How to Open a SCUBA Regulator

Properly cleaning and maintaining your dive gear is essential to preserving your investment and promoting safe diving. The regulator set-up consists of a first stage that screws onto the tank and a second stage, with the mouthpiece and purge valve, connected by a hose. The sealed first stage transforms the high-pressure air in the tank to a lower pressure for safe breathing. Sometimes sand and debris such as kelp can clog the vent ports on the second stage. Many regulator brands are designed for the second stage cover to be opened for basic cleaning.

Things You'll Need

  • Regulator set up
  • Clean cloth or towel
  • Silicone grease
  • Optional: Scuba tank, fine brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the back of the second stage with one hand and the front with your other hand, gripping the regulator cover firmly.

    • 2

      Twist the cover firmly and evenly in a counter-clockwise direction. Do not force the cover open, as this may crack the front of the regulator.

    • 3

      Place the main part of the regulator aside and examine the front cover for debris or sand.

    • 4

      Gently wipe or brush the debris from the vents on the front cover before setting aside.

    • 5

      Examine the main part of the second stage and locate the O-ring around the inside circumference of the compartment.

    • 6

      Carefully remove the O-ring and lubricate with silicone grease before reseating. Make sure no fibers, hair or particles adhere to the O-ring.

    • 7

      Examine the diaphragm for any particles and clean or brush these away. Make sure you do not remove or dissemble the components in the second stage because these parts may be misaligned, causing malfunction underwater.

    • 8

      Carefully place the front of your regulator cover back into position and firmly twist clockwise to close. Make sure the regulator cover is properly seated and aligned so that a secure seal is achieved.

    • 9

      Visually check the second stage to make sure the cover is properly seated, without uneven gaps.

    • 10

      If you like, attach your regulator set-up to your tank, turn on the air and check that the breathing function of the regulator is still functioning properly. If it is not functioning properly, a part was displaced and/or repair is needed.