Any lab needs a refrigerator incubator, but good results demand that your equipment be used and maintained correctly. Additionally, specific models can be expensive, and you would want to use your machine sparingly. It is possible to ensure your refrigerated incubator functions properly for your application and has the most extended lifespan feasible by adhering to recommended practices for utilizing and maintaining it.
Proper Placement of Unit
By being appropriately positioned, your device can operate well and have little exposure to potential contaminants. The following elements should be considered while choosing the ideal location for your lab incubator:
• Contaminants can be blown in through doorways and vents, which raises the possibility of fungus growth.
• Temperature changes and problems with anti-condensation characteristics can result from direct sunshine.
• Enough room must be left around the appliance so that heat can escape, and wires and outlets are accessible. Avoid humid, wet environments that might be supporting fungus growth; mount floor incubators on a stand to reduce the possibility of pollutants rushing in when the door is open; and so forth.
Keep An Eye on the Temperature
Incubators are frequently kept at 37°C to promote the best possible development of cell cultures. Temperature variations may prevent cultures from growing or possibly endangering them. If the door to your refrigerated incubator is made of glass, you can read the temperature without opening it by mounting a calibrated thermometer inside the glass. This can be compared to the sensor's temperature; if they differ, the sensor must be calibrated. It can be beneficial to prevent frequent door opening and closing to maintain a constant temperature.
Proper Cleaning is Important
Your outcomes will probably suffer if your incubator is infected. It is crucial to follow a tight cleaning regimen for your unit. Following are some essential steps:
• When handling containers that will be placed inside the unit, always use gloves.
• Replace the water in a humidity pan at least once every week.
• Frequently clean the shelves, humidity chamber, humidity pan, and other replaceable components. Disinfection or thorough sterilization may be necessary, depending on the application. Check if cleaning agents won't damage the incubator chamber or hurt your cell cultures. For many applications, quaternary ammonium disinfectants are among the finest choices.
• Don't forget to clean the unit's outside, paying specific attention to the door handle.
• Every few months, clean the fan and the fan wheels.
Regular Calibration of Temperature
As mentioned above, temperature monitoring is essential, but thermometers must be regularly validated and calibrated. Your application will determine the specific schedule, but every month is an excellent general rule. The device should additionally undergo recalibration if validation shows that it is necessary and following unusual occurrences like a power interruption or spill cleanup. Calibration should be done at the normal working temperature for repeatable results. You should also consider setting up annual calibration by an outside organization for refrigerated incubators in significant or delicate investigations.
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