Camera Housing Maintenance

Equipment maintenance is by far the least enjoyable part of underwater photography; it is however, the most important. Above water cameras require little maintenance to ensure years of trouble free service. Underwater cameras require constant maintenance, or the result can quickly create an expensive ornament.

When a camera housing floods and the electronics come into contact with saltwater the camera is ruined. The expense of repairing the camera is often greater than the cost of replacing it.

Often the only maintenance required by the individual is to thoroughly wash the equipment after diving and to regrease the o-rings. Beginners will often over grease o-rings, in the hope that it will seal the system better. This leads to a greasy mess that attracts hair, sand and other matter.

Yearly servicing by an authorised repair agent is essential. This includes ports and strobes.

TIPS

Test your housing before using for the first time. Take it for a dive without a camera in the housing. Something may have broken or moved in freighting the housing.

The o-ring does the sealing not the silicone grease so use it sparingly.

Use only Silicone grease recommended by the manufacturer.

Never use a pointed or sharp object to remove the o-ring. Remove the o-ring by pushing a section of it between your fingers.

Thoroughly wash camera equipment in fresh warm water, to remove salt and prevent corrosion.

Ensure the housing is completely dry before opening it.

Open the housing with the rear door facing down to prevent any residual water dripping into internal components.

Never leave equipment in full sunlight, if no shade is available cover with a towel.

Double and triple check all fittings, connections, clamps, o-rings etc before each dive. If possible check the main o-ring has sealed to a clear black band around the housing.

Always carry a small tool kit with essential equipment, including o-rings, silicone grease, screwdrivers, spare batteries and anything else you may need.

Remove all batteries whenever equipment is not in use.

Never lend your equipment, it can be a substantial investment, and no one will care for your gear like you do.