If you’re not diving year-round, the off-season is the perfect time to give your scuba gear a little extra attention. Knowing how to store and maintain your scuba gear in the off-season keeps it safe, clean, and ready for your next dive adventure. Let’s dive into what you should do before packing things away.
- Rinse Everything Thoroughly
After your last dive of the season, give your gear a good rinse with fresh water. Salt, sand, and chlorine can all damage scuba equipment over time. Make sure to clean your:
- Wetsuit or Drysuit
- Regulator
- BCD (Buoyancy Control Device)
- Fins, Mask & Snorkel
- Dive Computer & Gauges
Use warm water and a soft brush or sponge to remove any stuck debris. Pay special attention to zippers and Velcro to keep them in working shape.
- Dry Before You Store
Never store your gear wet. Let everything dry completely before putting it away. Hang your wetsuit on a wide-shouldered hanger out of direct sunlight, and let regulators and hoses air dry flat. Moisture leads to mold and mildew, and that’s the last thing you want on your next dive.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Find a clean, dry spot away from sunlight and heat for storage. Avoid garages or outdoor sheds that may get too hot or cold. If possible, keep your gear in a gear bag or plastic container with a lid. Make sure nothing is being crushed or bent—especially hoses and masks.
- Don’t Forget Your Weight Belt and Tank
Weights and tanks are often the most overlooked items during storage. Remove weights from your BCD pockets and rinse them well to prevent rust. Store them in a dry spot where they won’t chip or damage other gear. If you own a scuba tank, keep a little pressure in it to avoid moisture entering, and always store it standing up or securely strapped to prevent tipping.
- Inspect and Service Your Gear
The off-season is a great time to inspect your gear for wear and tear. Look for cracks, frayed straps, and corrosion. If your regulator hasn’t been serviced in a while, now’s the time to take it in for maintenance. Regular servicing helps extend the life of your gear and keeps you safe underwater.
- Batteries and Dive Computers
Remove batteries from your dive computer, flashlight, and any other battery-powered device if you won’t be using them for a while. This helps prevent corrosion and damage. Store them separately in a labeled bag so you’re ready to reload them before your next dive.
Dive Into Next Season with Confidence
Taking the time to learn how to store and maintain your scuba gear in the off-season not only protects your investment, it also gives you peace of mind when you return to the water. At Scuba Club Tucson, we know that proper care makes every dive better. Our community of passionate divers is here to help you make the most of your gear and your time underwater.
Join Scuba Club Tucson today by visiting our dive shop at 2951 N Swan Road, Suite 175 in Tucson, calling us at (520) 771-8214, or exploring more at scubaclubtucson.com. Let’s keep your gear—and your dive spirit—ready for adventure.
