How Do You Take Care of a Dive Computer?
Quick Navigation
If you are interested in learning how to maintain your dive computer, here is how:
Rinse Properly
Ideally, a dive computer will also go underwater, but it is designed to waterproof to get damaged. However, it would be best if you considered rinsing properly after use because of the environment it has been in. Therefore, you should thoroughly rinse with fresh water.
Besides, a dive computer has sensor ports and tight spaces that need constant cleaning against damage. Soaking in freshwater seems like a better way to do that. When you are done soaking, you should use a soft towel to clean impurities, debris, and organic materials around the surface.
Be Careful with the External Metal Contacts
The design of the latest dive computers is quite innovative. They now have external contacts that further enhance the performance of the device for operational use. Now, these contacts may harbor organic materials, like salt, which may ultimately cause corrosion.
Therefore, you need to scrub these materials off using a mild detergent and a soft toothbrush. With ease, you should get rid of salt buildup and other deposits.
Avoid Heat or Sunlight or Chemicals
Dive computers were made suitable for water environments and not sunlight or heat. If you use them otherwise, there is a good chance that they will get damaged in no time. When they do, the data information provided may be inaccurate.
Moreover, sunlight, heat, and chemicals destroy the waterproof seals.
Good Storage
As soon as you are done cleaning your dive computer after use, the next thing for you to do is store it in a properly ventilated place. The reason why you should take storage seriously is to protect the device against shock and impacts. If you have a padded case, it would be a great way to keep it stored.
Also, traveling with a dive computer isn’t much of a big deal. The only thing you should consider when flying is keeping it in a carry-on bag for excellent protection against extreme pressure and temperatures.
Always Monitor Battery Life
Electronic devices like this are effective and durable; however, their battery life reduces over the years. Therefore, you must monitor the battery life because the operational performance depends on it.
Practice Annual Servicing
Maintenance is not complete without taking a dive computer for servicing either annually or bi-annually. Manufacturers often advise divers to take this dive computer to a repair shop for calibration, servicing, and battery replacement every once in a while. It is a valid way to ensure it is still in its best performance for safe and accurate information.
How to Take Care of Other Diving Equipment?
Most times, the failure of diving equipment underwater is because of its low level of maintenance. If you do well to take care of some of the equipment in SCUBA gear, there is a good chance that they will stay clean and fully functional. Besides, great maintenance makes you a good diver.
Below are ways on how to take care of some of the other important equipment in SCUBA gear.
The SCUBA Mask
Your scuba mask after it has gone underwater needs to be cleaned properly. The saltwater particles deposited on it can only be gotten rid of using freshwater. Other deposits such as sand and oil streaks need to be removed from the mask carefully to avoid scratches. After cleaning, storing in a dry, cool place is ideal.
The Wetsuit
A wetsuit goes underwater, which means it would contact different organic materials and deposits. Therefore, you must wash with fresh water and soap or detergents suitable for neoprene materials. If you don’t wash this wetsuit, there is a probability of growing mold and becoming uncomfortable to wear.
The Dive Regulators
Like your wetsuit, a diver regulator follows you underwater. It is the equipment that allows you to breathe perfectly underwater. Knowing how important it is, you shouldn’t in any way not try not to take good care of it. One of the ways to do that is to rinse with fresh water – don’t soak. It would be best if you also tried to get the moisture out of the dust cap without letting water get through it.
The SCUBA Tank
Not to forget the scuba tank – it is important to invest in its maintenance. After use, rinsing with fresh water is ideal for preventing salt buildup on the cylinder, which could ultimately cause corrosion.
Read fully on how to pre-treat your mask before diving.
Conclusion
With so much emphasis on maintenance in this article, you should understand how important it is to have your diving gear in the best form. If your dive computer or any other equipment needs replacement, do not hesitate to get one.