How to Cure Autoclaves

An autoclave is a machine that is used to sterilize medical and laboratory instruments. Autoclaves resemble small ovens and work much like pressure cookers. They use water and pressure to kill and harmful bacteria that may be on the instruments. Sterile instruments are required for any type of medical surgery as well as for many laboratory procedures. It is a good idea to run a new autoclave empty at least once to help cure it, make sure it is free of any harmful bacteria and ensure it is working properly before using it to sterilize any instruments.

Things You'll Need

• Autoclave
• Distilled water
• Bucket
• Protective gloves

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Place the autoclave on a counter. Plug the autoclave into an electrical outlet.

• 2

  Open the door of the autoclave. Remove the holding basket and check it for any manuals or paperwork that may have come with the unit. Look inside the autoclave and remove any packing material. There may be foam or tape that was used to keep the holding tray from sliding around during transit.

• 3

  Find the drain valve located at the bottom or base of the autoclave. Close the drain valve.

• 4

  Locate the water fill line. The water fill line is usually at the base of the autoclave, right below where the holding tray sits. If you cannot find it quickly, consult the product manual. Pour distilled water, usually about 1 gallon, into the autoclave until it reaches the top of the fill line.

• 5

  Place the holding basket inside the autoclave. Shut and lock the autoclave door.

• 6

  Set the autoclave temperature for 250 degrees Fahrenheit, or 121 degrees Celsius. Set the timer for 15 minutes. The autoclave will start automatically once you set the timer.

• 7

  Allow the autoclave to run for its 15-minute cycle. Open the autoclave door slowly once the pressure gauge is at zero, after the cycle ends. Hold the handle by the bottom, and open the door carefully. Do not open the door by gripping above the handle, or else the escaping steam will burn you.

• 8

  Allow the water inside the autoclave to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before draining. Place a bucket or other container in front of the drain. Open the drain valve to empty water from the autoclave.