5 Tips for Laboratory Equipment Maintenance

The condition and quality of your laboratory equipment impacts upon its performance and 
the results generated - scientific results may be compromised by a lack of proper 
maintenance. Here are 5 tips for laboratory equipment maintenance you should be aware of: 
 
1. Repairing 
 
Naturally, in some instances, laboratory equipment needs to be replaced entirely. However, 
other times, simple repairs may be adequate. Conduct small repairs, such as installing 
replacement parts, as and when they are needed. This can elongate the functional life of 
larger pieces of laboratory equipment significantly. 
 
When it comes to larger pieces of equipment, some parts will accrue wear more rapidly than 
others. Pay close attention to which parts of your equipment are showing signs of wear and 
embark upon a program of preventative maintenance. The Laboratory Equipment Buyer’s 
Guide, your complete resource for lab equipment and technologies, can help you source 
new equipment. 
 
2. Refurbishing 
 
Refurbishing refers to the process of dismantling pieces of laboratory equipment and 
cleaning each component part thoroughly. Metal elements are also polished and any pipette 
pistons can be lubricated. Refurbishing at regular intervals will extend the life of your 
laboratory equipment and increase its efficiency and functionality. 
 
3. Calibration services 
 
Calibration services should be sought regularly. These preventative, detailed services 
increase the accuracy of your equipment and prevent data corruption. 
 
4. Regular cleaning 
 
Regular cleaning is too often overlooked. If your laboratory equipment is not as clean as it 
can be, it is unlikely to yield consistent results. Cleaning your equipment thoroughly, at 
regular intervals, is among the best ways of keeping it in good working order and elongating 
its functional life. On a daily basis, wipe clean exposed surfaces, and schedule a deep clean 
once each week. 
 
Most pieces of equipment need to be cleaned in a certain way. Haematology machines, for 
example, typically require a 6 monthly check by an engineer, a weekly analyser surface 
clean and an HC control check monthly. Ensure you follow the correct cleaning procedure as 
documented in the standard procedures for your piece of equipment. 

5. Outsource or in-house 
 
Laboratory equipment maintenance and repair should be undertaken by a qualified 
professional. While in-house maintenance teams may prove costly, reputable third party 
equipment maintenance and repair can be a cost effective alternative. Since the reputation 
of any laboratory is only as strong as the accuracy of its lab equipment, regular cleaning, 
maintenance, calibration and refurbishing is essential. 
 
The article Laboratory Equipment – Maintenance or Management? discusses different 
approaches to the protection of lab assets in more detail.