Scuba Source

Scuba Diving Equipment

If you start scuba diving regularly, it may be a good idea to invest in your own scuba equipment so you do not have to keep renting it and so you can have your equipment set up to your own liking. When you rent scuba equipment, you have to readjust and become familiar with the particular set of scuba equipment you rent each time.

Mask

Though you are able to see underwater without a mask, your eyes will not be able to focus, so a mask is necessary to create a pocket of air so your eyes can focus. This pocket of air in your mask needs to be equalized while descending to avoid mask squeeze (this is why a diving mask covers your nose). Diving masks have tempered-glass lens that are shatter-resistant. Most also feature a low-profile design, giving you less space to equalize while descending and a wider field of vision. It is recommended to use an anti-fog agent on the inside of the mask before diving.

Snorkel

A snorkel is optional while diving. Some people don’t like them because they can get in the way and it’s another piece of equipment you need to worry about. However, many people like to use a snorkel because it allows them to swim at the surface with their face in the water, without wasting air in the tank. The snorkel clips on the diving mask.

Fins

Your legs are much more powerful than your arms, and you can leverage this quality by using swimming fins that give your legs a much larger surface area to push against and propel yourself underwater. There are two styles: adjustable strap and full-foot. Fins come in a wide range of features, such as ribbing, vents, and splits, which all have different characteristics when swimming underwater. You should try different types of fins to see which type you are most comfortable with.

Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)

The Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) serves a number of functions for diving. A BCD is a vest with inflatable bladders inside. Inflating the bladder allows you to ascend and remain at the surface without effort. Deflating the bladder allows you to descend. The bladder can be inflated directly from your air tank or manually with air from your lungs. The BCD is designed as a jacket with straps on back to hold your air cylinder. It will also have an overpressure release valve and a large diameter inflation/deflation hose.

Weight System

Most people float naturally, so a weight system is needed to help you descend and to be able to stay at your desired depth. Some BCDs come with a weight system built in. If your BCD does not have a built in weight system, then you can wear a weight belt around your waist. Your instructor can help you determine how much weight to use. A weight belt will have a quick-release option if you need to shed the weight belt quickly to ascend in an emergency, and weight-integrated BCDs will also have a quick-release.

Scuba Cylinder and Valve

The scuba cylinder is a metal container that holds compressed air. If you buy your own cylinder, you can take it to dive shops to be filled, but you should be aware that the cylinder needs to be inspected periodically. If a dive shop sees that your cylinder is not up to date on inspections, they will not fill your tank. The valve is also important in diving because it allows air to be released from the cylinder. The valve uses an O-ring to ensure a tight seal, and you won’t be able to dive without an O-ring. There are two types of valves: yoke and DIN. Yoke is the most popular, though DIN gets used more in central Europe.

Regulator

The regulator is a sophisticated demand valve that lowers the high pressure air of the tank to match the surrounding water pressure. It is called a demand valve because it gives you air only when you “demand” it (ie inhale). The regulator consists of a first stage that connects with the valve and cylinder, as well as hoses that go to the second stage (mouthpiece), pressure gauge, alternate air source (a second mouthpiece if the first one fails or your buddy requires assistance), and a hose that connects to your BCD and allows you to inflate the BCD from your air cylinder. The second stage will have a purge button that allows you to clear water from it before breathing. The air pressure gauge is also called a submersible pressure gauge or SPG. It allows you to monitor the air pressure in your cylinder while underwater and to therefore know at all times how much air you have remaining.

Other Dive Equipment

Most regulators will come with an SPG (submersible pressure gauge), but you may want to bring along additional dive equipment. Other options include a dive knife, underwater timepiece, depth gauge, dive computer, compass, and thermometer. You can also use a dive bag to carry these and other pieces of equipment.

Maintenance

After completing a dive, all equipment should be washed thoroughly in fresh water and stored in a cool dry place out of sunlight. In addition, you should put some fresh water inside your BCD bladder and then empty it. Be sure to put the dust cover back on the first stage of the regulator to avoid getting water in it. You should also refrain from emptying your air cylinder completely to ensure that moisture does not enter it.

NOTE: The information on this page is for educational purposes only. You should receive proper training, such as a certification program, before attempting to dive.