When running a life sciences lab, you know how critical it is to keep your laboratory washing equipment functioning smoothly. This equipment ensures that your experiments run effectively without the risk of cross-contamination and skewed research data.

The benefits of regular maintenance don’t end here.

It lowers the risk of an unplanned downtime, which can derail your research and put a dent in your budget. Washing equipment is very expensive – keeping it in excellent shape saves you from unnecessary re-purchases or repairs.

In this quick guide, we’ll give you a walkthrough of maintaining your laboratory washing equipment.

 

Regular Cleaning (Before and After Use)

Think of regular cleaning as your first line of defense against cross-contamination and debris buildup in your laboratory washing equipment. Any chemical or biological residue left in your equipment, whether it’s animal cage and rack washers or laboratory glassware washers, can lead to cross-contamination and ruin your samples.

A regular cleaning routine keeps your equipment free of unwanted residue and ready for the next cycle. While this routine may change depending on your specific needs, it typically involves:

• Before Use: Wipe down the exterior surfaces, including the control panel, to remove dust or spills. Check the interior for any leftover debris and remove it.
• After Use: Run an empty cycle with hot water to flush out residues. For thorough cleaning, use a recommended cleaning agent and run a short cycle.
• Weekly: Deep clean the entire equipment every week. Remove and clean filters, nozzles, and gaskets. Inspect these parts for wear or damage and replace them if necessary.

When cleaning your laboratory washing equipment, use the appropriate cleaning agents and chemical disinfectants, especially for washers that handle hazardous bio-waste or materials. Stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines when selecting cleaning products for your equipment.

 

Monthly Inspections

Monthly inspections can help you identify potential wear and tear – helping you avoid large, costly problems like extensive repairs or replacements.

Here’s a checklist for monthly inspections:

• Check the seals and gaskets for cracks or wear that could lead to leaks. Replace the damaged seals and gaskets immediately.
• Inspect the filters and drains to ensure they are not clogged with debris, as this can reduce efficiency and lead to malfunctions.
• Make sure the wash arms and nozzles are clean and working smoothly.
• Check the electrical components for loose connections and corrosion on wiring and plugs.
• Review temperature and pressure settings.

During your monthly inspections, you should lubricate moving parts with manufacturer-recommended lubricants to reduce friction and wear. Additionally, securing loose screws, bolts, or other fasteners can prevent vibrations that could damage your equipment.

 

Professional Calibration

Professional calibration ensures your laboratory washing equipment operates at the correct temperature, pressure, and timing. If not, it may lead to contamination.

The frequency of calibration depends on the type of equipment and its usage. Typically, it is advisable to calibrate your equipment professionally at least once a year. However, frequent calibrations may be necessary if you run more cycles or use it for sensitive processes.

When you call a professional for calibration, here’s how you can prepare:

• Clean the equipment thoroughly because any biological or chemical residue might affect calibration accuracy.
• Have all previous calibration records ready.
• If you have any concerns or issues, discuss them with the technician so they can address them during the calibration process.

During calibration, the technician will measure and adjust the equipment’s settings. They will check temperature sensors, pressure gauges, and other parts to ensure they meet the required specifications.

After calibration, you should receive a detailed report confirming that your laboratory washing equipment is good to go.

 

Replace and Repair Damaged Parts

While all laboratory washing equipment is built to last, some parts are more prone to wear and may require periodic replacement. These include seals, gaskets, filters, nozzles, and wash arms. Repairing or replacing these parts regularly keeps your equipment functioning as intended.

When you check your equipment, look for:

• Leaks and drips – these often indicate damaged seals and gaskets.
• Unusual noises – which might suggest issues with the motor, bearings, or other moving parts.
• Decreased washing efficiency – it could be a sign of clogged or damaged nozzles or wash arms.
• Frequent error codes – which often indicate a problem with electronic sensors.

When you identify a damaged part, order a replacement directly from the manufacturer or an authorized distributor. Most manufacturers, including BetterBuilt, offer part numbers in the equipment’s manual, which simplifies the ordering process. When replacing parts, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the equipment. If you’re unsure, hire a professional to guide you through the process.

 

Documentation

Whether you have off-the-shelf or customizable washing systems, the importance of documentation cannot be stressed enough. Detailed documentation helps you identify patterns of damage and wear and resolve potential issues immediately to prevent costly breakdowns. Also, well-maintained records help you comply with stringent regulations.

When setting up your documentation process:

• Create a Standard Format: Use a logbook or digital system to record each maintenance activity. Typically, it should include details like the date, type of maintenance performed, parts replaced or repaired, and the technician’s name.
• Keep Calibration Records: Recording calibration activities is equally important. Like regular maintenance, this includes noting the date, results, adjustments made, and the technician’s name.
• Regular Updates: Be sure your logbook or digital system gets updated immediately after each maintenance or calibration. This will keep your records accurate and current, helping you troubleshoot problems quickly and effectively in the future.

 

For Customizable Washing Systems, Contact BetterBuilt

Don’t wait for a breakdown to start caring for your laboratory washing equipment. Follow the steps outlined in this quick guide today to extend the lifespan of your equipment, prevent costly breakdowns, and maintain your research quality.

For new customized washing systems, BetterBuilt is here to help. For over 70 years, we’ve been manufacturing high-quality washers for animal and life sciences research facilities. Our equipment will help to improve your facility’s efficiency and streamline your operation.

Contact us today to place your order or learn more about our products.