Does Water Quality Matter for Autoclave Performance and Longevity?

Water quality absolutely affects autoclave performance and longevity. As an analogy, consider how water quality damages an iron or a coffee maker over time, and without proper cleaning, that equipment will quit working altogether. In today’s blog article we are going to talk about water quality and why it is very importance in the function of an autoclave. 

Potential Problems 

The potential problems in an autoclave related to water quality are scale, or the build-up of hard water deposits, and corrosion, which may happen if the water is excessively acidic or alkaline. An autoclave has sensitive interior parts that require the heating of water and steam to specific temperatures and pressures. Anything that interferes with that is going to affect the autoclave’s ability to work properly. 

Water Needed 

Most autoclaves are supposed to use either distilled water or reverse osmosis water. But always rely on the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some autoclaves can, in theory, operate with tap water, but you will definitely shorten the service life of your equipment if you rely on tap water. 

Consequences of Damage 

The wrong water does things like build up mineral deposits on delicate parts and heating elements and potentially corrode other parts. This will reduce the heating efficiency and possibly increase time needed for cycles. It can also increase the energy costs and cause equipment to fail. 

As already mentioned, follow the instructions in your manual for what type of water is needed in your autoclave. If you have questions, talk to you autoclave specialist, from whom you bought the autoclave or the manufacturer. The autoclave is a delicate piece of equipment performing an important job. The first order of business is using the right quality of water for its use. 

If you need help choosing, repairing, maintaining, installing, operating, or validating an autoclave, this is our business and area of expertise for many years. Give us a call, in western Canada at (888) 818-4847. We can help with every aspect of autoclaves including choosing the right one for you. 

Alpha Scientific supplies, installs, and services medical equipment in western Canada. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about medical equipment, please call our toll-free number, (888) 818-4847, or email us at sales@alphascientific.ca.