James D. Cox
Regular and preventative maintenance is important to ensure mechanical equipment operates effectively, efficiently, and minimizes breakdowns. This notion is evident in our personal lives with our cars that need regular oil changes and replacement of air filters, tires, and brakes. Performing maintenance on a regular and preventative basis ensures we have a safe and functioning car. Cage washing machines are no different and also require regular and preventative maintenance (PM). It is important for the equipment operator to understand the maintenance requirements and the goal of this chapter is to provide a broad overview of this maintenance. But just like with a car, it is difficult to understand the maintenance needed if you do not first understand how the car operates. Not every detail will get covered, as each washer and sterilizer are different models and have different options, just like cars. This chapter will focus on the general concepts of rack washers, tunnel washers, and steam sterilizers, the three most commonly used machines for washing and sterilizing in a research animal facility. The chapter starts by introducing the basic function, operation, and operator level maintenance of each machine, before transitioning to a description of service level maintenance, including preventative maintenance and emergency repairs, and ending with guidance on tools, spare parts inventory, and an overview of troubleshooting steps. The information provided can be adapted to other cage wash equipment, such as cabinet washers, bottle washers, and dry heat sterilizers, once there is an understanding of the equipment operation. It is important to note that the chapter does not and is not intended to provide all the training and knowledge needed to safely perform all maintenance and troubleshooting of machines in the cage wash environment. It will allow the reader to be a more knowledgeable operator and partner when working with equipment maintenance companies.