Read this first:
basic scuba gear rules
IMMORTAL GEAR?!
Read on for scuba’s sacred rules of gear care. If you follow these easy tips carefully, you will add years to your equipment’s lifespan. Remember, salt is the enemy.
SALT IS THE ENEMY
Wash your gear with fresh water after each day of diving. Salt crystals have sharp, jagged edges that tear into materials and wear them out. They can also accumulate in joints and buttons and cause leaks and malfunctions.
RINSE YOUR GEAR ASAP
The longer you let your scuba gear sit around salty, the more damage you subject it to. Get that beautiful scuba equipment under a beach shower as soon as you can. If you are far away from any washing facilities, bring a large bottle of fresh water to rinse the salt off so your gear does not sit in salt for the long drive home. Even gear used in fresh water will benefit from a rinse to remove any foreign materials.
Pay attention to joints
If it moves, you should move it under fresh water. Swiveling joints, buttons, and knobs should be rotated or pushed underwater so build up does not accumulate. IMPORTANT EXCEPTION: Your regulator first stage purge buttons should never be pushed underwater when not pressurized. See our REGULATOR how to page for more info.
STORE OUT OF THE SUN
The heat of the sun discolors and weakens gear materials. Once your gear has dried, keep your scuba kit looking fresh by storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Some sensitive pieces of equipment, like your dive computer, may actually malfunction if stored in a wet, non-breathable container.
COMBAT BAD ODORS
A bonus effect of washing your scuba gear as quickly as possible: it prevents bacteria from growing and causing those funky smells and bad odors! Coming soon: Our WETSUIT how to page will teach you how to remove persistent odors from your precious scuba kit.
SERVICE YOUR GEAR
Actually follow your manufacturer’s instructions on scuba gear servicing intervals. Although it costs a little to service your gear annually, it ends up being less expensive than buying a whole new kit because your old one broke down from neglect.
INVESTIGATE NOISES
This is not a horror movie, so investigating strange noises is VERY beneficial to great dives! A squealing regulator could indicate an over-tightening, while unexpected bubbles or hissing could be signs of an o-ring that needs to be replaced. When in doubt, ask questions.
STREAMLINE
While in or around the water, always ensure your gear is streamlined and attached close to you in positions that are easy to reach. Simply having your hoses and accessories configured efficiently can reduce effort in the water, reduce the risk of damage to your gear, reduce gas consumption, and greatly increase your enjoyment and ease on your dives!
Need help getting there? Our Peak Performance Buoyancy course is customized for each diver so you can move through the water effortlessly. Call us to book: +1 (808) 495-9559 !