How to Buy a
Scuba Regulator
Your regulator. Your diving. Your setup.
Your regulator is one of the most important pieces of your dive kit. Whether you're buying your first regulator or upgrading an existing setup, we'll help you understand your options and find a configuration that makes sense for you.
How It Works
No need to know every regulator model before you walk through our door. We'll guide you through the process.
Tell Us How You Dive
Before we talk brands or models, we talk diving.
Cold or warm water · Recreational or technical · Single tank or doubles · Travel · Dive frequency · Depth · Existing equipment · Future plans
Your regulator should be matched to your diving, not simply the highest-priced option on the shelf.
Build Your Regulator
We'll help you choose the components that make up your system, from the first and second stages, SPG, hoses and accessories.
We'll make sure you get what you actually need for your setup.
Match It to Your Gear
Your regulator doesn't exist on its own.
We'll look at your BCD, tank, exposure suit, SPG, computer, transmitter, & hose routing to make sure everything works together.
The goal: a setup that's comfortable, accessible and streamlined.
We Set It Up
Once you've chosen your regulator, we'll build your complete configuration and perform an initial service before you start diving.
We'll walk you through your setup so you know what you've purchased and how everything works.
What's Included in Your Setup?
Your regulator system can be configured around your equipment, diving style and future plans.
First Stage
DIN or Yoke, port configuration and features such as environmental sealing.
Primary Second Stage
The regulator you breathe from, with options for comfort, adjustability, performance and travel.
Backup Regulator
Your alternate air source, configured around your diving and equipment.
SPG & Hoses
Everything needed to connect your regulator to your tank, BCD, drysuit and other equipment.
Make Sure It Works With Your Gear
We'll look at your complete diving system to create a configuration that makes sense underwater.
We Don't Just Hand You a Box.
Once you've chosen your regulator, we'll build your complete configuration and perform an initial service before you start diving.
We'll also explain the manufacturer's recommended service intervals and show you how to look after your regulator between service appointments.
From your initial setup to future servicing, troubleshooting and adjustments, Aquarius Scuba is here to help keep your equipment dive-ready.
Parts for Life
A regulator is a long-term investment. That's why we look beyond the purchase price and consider serviceability, replacement parts and the cost of ownership over time.
What does Parts for Life mean?
Many participating regulator manufacturers offer Parts for Life programs on eligible models. Specifically brands like Apeks, Aqualung, Mares, and Zeagle.
When program requirements are met and the regulator is serviced through an authorized service centre, qualifying replacement parts or service kits may be covered by the manufacturer.
Why does it matter?
Your regulator could be with you for years—and potentially hundreds of dives. Regular professional servicing and access to manufacturer-supported replacement parts can help keep your equipment in service for the long term.
When comparing regulator packages, ask us about Parts for Life, service intervals, replacement parts and long-term maintenance.
Program eligibility, included parts and service requirements vary by manufacturer and model.
And We're Here After the Sale
Buying your regulator is just the beginning.
We'll help you understand your manufacturer's service requirements and can take care of ongoing regulator servicing through our service department.
Our goal is simple: keep your equipment maintained, serviced and ready for your next dive.
Ready to Build Your Regulator?
You don't need to know the difference between every first stage, second stage and hose configuration before you walk through our door. Tell us how you dive. We'll help you figure out what you need.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about choosing and setting up your regulator? We've got you covered.
Do I need to buy the whole regulator system at once?
Not necessarily. Depending on your existing equipment, we can help you determine which components you need and which you can continue using.
Should I buy DIN or Yoke?
That depends on your tanks, where you dive and how you plan to use your equipment. We'll help you choose the connection that makes sense for your setup.
Do I need an environmentally sealed regulator?
If you regularly dive in cold water, environmental sealing may be an important consideration. We'll discuss your diving conditions and recommend appropriate options.
Can I use my new regulator for Lake Ontario diving?
Yes, but the regulator should be appropriate for the conditions you're diving in. Cold-water diving places different demands on equipment than warm-water diving.
Can you help me set up my regulator hoses?
Absolutely. Hose routing is an important part of creating a comfortable and streamlined setup, and we'll help configure your regulator around your equipment.
How often does a regulator need to be serviced?
Service intervals vary by manufacturer and model. We'll explain the recommended maintenance schedule for the regulator you purchase.
Can I bring in my existing equipment?
Yes! In fact, we encourage it. Seeing your existing BCD, tanks, hoses and other equipment can help us recommend a regulator configuration that works with what you already own.
What is Parts for Life?
Parts for Life is a manufacturer program available on certain eligible regulators. Depending on the manufacturer and program requirements, qualifying replacement parts may be provided at no charge when the regulator is serviced through an authorized service centre. Labour and service costs still apply. Ask us about the specific Parts for Life program available with the regulator you're considering.
Still not sure what you need? Talk to the Aquarius Scuba team and we'll help you find the right setup.
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