4 Rules for Maintaining an Autoclave

How does an autoclave work?
Care and Maintenance

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Partitions for jars and retort pouches

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Clamps for SKO lids "for steam" 10 pcs

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Caring for Your Autoclave

An autoclave is an indispensable device for home canning and commercial production of preserves. But how do you properly maintain an autoclave to ensure it works efficiently for decades? It's simple! Follow basic care and maintenance rules. This article outlines 4 rules to help your autoclave remain functional and work effectively without issues.

1. Timely Replacement of the Gasket

The special gasket made of food-grade heat-resistant silicone precisely fits the flange shape and ensures the autoclave's seal during operation. This critical part wears out and is exposed to constant temperature changes. Regularly check the gasket for cracks, damage, or loss of elasticity. If it becomes brittle, starts leaking steam, or is damaged, replace it immediately.

How to replace the gasket?

Remove the old gasket.
Clean the installation area.
Install the new gasket.

Use only original spare parts for the autoclave to ensure its safe and long-lasting operation. Order original spare parts on our website in the autoclave parts section.

2. Reducing the Impact of Hard Water

Hard water is one of the main enemies of autoclaves. It contains many minerals (calcium, magnesium) that settle on internal surfaces and the heating element, forming scale.

Hard water leads to:

Reduced heating efficiency.
Increased heating time.
Shortened lifespan of the heating element and the autoclave itself.

To avoid the impact of hard water, install an additional water softener filter or add a small amount of citric acid during each autoclaving process. Citric acid dissolves mineral deposits and prevents their accumulation.

Important to remember! Excessive acid can lead to corrosion, damage seals, and other autoclave components. The concentration of citric acid depends on the water volume in the autoclave, the hardness level of the water, and the material of the autoclave.

Stainless steel: more resistant to acids, allowing slightly higher concentrations.
Carbon steel: less resistant, requiring careful selection of concentrations to avoid corrosion.

You can start with a low citric acid concentration (e.g., 0.5–1%) and gradually increase it while monitoring the results.

3. Cleaning After Use

Thorough cleaning of the autoclave is key to its longevity. This will not only keep the autoclave in excellent condition but also ensure its safe operation. Neglecting this rule can result in rust, unpleasant odors, and even malfunctions.

After each use:

Rinse the internal surfaces with water.
Remove any food residues and condensate.
Wipe the autoclave dry with a cloth both inside and outside.

4. Checking the Functionality of All Components

All components must function properly, as any malfunctions can cause autoclave operation issues or accidents. Regularly check that all autoclave elements are working correctly:

Thermometer: Incorrect temperature readings can affect sterilization quality.
Valves: Ensure pressure regulation; valve malfunctions can disrupt the autoclaving process and lead to safety issues.
Thermostat: Responsible for maintaining accurate temperature settings during autonomous operation.

If you detect malfunctions, contact a service center or replace faulty components yourself. Timely maintenance, repairs, and part replacements can prevent major breakdowns and extend the lifespan of the autoclave.

How to Use an Autoclave?

Household autoclaves are safe, affordable, easy to use, and energy-efficient devices that can significantly simplify the canning process.

Want your autoclave to last long? By following these four simple rules, you can ensure your device's uninterrupted operation for decades. Remember, we offer free diagnostics for autoclaves we manufacture, as well as maintenance and restoration services. Watch our videos to learn more or contact our specialists for advice.

20.11.2024

Author: UTEHO Editorial Team
Reviewed by: UTEHO Technical Department Specialists

UTEHO Expert Editorial Team

The UTEHO team develops autoclaves and accessories for home food preservation. All informational articles, guides, and recommendations are tested in real UTEHO autoclaves before publication.

Our content is based on practical experience, technical expertise, recommendations from UTEHO engineers and technologists, as well as feedback from our customers.

Practically tested in UTEHO autoclaves

Reviewed before publication

Content is regularly updated