28 September 2010- Laboratory water baths need to be properly taken care of so as to extend their durability and service life. The maintenance of water bath requires a regular procedure of emptying, cleaning and refilling. This keeps a water bath free from contamination and thereby prevents the occurrence of expensive contamination events in the laboratory. If properly taken care of, the
lab water baths can lasts for a very long time.
Contaminants
The main contaminants that occur in laboratory water baths that can ruin various scientific experiments are yeast, bacteria, fungi and virus.
Lab Water Bath
Maintenance Tips
Few regular check ups can really play wonders in extending the durability of water baths:
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Turn off the water bath , after every use, specially each evening, when the laboratory is closed. If it is not switched off, water can completely evaporate off leaving the water bath dry, which is very bad for the bath and can be dangerous so as to create a serious fire hazard.
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For water bath use, usually plastic racks are used. But then plastic racks have the draw back of melting if the water bath evaporates dry. So if wire racks or plastic-coated wire racks are used, it may cause permanent damage.
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Make use of distilled water in a water bath. Don't use deionized water, tap water, or chemicals. If non-distilled water is used, clean away any water deposits that have gathered. Otherwise, the bath will not perform effectively. Eventually it will have to be replaced as contaminants in the bath may rust or leave rust spot.
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Keep the body of the lab water bath dry. Many baths will rust over time if kept wet. Rust breakdown can expose internal electronics to damaging water. Also, check that the rubber seals are in good condition and in place.
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Do not use chlorine-based bleaches to clean water baths as they will do more harm to the interior of the water baths. Avoid cleaners that contain solvents. Use mild soap and water instead.
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Check the voltage range of your water bath. Never connect the bath to a power source of any other voltage beyond the range stated in the manual. Do not damage the power cord. And also do not bend the wire or step on it or keep heavy objects on it.
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Consider the water that you use as the life�s blood of your water bath. Replenishing it on a regular basis. Use clean distilled water for regular refilling so as prevent mineral buildup, and from wearing too quickly. Proper quantity and quality of water helps keep the lab bath operational for everyone and keep it from overheating.
Conclusion
Regular checking and maintaining the water bath should be a priority for the user or care taker of the water bath. Nowadays with advance technology like improved heating technology, electronic over-temperature controls, and rustproofing etc, today�s water baths are more reliable. But nevertheless, you can save lot of time and money with regular maintenance of your laboratory water baths.
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