Scuba Diving Regulator Clearing Two Methods

​The Scuba Diving Regulator Clearing Two Methods Skill is part of the PADI Open Water Diver course. It is one of the first scuba diving skills you will learn and also one of the most used skills in diving.

You want to remove any water every time you get a bit of water in your scuba regulator. You can easily do that using the PADI Regulator Clearing 2 Methods. Another reason why this skill is great to learn is when you take out your scuba regulator to perform a skill. Every time you remove your scuba regulator from your mouth it will fill up with water. With the PADI regulator clearing skill you can easily clear it from water.

There are 2 methods of clearing your scuba regulator. One method is to forcefully exhale or spit through your second stage and the second method is to use the purge button.

PADI Scuba Diving Regulator Clearing Two Methods Skill Video:

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Steps for the PADI Scuba Diving Regulator Clearing Two Methods Skill

1. For the first method take a deep breath 

2. Take out your regulator

3. Remember to have the mouth piece down and blow bubbles

4. Keep holding onto the regulator

5. Put the regulator back in your mouth

6. Clear it by exhaling forcefully (Like a spit)

7. For the second method take another deep breath

8. Remember to have the mouth piece down and blow bubbles

9. Keep holding onto the regulator

10. Use your tongue as a “splash guard” 

11. Clear the regulator by gently pressing the purge button

Learn more about the Regulator Removal & Replacement Skill for PADI IDC Course

Best Scuba Regulator to own

Having your own scuba regulator will be one of the best pieces of dive equipment you will buy. Owning your own regulator has many benefits like, much better breathing experience, cleaner and it is easy to travel with. A regulator is the main piece of dive equipment that make breathing underwater possible. Knowing that you personally take care if it and service it can be a peace of mind when scuba diving. There are many regulators to choose from, but here are our 3 recommendations:

Scuba Pro MK25

Aqua Lung Legend

Apex XTX 50

Next Skill: Regulator Removal, Recover and Clearing

Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Regulator Clearing

Why is it important to learn regulator clearing techniques?

Learning regulator clearing is essential because water can enter your regulator during dives, especially when removing it for skills practice or if it’s accidentally dislodged. Being proficient in clearing ensures you can resume breathing safely and comfortably underwater.

What are the two methods for clearing a scuba regulator?

1. Exhalation Method: After reinserting the regulator into your mouth, forcefully exhale to expel water from the mouthpiece.
2. Purge Button Method: Press the purge button on the front of the regulator to release a burst of air, clearing water from the mouthpiece.

When should I use each clearing method?

• Exhalation Method: Ideal when you have sufficient air in your lungs and prefer a quieter approach.
• Purge Button Method: Useful when low on breath or if exhalation doesn’t effectively clear the water.

How do I perform the exhalation method correctly?

1. Take a deep breath.
2. Remove the regulator, keeping the mouthpiece facing downward.
3. Blow bubbles continuously to prevent water entry.
4. Reinsert the regulator into your mouth.
5. Forcefully exhale to clear the water.

How do I perform the purge button method correctly?

1. Take a deep breath.
2. Remove the regulator, keeping the mouthpiece facing downward.
3. Blow bubbles continuously to prevent water entry.
4. Reinsert the regulator into your mouth.
5. Use your tongue as a splash guard.
6. Gently press the purge button to clear the water.

Are there any tips to make regulator clearing easier?

• Always keep the mouthpiece facing downward when removing the regulator to minimize water entry.
• Practice both methods regularly to build confidence and muscle memory.
• Use your tongue to block water from entering your throat during clearing.

Is regulator clearing taught in the PADI Open Water Diver course?

Yes, regulator clearing is a fundamental skill taught early in the PADI Open Water Diver course. Students practice both methods to ensure they can handle situations where water enters the regulator.