
What to Do When Your Dental Sterilizer Stops Working
When a sterilizer goes down, it can bring your schedule to a stop. Before calling for service, there are a few simple things you can check that may help identify the issue.
Quick Checks
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1. Power & Basic Operation
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Make sure the unit is powered on
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Check the outlet and breaker if the unit won’t turn on
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Confirm the display is active and responsive​
2. Water Supply (if applicable)
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Check that the water reservoir is filled to the correct level
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Make sure you’re using the recommended type of water
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Inspect for any obvious leaks or empty tanks
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3. Door & Seal
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Confirm the door is fully closed and latched
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Check the door gasket for debris, damage, or misalignment
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A poor seal can prevent cycles from completing
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4. Error Messages or Alarms
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Look for any error codes on the display
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Note the code or message—this helps speed up troubleshooting
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Some issues may require a reset, others need service
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5. Recent Changes
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Has anything changed recently?
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New staff using the unit
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Different water source
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Maintenance or cleaning performed
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Small changes can sometimes cause unexpected issues.
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When to Call for Service
If the unit:
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won’t start a cycle
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won’t complete a cycle
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shows repeated error codes
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is leaking or making unusual noises
…it’s time to have it looked at.
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How We Can Help
We service common dental sterilizers including:
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Midmark
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Tuttnauer
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Statim
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Enbio
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and other major brands
Our goal is simple—get your sterilizer back up and running as quickly as possible.
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Need Help with Your Sterilizer?
If you’ve checked the basics and the issue continues, we’re here to help.
Call 320-248-7596