Should You Buy or Rent Scuba Tanks?

The decision to own your own scuba tanks in involves balancing cost, convenience, and diving habits. For most divers, the answer is no—renting is often the better option. However, for frequent local divers, owning tanks can provide financial savings and added convenience.

Rental vs. Ownership Costs

• Rental cost per full tank: ~$15
• Refill cost for an owned tank: ~$10
• Cost difference per dive day (2 tanks): $10 savings ($30 rental vs. $20 refill)
• Savings per owned tank per dive: $5

Return on Investment (ROI) for a New AL80

• New Aluminum 80 tank cost: ~$260
• Dives needed for ROI per tank: 52 dives ($260 / $5 = 52 dives)

Break-even timelines based on dive frequency:

• 50 dive days/year: ROI in 1 year ($250 saved annually)
• 40 dive days/year: ROI in 1.5 years ($200 saved annually)
• 30 dive days/year: ROI in 2 years ($150 saved annually)
• 20 dive days/year: ROI in 3 years ($100 saved annually)
• 10 dive days/year: ROI in 5 years ($50 saved annually)

Additional Costs per Tank:

• Annual VIP inspection: ~$20
• Hydrostatic test (every 5 years): ~$30

Buying Used Tanks

Buying used tanks can significantly reduce the upfront cost. Used AL80s typically cost a couple hundred dollars, but always check the hydro and VIP inspection dates before purchasing. If a tank is out of hydro, factor in the cost of a test (~$30) when negotiating the price.

Steel vs. Aluminum Tanks

While Aluminum 80s (AL80s) are the standard rental option, steel tanks are often preferred by cold-water divers.

Steel Tank Advantages:

• More negative buoyancy reduces the amount of weight you need.
• Greater durability and longevity compared to aluminum.
• Higher capacities available (e.g., HP100, HP120) for longer bottom times.

Drawbacks:

• Higher initial cost.
• Requires proper care to prevent rust (always store with a little pressure inside).

Convenience of Owning Tanks

For frequent divers, convenience is often a bigger factor than cost savings.

Advantages of Tank Ownership:

• No need to rush back to the dive shop before closing to return rentals.
• More flexibility—dive when you want, without worrying about rental availability.
• Some shops offer bulk fill cards that reduce per-fill costs.
• Owning multiple tanks allows for multi-day dive trips without refilling between dives.

Disadvantages:

• Requires transport and proper storage.
• Annual and periodic maintenance costs.
• Upfront investment takes time to pay off.

When Owning Makes Sense

Owning tanks is best for:

• Frequent local divers (20+ dive days per year)
• Divers with specific tank preferences (e.g., HP100, Steel 120s)
• Technical or cold-water divers who use doubles, stage bottles, or want consistent buoyancy characteristics

Final Verdict

• If you dive frequently (20+ days per year), owning tanks can save money and add convenience.
• If you dive occasionally, renting is easier and avoids the hassle of maintenance.
• If you prefer specific tank types (steel, high-capacity, Nitrox-ready), buying might be worth considering.

Owning tanks is not necessary for most divers—but for those who dive often, the long-term benefits can make it a smart investment.