How does the use of EANx affect a diver’s air consumption?

Using Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx) can generally decrease a diver's air consumption due to its reduced nitrogen content compared to regular air. When divers use EANx, typically containing 32% to 40% oxygen and a reduced percentage of nitrogen, they experience a lower nitrogen loading during a dive. This change impacts how the body metabolizes oxygen and nitrogen.

Since nitrogen can contribute to the onset of nitrogen narcosis and requires more cautious management to avoid decompression sickness, lower nitrogen levels can lead to a more efficient breathing pattern. Divers often feel less fatigued and may be able to maintain longer bottom times while managing their dive profiles more comfortably. As a result, this efficiency can lead to a decrease in air consumption, allowing for more extended diving experiences without increasing the risks associated with higher levels of nitrogen in the body.

In contrast, higher nitrogen levels do not argue for improved air management; instead, they could lead to increased air consumption and potential complications during dives.