Top 6 Signs That You Should Service or Replace Your CO2 Incubator
- CO2 Incubators should have a regular maintenance schedule to avoid unscheduled down-time and potential loss of product. Components of the incubator such as the CO2 sensor and temperature controller need to be calibrated on a regular schedule. HEPA filters, and anodes should be replaced regularly. Decontamination of the incubator needs to occur on a frequent basis.
- If your CO2 incubator is older than 5 years, chances are there have been improvements to CO2 incubator technology such as IR sensor monitoring of the CO2 levels. This technology change improves the accuracy of CO2 level monitoring and improves reliability of the incubator.
- If your CO2 incubator is more than 7 years old, chances are it has parts on it that are obsolete and impossible to get, which could result in excessive down-time. It is better to replace the unit early and reduce the risk.
- When the warranty period is expired. Repairs on units that are out of the warranty can be costly. It may be more economical to buy a new unit.
- Newer models of CO2 incubators offer features such as high heat decontamination which can greatly reduce contamination inside the unit.
- CO2 calibration issues—frequency, off set amount, stability for CO2, temp, etc. Humidity pan condition, gaskets, evidence of condensation, etc.
Top 6 Questions That You Should Ask When Buying a CO2 Incubator
- What measures have been taken in the design to avoid contamination and what features are included to remove (sterilize versus decon) contamination?
- How does the CO2 sensor contribute to optimal cell growth?
- How does the humidity contribute to optimal cell growth?
- Ask for the uniformity and accuracy data versus asking for a water jacket or air jacket.
- Do you need O2 control to simulate the environment for your experiment accurately?
- Calculate the total cost of ownership on the product over one year including product price, install, regular cleaning labor, material like HEPA filter, etc.
Article courtesy of the Lab Manager Magazine
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