Refilling Spare Air
Refilling Spare Air
Spare Air is Quick and Easy to Refill!
Spare Air is a refillable, fully self-contained breathing device. The always-on regulator is ready to deliver life-saving air in an underwater emergency or toxic air environment.
Understanding Your Pressure Indicator
Pin Style - Needs Refilling
Pressure Indicator: Pin is recessed - Spare Air requires filling.
Pin Style - Full Pressure
Pressure Indicator: Pin is flush with top - Spare Air is filled to 3000 psi.
Dial Gauge (Optional)
Dial Gauge: Shows actual pressure in PSI and BAR with color-coded zones.
How Pressure Indicators Work:
Standard Pin Style Indicator: The pin will rise while filling and when flush with the top, the unit is full at 3000 psi. The pin will recess into the pressure indicator when the unit requires refilling.
Optional Dial Gauge Pressure Indicator: The needle points to actual pressure in psi or bar with easy-to-read color zones:
- Green Zone: Full pressure (2700-3000 psi) - ready to dive
- Yellow Zone: Partial pressure (1500-2700 psi) - refill recommended
- Red Zone: Low pressure (below 1500 psi) - refill required
Storage and Maintenance Guidelines
Proper Storage Best Practices:
- Store Full or Pressurized: Spare Air should be stored full or with some positive pressure to prevent contaminants from entering the cylinder
- Clean, Dry Environment: Store in a clean, dry location away from moisture and debris
- Optimum Temperature: 50-75°F (10-24°C) for best product performance
- Avoid Temperature Extremes: Keep away from direct sunlight, automobile trunks, or other areas subject to extreme heat or cold
- Annual Air Replacement: Industry guidelines recommend replacing air in cylinders annually, even if unused
4 Easy Methods for Refilling Spare Air
Choose the refill method that best suits your location, equipment, and diving routine. Each method is designed for convenience and reliability.
Method 1: Refilling from a SCUBA Tank
Most Popular Method - Perfect for divers who already own SCUBA tanks or dive regularly.
What You Need:
- 910C Tank Refill Adapter (current model) or 910S Tank Refill Adapter (legacy model through July 2025)
- A full SCUBA tank (3000 psi minimum for complete fill)
Step-by-Step Instructions (910C Adapter):
- Attach Adapter to Spare Air: Thread the 910C Tank Refill Adapter onto the check valve port of your Spare Air. Hand-tighten securely.
- Connect to SCUBA Tank: Place the refill adapter onto a filled SCUBA tank valve.
- Slowly Open Valve: Slowly open the tank valve to allow the pressure to equalize, filling your Spare Air. Opening too quickly can damage seals.
- Monitor Pressure: Watch your pressure indicator. When the pin is flush (or dial gauge reads 3000 psi), the unit is full.
- Close Valve and Disconnect: Close the SCUBA tank valve. Use the bleed screw on the 910C adapter to release pressure in the check valve, then disconnect.
Video Tutorial: Filling from SCUBA Tank (910C Adapter)
Legacy 910S Adapter (Produced Through July 2025):
The 910S adapter uses a ring pressure release valve, while the newer 910C uses a bleed screw to release pressure in the check valve after the pressure between tanks has equalized. Both adapters work effectively—the 910C simply offers easier pressure release.
Video Tutorial: Filling from SCUBA Tank (910S Adapter)
For complete refilling instructions, view page 5 of the Spare Air Owner's Manual.
Method 2: Refilling at a Local Dive Shop
Professional Fill - Ideal when you want expert service or don't have your own SCUBA tank.
What You Need:
- 920C Air Compressor Refill Adapter (optional accessory)
- Access to a local SCUBA dive shop with air compressor
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Attach Adapter to Spare Air: Thread the 920C Air Compressor Refill Adapter onto the check valve port of your Spare Air.
- Connect Compressor Whip: Attach the dive shop's compressor whip to the refill adapter.
- Fill to 3000 PSI: The dive shop technician will release air into your Spare Air to 3000 psi, monitoring pressure throughout the fill.
- Disconnect and Verify: Once filled, disconnect the whip and verify pressure with your indicator.
Benefits: Professional fills ensure proper pressure, air quality, and can be combined with annual VIP inspections. Most dive shops are familiar with Spare Air and can fill it quickly.
Buy 920C Air Compressor Adapter
Method 3: Refilling from a Compact Air Compressor
Ultimate Convenience - Refill from the comfort of your home, boat, or anywhere you need quick and easy access.
What You Need:
- Nomad III Portable Breathing Air Compressor
- 930C Custom Air Compressor Refill Adapter (included with Nomad III)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Thread Adapter: Simply thread the 930C adapter onto the Spare Air refill port.
- Quick Connect: Quick connect the adapter to the Nomad III compressor.
- Plug In and Fill: Plug in the Nomad III, turn it on, and fill in minutes. The compressor automatically shuts off at 3000 psi.
- Disconnect and Store: Once filled, disconnect and store your Spare Air ready for use.
Nomad III Features:
- Weighs less than 20 pounds for easy portability
- Includes travel bag for transportation
- Fills Spare Air, HEED, and EasyDive products
- Perfect for boats, RVs, remote locations, or home use
- Automatic shutoff at target pressure
- Built-in filtration for clean, breathable air
Method 4: Refilling from a Hand Pump
No Power Required - Fill Spare Air/HEED anywhere, anytime using our quality high-pressure hand pump. You just supply the manpower!
What You Need:
- High-Pressure Hand Pump (includes DryPac filter and 930C adapter)
- 930C Custom Refill Adapter (included with hand pump)
- Physical effort and time
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Thread Adapter: Thread the 930C adapter onto the Spare Air refill port.
- Quick Connect to Pump: Quick connect the adapter to the hand pump.
- Begin Pumping: Start pumping with smooth, consistent strokes. The pump includes a pressure gauge to monitor progress.
- Fill to 3000 PSI: Continue pumping until the gauge reads 3000 psi. This typically takes 20-40 minutes depending on cylinder size and starting pressure.
- Disconnect and Verify: Disconnect the pump and verify pressure with your Spare Air's indicator.
Video Tutorial: Filling with Hand Pump
Hand Pump Features:
- Includes DryPac filter to remove moisture and ensure clean air
- Built-in pressure gauge for accurate monitoring
- No electricity or external air source required
- Perfect for remote locations, travel, or emergency preparedness
- Compact and portable design
Estimated Pump Times:
- Spare Air 1.7 cu ft: ~20-25 minutes from empty
- Spare Air 3.0 cu ft: ~30-40 minutes from empty
- Spare Air 6.0 cu ft: ~50-70 minutes from empty
Times vary based on individual pumping speed and physical conditioning.
Spare Air Configurations and Packages
Spare Air offers a range of configurations to suit different needs, whether you're looking for a compact 3 cu ft unit for basic safety, a 6 cu ft model for extended emergencies, or a Nitrox Ready package for compatibility with enriched air.
Popular Package Options:
- Standard Packages: Include Spare Air cylinder, regulator, holster, and basic refill adapter
- Complete Kits: Add hand pump, pressure gauge, lanyard, and carrying case
- Ultimate Safety Package: Everything you need including multiple refill options and premium accessories
- Travel Package: Optimized for portability with compact accessories and travel case
- Xtreme 6 Complete Mini Scuba Kit: Our largest 6 cu ft model with comprehensive accessories
- Nitrox Ready: Compatible with enriched air (EAN) up to 40% oxygen
These options cater to both recreational divers and professionals who want peace of mind in unpredictable circumstances.
Browse All Spare Air Packages →
Accessories and Replacement Parts
Maintaining and personalizing your mini SCUBA air system is easy with our range of accessories and replacement parts designed for convenience and safety.
Popular Accessories:
- Refill Adapters: Connect your Spare Air to SCUBA cylinders (910C), DIN valves, air compressors (920C), or hand pumps (930C)
- Dial Pressure Gauges: Upgrade to a precise dial gauge for instant PSI or BAR readings at a glance
- High-Pressure Hand Pump Kits: Fill your tank on the go with portable hand pumps featuring DryPac filters for pure, moisture-free air
- Carrying Cases and Travel Bags: Safeguard your gear and accessories in durable cases for hassle-free travel
- Holsters and Mounting Systems: Secure attachment options for BCD, tank straps, or body mounting
- Wearables and Branded Apparel: T-shirts made from breathable, high-quality cotton for divers proud of their gear
Essential Replacement Parts:
- O-Rings and Seal Kits: Ensure leak-free operation with replacement seals tailored for Spare Air
- Check Valve Assemblies: Maintain optimal function and refill integrity with easy-to-replace check valves
- Replacement Cylinders: Swap in new DOT/TC approved aluminum cylinders as needed
- Mouthpieces: High-quality silicone replacement mouthpieces
- Refill Port Caps: Protective caps to keep refill ports clean and contamination-free
Quality accessories and parts—whether from trusted third-party brands or original manufacturers—can make a significant difference in performance and peace of mind.
Shop All Accessories & Parts →
Important Servicing Note
⚠️ Important: If the unit is completely emptied of air in any underwater conditions, refer to the owner's manual regarding proper servicing before refilling your Spare Air. Water may have entered the regulator and cylinder, requiring professional inspection and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I refill my Spare Air?
Check your pressure indicator before every dive. Refill when pressure drops below 3000 psi. Even if unused, cylinders can lose pressure over time due to temperature changes or minor seal weepage.
Can I use any air compressor to fill Spare Air?
No. Only use breathing-air quality compressors designed for SCUBA applications. Standard shop compressors contain oil and contaminants unsafe for breathing. Use dive shop compressors, the Nomad III, or fill from SCUBA tanks only.
How long does it take to fill Spare Air?
Fill times vary by method: SCUBA tank (1-2 minutes), dive shop compressor (3-5 minutes), Nomad III (5-10 minutes), hand pump (20-70 minutes depending on size).
Can I fill Spare Air with Nitrox?
Yes, if you have a Nitrox Ready Spare Air model. Standard models are designed for compressed air only. Nitrox Ready units are compatible with enriched air (EAN) up to 40% oxygen and require special O2-compatible components.
What if I don't have a full SCUBA tank?
The SCUBA tank must be at or near 3000 psi to completely fill Spare Air. A partially filled tank will only equalize pressure—if your SCUBA tank is at 2000 psi, your Spare Air will only fill to approximately 2000 psi.
Do I need different adapters for different refill methods?
Yes. Each refill method requires its specific adapter: 910C for SCUBA tanks, 920C for dive shop compressors, and 930C for hand pumps or Nomad III. Adapters are sold separately or included with certain packages.
Can I leave Spare Air empty for storage?
No. Always store Spare Air with positive pressure (ideally full at 3000 psi) to prevent contaminants, moisture, or debris from entering the cylinder through the check valve.
How do I know which adapter model I have?
The 910C (current model) has a bleed screw for pressure release. The 910S (legacy model through July 2025) has a ring pressure release valve. Both work effectively—check your adapter or original packaging for the model number.
The Submersible Systems Family of Products
All Submersible Systems products can be refilled using compatible adapters and methods:
- Spare Air: Original emergency breathing device for recreational diving (1.7, 3.0, 6.0 cu ft)
- HEED 3: Helicopter Emergency Egress Device for aviation and water rescue (3.0 cu ft)
- Spare Air Xtreme: Enhanced model with premium features and accessories
- EasyDive: Compact surface-supplied breathing system for shallow water activities
- Spare Air Industrial: Designed for confined space entry and industrial safety applications
- Spare Air Escape: Emergency escape breathing apparatus for toxic environments
- SWBA (Shallow Water Breathing Apparatus): Professional-grade system for extended shallow water work
Explore All Submersible Systems Products →
Related Resources
- How Spare Air Works - Component guide and operation
- Using Spare Air - Emergency self-rescue instructions
- Maintenance & Service - Keep your Spare Air in top condition
- Owner's Manual & Downloads - Complete documentation
- Refill Adapters & Accessories - Shop all refill equipment
- Contact Us - Questions about refilling? We're here to help
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