09/21/2023
PSA:
Every so often we pick up a sterilizer for repair and notice that an incorrect power cord is being used. This can happen because the power receptacle on most sterilizers is the same as many other electronics in a dental office such as computer monitors, power supplies, etc.
As you can see in the first picture, one of the two cords is much thinner diameter than the other. It is only rated for 10 amps (circled in the 2nd picture), which is not sufficient for the load that the sterilizer draws. This puts a lot of added stress on the circuit board, internal wiring, and other parts in your sterilizer. What this does is it heats up the wiring to the point of melting expensive components.
Another similar issue that we come across often is that sterilizers should be on their own dedicated 20 amp circuit. They should also be plugged directly into that outlet, not into a power strip or extension cord as there are very few that are rated for 20 amps.
If you are unsure if your power cord is correct, let us know and we can check it out for you before it does any harm!
