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What This Guide Helps With
Cycle completes with poor cleaning results or alarms due to detergent not dispensing from supply container or dosing system.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm no critical instruments are dependent on this unit.
- Expected: Backup reprocessing method available.
- Why it matters: Cleaning failure directly impacts patient safety and instrument sterility.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Run a cycle and observe for detergent-related alarms or lack of chemical draw.
- Expected: No detergent usage, alarm, or visibly unchanged detergent level.
- Why it matters: Confirms a true dosing issue vs perceived cleaning concern.
Check Detergent Supply Level
- Inspect the detergent container for adequate volume.
- Expected: Sufficient detergent present.
- Why it matters: Empty or low containers are the most common cause of dosing failure.
- If empty → replace/refill and retest.
Inspect Pickup Tube and Container Connection
- Ensure the suction tube is properly inserted into the detergent container and not kinked or disconnected.
- Expected: Tube fully submerged, no cracks or air gaps.
- Why it matters: Air leaks prevent proper suction and dosing.
- If issue found → reseat or replace tubing and retest.
Check for Blockages in Tubing
- Visually inspect tubing for buildup, crystallization, or blockage.
- Expected: Clear, flexible tubing with no restrictions.
- Why it matters: Chemical residue can harden and block flow.
- If blockage found → replace tubing and retest.
Inspect Pump Operation During Cycle
- Start a cycle and listen/observe for dosing pump activation (clicking, pulsing, or movement depending on design).
- Expected: Audible or visible pump activity during dosing phase.
- Why it matters: Confirms whether the pump is receiving command and attempting to operate.
- If no activity → possible electrical or control issue.
Check Chemical Filter (if equipped)
- Inspect inline chemical filters for clogging.
- Expected: Filter clear and allowing flow.
- Why it matters: A clogged filter restricts suction and mimics pump failure.
- If clogged → replace and retest.
Verify Correct Chemical Container Setup
- Ensure the correct detergent type is connected and container cap/vent is not sealed airtight.
- Expected: Proper chemical with vented container.
- Why it matters: Non-vented containers create vacuum lock preventing fluid draw.
Inspect for Air in Line (Loss of Prime)
- Look for air gaps or empty tubing indicating loss of prime.
- Expected: Tubing filled with detergent.
- Why it matters: Dosing pumps require primed lines to function properly.
- If air present → prime system per facility procedure and retest.
Check External Electrical Connections (if accessible)
- Verify pump wiring connections are secure (without opening internal panels).
- Expected: No loose or visibly damaged external wiring.
- Why it matters: Loose connections can prevent pump activation.
If the Problem Persists
If detergent supply, tubing, filters, and setup have been verified, the issue is likely an internal dosing pump failure or control issue.
Remove the unit from service, label Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Do not attempt internal pump repair in the field.
Clinical Use Tip
Never rely on a washer-disinfector with suspected detergent failure for patient-use instruments. Always transition to a verified working unit first.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Washer-disinfector not dispensing detergent during cycle; poor cleaning observed."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Cracked suction tubing causing air leak and loss of detergent draw."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced suction tubing, primed system, and verified proper detergent dosing during test cycle."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Detergent level verified
- Tubing condition (kinked, cracked, or clear)
- Pump noise/activity observed
- Presence of air in lines
- Filter condition
- Alarm codes (if displayed)
- Final operational status after test cycle
Final Thought
Effective troubleshooting starts with simple external checks like supply, tubing, and setup before assuming pump failure. This protects patient safety, avoids unnecessary repairs, and ensures accurate documentation of the true issue.
That is successful troubleshooting.