I've written many articles on this blog about how to shop for a rebreather, but given the numerous inquiries I have had recently, perhaps a reprise of information is warranted.
The bottom line is that the last decade of statistics shows us that the actual equipment brand does not seem to be a factor in accidents. Best available stats show us that there are no more accidents on one particular brand than another based on ratios of units sold. The same appears to be true when we look at manual versus electronic units. That means, the most important decision you can make is not "which" rebreather you buy, but rather how you use it.
Four things should prevent 90 percent of the accidents:
1. Use a checklist every time you dive.
2. Do a proper, relaxed and complete pre-breathe for five minutes with your nose blocked.
3. Don't jump in the water unless all systems are working perfectly.
4. Replace your oxygen cells proactively every year.
Beyond that, several factors may influence a purchase decision:
1. Third-party tests for work of breathing, oxygen tracking, canister duration and other factors. Ask the manufacturer for those and for details on their CE or equivalent testing.
2. Portability (do you travel on planes with it and will it fit in the baggage weight constraints?)
3. Availability of instruction from a trusted, experienced and current instructor
4. Local support and role modeling from dive partners or other experienced locals on a particular unit
5. Availability of support and service (where does it ship to for service? are they prompt and thorough? any complaints?)
6. Stability of the manufacturing company. Any issues?
7. Alarm systems - visual?, audio?, tactile? How much do you want?
8. Other features such as "auto on," style of electronics, redundancy, battery type and charing or replacement, etc. Make a spreadsheet comparing features.
9. Budget
10. Ability to self-service basic needs
11. Availability of consumables (style of scrubber and batteries)
Its a tough decision and nearly everyone you ask for an opinion will have a strong one. They just bought the equivalent of a car and will likely ooze with confidence about their buying decision. You have to be pragmatic and analytical. A try-dive experience will only help you fall in love with a harness. A comparison of cosmetics will only help you decide whether you will look cool. Take time to compare features and research the unit on your own before jumping into one of the biggest purchase decisions of your life.
Finally, make a pledge to yourself and your family that you will abide by the four Golden Rules above and make sure all your diving friends do as well.
-Jill Heinerth
