Cold water octos

[dagrath]

Some dive buddies and I are going to be up at Lake Tahoe in CA in January, and we have been kicking around the idea of doing a few dives. We all have drysuits, as we dive in chilly Monterey year round. But the water and especially the ambient temperature at Tahoe is going to be much colder. There is a decent chance of hiking through snow to get into the water for instance.

In order to figure out if this is even a feasible dive without significant gear modifications, I am pouring over manuals, and trying to figure out what items really need to be extreme cold water capable. Water temperature will be about 39 degrees, and the ambient air temperature will probably be between 15 degrees and 40 degrees.

My primary regulator is definitely capable (Dive Rite Hurricane), but the octo I have doesn't list any cold water details... which I assume means it is not.
SCUBA Diving Equipment for Technical, Wreck and Cave Diving: Dive Rite, Inc - Product Catalog - RG1215 Second Stage Octo

I assume the other likely freezing failure point would be at the power inflator for my BCD? I have the new BX power inflator on my Zeagle Brigade. Anyone know if that is likely to freeze up?

[CompuDude]

Honestly, I'd strongly consider taking an ice diving course before tackling such extreme environment. They'll go over all freeze dangers with you. Having a relatively cold-compatible regulator is only part of the equation.

[dagrath]

Actually, I had planned to try and find an ice diving course if we decide to do this. I was just trying to figure out my gear options beforehand. If I have to drop hundreds of dollars on gear, and hundreds on a class as well... I probably won't bother. But if most of my gear is compatible, then the price feels more reasonable.

[CompuDude]

Originally Posted by dagrath

Actually, I had planned to try and find an ice diving course if we decide to do this. I was just trying to figure out my gear options beforehand. If I have to drop hundreds of dollars on gear, and hundreds on a class as well... I probably won't bother. But if most of my gear is compatible, then the price feels more reasonable.

FWIW, your octo is probably fine. Most inflators are, also. The most important bit is the first stage, followed by the primary secondary stage. (Octos are usually detuned so not as susceptible to freeflow.) Sounds like your primary gear is fine, so I wouldn't let that hold you back.