Dive equipment is life-support equipment. Each time you dive, you are venturing into a fascinating, but also unforgiving environment; make sure you are diving with a set of properly functioning equipment.
- Rinse your equipment after each dive and clean it after each trip before storage.
- After rinsing, allow gear to dry completely in a cool, shady and well-ventilated area before you put it away.
- Store your gear in an area that is protected from extreme temperatures as well as dust and dirt.
- Whether you use your equipment frequently or only for annual dive trips, your gear should be professionally serviced to ensure all parts and pieces are working properly.
- Regularly monitor your equipment for signs of wear and check the hoses for leaks and cracking; pay particular attention to your regulator.
- As part of your annual equipment overhaul, have your pressure gauge checked for accuracy.
- While most divers are diligent about their regulators, the BCD is often overlooked. The bladder and low-pressure inflator hose are both subject to deterioration and should be inspected at the same time the regulator is serviced.
- Replacing parts as needed prolongs the usability of your equipment and helps prevent incidents like uncontrolled ascents and regulator failure underwater.
- Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines on the proper maintenance of your equipment. If you have questions, check with your local dive center or ask the equipment manufacturer.
- Take an equipment maintenance course for more information on gear maintenance.