Technical Tip: Carabiner Care

Carabiner Care:  

If you notice the gate of a carabiner is not functioning PERFECTLY, we recommend you remove the carabiner from service and perform the following procedures until function of the carabiner is restored to 100%.  IF you are NOT able to restore the carabiner to 100% function, it is time to permanently retire the unit from service.

1. Try to blow any debris out of the hinge area, and the locking mechanism on the barrel of the gate. In the field, a quick puff of air from the mouth or preferably, with a straw or a part of a pen if available to concentrate the stream of air into the hidden areas. Alternatively a can of compressed air with a fine tube works well for this (computer keyboard cleaner) and if available, a compressor equipped with a fine nozzle will deliver the best results.
   • Blow in both directions. Then tap the carabiner gently on a hard surface. You may see some of the debris work its way loose.
   • Check carabiner for proper functioning. If carabiner is still not functioning PERFECTLY, continue to step 2.
2. Wash the carabiner in warm soapy water and use a stiff brush such as a toothbrush to remove any debris. Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry. (Alternatively citrus-based solvents work well – like bike cleaner)NOTE: Do NOT use harsh chemicals on the carabiner as ANY Residue can cause deterioration of the textile life safety equipment that will come into contact with this hardware. NO bleach, ammonia, acids, petroleum products or any other harsh chemicals. If it’s too harsh to put on an infant’s skin – don’t put it on your life safety equipment.
   • Check carabiner for proper functioning. If carabiner is still not functioning PERFECTLY, continue to step 3.
3. Lubricate the gate at the hinge and at both ends of the locking barrel mechanism. Dry graphite or a dry, wax-based lubricant is recommended. (There are several good bike chain lubes available – Teflon is a good addition). Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant. Oil-based lubricants are not recommended – even though they restore function briefly, they attract debris and can lead to a repeated cycle of fouling and cleaning.
   • Check carabiner for proper functioning. If carabiner is still not functioning PERFECTLY, continue to step 4.

4. If carabiner is still not functioning PERFECTLY, you may try the above steps again to try to bring it back. It would be our recommendation to retire the unit from service and replace it. Carabiner gates have small springs that will wear with use and they are not field replaceable.