BCD Inflate Deflate skill at the surface

The PADI BCD Inflate Deflate skill in the PADI Open Water Diver Course is really important dive skill to master as many new divers have problems with properly deflating the BCD underwater and inflating on the surface.

Every time we reach the surface after entry or in the end of a dive we should inflate the BCD fully as soon as possible to become neutrally buoyant. From the few accidents that occurs on the surface, most are caused by not being fully buoyant. Water is very dense and trying to swim to stay above the surface can exhaust you very quick. If you are fully inflated you can rest and easily stay on the surface to prevent most accidents. 

Underwater we see a lot of new scuba divers having issues with deflating their BCD properly. A lot of times new scuba divers are in the wrong position/angle or have the deflator hose in a wrong position that prevents them from releasing air from the BCD. Therefore it is really important that if you want to release air from the BCD, is that you are in the upright position (vertical, head up, legs down) and that you stretch the BCD deflator as high as possible and the start deflating the BCD.

Learn more about tips for perfect buoyancy underwater

How to perform the PADI BCD Inflate Deflate skill

How to perform the PADI BCD Inflate Deflate skill

1. Make sure you have your mask on and your snorkel in your mouth

2. Fully inflate your BCD by pushing the inflator button until air releases from your BCD

3. Lean Backwards

4. Make sure that you are completely positively buoyant

5. Float a bit

6. Stand back up make sure you are completely vertical

7. Stretch that deflator hose as high as you can

8. Fully deflate your BCD

9. Use your right hand to squeeze the last remaining air out of your BCD

10. Simulate that you are going downPlease check out the video below on How to do the BCD Inflate Deflate Skill at the surface:

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How easy it is to Inflate or Deflate the BCD usually depends on the inflator button of your low pressure inflator hose on the BCD. On some brand BCD’s the inflator is a bit slow resulting in a longer time to inflate or deflate. We found that the Scuba Pro BCD’s have some of the best and fastest power inflators from all other brands. Have a look at these BCD’s:

Hydros BCD – Scuba Pro

Equator BCD – Scuba Pro

Bella BCD – Scuba Pro

Frequently Asked Questions About BCD Inflate & Deflate at the Surface

What is the purpose of inflating and deflating the BCD at the surface?

Inflating and deflating the Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) at the surface is a fundamental skill in scuba diving. Inflating the BCD provides positive buoyancy, allowing divers to float comfortably on the surface before or after a dive. Deflating the BCD removes air, enabling the diver to descend below the surface. Mastery of this skill ensures safety and control during dives.

How do you properly inflate the BCD at the surface?

To inflate the BCD at the surface:

1. Ensure your mask is on and your snorkel or regulator is in your mouth.
2. Press the inflator button on the low-pressure inflator hose until the BCD is fully inflated.
3. Lean back slightly to achieve a comfortable floating position.
4. Confirm that you are positively buoyant and can float effortlessly.

What is the correct method to deflate the BCD at the surface?

To deflate the BCD at the surface:

1. Stand or maintain an upright position in the water.
2. Raise the inflator hose above your head to allow air to escape efficiently.
3. Press and hold the deflate button until air stops releasing.
4. Use your right hand to gently squeeze the BCD, expelling any remaining air.
5. Ensure you are neutrally buoyant or slightly negative before beginning your descent.

Why is mastering BCD inflation and deflation important for divers?

Proper control of the BCD is crucial for maintaining buoyancy, ensuring safety, and conserving energy during a dive. Mastery of inflation and deflation techniques allows divers to ascend, descend, and maintain desired depths with confidence and control.

Is this skill practiced during PADI Open Water Diver training?

Yes, inflating and deflating the BCD at the surface is a core skill taught during the PADI Open Water Diver course. It is typically introduced in Confined Water Dive 1 and reinforced throughout the course to ensure proficiency and safety.

Next Skill: No Mask Breathing at the Surface