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Basic SCUBA Gear Care

Written by Leisure Pro Staff
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Published on April 18, 2013

The purchase of quality SCUBA gear is an investment in one of the most exciting hobbies in the world. SCUBA gear is complex, sometimes delicate and, let’s face it, expensive. From the basic mask, fins and straps to the more complicated and intricate BCDs and dive computers, there are a lot of small working parts that need to stay clean and remain protected. SCUBA gear care instructions are usually included with each piece of equipment you purchase, but there are a few tips for care and damage prevention that are universal for all SCUBA gear.

The easiest way to keep your SCUBA gear in top shape is to prevent damage to begin with. Use clips and attachments to prevent your hoses and other equipment from dragging along the ocean floor or getting caught up in coral or otherwise snagged. Not only will your equipment avoid some nasty damage, but you will be doing your part to protect marine life as well.

A fresh water rinse is an essential part of SCUBA gear care. Rinse the inside and outside of your BCD with fresh water and store it to dry partially inflated. Rinse all attachments, fins, mask and your wetsuit after every dive. While rinsing your regulator, be sure that no water enters the first stage. After everything is properly rinsed, put the wet equipment in an area with good ventilation, but away from direct sunlight, to dry. Be sure that all water is drained from your BCD, and hang your wetsuit inside out to dry.

Moving parts of SCUBA gear such as buttons, control levers and knobs can get crusty with salt and sand. When you are rinsing these parts after each dive, be sure to work them back and forth gently to release any particles that may be stuck. Also check grooves and folds in the cloth parts of your equipment to be sure that salt and sand have been properly washed out.

Finally, be sure to inspect all rubber parts, particularly those that get a lot of sun exposure, frequently. Mask straps, regulator mouth pieces and other rubber attachments and covers are usually the first to need replacing. Frequent exposure to sunlight and teeth wear these small but vitally important pieces down quickly. When rinsing your equipment be sure to inspect all of these parts as it is better to find that something needs replacing when you are on land.

Leisure Pro Staff

Leisure Pro Staff

Marketing Director for LeisurePro