How to Care for your Metal Detector

19 Tips to Care for Your Metal Detector

Hey there, fellow treasure hunter! If you’re anything like me, you know the thrill of hearing that beep from your metal detector, the anticipation as you start to dig, and the joy when you uncover something that’s been hidden beneath the surface. It’s a feeling like no other, right? But, just as we invest time in learning how to use our metal detectors and researching the best places to hunt, it’s equally important to invest in taking care of our equipment.

Picture this: You’ve been planning a weekend treasure hunting trip for weeks. You’ve researched the perfect location, packed your gear, and you’re ready to hit the road. But when you reach your destination and pull out your trusty metal detector, it’s not working as it should. The screen is scratched, the coil seems less responsive, and the whole device just feels… off. Now, wouldn’t that put a damper on your adventure?

How to Select a Metal Detector
Read the full guide 👉How to Select a Metal Detector

That’s why I’ve put together this guide. I want to help you avoid such situations and ensure that your metal detector is always in tip-top shape, ready to lead you to your next exciting find. So, let’s dive in and explore some essential tips and tricks for maintaining your metal detector. Happy hunting!

1. Invest in Your Metal Detector’s Longevity

Hey there! You’ve probably spent a good chunk of your hard-earned cash on your metal detector, right? Well, it’s worth investing a little extra effort and maybe a few more dollars to keep it in tip-top shape. Remember, your detector is a precise electronic instrument that can be affected by extreme heat, cold, moisture, severe bumps, and dirt and dust.

2. Clean Your Detector Regularly

After every hunt, especially if you’ve been searching on a saltwater beach, make sure to wipe dirt and moisture off your detector. It’s a simple step, but it can make a big difference in the long run.

3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

If you’re anything like me, you never want to be caught without your detector. But leaving it in a closed car exposed to the hot sun can cause big problems. If you must keep your detector in the car, try to keep it under cover, away from direct sunlight.

4. Invest in a Rain & Dust Cover

These covers are great. They keep out light rain, dust and dirt, ocean mist, etc., and also protect the finish from scratches and dings. Keeping the finish looking good can be a big plus when it comes time to sell or trade.

5. Consider a Detector Carrying Bag

These bags are nice for temporary storage. They offer some protection from bumps and knocks, help keep out dirt and dust, and are a convenient way to transport your detector on short trips.

6. Get a Coil Cover

This is the least expensive piece of protection you can buy for your detector, but it can save you from dishing out a good chunk of change to replace a damaged coil. Every so often, the cover should be removed, and any sand or salt that could affect your detector’s performance should be cleaned out.

7. Think About a Hard Case

It offers a lot more protection than the soft case or bag. Hard cases are great for long-term storage and for traveling. Some can even be taken on an airplane as carry-on luggage.

8. Avoid Sand and Grit

Keep your metal detector and accessories away from sharp objects to prevent scratches and damage. If sand and grit accumulate in these parts, wipe clean with a damp cloth.

9. Keep it Clean

Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt, debris, or moisture. You can also use a soft rag, dish soap, warm water, and a can of WD40 to clean your metal detector. But remember, no solvents.

10. Handle with Clean Hands

If you apply sunscreen or insect repellant, wash your hands before handling your metal detector.

11. Avoid Harmful Substances

Never allow the detector to come into contact with gasoline/petrol or other petroleum-based liquids.

12. Mind the Temperature

Do not leave the detector in excessive cold or heat longer than necessary. Covering it when not in use will help protect it. Avoid leaving it in a hot vehicle.

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13. Check the Coil Cable

Ensure the coil cable is in good condition and not subject to undue stress.  Rubbing and fraying can be a heart break if your in the middle of a hunt.

14. Transport with Care

Take precautions when transporting or storing your metal detector. The display screen could be prone to scratching or serious damage if not treated with due care.

15. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Do not expose the detector to extreme temperature conditions. Check your user manual for exact temperatures.  It’s not good to use rechargeable batteries in extreme heat, they die quickly.   

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Read how to 👉 Metal Detecting in Rivers and Streams

16. Keep Away from Moisture

Do not expose accessories not listed as waterproof to liquid/moisture or excessive humidity.  I learned this the hard way with my first pin-pointer.  I dipped it in a stream thinking it was waterproof – it wasn’t.

17. Keep Away from Children

Do not allow children to play with the detector or accessories, small parts are a choking hazard.  Dropping your $1200 metal detector is a sure way to shortening it’s life.

18. Charge According to Instructions

Only charge rechargeable batteries and accessories according to the instructions provided. Avoid charging in extreme temperature conditions.

19. Remove Batteries Prior to Air Transportation

This is especially important if you’re planning to travel with your detector.  Double check that you can even fly with your batteries, some aren’t allowed.

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Nokta Ultra
Nokta Simplex ULTRA 👈 Awesome Machine!

When asked what I recommend, the 👉 Nokta Simplex Ultra stands out. Perfect for beginners, it’s waterproof, includes wireless headphones, and offers five functional modes, growing with your detecting skills.

Lesche T Handle Shovel picture
Lesche T Handle Shovel digs through everything

The next thing you need is a great shovel, believe me when I say you’ll dig more knowing you can dig FASTER. The nearly bullet proof Lesche T- Handle Shovel is the most comfortable heavy duty shovel I’ve ever used.

I love the CKG Sand Scoop for Beach Metal Detecting
I love the CKG Sand Scoop for Beach Metal Detecting

Metal Detecting and Beaches are a perfect match. To search a beach you’ve GOT TO HAVE A SAND SCOOP. CKG Sand Scoops are heavy duty and able to be used as a shovel.

Minelab Equinox 800 amazing Metal Detector
Minelab Equinox 800 amazing metal detector

If it’s time up UP YOUR GAME , get the industry standard metal detector. The Minelab Equinox 800 IS THE BEST. Okay it’s not cheap, but your finds are going to increase with this machine.

One Last Swing

In conclusion, taking care of your metal detector is just as important as using it. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can ensure your detector remains in peak working condition, ready for all your treasure hunting adventures.

Remember, a well-maintained metal detector not only performs better but also lasts longer. So, invest some time and effort into your equipment’s upkeep—it’s worth it!

Happy treasure hunting, and may your detector lead you to many exciting discoveries!


Looking for some “How To” metal detecting articles? I’ve got you covered



David-Humphries-Metal-Detecting

David Humphries, Writer and Creator of METAL DETECTING TIPS. After borrowing my son’s detector and finding $.25. I felt like a treasure hunter. FREE MONEY! I was seriously bitten by the metal detecting bug.

Read about David -> HERE

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