B.C.D.s
BCD Maintenance
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In addition to regular cleaning, a few simple checks after each dive will help keep your B.C. in top condition:
Look for small tears and punctures, loose stitching and stressed fasteners. Repair with Aquaseal to prevent further damage. Check for leaks by pressurizing the B.C. using the oral or power inflator, then submerging the B.C in a tub of water. Slowly rotate the B.C. in all directions, keeping an eye out for air bubbles. Mark the location of the leak, allow the B.C. to dry,then repair with Aquaseal.
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Test the oral inflation and power inflation buttons to ensure they move freely. If they feel sticky, salt or sand could be the problem. Wash, and if problem persists, take the B.C. to your local dive shop for inspection. Use a toothbrush to remove sand from Velcro® and other nooks and crannies.
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Store your B.C. in a cool, dry spot away from direct heat, sunlight, car exhaust and harsh chemicals. Partially inflate it with dry air to prevent mold and mildew growth. This will also keep the bladder from sticking together when stored over a long period of time.
B.C. Cleaning & Care
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Maintain Your BCD
B.C. Life™ removed 4 tablespoons of salt from one B.C. (left) - some of the crystals were 1” wide! Salt crystals will abrade your B.C. bladder, hoses, O-rings and valves, irreversibly damaging this vital piece of gear.
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Clean your B.C. regularly with B.C. Life to preserve and condition the shell, interior lining, hose and valves and to eliminate damaging salt crystals.
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Step 1:
Pour 4 capfuls (1 oz) of B.C. Life into the mouthpiece, pressing the oral inflate button with your thumb.
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Step 2:
Fill B.C. with fresh water and shake to mix with B.C. Life. Turn B.C. upside down and sideways to thoroughly clean all chambers.
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Step 3:
Drain B.C. through the mouthpiece and through the bottom dump valve.
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Step 4:
Soak B.C. in 1 oz B.C. Life to 1 gallon water for 10 minutes to clean exterior. Rinse interior and exterior thoroughly. Hang B.C. partially inflated in a cool, dry place to air dry.
Find more great tips like these in our Repair Guide
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Don’t forget to treat your PFD’s! UV Tech slows color fading and protects all types of paddling accessories from sun damage.
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Create an ultra-tough, flexible knee patch with Aquaseal to protect suits from abrasion. Simply apply a thin coat of Aquaseal with a disposable plastic knife. Dry level overnight.