General Guidelines
for
Routine Maintenance
of Autoclaves

Daily:

• Remove the outlet screen and clean with detergent and a brush under running water.
• Clean the chamber using a cloth. Do not use abrasive cleansers or steel wool, as these will scratch the surface and increase corrosion.
• Clean the door or lid gaskets with a cloth and check for defects. Replace defective gaskets.
• Clean the shelves in the autoclave or the basket or cart that holds packs (including the wheels of the cart) with detergent and a cloth.

Weekly:

Check the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance of the exhaust line. If the instructions are unavailable, flush the exhaust line or chamber drain to keep it free of material that may interfere with air and steam leaving the chamber as follows:

1. Remove the outlet screen.
2. Pour 1 liter of detergent and hot water solution down the drain with a funnel.
3. Pour 1 liter of hot water down the drain to rinse out the detergent solution.
4. Replace the screen.

NOTE: These guidelines apply to most, but not all, autoclaves.

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