Scuba diving is an exciting and adventurous activity that many people enjoy. However, divers are always looking for ways to stay underwater longer and explore more of the underwater world. One way to do this is by diving with enriched air nitrox. In this essay, I will discuss why nitrox is beneficial to divers and why they should consider taking the PADI Enriched Air Diver course.

Nitrox, or enriched air, is a type of breathing gas that has a higher concentration of oxygen and a lower concentration of nitrogen than regular air. When diving with nitrox, the reduced nitrogen levels in the breathing gas means that divers can stay underwater longer and have shorter surface intervals between dives, compared to diving with regular air. This is because nitrogen is the gas that causes decompression sickness, and with less nitrogen in the gas, there is less risk of decompression sickness.

The PADI Enriched Air Diver course is designed to teach divers how to safely and effectively use enriched air nitrox. The academic portion of the course covers topics such as managing oxygen exposure, analyzing the oxygen content in your tank, and setting your dive computer for diving with nitrox. The practical portion of the course includes two optional (or required) dives where you will use nitrox to extend your bottom time and experience the benefits of diving with this gas.

One of the benefits of taking the PADI Enriched Air Diver course is that you will learn how to properly use and maintain the equipment needed for nitrox diving. While most modern scuba equipment and dive computers can be used with nitrox, scuba tanks must meet oxygen service standards and be dedicated for use with enriched air. Your instructor will also teach you how to use oxygen analyzers and special cylinder decals.

Another advantage of taking the PADI Enriched Air Diver course is that it may qualify for college credit in some regions. This can be a great way to further your education while pursuing your passion for scuba diving.

In conclusion, diving with enriched air nitrox can provide divers with longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals, making for a more enjoyable and efficient diving experience. The PADI Enriched Air Diver course is designed to teach divers how to safely and effectively use enriched air nitrox, as well as properly maintain the equipment needed for nitrox diving. By taking this course, divers can expand their knowledge and skills, while also extending their underwater adventures.