How to Use Underwater Metal Detectors in Florida

Select a metal detector suited for the environment. Pulse detectors---not affected by wet salt sand and ground minerals---are ideal for Florida's saltwater beaches. Low-frequency motion detectors offer better capability to sort through trash and locate metal and items of value but are affected by ground mineralization common in Cocoa Beach and other scenic areas.

Check the depth rating. If you plan to dive or snorkel, the depth rating gives an indication of how deep beneath the surface your detector can be used without sacrificing accuracy.

Gather the essentials. A day on the beach necessitates a carry bag to protect your detector, a sifter to scoop through sand and a small tool called a trowel made for underwater digging. Waterproof headphones allow you to hear clearly when a deep target is located and block out external noises.

Protect your ears. While the volume level on your underwater detector will likely be factory set to avoid discomfort, the loud surf atmosphere so common in Florida locales may warrant resetting the volume to reduce your risk of ear damage.

Match the frequency to your target. Before setting the frequency control, test the detector on the type of treasure you hope to locate. The wrong frequency setting could result in a missed signal when passing over thin objects such as rings and coins.

Search in a steady manner. Underwater pulse detectors achieve maximum results when the search-head of the detector scans slowly from side to side on the sandy bottom.

Flush the outside. After a day of treasure hunting in Florida's saltwater or sand environments, use clean water---never detergent---to flush the detector's exterior parts. Leftover sand or silt can do permanent damage. If saltwater has seeped through the detector's control box, the cover should be removed and thoroughly dried to avoid corrosion.