Hi,
I'm hoping someone may be able to help with some questions.
I recently bought a new SUP which I have only surfed 3 times in small waves, and I've noticed on a couple of occasions that the valve seems to be emitting air when I'm in the water. Air Temperature was approx 10 - 12C and water was probably a bit warmer say 16 - 18.
I've also noticed that the deck has become depressed in the area where I stand/kneel to paddle.
Does this indicate a faulty valve? I would expect to see bubbles on a hot day.
Is it likely that the two items are related?
Hillsy
No matter what board you buy kneeling will depress the deck .I don't know what brand you have but if your valve is bleeding air something is going on inside .I'm guessing it's a cheap board.
You're right,
It's not a topflight board but still what I thought was a reputable brand, lucky I got it super cheap as a runout.
Is there anything that can be done with the leaky valve? Or better to leave it alone?
Hillsy
Is the valve black (gortex)? If so, it may be ok as they equalise air without letting water in.
I would weigh it straight away and check if it has gained weight. If so... you are in for some headaches - many forum posts here that deal with that issue.
If it is a goretex vent, bubbles are normal: the vent let through air but not water.
www.gore.com/products/gore-protective-vents-for-lighting-enclosures#section38851
Be warned that goretex vents (wide, plastic, black or gray) can break easily when trying to unscrew them (to check them: no need to unscrew them ever normally).
Be careful to always grip both the body (green arrow) and cap (red arrow) with the tool. If you turn only the cap it will break.