring your safety at sea.
Safety reminder
To ensure that your lifejackets retain their performance and buoyancy, they should be serviced every 2 to 3 years. Before setting sail on your boat, check that there are no signs of wear on this manual or automatic safety product. Checking your UML or Hammar (hydrostatic) striker is also vital. In the event of a malfunction or incident, you risk being unprotected in the event of a fall into the water, as your buoyancy will be zero.
As for the cylinder, it's essential to weigh it to check its weight. If the weight shown on the scale varies by more than 10% from the nominal weight engraved on the cylinder, you need to replace it. What's more, if you notice any holes in your cylinder, it's imperative that you think about replacing it. The slightest hole or visible impact can lead to gas loss, and with it system inefficiency.
As indicated in our guide to recharging your inflatable lifejacket, if you notice that the green clip has turned red and that the cellulose tablet (salt tablet) is also red, the kit needs to be replaced. Once the checks are complete and everything seems operational, you're free to go out and enjoy your water sports, or relax with a safe fishing trip!
Different gas cylinder formats available
- 24 g for 100 Newton vests (intended for a child's vest)
- 33 g for 150 Newton vests
- 60 g for 275 Newton vests
It's a good idea to bring your vest with you before you buy, and to pay close attention to the features of the accessories sold in the refill kit. Be sure to check the model you need before purchasing your refill.
Prices, makes and models available
On Nautisports, you'll find rearmament kits, as well as gas cartridges sold individually. These are in stock on our site, and their prices range from 13€ for a 45g co2 cartridge from 4Water to 46€ for a complete Hammar 33g 150N rearmament kit, also from 4Water.
For a 150N vest, the most popular model for navigation, the Pilot 165 Pro Sensor refill kit, compatible with the Pilot 165 vest with Plastimo harness or the EVO model, offers excellent value for money.
It's in your interest to always take an extra charging kit on board, so that you'll be able to reset your vest (even at sea!), which could accidentally go off (for UML systems only) and leave you without safety equipment. So, as soon as you buy a lifejacket, remember to order an additional recharge kit.
