Do you know how a scuba regulator works? Knowing how the different parts of diving gear work give you a better understanding of diving techniques and which are the best scuba regulators for diving.
The scuba regulator is the most important piece of dive gear so familiarize yourself with the different parts and how a scuba regulator works. Get to the point where you can disassemble and assemble your scuba regulator on your own so you can follow the tips on cleaning your dive regulator.
How To Assemble Your Scuba Diving Regulator
Knowing how to check your diving gear and being able to perform dive gear maintenance helps keep you safe underwater. Start with the most important piece of dive equipment and learn how to assemble a scuba regulator.
Assembling a scuba regulator is easier than it sounds. Once you are familiar with each part of the scuba regulator, assembling it only becomes following a few logical steps. Below are the simple steps to assemble a new scuba regulator.
Step 1: Check That Your New Scuba Regulator & Tools Are Complete
When you order a new scuba regulator it comes disassembled. Check that your package is complete with each of the scuba regulator parts:
- First stage
- Primary second stage
- Alternate second stage
- Low-pressure inflator hose
- Submersible pressure gauge (SPG) and gauge console
As for tools, you need an Allen key and a wrench.
You may have to try different wrench sizes to find out which one fits the bolts on your scuba regulator.
Step 2: Remove the Plugs From the First Stage
Most scuba regulator sets come with the primary second stage already plugged into the first stage. This helps to direct you on which plugs to remove from the first stage. Recognize the low-pressure plugs and high-pressure plugs. 
The high-pressure plugs are larger.
The low-pressure plugs are smaller and more numerous on the first stage.
Check where the primary second stage is plugged into. Then, remove a low-pressure plug next to it using the Allen key. This is where your alternate second stage will plug into later.
On the opposite side of the first stage, remove one high-pressure plug and one low-pressure plug. This is where the SPG and gauge console and the low-pressure inflator hose will plug into later.
Step 3: Connect the Alternate Second Stage
Take the alternate second stage and place it inside the low-pressure plug next to the first stage. Use your hands to screw the hose into the plug.
Do not worry about the fit not being tight enough. Once all the hoses are connected you will use the wrench to properly fasten each hose. 
Step 4: Connect the SPG, Gauge Console and Low-Pressure Inflator Hose
Naturally, the low-pressure inflator hose goes inside the low-pressure plug on the opposite side of the primary and alternate second stage.
The SPG and gauge console goes inside the high-pressure plug next to the low-pressure inflator hose.
Again, secure both hoses with your hands and do not worry about a tight fit.
Step 5: Secure the Hoses
Check which wrench fits the bolts on your scuba regulator. Then, use this wrench to secure each hose, including the primary second stage.
Make sure that it is a tight fit but do not tighten too much. If you keep turning the bolt while the hoses are actually already secured, you will damage the scuba regulator.
Step 6: Slide the Sleeves
Each hose has its own sleeve that protects the connects from damage.
By sliding the sleeves down to the first stage you prevent the hose from cracking at the connections or from excessive bending.
Are there no sleeves on your scuba regulator? You might have flex-hoses which do not need sleeves to protect them from damage.
Step 7: Check for Leaks
Now that your scuba regulator is assembled you need to check whether you have done it properly and there are no leaks. Connect the scuba regulator to an air tank.
Press the purge button on the second stage before slowly opening the tank. When the air is flowing out the second stage you can release the purge button but continue opening the tank until it is completely open.
If you hear any hissing noises then there is a leak. This means that you need to depressurize, disassemble and re-assemble the scuba regulator.
Understand your equipment will help you get the most out of your dives. Now you know how to assemble your new regulator, take a look at these tips on how to save air during your dive to get the most out of your bottom time! Are you a more visual learner? Then take a look at this video.
