Is Nitrox Worth It?

Short answer: for most recreational divers, yes. Nitrox is easy to learn, cheap to fill, and it helps on repeat dives.

Here's what it is and what it isn't.

What is nitrox?

Regular air is about 21% oxygen. Nitrox has more, often 32% or 36%. That means less nitrogen in what you breathe.

Why divers like it

Less nitrogen means your body takes on less of it during a dive. For many divers that means longer time at depth before you hit your limits. It can also mean shorter waits between dives on a multi-dive day.

That's a big deal on trips where you dive several times a day.

What nitrox doesn't do

It doesn't let you go deeper. The extra oxygen sets a shallower depth limit than air.
It isn't a way to skip your training. You need a nitrox certification to use it.
It doesn't mean you can ignore your dive computer. You'll set it for your mix.

What does a nitrox fill cost?

At Woodlands Dive Center, an 80 cubic foot tank costs:

$15 for 32%
$17 for 36%
$20 for 40%

A 100 cubic foot tank costs $18, $20 and $23 for the same mixes. See the full details on our nitrox fills page.

How do I get certified?

The nitrox course is short. You learn how to analyze your tank, plan your dive for the mix and stay inside your limits. Find it on our Nitrox Diver course page.

Good news if you're new: Nitrox is free when you sign up for Open Water Diver. Details are on the combo class page.

Bottom line

If you dive often, or you're heading on a multi-dive trip, nitrox is worth having. Call us at (281) 367-6664 if you want help deciding.