On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting situations where the GSS Series washer-disinfector fails to reach the required disinfection temperature. This prevents proper thermal disinfection and may trigger alarms. The focus is on external, verifiable checks before assuming internal heater failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Only troubleshoot the heater when the chamber is empty and the device is off.
- Do not attempt disinfection on active patient instruments if temperature cannot be verified.
Verify Power Supply
- Check the device is plugged into a dedicated outlet with proper voltage and grounding.
- Ensure no tripped breakers or blown fuses are present.
Why: Heater elements require full power; low or unstable voltage can prevent heating.
Check Water Supply and Inlet Temperature
- Ensure the inlet water valve is open and supply pressure is within specifications.
- Verify incoming water temperature is not excessively low.
Why: Some washer-disinfectors adjust heater load based on inlet water temperature; extremely cold water can delay or prevent reaching setpoint.
Inspect for Water Flow Obstructions
- Check filters, strainers, and inlet hoses for clogs.
- Ensure spray arms move freely and no debris is blocking circulation.
Why: Poor circulation reduces heat transfer, causing slow or incomplete heating.
Confirm Cycle and Program Settings
- Verify the selected program requires thermal disinfection and is not a cold or pre-rinse cycle.
- Check that any optional “eco” or “low temp” modes are not active.
Why: Incorrect program selection may prevent heaters from activating fully.
Check Heater Indicators and Alarms
- Observe any heater fault indicators or error codes on the display.
- Document exact messages for work order and potential vendor support.
Why: Built-in diagnostics can help determine whether the heater circuit or control system is at fault.
Inspect External Connections
- Check terminal connections to the heater assembly for looseness or corrosion.
Why: Poor connections can prevent power delivery to heaters.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have been ruled out; likely causes include:
- Heater element failure
- Heater relay or controller malfunction
- Temperature sensor (thermocouple/RTD) failure
Action: Remove the washer-disinfector from service. Label it Out of Service. Send for repair or bench evaluation by trained service personnel. Avoid attempting internal heater replacement or control board repair on-site.
Clinical Use Tip
- Do not troubleshoot on an active patient.
- Move instruments to another functioning washer-disinfector to maintain patient safety.
- Only troubleshoot the heater when the chamber is empty and the device is off.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“User reports that the washer-disinfector does not reach disinfection temperature and cycle alarms for ‘temperature not reached.’”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Verified power supply, water supply, circulation, and program selection. Heater failed to reach setpoint; no external faults identified.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Device removed from service, labeled Out of Service, and sent for repair to vendor service.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet voltage and test results
- Inlet water temperature and pressure
- Observed error codes
- Heater indicator lights status
- Spray arm circulation status
Final Thought
Patient safety depends on proper disinfection; logic-based troubleshooting ensures external causes are ruled out before escalating to repair. Accurate documentation provides accountability and facilitates timely service.
That is successful troubleshooting.