Your underwater air supply is dependent upon your regulator; without a regulator, the air or mixed gases we breathe while diving would not be delivered properly. The regulator’s primary function is to ensure that compressed gases are delivered at ambient pressure. It is important to buy the right kind of regulator for the diving you plan to do, and if you plan to dive while on vacation, having your own regulator is a big plus, particularly if you want to dive in developing nations. The following information will help you make a good choice.
Regulator Features: The Basics
Modern regulators are built with a variety of features designed to ensure your safety.
The first stage, which attaches directly to the tank valve, reduces air pressure and provides for routing to the hoses you are using. A DIN regulator with a yoke adapter allows you to use different tank styles, particularly if you plan to dive internationally.
The second stage is the actual mouthpiece; the demand valve is designed to allow you to breathe as needed, and exhale your bubbles out into the water. The SPG hose sends air to your submersible pressure gauge so you can keep track of air supply.
Some regulators come with alternate second stages, just like the demand valve you breathe from. These act as a redundant second stage, and they also allow you to share air with another diver if necessary. Sometimes, second stages are built into BCD inflators.
In addition, some regulators come equipped with low pressure hoses that supply air to your BC. If you wear a drysuit, you’ll need a low pressure hose for it as well.
Additional Features
While basic safety features are a requirement, other things are very nice to have. For instance, an adjustable second stage allows you to manually increase breathing resistance. It is primarily useful if you’re diving into a fast current, or if you are riding a DPV since it reduces the risk of the pressure of water flow causing freeflow to occur. Experienced divers like adjustable second stages since breathing can be fine tuned in order to conserve air.
Another handy feature is a “Dive / Pre-Dive” switch. This helps prevent freeflow when you you’re not using the regulator and designed to help you ensure you don’t lose air by accident.
Super Flexible Hoses are a fantastic addition; they make packing easier and are great to have if you plan to travel a lot.
Choosing Regulators and Accessories
While any entry-level regulator will let you breathe easily on shallow reef and sightseeing dives, some situations call for more advanced equipment or add-ons.
For instance, if you plan to dive in water that is less clean than you would like it to be, an environmental seal kit can help ensure proper performance. Environmental seal kits can also help ensure breathing remains comfortable in cold water.
When ice diving, freeze protected first and second stages are a must, and double hoses can also help prevent freezing.
There are also several different types of accessories that can help save wear and tear on your regulator; for instance, hose protectors prevent excess wear near the first stage, and clips and attachment devices help keep your equipment from dragging.
When shopping for a regulator, consider buying your dive computer at the same time, since integrated systems are available, and often, you’ll save money by selecting a package that includes all necessary hoses. In addition, if you need a BCD, selecting one at the same time as you buy everything else can help to ensure that everything functions well together. Lastly, be sure you purchase a regulator that can be serviced locally, if possible since annual servicing helps ensure long life and proper function. If you’re buying online be sure you check with your local shop to ensure they can maintain your regulator when necessary. While larger shops may service several brands, smaller dive shops sometimes service only the brands they sell. Happy shopping, and enjoy your dive!