⚙️ How Often Should You Service Your Scuba Equipment?

Your scuba diving gear is your life support underwater — keeping it in top shape is not optional, it’s essential. Regular servicing ensures everything functions smoothly, from your regulator to your BCD. In this guide, we’ll explain how often each part of your scuba equipment should be serviced and how to recognize when it’s time for a check-up.

Why Regular Servicing Matters

Salt, sand, and moisture can slowly damage internal components of your diving equipment. Even if you rinse your gear after each dive, microscopic salt crystals and corrosion can still build up. Regular maintenance helps:

• Extend the lifespan of your gear
• Ensure consistent airflow and buoyancy control
• Prevent leaks or malfunctions underwater
• Maintain your manufacturer warranty

Regulator Servicing Frequency

Your regulator is the heart of your scuba system. Most manufacturers recommend a complete service every 12 months or every 100 dives, whichever comes first. A professional technician will disassemble, clean, and replace all necessary O-rings, filters, and seats. Always check your user manual for specific intervals.

BCD (Buoyancy Control Device) Servicing

Your BCD should be inspected and serviced once a year. The inflator, dump valves, and bladder should be cleaned and tested for leaks. Between services, always rinse your BCD inside and out after each dive — salt inside the bladder can cause corrosion and stiffness over time.

Dive Computer and Gauges

These instruments provide vital real-time information about your dive. Replace the battery annually or as needed. Never ignore low battery warnings. If your dive computer floods, stop using it immediately and have it pressure-tested by a service center.

Scuba Tank (Cylinder) Inspection Schedule

• Visual Inspection: Once every 12 months
• Hydrostatic Test: Every 5 years

During these tests, technicians will check for internal corrosion, cracks, and valve integrity. Always store tanks upright in a cool, dry place and avoid completely emptying them to prevent moisture entry.

Other Gear to Check Regularly

• Wetsuits – Inspect for tears and wash after every dive.
• Hoses – Replace if cracked or bulging under pressure.
• Fins & Masks – Check for strap wear and lens seal integrity.
• O-rings – Replace if they look dry, flat, or worn out.

Recommended Servicing Schedule Summary

How to Know It’s Time for Servicing

• Regulator feels stiff or inconsistent airflow
• BCD inflator button sticks or leaks
• Tank valve hissing when closed
• Computer display fading or malfunctioning

Final Thoughts

Keeping your scuba gear in perfect condition is part of being a responsible diver. Make annual servicing a habit, and your dives will always feel smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. 🐠