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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Chemical level alarms, dosing errors, or failed cycles due to disinfectant supply, connection, or sensor-related issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not troubleshoot while a scope is actively being processed for patient use. Remove the scope and use a backup reprocessor if needed.
Expected: No patient care is delayed or compromised
Why it matters: Incomplete disinfection creates infection risk
Verify the Reported Error and Behavior
- Note if error appears at cycle start, during dosing, or mid-cycle
- Check for alarms related to low chemical, dosing failure, or pump error
Expected: Clear identification of when dosing fails
Why it matters: Helps determine if issue is supply, detection, or delivery
Check Disinfectant Level (Most Common Cause)
- Confirm sufficient chemical level in the container
- Ensure container is not empty or near empty
- Replace with a full, approved disinfectant if needed
Expected: Adequate chemical available for dosing
Why it matters: Low or empty containers trigger dosing failures
Verify Chemical Container Installation
- Ensure pickup tube is fully inserted into the container
- Confirm cap or connection is tight and properly aligned
- Verify no cross-connection with other chemical lines
Expected: Secure, correct connection with no air gaps
Why it matters: Loose or incorrect connections prevent proper suction
Inspect Pickup Tubing and Lines
- Look for kinks, cracks, or collapsed tubing
- Ensure tubing is not pinched behind the unit
- Confirm tubing is fully connected at both ends
Expected: Clear, unobstructed tubing path
Why it matters: Flow restrictions prevent accurate dosing
Check for Air in the Chemical Line
- Look for visible air bubbles in transparent tubing (if applicable)
- Reseat tubing connections to eliminate air leaks
- Allow system to re-prime if supported
Expected: Continuous fluid path without air gaps
Why it matters: Air prevents consistent pump operation
Verify Correct Chemical Type and Compatibility
- Confirm chemical matches manufacturer requirements
- Check expiration date on disinfectant
- Verify no substitution or incorrect product is installed
Expected: Approved, in-date disinfectant
Why it matters: Incorrect chemicals may trigger system errors or improper dosing
Check Waste and Drain System
- Verify waste container is not full
- Ensure drain lines are not clogged or kinked
Expected: Proper drainage with no backup
Why it matters: Some systems halt dosing if drainage is impaired
Restart the System and Attempt a Test Cycle
- Power cycle the unit
- Run an empty test cycle
Expected: Normal dosing and cycle progression
Why it matters: Confirms whether issue was temporary or persistent
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (e.g., dosing pump failure, internal sensor fault, or control issue).
Remove the unit from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and repeated failed disinfection cycles.
Clinical Use Tip
Never rely on a questionable disinfection cycle. If a dosing error occurs, the scope must be reprocessed on a verified working AER before patient use.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"AER displaying disinfectant dosing error and aborting cycles during processing."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Disinfectant container empty and pickup tubing partially disconnected, preventing proper chemical delivery."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced disinfectant container, resecured tubing connection, and verified proper dosing with successful test cycle."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Disinfectant level verified
- Tubing condition checked (kinks, leaks, air)
- Chemical type and expiration confirmed
- Alarm messages observed and recorded
- Drain/waste status verified
- Test cycle results documented
- Final device status (returned to service or removed)
Final Thought
Effective troubleshooting starts with simple, external checks. Chemical issues are often supply or connection-related. Prioritize patient safety, verify proper disinfection, and escalate appropriately when internal faults are suspected.
That is successful troubleshooting.