FAQ

General

1. How do these 12 Volt Diving systems work?
2. Where does PowerDive carry its air supply?
3. How safe is it to use?
4. What comes with the Powerdive unit?
5. Why should I invest in a PowerDive unit instead of Scuba?

Diving with PowerDive

6. How long can you go diving with PowerDive?
7. Why is there a depth limit for PowerDive units?
8. What happens when you reach the maximum depth?
9. What about diving with your mate?
10. How much hose comes with each unit?
11. Can I extend the hoses?
12. How much extension hose can I put on the DeckSnorkel units?
13. Why do I need a weight belt?
14. How many weights will I need?

Batteries/Power Source

15. How do you know when the battery is running out of power?
16. What sort of power is required to run the Powerdive units?
17. Do the machines come with batteries?
18. How does the PowerDive Unit connect to the boats battery?

Technical

19. What type of compressor is it?
20. What filters are used on PowerDive units?
21. At what pressure does it operate?

General

Q1: How do these 12 Volt Diving systems work?

A: The PowerDive range of 12 Volt operated products utilises either a small, but highly efficient, 12 Volt operated 'oil-less diaphragm' or 'oil-less carbon sleeve piston' air compressor and a combination of diving components to provide a realistic and safe alternative to traditional diving equipment, such as Scuba. There are three different types of 12 Volt units. The 'DeckSnorkel', the '"Double DeckSnorkel' and the 'ExtremeSnorkel' all remain on your boat, powered by the boat's battery and are perfect for underwater boat maintenance (they can also be used for fun diving out of a dinghy or inflatable).The PowerSnorkel floats on the surface, powered by its’ own internal rechargeable battery and is designed mainly for recreational diving.

The SuperSnorkel range of Petrol (Gasoline) Hookah systems for deeper diving use “wobl” piston technology. These units are deck models designed for depths between 30 and 40 metres.

Q2: Where does PowerDive carry its’ air supply?

A: That's what makes it so revolutionary and versatile. As PowerDive has its own mini air compressor, it draws in fresh air from the surface and then compresses it inside the unit. The compressed air is then stored in an air reservoir to supply the diver. All the equipment needed to breathe underwater is on the surface, which means you don't have to wear any bulky equipment, making your dives really enjoyable.

Q3: How safe is it to use?

A: PowerDive's depth limitation on its smaller units is designed to keep the diver off the Dive Tables! This means that a PoweDiver can safely dive for long periods without having to worry about the dangers of decompression sickness (more commonly known as the bends!). This makes it great for family and friends to enjoy over and over again. This applies specifically to our diaphragm models.

The ExtremeSnorkel and the SuperSnorkel are easily capable of getting you onto the Dive Tables. We therefore strongly recommend all divers using the Extreme or SuperSnorkel be scuba or hookah qualified, and comply to the recreational Dive Tables for their own safety. Extended dive times at depths past 6m, may mean the use of Dive Tables is necessary. Maximum recommended time at 10m is 90 minutes.

Q4: What comes with the Powerdive unit?

A: All PowerDive units come complete, ready to dive. All you need to supply is your mask, fins and weight belt. We supply the PowerDive unit, hoses, regs, reservoir, dive bag, dive flag and lanolin spray for all units. A battery and trickle charger for the PowerSnorkel unit only. We also have available, quality masks, fins, boots, weight belts etc at fantastic prices!

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Q5: Why should I invest in a PowerDive Unit instead of Scuba?

A: PowerDive units work out at around half the price of Scuba gear. You don't have to hire or buy tanks, pay for tank fills, cart them to the boat, lift them on board, find a place to safely stow them, lift them on to your back, run out of air and then do all of the above in reverse. But, most importantly, PowerDiving removes the intimidation felt by many people when they think they will have to strap a heavy tank to their back. One of the most common expressions we hear from people is "Oh, that's just like snorkeling, I'd love to try that!" It's simple, easy to master, safe and great fun! PowerDive Units are light, compact and easy to store on your boat.

Diving with PowerDive

Q6: How long can you go diving with PowerDive?

A: The answer depends on which model you invest in. The self-contained battery in the PowerSnorkel unit will run for approx 60-70mins when fully charged. Larger batteries are now available to add approximately 40 minutes to your dive. The deck models run from the 12 Volt system on your boat or a battery placed in your dinghy. From a normal marine battery (approx 100 amp/hour), you would expect 4 hrs diving from a Double DeckSnorkel and approx 8 hrs from a DeckSnorkel. This means you and your friends can dive virtually all day. However, when operating from your boats battery, care should be taken to isolate the battery attached to your PowerDive unit so as not to flatten your starting batteries.

Q7: Why is there a depth limit for PowerDive units?

A: The depth is limited by the capacity of the compressor unit. It can only pump air down to a depth where the ambient pressure is the same or slightly less than the pump pressure. Also the pump has a volumetric maximum capacity. The ExtremeSnorkel or SuperSnorkel can achieve much greater depths than the diaphragm models. Spare air is highly recommended with the ExtremeSnorkel or SuperSnorkel, as it is possible to get onto the Dive Tables with the larger units.

Q8: What happens when you reach the maximum depth?

A: As you approach the maximum depth for the particular model, it will become more and more difficult to draw on the regulator. This is telling you that you approaching the pumps maximum pressure and/or volume. This depth varies significantly between divers due to fitness, exertion level, water temperature, breathing technique and diving experience. With practice, it is possible to get greater than the advertised depths, but care should be taken not to over-do it. Your maximum depth will be determined by the level you reach before it starts getting uncomfortable to breathe on the regulator. You should ascend a metre or two, if you reach this point.

Q9: What about diving with your mate?

A: For diving couples and families, the double-person PowerSnorkel offers it all. This compact machine is designed for two divers to use down to 6m (20 ft) maximum or one diver to 12m (38 ft) maximum. This system is all you need for a holiday or that diving weekend away. All PowerDive units, other than the single DeckSnorkel, are capable of providing air for two divers. Diving with a buddy is really important. Not only should you always dive with someone else (for safety) but you should always advise a responsible person where you are going diving and when you will be back. PowerDiving with a Buddy is also much for fun. It’s a bit like the difference between going on holidays with a friend or by yourself.

Q10: How much hose comes with each unit?

A: The DeckSnorkel comes with 14.5m of hose (6m from machine to air reservoir and 8.5m from reservoir to the diver).

The Double DeckSnorkel has 24m of hose, but this is effectively 18m from the unit to the two divers as the last two 6m hoses are in parallel from a y-block. This configuration allows either diver to 12m metres in depth or each diver to be 12m apart. Both divers cannot go to 12m depth at the one time, due to pump capacity, but each diver should be able to achieve 6m at the same time.

The PowerSnorkel hoses are the same as the Double DeckSnorkel, except there is only a short (1m) hose from the float assembly to the air reservoir. You want the shortest possible hoses on the floating unit, to keep the PowerSnorkel floating close to you.
The ExtremeSnorkel and SuperSnorkel come with long approximately 45m of hose, but you can virtually add as much hose as you like to these units to increase your distance from the boat.

Q11: Can I extend the hoses?

A: Yes, all units can run longer hoses to gain distance from the boat or operating position. Extension hoses will not increase the depth capabilities of the units, but will add distance from the vessel. This is very useful when you can't anchor right over the top of the dive site.

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Q12: How much extension hose can I put on the DeckSnorkel units.

A: The distance is virtually limitless, but we don't suggest any more than about 100m. This has nothing to do with airflow, simply it's a lot of hose in the water. Extreme care needs to be taken when running long hoses, particularly where there is other boat traffic. We also recommend using multiples of 25m hoses, as they are much easier to handle than a 100m hose.

Q13: Why do I need a weight belt?

A: As a general rule the human body tends to float. The more extra padding we carry, the more we float. As PowerDive units do not require Buoyancy Compensating Devices (BCD's), it is important to set your weights correctly for neutral buoyancy. Once you have done this, you can virtually forget about adjusting buoyancy at the depths we dive. If you do need to come to the surface in a hurry (remember NEVER HOLD YOUR BREATH) you can dump the weight belt, if you feel you need to. However, if you have received proper training and abide by diving rules, you should virtually never need to do this.
Don't forget to have a look at our pocket weight belts on the Dive Gear page. Once you've used one you'll never use a standard weight belt again.

Q14: How many weights will I need?

A: This really depends on how 'floaty' you are. As general rule, an average sized person will need 2-3 standard 3lb (1.5kg) weights when wearing swimmers, and should add a further 2-3 weights when wearing a wetsuit. PowerDive courses and the Owners Manual, will show you how best to work out how many weights you use. If you use too few weights, you will float and find it difficult and tiring trying to descend.

Batteries/Power Source

Q15: How do you know when the battery is running out of power?

A: As the battery gets towards the end of its charge, the pump starts to gradually slow and you will feel a drop of pressure at the regulator, requiring you to draw on it harder. As you are breathing off the air reservoir and not the compressor, this happens quite subtly but, at this point, you should start to surface and finish your dive. This will also look after your battery by not completely exhausting its’ charge. Generally this period of time lasts approximately 15minutes, but can be quicker.

Q16: What sort of power is required to run the Powerdive units?

A: The compressors in each model is designed to run on 12 Volts DC. Listed below are some recommended methods of powering the PowerDive 12 Volt Diving Systems.
When performing underwater boat maintenance, direct connection to the boat's batteries is the most common form of power supply. Each DeckSnorkel, Double DeckSnorkel and ExtremeSnorkel comes with a set of 'alligator clips' to connect directly to your battery terminals. We also recommend our optional three piece Bulgin (waterproof electrical connection set) for ease of use.
The PowerSnorkel has its own internal AGM battery which allows 55-70 minutes of diving (now also available in 90-110 minute batteries). Connection to your boat's battery (*optional power lead required) is also possible. NB: If being used as a deck model, the PowerSnorkel must be operated without floatation bucket to avoid over-heating. It is recommended that a permanent 12 Volt plug is installed. Please contact us regarding our range of quality water-proof plugs for this purpose.
As all PowerDive models function from any 12 Volt power supply, virtually any type of 12 Volt battery can be used. To avoid accidental acid spillage, we recommend the use of 'dry cell' batteries which make these units very safe to use. PowerDives’ Absorbed Power AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries are highly recommended.
PowerDives’ 12 volt rechargeable battery can be recharged from many 12 Volt DC power supplies or, if you have a second battery, replaced and ready to use again in minutes. On your boat, the PowerDive batteries are so small, there's no need to waste valuable deck space on bulky empty air tanks! For quick charging times, PowerDives’ quality Absorbed Power AGM batteries are exceptional. They can be recharged directly from your boat's or vehicle's generator in around 60 minutes*. Alternatively, the batteries can be trickle charged in 3 to 5 hours. Our recommended batteries can be easily recharged from: boat / vehicle alternators, 240 Volt battery chargers, wind generators, solar panels and even car cigarette lighters!

*Time quoted from manufacturer's Users Manual: charging current 30 Amps, 14.2 Volts.
It is recommended to charge AGM batteries at 15+ amps. Repeated trickle charging will damage the battery. See our battery charging section for more information.

Q17: Do the machines come with batteries?

A: The PowerSnorkel is supplied with one 35 A/H AGM battery (or optional 55 A/H) and connection lead. Most customers invest in a second battery and lead, so they can keep diving while the first battery is on charge. Some PowerSnorkel owners have 3-4 batteries for a full days diving with friends. Ask us about a special deal for multiple batteries and larger batteries.
The DeckSnorkel, Double DeckSnorkel and ExtremeSnorksl units do not come with batteries as they are designed to run from your boat's battery. Having said that, many of our clients have the need for separate batteries to run the units from their dinghy, off the dock, in their swimming pool etc. They normally invest in one or two of our Absorbed Glass Matt batteries and carry bags to run their machines in these locations. The DeckSnorkel units can be run from any type of 12 Volt battery, but we strongly recommend fully sealed Absorbed Power batteries to avoid acid spillage. We can suggest (and supply) the right battery configuration for your diving purposes, as well as fully set-up your boat with the best battery technology around at half the price of the well-known AGM batteries.

Q18: How does the PowerDive Unit connect to the boats battery?

A: The DeckSnorkel units are supplied (and fitted) with quality stainless steel Alligator Clips. These clips work very well for connecting directly to any 12 Volt battery, but we recommend fitting a proper screw-tightened plug and bulkhead fitting to your boat to make a secure connection. We use and recommend Bulgin water resistant screw type plugs and fittings. A set of three is available including, male plug for the unit, female flush-mount bulkhead fitting and lastly a female socket connected to a short lead with alligator clips, to use when attaching to any battery (say in your dinghy or on your mates' boat). The full set costs approx $90, but is worth every cent for the convenience and safety it provides.

Technical

Q19: What type of compressor is it?

A: The smaller PowerDive units use either single or double oil-less diaphragm compressor units. The compressors are built to our own specifications (specifically for diving and salt water applications) by one of the largest pump manufacturers in the World. They have an expected duty life (before overhaul) of approx 3,000-5,000 hours.
The ExtremeSnorkel uses a carbon-sleeved V-twin piston pump and the SuperSnorkel uses wobl-piston technology to provide higher pressures and volumes for deeper diving or more divers on one unit.
All PowerDive pumps are oil-less, meaning there is nothing in the pump that can contaminate your breathing air, and post-pump filters are not needed.

Q20: What filters are used on PowerDive Units?

A: As all PowerDive Units are oil-less pumps, there is no need for carbon filters, because there is nothing in the compressor that can contaminate the airflow. The golden rule with all Hookah systems is: "do not run them anywhere near exhaust fumes." There is virtually nothing available, in the market, that will remove Carbon Monoxide from air. We use simple foam particle filters to protect the compressor from sand and dirt ingestion. There is NO NEED to buy expensive filters or constantly change costly cartridges with PowerDive units.

Q21: What pressure does it work at?

A: The diaphragm models work at approx 18psi or 125kpa. This is very low pressure compared to Scuba or gasoline driven hookah systems. 18psi is sufficient to allow the divers to the advertised maximum depths of all of our models, whilst keeping the current draw to a minimum.
The ExtremeSnorkel runs at approximately 55 psi and the SuperSnorkel at 100 psi, for much greater depth capabilities.