Your scuba diving regulator is a crucial piece of dive gear. After all, without it we wouldn't be diving. And who can imagine life without diving?

Since it is such an important piece of equipment, we need to take care of it properly. Luckily, it is not hard to take good care of your regulator. So no excuses. Just follow the scuba regulator maintenance tips below and you should be breathing nice and easy underwater for years to come.

Steps for Scuba Regulator Care

• Dry Dustcap and Seal Properly


If you are going to be rinsing your regulator while it is off the tank, you need to make sure no water gets in the second stage. First, ensure that the dustcap is dry. One way to do this is to blow the water off with air from the tank. Alternatively, you can use a towel to dry the surface of the dustcap. Then securely fasten the dustcap on the opening. Make sure you have a proper seal because you do not want any water to get in the first stage of the regulator.


• Soak the Regulator


If you only do one thing in your scuba regulator care routine, make it be this step.This is an important step and will get rid of any deposits that may be on your regulator. Swoosh the regulator around a bit to get rid of any loose particles. Dive shops usually have a rinse tank that you can use after a dive to rinse your gear. If you are not at a shop, rinse your regulator as soon as you get a chance.


• Move the Levers (but not the purge!)


Work any levers/buttons back and forth to loosen anything that may have attached to your equipment. Do this while the regulator is underwater. However, make sure you do not push the purge button. This will let water into the second stage which could travel up to the first stage. Something you do not want to happen.


• Finish With a Stream of Water


While you will probably get most of the debris out of the regulator with the above steps, if you get a chance, run a stream of water through the first and second stages (again, with the dust cap securely in place and without pushing the purge button). This should get rid of any remaining particles in the chambers and other openings.


• Dry the Regulator


Before you store it, let the regulator dry thoroughly. Do not dry in the direct sunlight as it can affect any rubber parts.


• Store Properly


Store the regulator in a cool, dry spot. Store away from sunlight and fumes. Position the regulator in such a way that the hoses are not kinked.


• Get Annual Scuba Regulator Service


Most scuba regulator manufacturers require the regulator to be serviced annually in order to remain under warranty. Check the terms on your regulator. While this step has been subject to debate, it is probably the safest thing to do.