How to properly care for your Aqua Lung regulator:
It is important to provide the proper preventative maintenance in order to ensure the best possible performance and maximum life of your Aqua Lung Regulator. The following maintenance procedures should be performed routinely after each use to ensure that the regulator is cleaned, inspected, and prepared for the next use or for storage.
As soon as possible after diving, the regulator should be rinsed thoroughly with fresh water while it is attached to a cylinder and pressurized with air.
Rinsing alone, however, will not sufficiently clean the regulator. To clean the regulator as thoroughly as possible Aqua Lung recommends:
Attach the regulator to a charged SCUBA cylinder, open the cylinder valve to pressurize the regulator, and thoroughly soak both the first and second-stages in a bath of fresh water.While the regulator is soaking, move the vane adjustment switch on the second stage (if present) back and forth several times from the “MIN” (or “—”) to the “MAX” (or “+”) settings. You may also turn the valve adjustment knob (adjustable models) slightly back and forth—no more than 1/4 turn.
After the regulator has been properly soaked, it is important to rinse it vigorously by flushing the mainspring cavity of the first stage regulator (non- environmentally sealed models only), the second-stage mouthpiece, and the openings in the second-stage front cover with a pressurized stream of water. This will remove the deposits of salt and minerals that were loosened during soaking.
<<DANGER>> If you use a garden hose, do not use the high pressure jet as this could damage the diaphragm and the internal valve.
<<WARNING>> DO NOT depress the purge button, loosen the first stage yoke screw, or turn the second stage adjustment knob all the way “out” (adjustable models) if the regulator is submerged unpressurized. Doing so will allow the entrance of moisture, and will require that the regulator be returned to an Authorized Aqua Lung Dealer for service.
Disconnect the regulator and wipe it as dry as possible and then hang it by the first stage to ensure that all remaining moisture drains from the second stages.
Do not leave the regulator exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
When the regulator is completely dry, store in a clean equipment box, or sealed inside a plastic bag. Do not store it where it may be exposed to extreme heat or an electric motor, which produces ozone. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat, ozone, chlorine, and ultraviolet rays can cause premature degradation of rubber parts and components.
Never store the regulator while it is still connected to the cylinder valve.
<<DANGER>> Do not use any type of solvent or petroleum based substances to clean or lubricate any part of the regulator. Do not expose any part of the regulator to aerosol spray, as some aerosol propellants attack or degrade rubber and plastic materials.
