On vacation down in florida diving, found your series and binge watched them all! they are great. another suggestion for an episode is 'how do I store my tank?' standing, lying down, does it matter? Do I need a tank boot? round or octagon? It is awesome that you are sharing your experiences and knowledge, kudos!!
Hey Alec. Never thought I would see the day I could correct you. In your warranty video, you stated that most warranties have changed from 1 to 2 years, and called it " semi annually" semi annually means every 6 months not every two years. But I still knew what you were saying.
Alec, thank you for all of this wonderful information. Your passion for diving is contagious, and I really enjoy watching the vintage scuba videos! Also, your video on dive computers got me off of my analog gauges, and I have been enjoying diving much more ever since (and I'm probably safer too). I do have one question - do you have an opinion on Hog regulators? I just bough a D3 1st stage and Zenith 2nd. I've used it only once, but it seems to work great. Just curious... Thank you again!
Thanks for your kind comments. Welcome to "The Future of Diving". BTW, that's a phrase that I started using almost 20 years ago and have it trademarked in Canada for Scuba 2000. The first car I ever drove was a Studebaker Lark. When Studebaker closed my dad went to Volvos so I spent a lot of time driving them. Since then I've driven everything ever made with wheels (2 wheels, 4, 6 and even 8 wheels) and have developed some biases. I don't understand why someone buys an obscure brand when a major brand name product with years of development and a reputation to protect is available - assuming of course the quality and price are comparable. I still don't know why people buy Volvos in North America, or Subarus or Saabs for that matter. Not a European thing. They're just weird and small here. The same bias applies (for me) to scuba. Can't understand why divers choose Zeagle, HOG, Hollis or even Apeks. HOG is fine, good products, decent pricing. Service, Warranty? I don't know and that's my point. If you have a good LDS that services HOG nearby, go crazy if you like it. I'm sure it will serve you well. Thanks for watching. Alec
Thanks for the insight and the analogy. I have to admit, I had to Google "Studebaker Lark" - nice looking car! In the past I have had Scuba Pro gear and loved it. However, the Hog setup was more in my price range and had most of the nice features of a high end setup (sealed, balanced, swivel, flex hoses). I agree with your point about the service and warranty. I'm saving money up front in exchange for putting up with more inconvenience and risk (and potentially cost) down the road. Thanks again!
Hey Tom, thanks for the information. That gives me more confidence in the Hog regs. I had heard good things, but as Alec points out they just aren't as big as some other brands so I was not 100% sure. The prices are great, and all of their stuff seems very solid and high quality. Looking forward to many years of use. Do you use Hog equipment?
Hey Tom, I didn't see anything on FB, but thanks for the advice. I bought the D3/Zenith, and it's working great. Can't say the same for the Edge octo it came with though - on the 1st dive it started free-flowing lightly at about 20 ft. down and there was nothing that would stop it. I ended up using it as my primary (so that I was at least using most of the air it was spewing out) then swapped it out with a spare for my 2nd dive. I returned it and was sent a replacement. Hopefully this one works better
thanks for video and 25-50 dives is good info - didn't realize scuba pro charged so much for service kits. Ouch... bought new regulator for less than that! I was told oceanic offers free kits IFF you send in your regulator (pay for ship and labor) every year (sounds like maybe 2 now) but local dive shop instructor told me he doesn't use it as doing it locally isn't much more (and he dive enough to have it serviced yearly) - about $25 for parts+ 25 labor per stages, so roughly $150 for complete set.
$150 parts and labor is pretty good. Average I'd say if not better. Some run $300!! Labor for reg/octo and checking SPG and LPs is at least $100. Parts are $50 to $150. Use your LDS. Good public relations. It's always smart. If you walk into your LDS and the guy at the counter knows your name, you're off to a good start. Clearly he values you. Take care. Alec
Alec,In a previous video you seemed to indicate that a good basic regulator might cost $300 to purchase. In this video, you seem to indicate that to service that same regulator might cost $250. With numbers like these it seems like it might be more cost effective to skip the service for 2-3 years and then throw the regulator away and simply purchase a new regulator. Am I missing something?
It's good to see that you're thinking ahead and working the numbers. Too many divers simply get lost in the sales clerk talk over! Let's review the numbers and then you can check it out. You can get a decent, brand name standard regulator (1st + 2nd + hose only - no Safe Second or other attachments) for $300. Generally service every 2 years is required to keep the warranty. Service will cost about $100 for labor and roughly $50 for parts, say $150 or so. That's $75 per year to keep it like new. If you get a reg that offers Free Parts - well, you can do the math. Now you're down to $50 a year. Now, suppose you don't care about the Lifetime Warranty (that's really not much use anyway) and don't dive too often (say, 12 dives a year), then you can ignore the 2 years service period and make it 3 years (maybe more). Provided you keep the reg well rinsed and cared for as in my vids, you're ok. Now you're down to $30 a year - the cost of a 6 pack! And the reg will do a good job forever - yes. I said forever. And people say that scuba diving is expensive!!! Don't forget one small detail as you figure out the cheapest way to buy and maintain a reg. My suggestion that you can ignore the warranty and just service every 3+ years will also affect the Free Parts if you have that option. If so, then you want to keep the warranty but over a few years the extra service will be paid for in free parts anyway so it's still good. Does that all make sense now? Alec
So I know you're in Canada, but in the US, they can require regular maintenance. However they cannot require their parts to be used or their service center to be used. Also, they must prove the damage is from the customer or someone who serviced it in order to deny the warranty.
Gosh, I've worked in the US and think you need to read the warranty. Generally, regular service as detailed in your owner's manual is necessary and It MUST be done at an authorized dealer. An authorized dealer MUST use factory parts, or he won't be an authorized dealer for long!Having been involved in more "Warranty Claims" than I want to remember, it's not as easy as the manufacturers and dealers pretend. Firstly, they have the final word. That is, if the manufacturer states that the damage was caused by the diver, it's over. There is no recourse. Plus, they can and might demand receipts to show all the service as detailed in the manual had been followed and by an authorized dealer. That is a normal requirement of any such claim. And finally, the warranty clearly states that it applies only to defects in materials and/or workmanship. Nothing that is a serviceable part (seats, O-rings, diaphragms, hoses, etc, etc) is covered nor is 'unsatisfactory' performance a warranty claim. So if your reg breathes hard, or freeflows, or a hose bursts, or any of the most common complaints that divers have, none is covered. Check your owner's manual to see if I'm not right or you can read one such Warranty here: www.scubapro.com/scubapro-warranty Now, this applies only to the major brand names, Scubapro, Sherwood, USD, Mares, etc., so if you have a Joe Diver regulator or an Acme Diving BCD, you're on your own. I wish it weren't so but I also wish my F150 got gas mileage closer to what they claim it should. Too bad! This is one reason why I have no problem with a diver taking care of his own gear. Assuming he is reasonably talented mechanically and follows some kind of proper service guide and uses good parts, he might as well do so. The factory warranty is pretty much useless and, if he screws up, he can still take it to a dealer to have it fixed - and pay for it. And it's another good reason to have a firm relationship with your LDS. I've had manufacturer/distributors laugh when I called them about a diver's complaint. They won't do anything. But, as a retailer wanting to keep the diver happy and avoid bad publicity, I have fixed or even replaced a regulator for a diver if his issue is serious enough. That's not a warranty settlement - just good business. Take care. Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Thank you Alec for responding I didn't expect it. Especially on a video this old. But what I am referring to is the Magnuson-Moss warranty act. It cover all warranties issued for consumer products over $5 in cost. Requiring service using only authorized dealers and only authorized parts is called a "Tie in Sales" provision and is illegal. They can require maintenance to be done and choose to no honor a warranty because of damage done. But they cannot say who does it or with what parts. Now unfortunately you would have to take the manufacturer to court. But that's what small claims court is for, and according to the law if the manufacturer loses the case they must pay the legal costs. consumer.findlaw.com/consumer-transactions/warranty-laws-and-the-magnuson-moss-warranty-act-.html That being said I agree you need a good relationship with your LDS. In my area they are closing fast with only a few in the entire state. I am legitimately worried about the hobby because of it.
Good video and explanation Alex. I've heard a rumor that Oceanic may be going out of business. i don't know any details. Just an unconfirmed rumor going around.
Yep! It's true. And Hollis too. Sniff!! Too bad, but really shouldn't affect the products or the divers. Oceanic has been around since the early days. It's a tough market out there right now and Huish has the money and size to make it work. Unfortunately, Huish is also a shareholder-oriented company. They could care less about the diver. If a product isn't making money, it's toast, even if thousands of divers like it and use. When Huish first came to North America, it tried to start a line of reg and BCs under the Bare brand. They were OK but not great (from offshore) and the parts, service, warranty process was clumsy. They dropped it and have not had scuba gear since, just suits, bags, etc. I suspect this is an attempt to offer a complete line of scuba gear again. Oceanic was started by and run by divers and they were always approachable and open to ideas and the diver's desires. Hopefully Huish will sort out their customer service issues. Alec
funny, I bought my aeris regulator knowing oceanic was around and using same parts today, only to find out it's been bought by Huish, who also owns BARE (my drysuit maker) and recently Suunto (my dive computer). When I called Bare a couple months back - they do have lifetime warrantee on their drysuit seams, EVEN if you're not the original owner (which I wasn't on my first one, but is on second), they seems pretty helpful and willing but I could tell Huish was maybe changing things not for the better. Will see. Bare seemed pretty good from my limited experience.
I like to know how things work, or at least, how they're supposed to work. Today most people just buy, try it and if it doesn't work, throw it away. I had a lot of empty space in my brain back then! Take care. Alec
if i would buy a new regulator set , than it is based on what my dive buddy's , dive team are using at that location. So i have problems with my Beuchat regulator , and all off the rest of the team are using Apeks , then i know i wont get any new parts on time, nor special help on my French regulator. Scubapro , Aqualung and Apeks have world wide parts. Beuchat doesnt. Technical help and Service are on second place with me. If a brand like Aqualung doesnt have costumer support than im not buying there products. Spare parts and service kits: The price of service kits on 3rd place , but Apeks has many parts on ebay or on every dive location availible. 4th Warrenty, i dont believe in warrenties anymore, there are allways small letters hidden under there warrenties rules. I'm not familiar with sherwood or other brands, but here most people get €€ screwed by local dealers on there service kits and labor. Why pay half of the the price of a new 1st stage on service cost. Free parts: i dont believe in that joke either. Dive safe , cheers
Can you do a video on these new regulators that sell directly to the public and offer training on service such as HOG regulators, what's your opinion on companies teaching the average Joe to service his own regulator?
I'm familiar with the HOG regulators. They are quite good although don't really offer anything new. They have been around for some time and at first they tried to develop a chain of distributors. Perhaps they were not successful in that attempt so decided to sell direct. That is often the reason. I don't think it's smart to teach the "average Joe" to service his own reg. We are not talking about changing a vacuum cleaner filter here! Some divers have an interest and the ability to do so quite well but not a lot. And fewer have the tool or test instrmenst to see if their work is good. Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Thanks, from what I've been told by some local shops is they will not service them because the company allows owners to buy parts and they don't want the liability. I should have gone with a name brand this sounds fine until you go to service it 10yrs from now and there not around.
Your time would be free, parts depend on the manufacturer. Its an expensive way to service your own set and don't change brands then you start all over.
Alec, great video. One question, I use Hog/Edge regulators and Hog offers a certification course on how to inspect and maintain your regulator. It is a little expensive (~$500) but it might save money in the long run. Do you have any thoughts on these sorts of certifications? Do you think it would be worth the investment? Thanks, Josh
It sounds like a factory service course which all dealers have to take. $500 is a bit much. They usually run around $200 to $300 for a 2 day course for factory tech certification. Realize that you will still need tools and access to service kits. And, if you service your own regs, does the warranty still apply? Or is that only if you work for a dealer? They are informative although limited to only one brand and maybe 1 or 2 models. Take care. Alec
Hi Alec, thanks for the video.. Just a short question this time. Did you ever get tired of the siren in the shop? Seems to me it could get really annoying like it creep under you skin ........damn see what I mean he he ;)
Yeh! It's motion activated as they walk through a beam. Sometimes they take their time and it goes off and on. I used to have a very nice, discreet bell but my staff kinda' ignored it. Not now!! It jars you awake!
In my store we used the regulators/automobiles analogy often. No one needs leather seats or automatic climate control but it sure is nice. The same with regulators. No one needs swivels, venturis or adjustable breathing but it's nice. If you have the resources (money) and desire, what the heck - get the sunroof too!!! Scubapro is best compared to Mercedes Benz. Very high quality, the most stringent testing in the market and the nicest fit and finish. Their regulators certainly perform well but others do the same job for less money. The Scubapro Warranty ued to be the best - Lifetime & Lifetime Free Parts, but now that only applies if you buy a complete set from them - reg/octo/BC/computer. A lot of money and your choices are restricted However, after all, I've used, sold and serviced Scubapro for many years and they are great products. Thanks for watching. Alec
So if you're buying budget gear, it becomes a throw away? When I can purchase a new recently discontinued regulator that was $450 (or more) originally and it's $150 now. What's the sense to have it serviced? Do you understand where I'm going with this? It would cost more to service than to just buy the next discontinued Reg... Obviously the warranty is void because it was purchased online or maybe not from a authorized dealer... (I'm referring to $150 in parts plus labor)
Budget gear is not necessarily throw-away. ALL regulators are built to exacting standards of quality and performance and ALL will give many years of good service, if maintained. However, I do see your point and if you can buy a new or almost new regulator for under $200 or so, it may not be worth it to service an older model. I am a fan of taking care of regulators and of servicing older models rather than buying new but, your point is well-taken. Don't be too concerned about the warranty. That's a marketing tool mainly and of little practical use to the diver. Good luck. Alec
I get what you're saying, and obviously not all regulators cost $150 for service kits, I have seen some under $10. I'm nostalgic, so I would keep the old stuff working too..😁 Keep up the great videos!
Rich that is what I've been doing. buying $500 reg for $150 new old stock and using them 2+ years, then using them as backup or around the pool for kids, and getting a "new" one for the cost it would have been to service the 'old' one. As long as I can find those for cheap, and given cost to service them high I might do that...
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As always, super-great, especially in such a complex area. Thanks a million, Karl.
Thanks for watching Karl.
Take care.
Alec
On vacation down in florida diving, found your series and binge watched them all! they are great. another suggestion for an episode is 'how do I store my tank?' standing, lying down, does it matter? Do I need a tank boot? round or octagon? It is awesome that you are sharing your experiences and knowledge, kudos!!
Hey Alec. Never thought I would see the day I could correct you. In your warranty video, you stated that most warranties have changed from 1 to 2 years, and called it " semi annually" semi annually means every 6 months not every two years. But I still knew what you were saying.
Thats good as my wife doesn't get anything I say. Thanks for understanding Gee.
Thanks again Alec for that video .. will come handy for me as I will probably buy soon equipment
Not dry at all, all ur tips are very interesting if u want to be educated. Thank Alec..learn alot from this one..
Thanks Richard.
Alec
Great video never really looked at the warranty. Look forward to the next one. Montana Mike.
Thanks MM.
Alec, thank you for all of this wonderful information. Your passion for diving is contagious, and I really enjoy watching the vintage scuba videos! Also, your video on dive computers got me off of my analog gauges, and I have been enjoying diving much more ever since (and I'm probably safer too). I do have one question - do you have an opinion on Hog regulators? I just bough a D3 1st stage and Zenith 2nd. I've used it only once, but it seems to work great. Just curious... Thank you again!
Thanks for your kind comments. Welcome to "The Future of Diving". BTW, that's a phrase that I started using almost 20 years ago and have it trademarked in Canada for Scuba 2000.
The first car I ever drove was a Studebaker Lark. When Studebaker closed my dad went to Volvos so I spent a lot of time driving them. Since then I've driven everything ever made with wheels (2 wheels, 4, 6 and even 8 wheels) and have developed some biases.
I don't understand why someone buys an obscure brand when a major brand name product with years of development and a reputation to protect is available - assuming of course the quality and price are comparable. I still don't know why people buy Volvos in North America, or Subarus or Saabs for that matter. Not a European thing. They're just weird and small here.
The same bias applies (for me) to scuba. Can't understand why divers choose Zeagle, HOG, Hollis or even Apeks.
HOG is fine, good products, decent pricing. Service, Warranty? I don't know and that's my point. If you have a good LDS that services HOG nearby, go crazy if you like it. I'm sure it will serve you well.
Thanks for watching. Alec
Thanks for the insight and the analogy. I have to admit, I had to Google "Studebaker Lark" - nice looking car! In the past I have had Scuba Pro gear and loved it. However, the Hog setup was more in my price range and had most of the nice features of a high end setup (sealed, balanced, swivel, flex hoses). I agree with your point about the service and warranty. I'm saving money up front in exchange for putting up with more inconvenience and risk (and potentially cost) down the road. Thanks again!
Hey Tom, thanks for the information. That gives me more confidence in the Hog regs. I had heard good things, but as Alec points out they just aren't as big as some other brands so I was not 100% sure. The prices are great, and all of their stuff seems very solid and high quality. Looking forward to many years of use. Do you use Hog equipment?
Hey Tom, I didn't see anything on FB, but thanks for the advice. I bought the D3/Zenith, and it's working great. Can't say the same for the Edge octo it came with though - on the 1st dive it started free-flowing lightly at about 20 ft. down and there was nothing that would stop it. I ended up using it as my primary (so that I was at least using most of the air it was spewing out) then swapped it out with a spare for my 2nd dive. I returned it and was sent a replacement. Hopefully this one works better
thanks for video and 25-50 dives is good info - didn't realize scuba pro charged so much for service kits. Ouch... bought new regulator for less than that!
I was told oceanic offers free kits IFF you send in your regulator (pay for ship and labor) every year (sounds like maybe 2 now) but local dive shop instructor told me he doesn't use it as doing it locally isn't much more (and he dive enough to have it serviced yearly) - about $25 for parts+ 25 labor per stages, so roughly $150 for complete set.
$150 parts and labor is pretty good. Average I'd say if not better. Some run $300!!
Labor for reg/octo and checking SPG and LPs is at least $100. Parts are $50 to $150.
Use your LDS. Good public relations. It's always smart. If you walk into your LDS and the guy at the counter knows your name, you're off to a good start. Clearly he values you.
Take care. Alec
Check in, I watched all your video.
Thanks E-Boat!
Alec,In a previous video you seemed to indicate that a good basic regulator might cost $300 to purchase. In this video, you seem to indicate that to service that same regulator might cost $250. With numbers like these it seems like it might be more cost effective to skip the service for 2-3 years and then throw the regulator away and simply purchase a new regulator. Am I missing something?
It's good to see that you're thinking ahead and working the numbers. Too many divers simply get lost in the sales clerk talk over!
Let's review the numbers and then you can check it out.
You can get a decent, brand name standard regulator (1st + 2nd + hose only - no Safe Second or other attachments) for $300. Generally service every 2 years is required to keep the warranty. Service will cost about $100 for labor and roughly $50 for parts, say $150 or so. That's $75 per year to keep it like new.
If you get a reg that offers Free Parts - well, you can do the math. Now you're down to $50 a year.
Now, suppose you don't care about the Lifetime Warranty (that's really not much use anyway) and don't dive too often (say, 12 dives a year), then you can ignore the 2 years service period and make it 3 years (maybe more). Provided you keep the reg well rinsed and cared for as in my vids, you're ok. Now you're down to $30 a year - the cost of a 6 pack! And the reg will do a good job forever - yes. I said forever.
And people say that scuba diving is expensive!!!
Don't forget one small detail as you figure out the cheapest way to buy and maintain a reg. My suggestion that you can ignore the warranty and just service every 3+ years will also affect the Free Parts if you have that option. If so, then you want to keep the warranty but over a few years the extra service will be paid for in free parts anyway so it's still good.
Does that all make sense now?
Alec
So I know you're in Canada, but in the US, they can require regular maintenance. However they cannot require their parts to be used or their service center to be used.
Also, they must prove the damage is from the customer or someone who serviced it in order to deny the warranty.
Gosh, I've worked in the US and think you need to read the warranty.
Generally, regular service as detailed in your owner's manual is necessary and It MUST be done at an authorized dealer. An authorized dealer MUST use factory parts, or he won't be an authorized dealer for long!Having been involved in more "Warranty Claims" than I want to remember, it's not as easy as the manufacturers and dealers pretend.
Firstly, they have the final word. That is, if the manufacturer states that the damage was caused by the diver, it's over. There is no recourse.
Plus, they can and might demand receipts to show all the service as detailed in the manual had been followed and by an authorized dealer. That is a normal requirement of any such claim.
And finally, the warranty clearly states that it applies only to defects in materials and/or workmanship. Nothing that is a serviceable part (seats, O-rings, diaphragms, hoses, etc, etc) is covered nor is 'unsatisfactory' performance a warranty claim.
So if your reg breathes hard, or freeflows, or a hose bursts, or any of the most common complaints that divers have, none is covered.
Check your owner's manual to see if I'm not right or you can read one such Warranty here:
www.scubapro.com/scubapro-warranty
Now, this applies only to the major brand names, Scubapro, Sherwood, USD, Mares, etc., so if you have a Joe Diver regulator or an Acme Diving BCD, you're on your own.
I wish it weren't so but I also wish my F150 got gas mileage closer to what they claim it should. Too bad!
This is one reason why I have no problem with a diver taking care of his own gear. Assuming he is reasonably talented mechanically and follows some kind of proper service guide and uses good parts, he might as well do so. The factory warranty is pretty much useless and, if he screws up, he can still take it to a dealer to have it fixed - and pay for it.
And it's another good reason to have a firm relationship with your LDS. I've had manufacturer/distributors laugh when I called them about a diver's complaint. They won't do anything. But, as a retailer wanting to keep the diver happy and avoid bad publicity, I have fixed or even replaced a regulator for a diver if his issue is serious enough. That's not a warranty settlement - just good business.
Take care.
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter
Thank you Alec for responding I didn't expect it. Especially on a video this old.
But what I am referring to is the Magnuson-Moss warranty act. It cover all warranties issued for consumer products over $5 in cost.
Requiring service using only authorized dealers and only authorized parts is called a "Tie in Sales" provision and is illegal.
They can require maintenance to be done and choose to no honor a warranty because of damage done. But they cannot say who does it or with what parts.
Now unfortunately you would have to take the manufacturer to court. But that's what small claims court is for, and according to the law if the manufacturer loses the case they must pay the legal costs.
consumer.findlaw.com/consumer-transactions/warranty-laws-and-the-magnuson-moss-warranty-act-.html
That being said I agree you need a good relationship with your LDS. In my area they are closing fast with only a few in the entire state. I am legitimately worried about the hobby because of it.
Good video and explanation Alex. I've heard a rumor that Oceanic may be going out of business. i don't know any details. Just an unconfirmed rumor going around.
Shouldn't you confirm it before you further spread it?
Checked their website, still up, Nothing very fresh on it though.
They sold to Huish Outdoors.
Yep! It's true. And Hollis too. Sniff!!
Too bad, but really shouldn't affect the products or the divers.
Oceanic has been around since the early days.
It's a tough market out there right now and Huish has the money and size to make it work.
Unfortunately, Huish is also a shareholder-oriented company. They could care less about the diver. If a product isn't making money, it's toast, even if thousands of divers like it and use.
When Huish first came to North America, it tried to start a line of reg and BCs under the Bare brand. They were OK but not great (from offshore) and the parts, service, warranty process was clumsy. They dropped it and have not had scuba gear since, just suits, bags, etc.
I suspect this is an attempt to offer a complete line of scuba gear again.
Oceanic was started by and run by divers and they were always approachable and open to ideas and the diver's desires.
Hopefully Huish will sort out their customer service issues.
Alec
funny, I bought my aeris regulator knowing oceanic was around and using same parts today, only to find out it's been bought by Huish, who also owns BARE (my drysuit maker) and recently Suunto (my dive computer).
When I called Bare a couple months back - they do have lifetime warrantee on their drysuit seams, EVEN if you're not the original owner (which I wasn't on my first one, but is on second), they seems pretty helpful and willing but I could tell Huish was maybe changing things not for the better. Will see. Bare seemed pretty good from my limited experience.
Good stuff to know. Thanks.
I like to know how things work, or at least, how they're supposed to work.
Today most people just buy, try it and if it doesn't work, throw it away.
I had a lot of empty space in my brain back then!
Take care.
Alec
if i would buy a new regulator set , than it is based on what my dive buddy's , dive team are using at that location. So i have problems with my Beuchat regulator , and all off the rest of the team are using Apeks , then i know i wont get any new parts on time, nor special help on my French regulator. Scubapro , Aqualung and Apeks have world wide parts. Beuchat doesnt. Technical help and Service are on second place with me. If a brand like Aqualung doesnt have costumer support than im not buying there products. Spare parts and service kits: The price of service kits on 3rd place , but Apeks has many parts on ebay or on every dive location availible. 4th Warrenty, i dont believe in warrenties anymore, there are allways small letters hidden under there warrenties rules. I'm not familiar with sherwood or other brands, but here most people get €€ screwed by local dealers on there service kits and labor. Why pay half of the the price of a new 1st stage on service cost. Free parts: i dont believe in that joke either.
Dive safe , cheers
Can you do a video on these new regulators that sell directly to the public and offer training on service such as HOG regulators, what's your opinion on companies teaching the average Joe to service his own regulator?
I'm familiar with the HOG regulators. They are quite good although don't really offer anything new. They have been around for some time and at first they tried to develop a chain of distributors. Perhaps they were not successful in that attempt so decided to sell direct. That is often the reason. I don't think it's smart to teach the "average Joe" to service his own reg. We are not talking about changing a vacuum cleaner filter here! Some divers have an interest and the ability to do so quite well but not a lot. And fewer have the tool or test instrmenst to see if their work is good.
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Thanks, from what I've been told by some local shops is they will not service them because the company allows owners to buy parts and they don't want the liability. I should have gone with a name brand this sounds fine until you go to service it 10yrs from now and there not around.
So what you're telling me is if I become a technician I can get totally free service?
Your time would be free, parts depend on the manufacturer. Its an expensive way to service your own set and don't change brands then you start all over.
Alec, great video. One question, I use Hog/Edge regulators and Hog offers a certification course on how to inspect and maintain your regulator. It is a little expensive (~$500) but it might save money in the long run. Do you have any thoughts on these sorts of certifications? Do you think it would be worth the investment? Thanks, Josh
It sounds like a factory service course which all dealers have to take.
$500 is a bit much. They usually run around $200 to $300 for a 2 day course for factory tech certification.
Realize that you will still need tools and access to service kits.
And, if you service your own regs, does the warranty still apply? Or is that only if you work for a dealer?
They are informative although limited to only one brand and maybe 1 or 2 models.
Take care. Alec
Good points. Thanks, Alec.
Hi Alec, thanks for the video.. Just a short question this time. Did you ever get tired of the siren in the shop? Seems to me it could get really annoying like it creep under you skin ........damn see what I mean he he ;)
That bell means just one thing to me Tom - customer!
Now I get to make another diver happy!
Cool, and you do this with so much grace they be sure to ring that bell twice :)
Yeh! It's motion activated as they walk through a beam. Sometimes they take their time and it goes off and on.
I used to have a very nice, discreet bell but my staff kinda' ignored it. Not now!! It jars you awake!
Hi Alec, what are your thoughts on "Scubapro"? Great videos
In my store we used the regulators/automobiles analogy often. No one needs leather seats or automatic climate control but it sure is nice. The same with regulators. No one needs swivels, venturis or adjustable breathing but it's nice. If you have the resources (money) and desire, what the heck - get the sunroof too!!!
Scubapro is best compared to Mercedes Benz. Very high quality, the most stringent testing in the market and the nicest fit and finish. Their regulators certainly perform well but others do the same job for less money. The Scubapro Warranty ued to be the best - Lifetime & Lifetime Free Parts, but now that only applies if you buy a complete set from them - reg/octo/BC/computer. A lot of money and your choices are restricted
However, after all, I've used, sold and serviced Scubapro for many years and they are great products.
Thanks for watching. Alec
Okay cheers mate, keep up the great videos
Keven 9:48
I think he went outside for some relief from my long-winded talk!
Alec
wow 5 k subs 46 likes thous numbers don't add up
I guess most people just sign up. I have to believe that a subscription is a like!
Thanks for watching. Alec
So if you're buying budget gear, it becomes a throw away? When I can purchase a new recently discontinued regulator that was $450 (or more) originally and it's $150 now. What's the sense to have it serviced? Do you understand where I'm going with this? It would cost more to service than to just buy the next discontinued Reg... Obviously the warranty is void because it was purchased online or maybe not from a authorized dealer...
(I'm referring to $150 in parts plus labor)
Budget gear is not necessarily throw-away. ALL regulators are built to exacting standards of quality and performance and ALL will give many years of good service, if maintained.
However, I do see your point and if you can buy a new or almost new regulator for under $200 or so, it may not be worth it to service an older model. I am a fan of taking care of regulators and of servicing older models rather than buying new but, your point is well-taken.
Don't be too concerned about the warranty. That's a marketing tool mainly and of little practical use to the diver.
Good luck.
Alec
I get what you're saying, and obviously not all regulators cost $150 for service kits, I have seen some under $10. I'm nostalgic, so I would keep the old stuff working too..😁 Keep up the great videos!
Rich that is what I've been doing. buying $500 reg for $150 new old stock and using them 2+ years, then using them as backup or around the pool for kids, and getting a "new" one for the cost it would have been to service the 'old' one. As long as I can find those for cheap, and given cost to service them high I might do that...