Scuba Bouancy Compensators

The first time that I saw a BCD, I thought two things- how the heck do I use this thing and what does BCD stand for? The second question is easy to answer, BCD stands for buoyancy compensator device. The first question, on the other hand, is more complex and really important to learn about. After all, if it were not for a BCD, you would have a really hard time carrying your tank, floating at the surface and staying buoyant. So, for those of you wondering, like I did, what the heck do I do with my BCD, here is the answer.

The first thing that you need to do with your BCD is to prepare it for your dive, which means attaching it to your tank, regulators and weights (if you have a weight-integrated BCD). To attach your tank, take your BCD, widen the strap on the back for the tank and place it over your tank. It is important to remember that the opening of the tank valve needs to point towards your BCD, not away. Lower the strap and lower your BCD with it until the top tank strap is tight and you can close it.

Next remove the cover from the top of the tank valve and get your regulators out. Your first stage regulator should be on the left-hand side of your BCD and your second stages will be located on your right. If you have a yoke regulator, position the yoke over the valve on the tank so that the two openings are together and then tighten the screw. If you have a DIN, position the regulator so that the threads are in line and then screw your regulator on to the valve. For your second stage regulators, also known as the octopus, attach them to your BCD using the strap that stores them.

Alright, now you’re ready to check and make sure that everything is working correctly. Connect your low-pressure hose to the inflator mechanism and then put your gauges and dive computer down. Hold your purge valve and turn your air on by opening the valve. When you hear the air come out of your purge valve it means that you connected the regulators correctly. When you’re done opening the valve, look at your gauge or dive computer and note how much pressure is in your tank. At this time, if you have an integrated-weight BCD (highly recommended), add your weights to your weight pockets. If you don’t, go ahead and put your weight belt on. Good job, you have prepared your BCD for your dive.

When you are ready, add a little air to your BCD and then enter the water. To begin your descent, release all of the air. As you descend, you will add a little air in order to maintain neutral buoyancy. Throughout your dive, you will need to add or release some air according to the depths that you are at. At the end of your dive, start releasing air during your ascent and you will stay neutrally buoyant. It is important to release air slowly so that you are always in control.

After your dive, rinse and soak your BCD in fresh water. Drain all of the water out and then hang it up to dry. Now you know what the heck to do with your BCD.