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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting cycle aborts caused by insufficient water pressure in a Getinge GSS Series washer-disinfector. Such issues may trigger alarms, aborted cycles, or error messages indicating low water flow or pressure. The guide focuses on external, verifiable checks before assuming internal pump or sensor failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not run patient instrument cycles while troubleshooting water issues.
- Move critical instruments to an alternative washer-disinfector if available.
- Inform staff of Out-of-Service status.
Verify Water Supply
- Ensure the facility’s water supply valves to the washer-disinfector are fully open.
- Check that supply lines are not kinked, blocked, or leaking.
- Why it matters: Low inlet pressure is the most common cause of aborts.
Check Water Pressure
- Use a calibrated pressure gauge at the inlet to confirm water pressure meets the manufacturer’s minimum requirement (usually around 20–40 psi, depending on model).
- Why it matters: Pressure below specification will trigger automatic cycle aborts.
Inspect Filters and Strainers
- Remove and inspect any inlet filters or strainers for debris or scale buildup.
- Clean or replace as needed.
- Why it matters: Clogged filters reduce flow and can cause low-pressure alarms.
Confirm Water Temperature Settings
- Ensure hot/cold supply lines are within proper temperature ranges for cycles requiring pre-tempered water.
- Why it matters: Temperature sensors can affect flow validation and trigger aborts.
Examine Hoses and Connections
- Check for leaks, loose fittings, or partial obstructions in the supply lines and internal connections.
- Why it matters: Even minor restrictions can reduce effective pressure.
Observe Pump Operation
- Listen for unusual sounds or vibrations from the internal water pump during cycle start.
- Why it matters: Pump failure or cavitation can mimic low-pressure conditions.
Cycle Restart Attempt
- After addressing external factors, attempt a test cycle with empty or minimal load to verify water pressure is sufficient.
If the Problem Persists
If all external checks pass but the washer-disinfector continues to abort due to low water pressure:
- Remove the unit from service.
- Label it Out of Service.
- Schedule for internal pump evaluation or bench repair by qualified personnel.
Rationale: Continuing to operate may risk cycle failure or damage. Knowing when to escalate is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not attempt patient instrument cycles while troubleshooting water issues. Move critical instruments to an alternative washer-disinfector if available. Ensure staff are aware of Out-of-Service status to prevent inadvertent use.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
Washer-disinfector aborts cycle with “Insufficient Water Pressure” alarm.
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Inlet valve partially closed, filter clogged, or supply line kinked; verified by observation and pressure reading.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Fully opened supply valve, cleaned filter, cleared kinked hoses, restarted test cycle successfully.
Helpful Details to Include
- Inlet pressure reading (psi)
- Filter condition
- Pump noise or vibration
- Cycle load status during test
- Final device status after resolution
Final Thought
Proper troubleshooting prioritizes patient safety, starting with external and easily verified issues. Escalating to repair only when necessary prevents unnecessary downtime and ensures reliable washer-disinfector operation. Clear documentation provides a record for compliance and future reference.
That is successful troubleshooting.