How to Troubleshoot an M11 Sterilizer

The Midmark M11 Ultraclave is a digital sterilizer for processing, sterilizing and drying dental instruments. Midmark offers the M9 and M11 ultraclaves as an advancement beyond traditional autoclaves. The M11 features programmable sterilization cycles, LCD display, automatic opening door and optional printing capabilities. The LCD displays temperature, pressure and time remaining during the sterilization cycle, and the printing accessory gives dental professionals access to permanent records of infection control. Despite the automatic and programmable features, you may still need to troubleshoot if the machine stops working properly.

Instructions

• 1

  Look at the LCD display. Note the error message and any visible problems. Error code 1 is a power interruption caused by the thermostat overheating or faulty electrical connections. One obvious problem is the M11 shutting off during the sterilization mode.

• 2

  Check for pressure leaks. Look for water leaking around the door gasket, through the condensing coil or into the reservoir. Listen for the light hiss of steam from the bellows line or pressure sensor hose.

• 3

  Replace the door gasket, vent solenoid, fill solenoid or pressure relief valve for leaking water. Replace the bellows if there is excessive steam from the bellows line. For the pressure sensor hose, secure the joint to the main PC board with a cable tie if you see a steam leak.

• 4

  Check your thermostat. Perform a continuity check if it is stuck open. Make sure the filling lamp lights up and the water level sensor is dry. Replace the water level sensor or thermostat if necessary.

• 5

  Shut off the M11 ultraclave and look for bad electrical connections in the unit and building. Repair faulty wiring, tighten loose connections and replace bad components.