A regulator is a highly engineered component of your life support system. It is vital that it be properly maintained and cared for. It should be serviced at least once a year. Most divers doing over 75 dives per year have their regulators serviced two or even three times per year. An appropriate service interval (max. 12 months) together with following the simple care instructions listed here will protect your investment and insure a lifetime of trouble free diving!

Corrosion:
The number one enemy of any equipment used in or around water. Corrosion is caused by contaminated (i.e. saltwater or dirty) water drying in the nooks and crannies of your regulator. Corrosion can cut o’rings, breaking their seal and causing air leaks. It can destroy metal parts such as springs and pistons. It can cause regulator free flow or malfunction. The only way to prevent corrosion is to keep water out of the breathing system, and to get rid of any contaminated water already present; here are some helpful hints and proper care of your regulator system:

1. Thoroughly rinse your regulator after every use. SOAK IT in warm fresh water. The best way to do this is to leave it hooked up to the tank and pressurized (bath tubs are great for this!). This will keep water from entering the hoses and the first stage.

2. Keep the first stage dust-cap in place whenever the regulator is not on the tank. Do not blow water off into your first stage, blow off your dust-cap and replace it onto the first stage immediately.

3. If using a hose to rinse your regulator: Use a gentle stream not a high-pressure nozzle. Never blast water into the second stage, just swish it around and never press the purge button while you rinse.

4. Periodically inspect the first stage filter. It should be a dull pewter color. If it is green, red, or chalky in appearance, you could have a problem. Have your regulator inspected immediately; it may not be too late!

Sand and Sludge:
The regulator can act like a magnet for sand, mud and almost any other suspended particles in the water. Alternate air sources are particularly susceptible to this. Sand grains and grit can enter the demand valve mechanism and cause free flow. They also taste lousy!

1. Again, THOROUGHLY RINSE YOUR REGULATOR AFTER EVERY USE!

2. Keep your regulator out of the sand when beach diving, use a tarp to lay things on. If leaving your gear at the waters edge, have the tank on the bottom with the second stages resting inside the BCD well away from the sand.

3. Secure your alternate air source so it can’t drag in the sand during your dive.

Cracked Hoses:
Commonly the result of prolonged use or hanging the regulator by the first stage. Hoses can separate at the end fittings causing a potentially hazardous air leak or burst. Investing $3.00 in a hose protector can save you $40-$60 in a cracked hose.

Special considerations:
If you are diving locally and in a cold-water environment, be sure your regulator has it’s intermediate working pressure lowered to avoid free-flows. And environmentalize it per manufacturers requirements.

If you ever dive using enriched air (Nitrox), be sure your regulator is compatible with its use and have your regulator service performed with the proper oxygen compatible viton o-rings, seats, filters, and lubricants.

If you are fond of deep diving, be sure to service your regulator more often to keep it performing at its optimum level. And also pay close attention to the tank valve o-ring for possible fraying, cracking, cuts, or leaks prior to the dive to avoid excessive loss of your air supply.