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What This Guide Helps With
Alarm: Pressure In Chamber indicating approximately 2 psig present outside of a cycle, creating a potential safety hazard and preventing proper system readiness.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the sterilizer from service if the alarm is active
- Do not open the chamber until pressure is confirmed at atmospheric levels
- Ensure no loads are being processed or accessed
2. Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm “Pressure In Chamber” alarm is displayed
- Observe if unit is idle when alarm occurs
- Check if chamber shows ~2 psig instead of 0 psig
- Note if unit attempts automatic exhaust
3. Check Chamber Pressure Reading vs Actual Condition
- Verify displayed pressure reading
- If safe, listen for pressure release or exhaust activity
- Confirm whether pressure returns to 0 psig
4. Check for Obvious External Causes
- Ensure chamber door is fully closed and properly sealed
- Verify no recent interrupted or aborted cycle
- Confirm no unintended external steam source feeding chamber
5. Observe Exhaust Function
- Allow unit to perform automatic exhaust
- Listen for exhaust valve operation
- Confirm chamber pressure drops to 0 psig
6. Isolate Likely Cause
- Recurring pressure → possible solenoid valve (S02) malfunction
- False pressure reading → possible pressure transducer issue
- Inconsistent behavior → possible calibration or control issue
7. Stop When Resolved
- If pressure returns to 0 psig and alarm clears, return unit to service
- Monitor for repeat occurrences
If the Problem Persists
If the alarm continues or pressure repeatedly returns:
- External causes have been ruled out
- Persistent pressure or false readings indicate internal failure
- Possible causes include solenoid valve malfunction, transducer failure, calibration issue, or control board failure
Remove device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or qualified bench evaluation.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot or open a sterilizer chamber under pressure. Always move workflow to a backup device and verify atmospheric pressure before access.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Pressure In Chamber alarm displayed while unit was idle; chamber indicated ~2 psig."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Persistent pressure reading outside cycle; suspected solenoid valve S02 or pressure transducer malfunction."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Verified exhaust function and pressure reading. Alarm persisted. Removed unit from service and sent for repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Pressure-related alarms present real safety risks. Always verify true chamber conditions, eliminate external causes first, and escalate when internal faults are suspected. Clear documentation ensures proper follow-up and accountability.
That is successful troubleshooting.