Your Buoyancy Control Device is an essential piece of scuba diving equipment, you can regard it as the unsung hero of your adventures under the waves. As a result of that,  it deserves regular love, care and maintenance. 

In this article, we will teach you how to care and maintain your buoyancy control device in the right way, so, keep reading.

10 Tips to Care and Maintain Your Buoyancy Control Device 

You must know that maintaining any of your scuba diving equipment isn’t  just about longevity; it’s about making sure that every dive is as safe and enjoyable as possible. 

Here are 10 tips to follow to care and maintain your buoyancy control device properly:

• Rinse your BCD after every dive.
• Don’t forget the inside part.
• Store your BCD with care.
• Check for any leaks.
• Check the dump valves.
• Don’t forget the zippers and fasteners.
• Mind the inflator of the BCD.
• Make professional check-ups.
• Store your BCD without stress.
• Stay alert.

1)- Rinse Your BCD After Every Dive

Can you wear the same socks after a marathon without washing them? It is disgusting, right? Similarly, after each dive, you must rinse your BCD using fresh water. This simple step goes a long way in preventing chlorine, salts and other harmful materials from corroding the BCD’s materials.

2)- Don’t Forget the Inside Part

You must also clean the interior part of the BCD because saltwater as well as contaminants can enter BCD. Do that by following the next steps:

• Partially inflate your BCD using fresh water by the oral inflator. 
• Give the BCD a good shake.
• Drain the water out.

3)- Store Your BCD With Care 

Once your BCD becomes clean, don’t just store it anywhere! It is prefered to hang it up on a broad hanger in order to avoid stressing the fabric. Ensure storing it in a cool, dry place and to be away from direct sunlight.

4)- Check for Any Leaks

To avoid any surprise deflations beneath the waves! Ensure to inflate your BCD and listen to explore if there are any hissing sounds. Another way to find out is by submerging the BCD in water and checking for bubbles. If you discover any leakage, now is the perfect time to fix it.

5)- Check the Dump Valves

Ensure to check your dump valves after scuba diving and make that a routine. The valves must be free from both sand or debris. To ensure that, rinse them with fresh water while opening and closing the valves to keep them in tip-top shape.

6)- Don’t Forget the Zippers and Fasteners

The problem usually comes first from the zippers. Rinse them, and apply a zipper lubricant regularly. The lubricant preserves them sliding smoothly as well as extends their life.

7)- Mind the Inflator of the BCD

The mechanism of the inflator is pivotal. Disconnect it every now and then, soak it in warm water, and don’t forget to operate the buttons in order to clear out salt or grit.

8)- Make Professional Check-Ups

Just as we may need a doctor, your BCD may also need a professional. The BCD must get serviced at least once a year or after every hundred dives. 

9)- Store Your BCD Without Stress

If you are going to store your Buoyancy Control Device for an extended period, partially inflate it at first to ensure that the internal parts of the BCD stay in their natural position to reduce any wear and tear.

10)- Stay Alert

At the end of this article, remember that safety comes first. Always be alert to any change. If you feel that your BCD is much different and there is much wear on it, don’t push it. 

Your BCDs aren’t considered an ordinary piece of equipment. They are also regarded as trusty sidekicks which keep us buoyant and as well as help you explore the depths with ease. All you need is a little TLC to go along way in making sure your BCD stays reliable.