When should you replace inflatable life vest?

Inflatable life vests, also known as inflatable PFDs, can save your life in an emergency. However, like any other piece of safety equipment, these vests must be replaced periodically to ensure optimal performance and safety. Knowing when to replace your inflatable life vest is essential for keeping yourself and your family safe on the water.

In this article, we’ll discuss when you should replace an inflatable life vest and what signs to look out for that may indicate it’s time for a new one. We’ll also provide some tips on properly maintaining and storing your inflatable life vest to maximize its lifespan. So whether you’re an experienced sailor or just getting started with water activities, this guide will help ensure that you have the right safety equipment.

When should you replace your inflatable life vest?

1. If the vest is damaged, stained or torn

It is important to inspect and replace your inflatable life vest regularly for safety. Signs that indicate it is time to replace an inflatable life vest include visible signs of wear and tear, lower buoyancy levels, a vest that does not fit properly, and signs of regular wear. You should also check for any rips or abrasions on the material, buckles or strap webbing damage, fading or UV damage, an expired air cartridge, exposure to extreme temperatures, and loose fabric around the foam. Additionally, you should pull on the inflation cord to ensure it will inflate and check the straps for any fraying or weakening. If you find any signs, it is time to replace your life vest.

2. If the vest does not fit properly

1. Visually inspect the inflatable life vest for any rips, tears, or other issues.
2. Check the recommended tank replacement date to make sure it hasn’t passed.
3. When putting on the vest, make sure the material fits you snugly.
4. Check the can and nozzle for any dust or corrosion.
5. Inflate the vest and make sure it holds air.
6. Jump in a calm body of water with the vest on and make sure it fits properly. The vest should not rise up over your shoulders.
7. If the vest does not provide enough buoyancy to float you, it is time to replace it.

3. If the zipper is broken or does not work

If the zipper on your inflatable life vest is broken or does not work, it is important to replace it immediately. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Visually inspect the device for any abrasions, rips, tears, and punctures.
2. Check the outer shell by “pinching” the fabric. It should not fray or tear.
3. Perform a leakage test by orally inflating the chamber until firm, and then letting it stand overnight. If a loss of air occurs, repeat the process to validate the result.
4. Confirm the oral inflation valve is properly functioning by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater. If bubbles appear, replace the life jacket.
5. Inspect the bobbin, CO2 cylinder, and sensor ring for any signs of damage, rust, or corrosion. Replace any components if necessary.
6. Follow repacking and re-arming instructions.
7. Pull on the inflation cord to ensure that the vest inflates properly.
8. Finally, adjust the straps and make sure that the fit is secure.
9. Replace the zipper on your inflatable life vest if it is broken or not working.

4. If the bladder is damaged or leaking

If the bladder of your inflatable life vest is damaged or leaking, you should take the following steps:

1. Stop using the life vest immediately.
2. Inspect the bladder for any signs of damage, such as rips or abrasions.
3. Check the buckles, straps, and webbing for any signs of wear and tear.
4. Check the air cartridge for expiration.
5. Inspect the fabric for any signs of fading or UV damage.
6. Look for any loose fabric around the foam in your life vest.
7. Inflate the life vest with the oral inflation tube and leave it inflated overnight.
8. If it is still holding air the next day, deflate it, refold it and use it with confidence.
9. If it is not holding air, replace it with a new life vest.
10. If it is an inflatable life vest, check the gas bottle for any signs of rust, corrosion, or dust that could block the nozzle.

5. If the harness attachment is damaged

The remedy for a damaged harness attachment on an inflatable life vest depends on the extent of the damage. If the damage is minor, then you can try to repair it yourself using a strong adhesive. If the damage is more extensive, then you will need to replace the attachment.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Visually inspect the harness attachment for any signs of damage such as fraying, tearing, or gaps in the stitching.
2. If you find minor damage, use a strong adhesive such as seam grip or a fabric glue to repair it.
3. Make sure the adhesive is fully dried before using the life vest.
4. If the damage is more severe, then you will need to replace the attachment.
5. Purchase a new attachment from a sporting goods store or online retailer.
6. Remove the old attachment from the life vest.
7. Attach the new attachment carefully and securely.
8. Test the attachment by pulling on it to make sure it can handle additional pressure.
9. Make sure the vest is properly fastened.

6. If the CO2 cartridge is no longer working

To ensure that the CO2 cartridge for an inflatable life vest is in good condition, you should perform a beginning-of-season maintenance check every two to three months if the vest is used frequently or in a humid climate. First, remove the CO2 cylinder and bobbin to inspect them.

Visually check the device for any rips, tears, or punctures, as well as any fading or deterioration of the fabric, straps, and hardware. Perform a leakage test by orally inflating the chamber until firm and letting it stand overnight to see if any air is lost. Confirm that the oral inflation valve is functioning properly by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater. Inspect the bobbin for any cracks or breaks and verify that the manufacture date is no more than three years from the date of inspection. Inspect the CO2 cylinder for any holes or piercings near the face and check for rust or corrosion. Finally, if everything looks good, re-arm and repack the vest according to the manufacturer’s instructions before storing it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

7. If the vest has expired

When it comes to safety on the water, it is important to make sure that your inflatable life vest is in good condition. While life jackets do not technically expire, the materials used to make them lose their buoyancy over time. Additionally, the carbon dioxide (CO2) tank used to inflate the jacket has a limited lifespan. For these reasons, it is important to replace your inflatable life jacket every 3 years.

Regularly checking the life jacket for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion is also very important. If the jacket does not fit properly or if the CO2 tank shows signs of corrosion, then it should be replaced immediately.

Inflatable life jackets should also be tested before each use to make sure they are in proper working order. This can be done by simply putting them on and floating in calm or confined water conditions. If it rises up over the wearer’s shoulders when in the water, then the foam inside has likely lost its buoyancy and the jacket should be replaced.

A life jacket is an essential tool to help you stay safe when on the water and it is important to check and replace them regularly. If your inflatable life jacket is more than three years old, it is time to replace it as it may no longer be effective in an emergency situation.

8. If the vest is no longer needed

It’s important to regularly inspect and test your life vest, particularly if you use it often or have had it for a while. If your life vest has a lower buoyancy level, does not fit properly, or shows signs of regular wear and tear, it’s time to replace it. Additionally, if the CO2 cylinder, bobbin, or any other of the various pins or parts of the vest have expired, been damaged, or are not working properly, they should also be replaced. Faded or UV-damaged fabric, damage to the buckles or strap webbing, and loose fabric around the foam are all signs that your life vest is no longer safe and should be replaced. It’s also important to check the expiration date of the bobbin, which is usually stamped on the exterior of the inflator. If the bobbin is more than three years old, it should be replaced regardless of its condition. To ensure your life vest is always in good condition and will inflate properly if needed, regular checks and maintenance are essential.

9. If you are using a vest harness combo

1. Unfold and inflate the vest using the oral inflation tube to make sure it has no leaks in the bladder and is safe to wear.
2. Leave it inflated overnight and check to see if it still holds air the next day.
3. If it is, deflates it, refold it and use it with confidence. If not, return it for a replacement.
4. At least once a year (preferably at the beginning of the boating season), inflate the vest and go over the CO2 cylinder, bobbin, and any other pins or parts that make it work.
5. Carefully remove the CO2 cylinder and the bobbin and inspect them for damage.
6. Check the date that is stamped on the bobbin, and, if it’s more than three years old, get a new one.
7. Inspect the rest of the vest – the safety harness, bladder, oral inflating tube, reflective tape and any other components.
8. Wash the vest in warm soapy water and rinse it with fresh water if boating in a salty environment.
9. Hang the vest up to dry in a well-ventilated location and out of direct sunlight.
10. Deflate the vest and re-arm it with the bobbin and CO2 cylinder.
11. Check the Service Indicator is showing green before using the vest.

Tips on how to keep your life jacket in good condition

1. Perform a proper inspection once a month

You should inspect your life jacket for condition on a regular basis, at least every two-to-three months, for light to moderate users or more often if used frequently or in a humid climate. The following step-by-step instructions can help you inspect your life jacket:

1. Remove the CO2 cylinder and bobbin.
2. Visually inspect the device for abrasions, rips, tears, and punctures. Inspect the outer shell by “pinching” the fabric. It should not fray or tear and the fabric, straps, and hardware should still hold strong.
3. Perform a leakage test by orally inflating the chamber until firm and let it stand overnight. If there is a loss of air, repeat the process to validate the result. If the leak persists, remove the life jacket from service and replace the device.
4. Confirm that the oral inflation valve is properly functioning by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater. If bubbles appear, repeat the process to validate the result. If a leak occurs, remove the life jacket from service and replace the device.
5. Inspect the bobbin by looking for the white, water-soluble substance located within the bobbin. Check to make sure the white substance is still intact with no signs of cracks or breaks. Replace the bobbin if the manufacture date is over three years from the date of inspection.
6. Inspect the CO2 cylinder for any holes or piercings near the face of the cylinder. Be sure to look for signs of rust or corrosion and replace if needed.
7. For 1F & 3F models (bayonet style CO2), inspect the sensor ring. If broken, replace the cylinder.
8. Follow repacking and re-arming instructions.

2. Wash your life jacket once a month

Washing and inspecting your life jacket should be done regularly to ensure its safe and effective operation. To clean your life jacket, remove the CO2 cylinder and bobbin, then handwash in warm soapy water using mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and hang dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Ensure the life jacket is completely dry before re-arming, repacking, or stowing away.

You should also inspect your life jacket before every use for any rips, tears, or holes, and that all seams are securely sewn and the fabric, straps, and hardware are still strong. Additionally, it is recommended that you replace your life jacket every couple of years or when it fails functional tests, demonstrates a loss of buoyancy, or when it no longer fits.

3. Check the zippers and buckles

To check the zippers and buckles on a life jacket, begin by visually inspecting the straps for any fraying or weakening, especially around the shoulders or waist. Pull sharply on the straps to ensure they can handle additional pressure. Inspect the buckles, ensuring they are secure and free from any damage. Then check the zippers, making sure they are securely fastened and free from rips and abrasions. Lastly, check the air cartridge expiration date and inspect the fabric for any loose foam. To ensure the life jacket is in good working order, it is best to have it tested by an authorized test center or the manufacturer.

4. Replace your life jacket if it is damaged

Step 1: Check your life jacket at the beginning of each boating season to make sure all hardware, straps, and buckles are in good shape, firmly attached, and working properly.

Step 2: Check for visible signs of wear and tear, including rips, tears, mildew stains, punctures, and oil saturation in the fabric.

Step 3: Check the label for USCG approval and that it is readable.

Step 4: Discard and replace any life jackets that show signs of deterioration.

Step 5: If you have an inflatable life jacket, check the expiry date of the air cylinder.

Step 6: Check the straps for fraying or weakening, particularly around the shoulders or waist.

Step 7: If you have tested your life jacket and have concerns about its integrity, replace it.

Step 8: Clean your life jacket with mild soap and water and let it air dry. Never put a life jacket in the dryer.

Step 9: Store in an area with good ventilation and if wet allow it to dry thoroughly in open air before storing. Do not dry it in a dryer, in front of a radiator, or another source of direct heat.

5. Check the tag to ensure the jacket is still safe to use

To check if your life jacket is still safe to use, there are a few steps you should take:

1. Visually inspect your life jacket for any signs of wear and tear, small tears, or dirt where it shouldn’t be.
2. Test the straps by pulling sharply on them to make sure they can handle additional pressure.
3. Ensure the vest is adequately fastened and pull on the inflation cord to ensure it inflates correctly.
4. Clean your life jacket regularly with mild soap and water and let it air dry, never put it in the dryer.
5. Check to see that the recommended tank replacement date hasn’t passed.
6. Inspect the material of the inflatable life vest to make sure there are no rips, tears, or other issues.
7. Perform a leakage test on the device by orally inflating the chamber until firm and leaving it overnight.
8. Confirm the oral inflation valve is properly functioning by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater.
9. Inspect the bobbin by looking for the white, water-soluble substance located within the bobbin.
10. Replace the bobbin if the manufacture date is over three years from the date of inspection.

6. Make sure the life jacket is the right size

The importance of choosing the right size life jacket cannot be overstated. A life jacket that is too big can be difficult to keep in place and can interfere with the wearer’s ability to stay afloat. On the other hand, a life jacket that is too small can be uncomfortable, restrictive, and could even cause the wearer to become submerged and unable to get to the surface. Therefore, it is important to make sure the life jacket you choose fits properly.

In addition, it is important to regularly check the condition of a life jacket to ensure that it is still providing adequate buoyancy. If your life jacket has failed functional tests, become damaged in any way, or has lost its buoyancy, it should be replaced immediately. Testing an inflatable life jacket is especially important, as they are typically intended for persons over 80 pounds and require tank replacement dates be followed. Foam life jackets can also be tested by wading out into the water and making sure that the jacket can keep the wearer’s chin above the water and the buoyancy is not lost.

Ultimately, choosing the right size life jacket and regularly checking its condition are essential for providing the necessary protection for you and your family in the event of an emergency.

7. Make sure the life jacket is correctly equipped

Step 1: Make sure your life jacket is Coast Guard approved and fits properly. Check the label attached to the life jacket to make sure it is readable.

Step 2: Inspect the hardware and straps to ensure they are in good shape, firmly attached, and in working order. Also check for any signs of deterioration such as tears, mildew stains, punctures, etc. and replace the life jacket if necessary.

Step 3: Make sure the inflation cord is properly fastened and inspect for any leaks.

Step 4: Inflate the life jacket by pulling on the inflation cord, and make sure that it is properly inflated.

Step 5: Store the life jacket in an area with good ventilation and allow it to dry thoroughly in open air before storing. Do not use harsh detergents or gasoline to clean it, and do not remove any labels, straps, or buckles.

Step 6: Test the life jacket regularly to make sure it is in working order, and replace it when it fails functional tests, demonstrates a loss of buoyancy, or does not fit anymore.

8. Limit exposure to sunlight and humidity

Step 1: Clean your life jacket regularly with mild soap and water and let them air dry. Never put a life jacket in the dryer.

Step 2: Store your inflatable life jacket in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing inflatable life jackets in hot, cold, or damp places.

Step 3: Hang and store your life jacket in a location away from direct sunlight and heat, such as a closet or cabinet.

Step 4: Consider covering the life jacket with a towel or blanket if you are keeping it in an area that experiences direct sunlight or excessive heat.

Step 5: If storing for a long period of time, remove the CO2 cylinder and automatic bobbin.

9. Practice with a life jacket on

The best way to practice with a life jacket on is to first visually inspect the jacket for any rips or tears. Make sure the foam inside is not exposed. If you see any of these issues, it’s time to replace the jacket.

Once the jacket is on, wade out to where the water is chest deep and try floating on your back. You want to make sure that your flotation device keeps your chin above water and that you can breathe easily. Make sure the vest is properly fastened, and pull on the inflation cord to inflate the vest.

Practice swimming on your stomach and your back to make sure that whatever position you’re in, will keep you afloat. Make sure the life jacket is able to hold you up, without rising above your shoulders. If you have children you’re responsible for, have them do the same to make sure everyone is comfortable in their PFD and that it will work if need be.

10. Keep your life jacket in a safe place

1. Test your life jacket regularly to ensure its buoyancy is working properly. Have your life jacket professionally tested or replaced when it has failed any functional tests, lost its buoyancy, or does not fit properly.
2. Visually inspect your life jacket regularly for signs of wear, dirt, and any small tears in the material. If you find any of these issues, have your life jacket tested or replaced.
3. Clean your life jacket with clean water and dry it properly after use.
4. Store your life jacket in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat, cold, or damp places.
5. For inflatable life jackets, remove the CO2 cylinder and automatic bobbin if stored for a long period of time.
6. Make sure the vest is properly fastened, and the inflation cord is pulled when stored.

​How Can You Test Your PFD?

​Check The Buoyancy

Step 1: Put on the PFD and make sure it fits properly on your body.

Step 2: Wade out to a chest deep area of water and try floating on your back.

Step 3: Make sure that the flotation device keeps your chin above water and that you can breathe easily.

Step 4: Pay attention that the vest is not rising up over your shoulders.

Step 5: Maneuver yourself in different positions to check if your life jacket can retain buoyancy.

Step 6: If the life vest is able to hold you up, without rising above your shoulders, it should still be safe to use.

Example:

Before taking my PFD out on my upcoming boating trip, I decided to test it to make sure it was still buoyant. I put it on and made sure it fit comfortably and securely. Then, I waded out to a chest deep area of water and tried floating on my back. I made sure the vest kept my chin above water, I could breathe easily and that the vest was not rising up over my shoulders. I then maneuvered myself in different positions to check if the life jacket could retain buoyancy. Finally, I was satisfied that the vest was able to keep me afloat without rising above my shoulders and knew that it would be safe to use.

​Check The CO2 Tank

Step 1: Remove the CO2 cylinder and bobbin from your PFD.

Step 2: Visually inspect the device for any abrasions, rips, tears, and punctures. Additionally, pinch the fabric of the outer shell to ensure it does not fray or tear. Replace the PFD if the fabric has faded, torn, or deteriorated.

Step 3: Perform a leakage test by orally inflating the chamber until firm and leaving it overnight. If a loss of air occurs, remove the life jacket from service and replace the device.

Step 4: Confirm that the oral inflation valve is properly functioning by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater. If bubbles appear, remove the life jacket from service and replace the device.

Step 5: Inspect the bobbin to ensure that the white, water-soluble substance located within it is still intact and has no signs of cracks or breaks. If the bobbin is more than three years old, replace it regardless of how intact it appears to look.

Step 6: Inspect the CO2 cylinder for any holes or piercings near the face of the cylinder and check for signs of rust or corrosion.

Step 7: For 1F & 3F models (bayonet style CO2), inspect the sensor ring and replace it if broken.

Step 8: Follow repacking and re-arming instructions.

​Check The Straps

1. Visually inspect the straps for any fraying or weakening, particularly around the shoulders or waist.
2. Pull sharply on the straps to make sure they can handle additional pressure.
3. Check for any rips or abrasions on the material.
4. Look for any damage to the buckles or strap webbing.
5. Check if the materials have faded or suffered UV damage.
6. Check if the air cartridge has expired.
7. Check if the fabric is loose around the foam in your life vest.
8. Inspect the exterior for abrasions, loose thread or other signs of wear.
9. Make a habit of checking the Service Indicator that is visible inside the clear plastic window to make sure the status is green.
10. Have it tested by an authorized test center or tested by the manufacturer.
11. Conduct a leakage test by orally inflating the chamber until firm.
12. Confirm the oral inflation valve is properly functioning by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater.
13. Inspect the bobbin by looking for the white, water-soluble substance located within the bobbin.
14. Inspect the CO2 cylinder for any holes or piercings near the face of the cylinder.
15. Look for signs of rust or corrosion as well and replace if needed.
16. Pull on the inflation cord and adjust to fit.

Inflatable Lifejacket swim test

Testing an inflatable life jacket for swimming is an important step to make sure you are safe on the water. Here is a step-by-step guide to testing your life jacket:

1. Visually inspect the life jacket for rips, tears or exposed foam. If any of these are present, replace the jacket.
2. Put the life jacket on and make sure it fits snugly on your body.
3. Wade out to where the water is chest deep and try floating on your back. Make sure your chin is above the water and you can breathe easily.
4. Practice swimming on your stomach and your back to make sure the life jacket keeps you afloat in different positions.
5. If you are responsible for children, have them do the same to make sure they are comfortable in their PFDs and that it will work if need be.
6. If you have an inflatable life jacket, check the CO2 tank for its expiration date and that it is properly filled.
7. Inflate the life jacket through the oral tube valve and make sure it is fully inflated.
8. Float in the water and make sure the life jacket is comfortable and not rising above your shoulders.
9. Deflate the life jacket and put it away until your next swimming trip.

FAQ

Can children wear inflatable life jackets?

No, children under 12 years of age cannot wear inflatable life jackets. Inflatables are not suitable for non-swimmers, and therefore are not approved for use by people under the age of 16. Children must have inherently buoyant or hybrid device in their size range to meet the carriage requirements.

How do you know if a life jacket is still good?

The most reliable way to know if a life jacket is still good is to have it tested by an authorized test center or the manufacturer. A good way to check this is to visually inspect the life jacket for any signs of damage, such as tears, wear, or dirt where it should not be present. Additionally, you should replace a lifejacket if it has failed any functional tests, has lost buoyancy, or no longer fits.

To test out a foam life jacket, start by visually inspecting it for any rips or tears. Make sure the foam inside is not exposed either, as this could compromise its buoyancy. If there are any signs of damage, it is time to replace the jacket. Afterward, put the life jacket on and try floating in calm water. Be sure to move around in various positions to see if the life jacket can retain buoyancy, and that it is not rising above your shoulders.

For an inflatable life jacket, begin by visually inspecting it and then putting it on. Afterwards, test it out in calm water. As with the foam life jacket, you should move around in different positions to make sure the life jacket can hold you up and is not rising above your shoulders. Additionally, you should check the expiration date of the CO2 tank and make sure it is still valid.

It is also important to make sure you store life jackets in a cool, dry place and clean them with clean water after each use. This ensures that the life jacket stays in good condition and lasts for an extended period of time.

Is it OK to buy used life jackets?

No, it is not recommended to buy used life jackets, as there is no guarantee that the life jacket has been constructed to the same manufacturing standards or is in the same condition as a new one. You can test out the life jackets you already have to see if they are still operational and safe to wear, but it is best to have them checked by an authorized test centre or the manufacturer. Inflatable life jackets are reusable only if they remain in good condition and provide the expected amount of buoyancy, but even then you should replace the CO2 cylinder after use. To ensure your safety while on the water, it is important to check your life jacket regularly for signs of wear and tear and to check the expiry date on the air cylinder. In addition, it is advised to upgrade your life jackets every couple of years to make sure they work properly in the event of an emergency.

​Do Life Jackets Expire?

Do Life Jackets Expire? The answer is yes, life jackets do indeed expire. Life jackets are made of materials that can lose their buoyancy over time, meaning they may not be as effective in an emergency situation. It is important to check the expiration date, test it, and replace it if it does not pass the test. It is also important to clean, dry, and store life jackets in a cool dry place, and to check them for any damage, dirt, or corrosion. Remember to wear the life jacket properly and to learn to swim for maximum safety when in or around the water.

How Do You Know When To Replace A Life Jacket’s CO2 Cartridge?

Knowing when to replace a life jacket’s CO2 cartridge is essential for safety. To determine when to replace your CO2 cartridge, begin with regular maintenance before and after every use, which includes checking the CO2 cylinder and inspecting the life jacket for any rips, tears, or missing components. Additionally, you should perform annual maintenance by following any special procedures recommended by the manufacturer to keep the device in good working order.

It’s also important to visually inspect the device for any abrasions, rips, tears, or punctures. You should also check that the fabric, straps, and hardware are still in good condition. Furthermore, a leakage test should be performed by orally inflating the chamber until it is firm, and then letting it stand overnight. If a loss of air occurs, the device should be removed from service and replaced.

You should also inspect the bobbin for a white, water-soluble substance and replace it if the manufacture date is over three years from the date of inspection. Confirm the oral inflation valve is properly functioning by inflating the device and holding the valve underwater. If bubbles appear, again, the device should be removed from service and replaced.

Inspect the CO2 cylinder for any holes, rust, corrosion, or dust that could block the nozzle from letting the gas escape. If you notice any of these signs of wear and tear, it’s time to replace your life jacket. As a general rule of thumb, it’s important to check that your inflatable life jacket is in good and serviceable condition before every season or outing.