How to Clean a SCUBAPRO BCD Inside and Out

Step-by-step instructions

Before you begin: Inspect and prepare

Work from the configuration used on the dive and account for every removable weight pocket, retaining clip and cap before soaking. Sand around a dump-valve pull, salt at the corrugated-hose connection, slow inflation, unintended air loss or a pocket that will not lock is more than cosmetic soil. Record the symptom and keep the BCD out of service until the correct manual or an authorized technician resolves it. Never rely on cleaning as the sole leak test for buoyancy equipment.

Step 1: Remove the tank, weights and accessories

Disconnect the BCD from the cylinder and low-pressure hose. Remove integrated weight pouches, tools and loose accessories. Work in a clean area where buckles cannot fill with sand. Never begin an internal rinse while the BCD is connected to a pressurized air source.

Step 2: Inspect before washing

Check the body for cuts, punctures, frayed seams and abrasion. Inspect the corrugated hose, power inflator, elbow ring, exhaust valves, pull cords and weight-retention parts. Inflate the bladder as directed and listen for leaks. A sticky inflator or damaged release system needs service, not stronger cleaner.

Step 3: Rinse the exterior promptly

Use a gentle freshwater hose to remove salt, sand and dirt from the outside. Direct water through webbing, buckles and pocket corners without pressure-washing. Work the weight-pocket release pieces under clean water so trapped grit can leave.

Step 4: Give the BCD a mild-cleaner soak

Fill a tub with fresh water and the amount of mild BCD cleaner directed by its label. Place the BCD in the bath, slosh gently, allow a short soak and slosh again. Do not use bleach, solvent, household degreaser or hot water, and do not leave the unit submerged unattended.

Step 5: Flush the inside of the air cell

At the oral opening on the power inflator, depress the deflate button and direct a gentle stream of fresh water inside. Add enough to move through the bladder, then rotate and slosh the BCD. Do not force a nozzle into the opening or pressurize the cell with water.

Step 6: Drain through remote exhaust valves

Position each remote exhaust low in turn and drain the dirty internal water through it. SCUBAPRO uses this path so contaminated water does not return through the power inflator and so the exhaust valves receive a flush. Repeat with fresh water until the internal runoff is clean.

Step 7: Detail fittings and weight pockets

Rinse quick-disconnect fittings, buckle channels and removed weight pouches. Check that pockets release and lock correctly after grit is gone. If the BCD carries an AIR2, rinse and soak that component as regulator equipment and follow its professional service schedule.

Step 8: Inflate partly and dry in shade

Drain thoroughly, add a small amount of air to smooth bladder wrinkles and hang the BCD on a broad support in a cool ventilated place out of direct sun. Position it so remaining water can leave through a valve. Do not store the bladder crushed or use high heat to accelerate drying.

Step 9: Reinspect and store ready for service

Once dry, test inflation, deflation, dump valves and weight-pocket retention again. If specified, use only SCUBAPRO lubricant on AIR2 or BPI couplings. Store partly inflated in a cool place. SCUBAPRO recommends at least annual BCD inspection and service by an authorized dealer.