Guitarcrazy
Contributor
Hello. I have been using a TG-5 and housing with two video lights for a few years and I wanted to get a strobe to further improve my photos. After speaking to several knowledgeable people I decided to go with one YS-01 first, and then get another strobe later on. I went to Cozumel this past week, excited to see how the strobe would perform. I put new lithium batteries in, closed and locked the battery door, and then took it on my first dive. The first dive of the day the strobe worked fine. After a surface interval, I grabbed my camera, checked everything, and then descended. About 10 minutes into the dive the strobe stopped working. I assumed the battery must be dead, thinking it strange that it didn't last through 2 dives.
Upon returning to the hotel I opened the battery compartment to change the battery and the strobe made a loud pop sound and there was the sound of rushing air leaving the strobe. I was shocked to find water in the strobe and the batteries already ruined. I emptied the strobe and wiped out as much gunk as I could. I contacted the store where I purchased it and they said that I was basically out of luck as they did not think the warranty would cover it.
I am very disappointed to see this happen, especially on the first use. The door was closed and the indicator was in the lock position. If it were not locked, I would not expect it to release so much pressure when I later opened it. Is the Sea and Sea known for being touchy with the seal? I hate to spend another $400 on a strobe after this experience. I have been using my camera, housing, and video lights for the past 3 years and have never had a flooding issue. The shop said that Sea and Sea may be able to refurbish the light, but at my expense. Frustrated to say the least.
Upon returning to the hotel I opened the battery compartment to change the battery and the strobe made a loud pop sound and there was the sound of rushing air leaving the strobe. I was shocked to find water in the strobe and the batteries already ruined. I emptied the strobe and wiped out as much gunk as I could. I contacted the store where I purchased it and they said that I was basically out of luck as they did not think the warranty would cover it.
I am very disappointed to see this happen, especially on the first use. The door was closed and the indicator was in the lock position. If it were not locked, I would not expect it to release so much pressure when I later opened it. Is the Sea and Sea known for being touchy with the seal? I hate to spend another $400 on a strobe after this experience. I have been using my camera, housing, and video lights for the past 3 years and have never had a flooding issue. The shop said that Sea and Sea may be able to refurbish the light, but at my expense. Frustrated to say the least.