What should you do when your Tuttnauer autoclave has a low water level error code?

It is quite common for people to buy used autoclaves that do not come with documentation or user manuals. So when those lights start flashing, you have no idea what’s going on. Well, this is what happens when your Tuttnauer autoclave starts displaying the low water error code and what you can do to fix it.

What does the low water level error code mean?

A low water level error code will be displayed if your autoclave system, using a water electrode and safety thermostat, determines that there is not enough water in the chamber to complete the cycle. If the power fails during the heating or sterilization phase of the cycle, the autoclave will also check the water electrode to make sure there is enough water in the chamber to complete the cycle. At any time when performing these checks, if there is not enough water, the low water error code will be displayed and the cycle failure indicator light will also come on.

What can you do to fix it?

That low water alarm means that the water level in the chamber is too low and that can be caused by several different factors:

• Check that your autoclave is level. If this is a countertop unit, make sure the surface it rests on is also firm and level.
• Look for dirty or shorted water sensing electrodes.
• Make sure the water pump is not clogged.
• Check all water and drain lines to make sure there are no blockages or leaks.
• Look to see if the air outlet valve is stuck in the closed position
• It may be that, for some reason, the power to your autoclave went out. When that happens, your machine will try to automatically resume the cycle when the power comes back on. But if the power was off long enough, the water in the chamber may have evaporated or drained away. Or the tip of the water sensing electrode is dry. You will need to make sure you have enough water in the reservoir and start a new cycle.
• Finally, you will need to check all seals, valves, and gaskets for leaks. Regardless, door seals need to be replaced occasionally because they naturally wear out. But you’ll want to make sure all valves fit securely to prevent steam from escaping when it’s not supposed to.

Now what if you find a problem with one of the valves, the solenoid, the gasket or a sensor? Why, repair it yourself, of course. When you send your autoclave in for repair, those ‘techs’ aren’t going to do anything you can’t do yourself. They don’t use special equipment or have any kind of special training. They just have really “special” rates.

If you can handle a screwdriver or wrench, all you need to do is trace the parts and you can easily do most repairs on your Tuttnauer autoclave yourself. So don’t worry the next time you see one of those error codes. You can fix it!