Last week BaseVac Dental released the first segment of our series relating to the first few months of owning a BaseVac suction unit. So far, we have spoken about vacuum drop-off and vacuum that comes and goes periodically. Moving to part two of this series, we will review more troubleshooting, providing answers to more questions.
Questions
Today, we will finish this segment discussing humming vacuum pumps and sources of bad smells.
The unit won’t start the motor; it just hums
· This is the result of a failed motor capacitor. The capacitor may fail if the system is shut on and off more than six times per hour or if the voltage is below 208 volts or above 240 volts.
· The capacitor can be replaced to solve the problem.
· This scenario also occurs if the vacuum pump has been exposed to water either from a failure in the air/water separator or from condensation at the exhaust. The pump may be rested inside and stuck. If this is the case, open the pump and use an Allen key on the shaft end bolt to free the rotor. Clean out the rust and ensure the vanes move freely. Use brake cleaner and 80 grit and paper to clean out rust.
· The cause of water in the pump has to be corrected. Check to ensure high-level float is wired to the panel and ensure the drain gate valve is open.
· If the water is from condensation at the exhaust, the piping changes must ensure no water runs back to the vacuum. You may want to consider upgrading your exhaust to BaseVac’s new double drip leg system. This will help minimize condensation from entering the pump from the exhaust.
There is a bad smell when we run the suction
· All dry-vacuum dental suction units have to vent outside the building. The vent piping must be checked for breaks or obstructions. If the pipe is damaged, a repair should solve the issue.
· If the bent is in a plumbing vent stack, ensure it has followed local plumbing codes.
· A dry-vacuum cannot be vented in a floor drain as it creates pressure and a potential for reversal of airflow and smell.
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Next week we will be moving to a new segment on the commonly asked question about BaseVac when it is in service for two to three years.
In the meantime, should you have any questions, please contact our team at 1-800-668-8736.