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What This Guide Helps With
Cycle stopping mid-process, incomplete disinfection, or aborted cycles due to door, water, chemical, or connection-related issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not attempt to troubleshoot while scopes are needed for immediate patient use.
- Remove the unit from workflow if disinfection cannot be verified.
Expected: Backup reprocessing method or AER is used
Why it matters: Incomplete disinfection creates infection risk
Verify the Reported Issue and Cycle Behavior
- Run or review a cycle and note when it stops.
- Identify stage of failure (fill, wash, disinfect, rinse, dry).
- Check for displayed alarms or messages.
Expected: Clear identification of interruption point
Why it matters: Narrows troubleshooting to specific subsystem
Check Door Closure and Seal (Most Common Cause)
- Ensure door is fully closed and latched.
- Inspect door gasket for debris, cracks, or moisture buildup.
- Clean and reseat if needed.
Expected: Door closes securely with no gaps
Why it matters: Loss of seal interrupts pressure and fluid control
Verify Water Supply and Pressure
- Confirm water supply valves are open.
- Check inlet hoses for kinks or disconnection.
- Verify facility water pressure is within range.
Expected: Steady water flow with no restrictions
Why it matters: AER relies on consistent water flow for all phases
Check Chemical Levels and Dosing System
- Verify disinfectant container is not empty.
- Ensure pickup tubes are properly seated.
- Check for air bubbles or loose tubing.
Expected: Proper chemical level and secure connections
Why it matters: System will stop if proper concentration cannot be ensured
Inspect Scope Connections and Channel Hookups
- Ensure all channel connectors are properly attached.
- Verify correct adapters are used.
- Check for loose or disconnected lines.
Expected: All channels securely connected
Why it matters: Flow verification failures will interrupt the cycle
Check Filters and Drain Path
- Inspect and clean inlet filters if accessible.
- Ensure drain line is not kinked or clogged.
- Verify proper drainage during cycle.
Expected: Unrestricted flow and drainage
Why it matters: System monitors flow and pressure continuously
Power Cycle the Unit
- Turn the unit off.
- Wait 30–60 seconds.
- Restart and attempt a new cycle.
Expected: Normal cycle operation resumes
Why it matters: Clears transient system faults
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out and cycles continue to interrupt, the issue is likely internal (pump failure, sensors, valves, 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 wasted time and ensures safe equipment use.
Clinical Use Tip
Never assume a partially completed cycle is safe. Always reprocess the scope using a verified working AER or approved backup method before patient use.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"AER cycle stopping mid-process and not completing disinfection."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Low disinfectant level causing cycle abort during dosing phase."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced disinfectant container, verified proper dosing, and confirmed successful full cycle completion."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Stage of cycle where interruption occurs
- Alarm messages or error codes displayed
- Water supply and pressure verified
- Chemical levels checked and replaced
- Scope connections verified
- Drain and filters inspected
- Unit restarted and retested
- Final operational status
Final Thought
Cycle interruptions are most often caused by external factors like door sealing, water supply, or chemical levels. Systematically ruling these out ensures safe operation and prevents unnecessary repairs. Always prioritize patient safety and proper documentation.
That is successful troubleshooting.