Inspect your Scuba Regulator

Taking care of your scuba regulator. The good news is that scuba diving regulators are durable, extremely reliable, technologically advanced, precision-built dive equipment. They must be to unsure effective delivery of breathing gas under a variety of conditions.

The not-so-good news is that the reputation of regulators for worry-free, long-term service can also lead to trouble. Many divers treat regulators as it can take some beating without any problems.

While scuba diving regulators indeed are reliable, they are not indestructible. Your regulator will only continue to perform up to standard if you give it the proper care and maintenance. The good news is that caring for you scuba diving regulator is quick, easy and inexpensive.

The first step in your regulator maintenance program is to have it serviced at least once a year by a certified repair technician at your local dive center or dive shop. Failure to do so may void the manufacturer's warranty.

If your scuba gear is stored for any length of time, most professionals recommend scheduling the annual equipment service several weeks before you plan to use it again, rather than prior to storage. Be sure to verify the dive center's turnaround time to avoid potential rush charges. It's also a good idea to check out your regulator and buoyancy compensator in a swimming pool after service to confirm that it performs to your satisfaction.

Even if you've been diving regularly it's important to inspect your regulator carefully before each dive outing. Remove the dust cover on the first stage and check the filter in the orifice. If it appears green or is covered with while powder, this indicated corrosion, probably from the inside of a scuba tank.

Although the purpose of the filter is to prevent contaminants from entering the first stage, a small amount may still pass through, damaging the internal workings of the regulator. The regulator should be serviced and the filter replaced.

Visually inspect the burst disc to make sure that it's in place and then move on to the hoses. Pull back each hose protector and test the connection for tightness. If it turns with finger pressure, tighten with the proper-size wrench. Examine each hose for cracks or bulges, especially near the connection. If either is found, replace the hose before using the regulator.

Move down the hoses to the other end. Check the swivel connections for ease of movement. Pull back and release the quick-release for the inflate/deflate mechanism. Look at your gauge/computer console to make sure the display is readable.

Finally, examine both second-stage regulators – primary and secondary. Check the mouthpieces to make sure the bite tabs are not torn. Pull gently to confirm that the mouthpiece is securely attached to the regulator body. Also carefully inspect the mouthpiece right next to the wire tie – even a tiny split in the soft material can allow water to enter with each inhalation.

If possible, attach the regulator to a scuba cylinder and breathe from both second stages. Air should flow with minimal resistance as you inhale, but stop flowing as soon as you cease and begin exhaling. Listen for free flows from the second stage as well as for leaks at each hose connection.

Complete the pretrip inspection with enough lead time to arrange for repairs, if necessary. Taking care of your regulator beforehand reduces the chances of discovering a problem when gearing up for a dive, or worse, of a malfunction occurring while at depth.