On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
No circulation, poor temperature control, or flow-related alarms caused by hose issues, low fluid, air in system, or external restrictions.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the device from active patient use and transition to an alternate warming method.
- Expected: No patient connected during troubleshooting.
Verify Reported Issue
- Confirm symptoms such as no temperature change, flow alarms, or lack of hose vibration.
- Expected: Unit powered but not circulating properly.
- Why it matters: Confirms true flow issue vs temperature or sensor problem.
Power Cycle the Unit
- Turn the unit off, wait 10–15 seconds, then power it back on.
- Expected: Pump resumes normal operation if issue was temporary.
- If flow returns → issue resolved.
Check Water Level / Reservoir
- Inspect the water level and refill if low using approved fluid.
- Expected: Proper fill level within indicated range.
- Why it matters: Low fluid prevents proper circulation and can cause pump cavitation.
- If refilled and flow returns → issue resolved.
Inspect Hose Connections
- Ensure supply and return hoses are fully connected and securely locked into the unit and blanket.
- Expected: Firm connections with no looseness or partial engagement.
- If loose → reconnect and retest.
Check for Kinks or Obstructions
- Trace the entire hose and blanket tubing for kinks, compression, or blockage.
- Expected: Free-flowing tubing with no restrictions.
- Why it matters: Any restriction will stop or reduce water flow.
- If corrected and flow resumes → issue resolved.
Inspect Blanket / Pad Condition
- Check for folds, patient weight compression, or internal blockage within the blanket.
- Expected: Even surface with no excessive pressure points.
- If repositioned and flow improves → issue resolved.
Check for Air in the System
- Listen for gurgling sounds or inconsistent flow.
- Run the unit briefly to allow air to purge if applicable.
- Why it matters: Air pockets can interrupt circulation and mimic pump failure.
- If flow stabilizes → issue resolved.
Verify Temperature Mode and Operation
- Ensure the unit is actively running in heating or cooling mode and not idle.
- Expected: Pump engages when therapy is active.
- If mode corrected and flow starts → issue resolved.
Listen for Pump Operation
- Listen for motor/pump sound or feel for vibration at the unit.
- Expected: Audible or tactile indication of pump running.
- If no pump activity despite proper setup → proceed to escalation.
If the Problem Persists
All common external causes have been ruled out. The issue is likely due to internal pump failure, motor control fault, or internal blockage.
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and aligns with proper Clinical Engineering troubleshooting practices.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt to troubleshoot circulation issues while the device is connected to a patient. Always transfer the patient to another warming method first.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Unit reported no warming and possible flow alarm during use."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Kinked hose restricting water circulation."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Straightened hose and verified normal flow and temperature recovery."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Water level verified
- Hose condition and routing checked
- Presence of kinks or compression
- Pump sound or vibration noted
- Alarm messages (if any)
- Evidence of air in system (gurgling)
- Final device status (working or removed)
Final Thought
Effective troubleshooting starts with simple, visible causes like fluid level and hose condition before assuming internal failure. Maintaining flow is critical for safe patient warming, and recognizing when to escalate protects both the patient and equipment.
That is successful troubleshooting.