How to find CO2 Leaks

How to Find a CO2 Leak


Syrups not dispensing? No carbonation? You might have an empty CO2 canister. You may have just switched it out… so how can it be empty? It’s possible that there is a leak coming from the connection on the CO2 regulator.


You’ll need a couple of things to determine if you have a leak and to repair it: a spray bottle filled with a soapy water solution, a crescent or large adjustable wrench (if your tank does not have the wrench attached), a flat head screwdriver, and new cardboard or plastic washer. Cardboard/plastic washers can be acquired from your CO2vendor– it’s always a good idea to have a few of these on hand.


If the CO2 tank is empty, you will first need to change the tank before trouble shooting. You will want to start by spraying the soapy water solution on the connection to the tank, the connection where the tubing exits the regulator, and around the gauge area. If you determine that there is bubbling in any of these areas then you have found your leak.


If the leak is coming from the tank connection: shut the tank off, disconnect the tank from the regulator with your wrench, and check the washer inside. A lot of times these get lost when changing over tanks or just damaged from multiple uses. Replacing this washer and re-securing the regulator to the tank tightly will more than likely fix the issue. Turn on the tank and check again with the soapy solution to confirm the leak has been fixed. If you were able to fix the leak you will want to make sure your tank is providing the correct pressure. This can be set by using the screwdriver to turn the screw in the middle of the regulator (counter clockwise to lower the PSI and clockwise to raise the PSI).


If the leak is coming from the connection at the tubing side, the tubing will need to be cut off and reattached with the correct clamp. This might require a technician if you do not have the correct clamp or tools. If the leak is coming from the gauge, the regulator will more than likely need to be replaced. In rare instances, the leak may be coming from the connections attached to the carbonator, at the other end of the tubing.  The bubble test can be employed here as well, before sending for a technician.


Please call Donastar at 833-366-2782 (or reach us through and we can dispatch a technician for prompt service.

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