If you hear escaping air after connecting your regulator to a full scuba cylinder, what should you do?

Hearing escaping air after connecting your regulator to a full scuba cylinder indicates that there is a possibility of a leak at the connection point. The most effective step to take in this situation is to check the tank o-ring for signs of wear. The o-ring serves as a seal between the regulator and the tank; if it is damaged, worn, or improperly seated, it can lead to air leaks.

By inspecting the tank o-ring, you can determine whether it needs to be replaced. If it is in good condition and properly seated, it will prevent air from escaping. If you find that the o-ring is indeed worn or damaged, replacing it resolves the issue of leakage effectively. This proactive approach ensures that the regulator and tank connection is secure and safe for diving.

On the other hand, simply screwing the regulator in harder may not address the root cause of the leak and could potentially damage the o-ring or threads. Adding a second o-ring is not standard practice and can lead to further complications. Switching tanks without addressing the source of the problem does not solve the issue and is not a responsible action to take.