How Long Does a SodaStream Canister Last?

How Long Does a SodaStream Canister Last?

Water carbonators offer delicious carbonated drinks on demand—but how long does a single canister last? And how can you extend the life cycle of a canister so they don't end up in the landfill?

You may have a number of questions related to the lifespan and usage of your canister - and we can help you answer them! Let’s talk about the canister in your machine and how you can get the most from it! 

How Long Does a CO2 Canister Last?

Gas canisters don't have a set lifespan in terms of time but rather a lifespan based on how much CO2 is used. Here's why: 

Most brands offer two main sizes: 30L and 60L. A 30L canister carbonates up to 30 litres of water, while a 60L canister can do 45-60 litres. The fizzier you like your water, the more CO2 you'll use per litre, reducing the total number of litres you can carbonate.

In short, it depends on how much you use it and how fizzy you like your drinks! If you want your machine to fizz for longer, you can try using fewer presses of the carbonating button with each use.

Of course, there are other factors to consider. Let's dig in. 

Factors Influencing the Lifespan of a CO2 Canister

Here are some of the factors that could impact your water carbonator:

  • Usage Frequency: The more often you use your carbonator, the quicker you'll exhaust the CO2 in the canister. Daily users will find their canisters depleting faster than those who only use their machines occasionally.
  • Fizziness Preference: If you like your water extra fizzy, you'll use more CO2 each time you carbonate. This will shorten the lifespan of your canister.
  • Canister Size: Various carbonator makers offers different canister sizes. A larger canister will naturally last longer than a smaller one, given the same usage patterns.
  • Bottle Size: The size of the bottles you're carbonating also plays a role. Larger bottles require more CO2 to achieve the same level of carbonation as smaller ones.
  • Storage Conditions: Keeping your canister in a cool, dry place can help maintain its longevity. Exposure to heat sources can negatively impact the CO2 inside.

Finally, remember to opt for a reputable supplier - not all canisters are made equal. A poorer quality product may not last as long - or worse, it could be unsafe. 

Refilling Your Cylinders

One of the quickest ways to extend the life of your canister is to get it refilled by CO2 YOU.

The first step is to ensure your cylinder is empty. Once confirmed, you can proceed to exchange it for a full one. This process is not only cheap and easy but also ensures that your sparkling water maker is always ready to make a litre of your favourite bubbly drink.

During refilling your canister goes through a thorough sterilisation and inspection before being refilled with fresh food-grade CO2. Even with regular use, a fully refilled cylinder can last a long time.

Refilling isn't just a cheap and easy way to enjoy carbonated water. When you refill your canister:

  • You're making a sustainable choice. By reusing cylinders, you're helping to keep our planet clean. It's a simple way to reduce waste and contribute to environmental conservation.
  • You're saving money. Refilling your cylinders is a cost-efficient way to enjoy sparkling water. It's cheaper than buying new cylinders or constantly purchasing bottled sparkling water.
  • You're choosing safety. CO2 cylinders are made of high-grade brass and aluminium.  They were designed to match your machine perfectly, which goes a long way towards  ensuring better carbonation and maximum cylinder efficiency. Plus, they're fitted with a unique safety valve for added security.
  • You're making a difference. Each 60L cylinder can produce around 60 litres of sparkling water. That's 60 single-use plastic bottles that aren't ending up in our environment. Multiply that by the number of users worldwide, and you're part of a significant movement towards environmental change.

Do CO2 Canisters Have an Expiry Date?

Yes, CO2 canisters do have an expiry date, but it's not for the CO2 gas itself. The gas doesn't expire. The expiration date is actually a re-inspection date mandated for safety reasons.

The metal canister needs to be inspected periodically to ensure it remains in good condition and there are no cracks or weaknesses. The expiry date tells you when the canister needs to be re-checked to confirm it's safe to use. 
You can find the expiry date stamped on the cylinder itself or the plastic cap. It typically looks like a series of numbers or a date code. 
Even if your canister isn't expired, it's always a good idea to inspect it for any visible damage before using it for safety reasons.

Is It Safe To Use Refilled Canisters Multiple Times?

It depends! Refilling through a formal refill program like CO2 YOU is safe because we properly inspect, clean, and refill the canisters with food-grade CO2. 

However, we do not recommend refilling your canisters yourself. Without proper training and equipment, refilled canisters might not be thoroughly inspected for damage that could lead to leaks or ruptures. Incorrectly filling the canister is dangerous, too. For example, overfilling the canister can be extremely hazardous as it exceeds the pressure limits. There's also a risk of using non-food grade CO2 or having contaminants introduced during the refill process, which could be harmful if ingested.

Remember, the number of times a canister can be safely refilled is finite and can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. So, to be safe, let the experts do the refilling and do not attempt to refill yourself.

Maximising Your Fizzy Drink Experience

The lifespan of your canister can depend on several factors, but typically, a full cylinder can carbonate around a litre of water. Refilling or exchanging your cylinders is a cheap and easy way to keep your carbonated drinks maker running for a long time.

So, make the most of your water carbonator, enjoy the sparkle and choose your refill on subscription from CO2 YOU.