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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Errors related to low disinfectant levels, improper chemical dosing, or failure to initiate/complete cycles due to chemical system issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not troubleshoot during an active reprocessing cycle with a scope inside.
- Remove any scope and use a backup AER if needed.
- Expected: No patient care delay or risk of improperly disinfected equipment
Verify the Reported Error and Behavior
- Confirm the exact error message on the display.
- Note whether it indicates low disinfectant, dosing failure, or chemical alarm
- Determine if the issue occurs at cycle start or mid-cycle
- Expected: Clear understanding of when and how the error occurs
- Why it matters: Helps differentiate between supply issue vs dosing system fault
Check Disinfectant Level (Most Common Cause)
- Inspect the disinfectant container or reservoir.
- Verify container is not empty or below minimum level
- Ensure correct chemical is being used
- Replace with a full, approved disinfectant container if low
- Expected: Proper fluid level restores normal operation
- Why it matters: Low chemical levels will prevent cycle initiation or trigger alarms
Verify Chemical Container Installation
- Ensure the disinfectant container is properly installed.
- Confirm container is seated correctly in its holder
- Check that any caps, seals, or connectors are properly engaged
- Reseat the container if needed
- Expected: Secure connection with no looseness or misalignment
- Why it matters: Improper seating prevents correct chemical draw
Inspect Chemical Pickup Lines and Tubing
- Check for issues with chemical delivery lines.
- Inspect tubing for kinks, cracks, or disconnections
- Ensure pickup tube is fully submerged in disinfectant
- Look for air bubbles in lines (if visible)
- Expected: Continuous, unobstructed tubing path
- Why it matters: Air or blockage prevents accurate dosing
Check for Empty or Expired Chemical Indicators
- Review system prompts or indicators related to chemical status.
- Confirm chemical has not reached maximum reuse cycles (if applicable)
- Replace chemical if system indicates expiration or reuse limit reached
- Expected: System accepts new chemical and clears error
- Why it matters: Many AERs track chemical life and will lock out expired solutions
Inspect Filters and Water Supply (If Applicable)
- Some dosing errors are linked to flow issues.
- Verify water supply is on and within normal pressure
- Check inlet filters for blockage
- Expected: Normal flow supports proper chemical mixing and dosing
- Why it matters: Flow interruptions can trigger dosing or dilution errors
Restart the System
- Reset the AER after verifying all external conditions.
- Power cycle the unit
- Attempt to start a new cycle
- Expected: Error clears if caused by temporary fault
- Why it matters: Clears minor sensor or logic errors
If the Problem Persists
If disinfectant level, container installation, tubing, and supply conditions have been verified, the issue is likely internal (e.g., dosing pump, sensors, or control system).
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or further bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unsafe reprocessing conditions.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt to override or bypass chemical alarms. Always ensure proper disinfection is achieved before returning a scope to service. Use a backup AER if needed.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"AER would not start cycle and displayed chemical dosing error."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Disinfectant container was low and pickup tube was not fully submerged."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced disinfectant container and reseated pickup tubing; unit passed test cycle."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Disinfectant level verified
- Chemical type confirmed correct
- Container reseated or replaced
- Tubing condition checked
- Any visible air in lines
- Alarm message wording
- Water supply status
- Final device status after testing
Final Thought
Chemical dosing errors are often caused by simple supply or setup issues. A structured approach that starts with levels, connections, and flow ensures safe operation and avoids unnecessary repairs. Always prioritize proper disinfection and escalate when internal components are suspected.
That is successful troubleshooting.