SCUBA Gear Maintenance

Salt water SCUBA diving provides an exhilarating experience. Avid divers are particular about their equipment because it is their life line. Continuing the diving experience safely requires a regular maintenance and care routine to preserve dive equipment. In addition, annual or biannual professional inspections will reduce emergencies from equipment malfunctions.

  1. Regular Inspections

    • Bring major equipment such as your regulator and computer to your local dive shop for annual gear inspection and updating. Many manufacturers provide warranties and recommendations regarding the frequency of inspections (such as annually). Your gear will be serviced in the shop or sent out to the manufacturer; so plan to use backup gear or schedule several weeks without dives. The service work will include O-ring inspection and replacement, internal cleaning and adjustments.

    Ongoing Cleaning and Maintenance

    • After each day of diving, rinse your gear in fresh water and hang it to dry. Rinse your exposure suit, boots, hood and gloves to get the salt water out (no detergent needed). Soak your BCD in a tub of water. Regularly rinse the air bladder with fresh water and dry it thoroughly; plan to perform this service every second washing. Rinsing the air bladder prevents any salt crystal buildup that may puncture the bladder. After securing the filter cap on your regulator's first stage, soak and rinse your regulator setup in warm water to remove salt. If your regulator or alternate air source is leaking from the second stage, consider soaking it in hot (not boiling) water to dissolve salt from the valve.

      Inspect your personal gear (e.g., mask, fins and snorkel) for any cracks or tears in the rubber and straps. Consider replacing worn straps and gently scrub any discoloration that may be caused by buildup. Rinse all gear in fresh water. Hang the gear to drip dry away from direct sunlight or heat (including your regulator setup).

      Remove any batteries in your accessories such as dive lights. Check the battery level in your computer and transmitter, if applicable. Check the O-rings for the watertight compartment and apply silicone grease; replace if needed. Note any batteries or bulbs that need to be replaced before your next dive. Rinse your dive knife, dry it with a towel and coat the knife with silicone if desired to prevent rust.

    Storage

    • If you do not plan to dive for an extended period of time, ensure your gear is completely dry before storing it in an airtight plastic bin. Apply wax to zippers in your exposure suit and boots; fold them loosely (do not crush). Orally inflate your BCD slightly before folding and ensure your low-inflation hose is stowed on top (avoid crimping this attachment). Place your mask in its storage case and store your fins flat to maintain their shape. Ensure the batteries are removed from any equipment that will be stored for an extended period to prevent leakage. If desired, place dessicant in the bins to absorb any lingering moisture.