When it comes to scuba diving gear, most divers focus on maintaining their first and second stages, ensuring their regulator is serviced on schedule. But there’s a critical piece of equipment that often gets overlooked—your regulator hoses.
The Lifespan of Regulator Hoses
Modern scuba regulators are incredibly durable, often lasting decades when properly maintained. While most divers follow the recommended service intervals of one to two years for their regulators, many forget that hoses also have a limited lifespan. Manufacturers typically recommend replacing hoses every 3 to 5 years.
In South Africa, however, it's not uncommon to see hoses that are 10 to 20 years old. Unfortunately, using such outdated hoses is risky. Over the last three months, we’ve encountered numerous damaged hoses during routine servicing. These cases highlight the importance of inspecting and replacing hoses regularly to avoid dangerous situations underwater.
Common Hose Issues
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Crimping Failures
A damaged crimp (the metal connector where the hose attaches to the regulator) can lead to catastrophic failure. While some crimping issues are visibly obvious, others require close inspection. If you notice any weakness or wear around the crimps, it’s time for a replacement.
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Perishing Rubber
Far more common than crimping failures is the gradual perishing of the rubber hoses. Depending on the manufacturer, hoses can start to degrade in as little as a year. This degradation weakens the hose and increases the risk of failure, which is especially dangerous during a dive.
How to Prolong the Life of Your Hoses
Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take to extend the life of your regulator hoses:
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Rinse After Every Dive
Saltwater accelerates corrosion and weakens hoses over time. Always rinse your regulator and hoses thoroughly with fresh water after each dive.
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Inspect Regularly
Check your hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or damage, paying close attention to the crimps. Don’t wait for servicing to spot an issue—your safety depends on it.
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Ditch the Hose Protectors
While hose protectors may seem like a good idea, they often do more harm than good. They trap water, keeping the area between the hose and protector damp, which accelerates perishing. Plus, they can hide damage from view, making it harder to spot problems.
The Bottom Line
Don’t let neglected hoses compromise your safety. Even though regulators are built to last a lifetime, their hoses are not. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely replacements are key to keeping your gear—and yourself—safe underwater.
Next time you get your regulator serviced, ask your technician to take a close look at your hoses. If they recommend replacing them, don’t ignore it. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and a safe diving experience.
Stay safe, and happy diving!
