While accidents do happen, there are some very simple habits you can form to better use and conserve air on your dives.
5 Tips on How to Conserve Air on while Scuba Diving
Always check your equipment. This should be a no-brainer, no matter how many dives you have been on. Your air cylinders, hoses, and valves are your life-support in the watery deep; pay the utmost attention to their condition and have servicing performed by professionals to ensure there are no leaks or abnormalities that could cause issues with your air.
Seriously, adopt a more deliberate way of doing things underwater, and you'll save yourself plenty of air. Don't hold your breath or breathe erratically, as your body will not absorb enough oxygen into your bloodstream. Remember, this is not a race, and that by moving slowly, you conserve energy, and you will conserve air.
Practice buoyancy control. Being able to control your buoyancy will go a long way to conserve air. Keep in mind that buoyancy control may be practiced without adding to or releasing air from your BCD. Changes in depth of 4 - 5 feet can be accomplished by using your biological BCD -- your lungs! Buoyancy control is a very important aspect of conserving energy and air
Don't fight nature. Plan your dives around natural currents and other environmental conditions, and try to avoid fighting them. This will only cost you precious energy, which uses up more air.
Use the right gear. In order to be more streamlined, you want to make sure you have the SCUBA gear that is appropriate for your frame. Keep accessories tucked away where they are easily reached, but not creating drag. Be sure your fins are a good fit, and that they suit the type of dive you are doing. This will help to reduce the resistance you face underwater.
How do you conserve air while SCUBA diving?
Photos via leafbug, Serge Melki