My wife and I bought two sets of regulators from Deep6, the first about 3 years ago and the second 1 year ago. They've got about 60 and 40 dives on them respectively. We wash them carefully after each of our weekend trips and leave them to soak (pressurized) in freshwater after longer live aboard trips. They're stored in padded cases inside the house. Despite this, it seems like each time we get ready for a trip one of them has a leak. I feel as though we take good care of them and am frustrated with the leaks. The issues we've had are:
Is this just what life as a somewhat infrequent diver who owns regulators is like? In my ideal world, we could be confident that they're ready for the next trip. Are there better options out there? I don't mind splurging to find two sets that breathe well and are (reasonably) hassle free.
One final question: if we do get something new, I'm thinking of getting DIN fittings because they seem more reliable - is that actually the case?
- After about 25 dives the 1st set (mine) developed IP creep. Fixed by Deep6 for free (except for shipping).
- After 40 total dives one of the second stages on the 1st set had a slow leak. Fixed by Deep6 as part of the free first service.
- After 35 total dives the 2nd set has developed IP creep causing leaks. I'm going to send them into Deep6 to get fixed.
- The 2nd set has also had trouble consistently sealing with a tank. It seems as though you have to crack the valve exactly correctly to avoid leaks. Other regulators on the same tank have no issue, and the problem persists across different tanks.
Is this just what life as a somewhat infrequent diver who owns regulators is like? In my ideal world, we could be confident that they're ready for the next trip. Are there better options out there? I don't mind splurging to find two sets that breathe well and are (reasonably) hassle free.
One final question: if we do get something new, I'm thinking of getting DIN fittings because they seem more reliable - is that actually the case?