Regulator & BCD Packages

Frequently asked questions

What regulators are included in these packages and how do I choose between them?

Each package offers a choice of regulator at the time of purchase. The Scubapro Hydros Pro packages, for example, can be paired with either the MK11/C370 or the MK17EVO2/G260 regulator set — the difference being the first stage design and breathing performance at depth. The MK11 uses a balanced piston first stage best suited to warm water, recreational diving conditions. The MK17EVO2 is an environmentally sealed first stage designed for cold water and silty or contaminated water environments — a relevant consideration for diving in Canadian lakes and the BC coast. If you dive primarily in warm, clear water, the standard option performs excellently. If you dive in Canada regularly, the environmentally sealed upgrade is worth the additional cost.

Are these regulators suitable for cold water diving in Canada?

Most regulators in these packages perform well in the conditions most recreational divers encounter in Canada. However, cold water diving — particularly below 10°C — creates a risk of regulator free-flow caused by ice forming inside the first stage. Environmentally sealed regulators (such as the Scubapro MK17EVO2 and MK19) use a sealed first stage that prevents cold water from entering the internal mechanism, significantly reducing this risk. If you dive regularly in Canadian lakes, rivers, or the Pacific or Atlantic coasts, we recommend choosing the environmentally sealed regulator option where available. Our Divemasters use these regulators in our local Canadian dives year-round and can speak to the performance difference from direct experience.

What is included in a regulator set within these packages?

Each package includes a complete regulator set: a first stage that attaches to the tank valve, a primary second stage (the one you breathe from), and an alternate second stage — commonly called an octopus — for sharing air with another diver in an emergency. Some packages also include a gauge console with a submersible pressure gauge (SPG) showing remaining tank pressure, a depth gauge, and a compass. Add a dive computer to your bundle if you like. If you have questions about exactly what is included in a specific package, check the product page or contact us before ordering.

Can I choose a different regulator than what is listed in a package?

Yes — the listed packages represent the most popular combinations we sell, but they are not the only options. If you want a specific BCD paired with a regulator not shown as a bundle, you can order the items separately. If there is a model not listed for a brand that we carry, contact us to find out if we can order it in for you. We have been fitting divers with gear since 2003 and can recommend the right regulator for your diving profile, budget, and the conditions you dive in most often.

How often does a scuba regulator need to be serviced?

Most regulator manufacturers recommend a full service every one to two years or every 100 dives, whichever comes first. A service includes replacing internal o-rings and seats, cleaning the first and second stages, and testing the breathing performance to factory specifications. Regulators used in cold or silty water benefit from more frequent servicing. All new regulators purchased through us come with manufacturer warranty coverage. We recommend establishing a service relationship with a qualified regulator technician at a local dive shop before your first dive season. Do not skip service intervals — a regulator failure at depth is a serious safety event.