The regulator is part of the scuba diving equipment. When it is purchased, we are told that these products are unbreakable and can last a lifetime. Is that true? How to take care of it?
European manufacturing standards EN250 provide a framework for the strength and reliability of those devices, this should normally guarantee their use over a long period of time. However, during its use, the regulator is in contact with many external elements salt, water, oil, sand, rust, small organism that will have an impact on its performances.
Protect your Regulator before the dive
Before fixing it, make sure that the valve is clean and free of water. Once connected, the pressurized air can send small drops of water or dirt directly into the regulator. Once fixed, open your tank gently in order to avoid sending too much pressure, this could eventually damage the flap of the first stage.
Take care of your regulator after the dive
After your immersion, you have to “close” your first tage using the cap. First of all be sure to remove the water on that cap. You can do it just blowing on it or using the remaining pressure of your tank. Please do it gently by puting the cap close to the valve in order to avoid breaking the ears of all the other divers.
How to clean your regulator
After evry dive trip, your diving regulator must be cleaned with fresh water. Before immersing, make sure that the first-stage cap is in place. Once clean, make sure there is no excess water remaining in the second floor and let it dry.
Servicing of the regulator
Dive shops or manufacturers recommend bringing your regulator for a check each year to avoid problems. As a professional diver and performing nearly 400 annual dives, I give my regulator to review it every two years. By maintaining it well permanently, I find this delay very sufficient, and I am not the only one, my colleagues are doing the same. Up to you then :
