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What This Guide Helps With
Cycle fails to start, stops mid-process, or aborts due to door, supply, connection, or setup issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not troubleshoot while a scope is needed for immediate patient care
- Move to a backup AER or manual reprocessing if required
Expected: No impact to patient care during troubleshooting
Why it matters: Delays in scope availability can affect procedures
Verify the Reported Issue
- Attempt to start a cycle and observe behavior
- Note any alarms or messages
- Identify when the cycle stops (startup vs mid-cycle)
- Check if issue is consistent
Expected: Clear understanding of failure point
Why it matters: Helps narrow cause (startup condition vs process interruption)
Check Door Closure and Seal (Most Common Cause)
- Ensure door is fully closed and latched
- Inspect gasket for debris, damage, or misalignment
- Reopen and firmly close door
Expected: Door fully seals and unit recognizes closure
Why it matters: AERs will not start or will abort if proper sealing is not confirmed
Verify Water Supply and Pressure
- Ensure supply valves are open
- Check for kinks in supply lines
- Confirm facility water pressure is within normal range
Expected: No water-related alarms and proper fill during cycle
Why it matters: Insufficient water prevents cycle initiation or continuation
Check Chemical Levels and Containers
- Verify containers are not empty
- Ensure proper seating of chemical containers
- Check for expired or incorrect chemicals
Expected: Adequate chemical levels with no dosing errors
Why it matters: AER will abort if required chemicals are unavailable or not detected
Inspect Scope Connections and Channel Hookups
- Verify all channel connectors are correctly attached
- Confirm correct hookup for scope type
- Check for loose or disconnected lines
Expected: Secure and correct connections
Why it matters: Improper hookups can cause flow or leak test failures leading to abort
Check for Blockages or Flow Restrictions
- Look for kinked or obstructed tubing
- Check internal/external filters (if accessible)
- Ensure no visible debris in lines
Expected: Free flow through all channels
Why it matters: Flow errors commonly trigger mid-cycle aborts
Confirm Drain Function
- Check drain line for kinks or blockage
- Ensure facility drain is not backing up
Expected: Smooth draining with no standing water
Why it matters: Drain issues can stop the cycle mid-process
Power Cycle the Unit
- Turn unit off
- Wait 30–60 seconds
- Restart and attempt cycle again
Expected: System resets and operates normally
Why it matters: Clears minor software or sensor faults
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (sensors, valves, pumps, or control system).
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 saves time.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot or restart a disinfection cycle with a scope intended for immediate patient use. Always use a validated, completed cycle or an alternate device.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"AER cycle not starting and aborting shortly after initiation."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Door not fully sealing due to debris on gasket preventing proper latch detection."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Cleaned gasket and reseated door; verified successful cycle completion."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm or error message displayed
- Water supply verified
- Chemical levels confirmed
- Door seal condition
- Scope connection status
- Drain function checked
- Any unusual sounds, leaks, or smells
- Final operational status of unit
Final Thought
Cycle interruptions are often caused by simple external conditions like door sealing, supply issues, or setup errors. A structured approach prevents unnecessary downtime and ensures safe, effective reprocessing. Recognizing when escalation is needed is a key part of proper Clinical Engineering practice.
That is successful troubleshooting.