Frequently Asked Questions
Autoclave selection – key questions answered clearly.
Which autoclave do I need for my practice?
For reprocessing medical instruments you generally need a Klasse B autoclave. Which size fits depends on your specialty, the quantity of instruments and the length of the instruments per cycle. It is best to fill out our configurator or get brief advice by phone, then we will recommend exactly the right device.
Which criteria are decisive when choosing an autoclave?
The key factors are the field of application, the required size and capacity, the right class (usually Klasse B), energy efficiency, ease of use, the standards and approvals met, and the price. Paperless documentation can also save time in everyday practice. The configurator guides you through all of these points in a structured way.
Which autoclave size do I need and how many trays fit inside?
The right size depends on the quantity and length of the instruments per cycle: the 3L has 2 trays, the 12L 3 trays (approx. 18 wrapped instruments), the 18L and 23L 5 trays each. The 23L holds up to approx. 20 unwrapped instruments per tray. For a precise recommendation, it is best to use our configurator.
Which autoclave sizes does Steri24 offer?
We offer Klasse B autoclaves in the sizes 3L, 12L, 18L, 23L and 45L. This covers all use cases, from the compact device for studios and podiatry to the large-volume clinic device. For a specific recommendation, it is best to fill out our configurator.
Which autoclave is suitable for a dental practice?
For dental practices we usually recommend the 18L or 23L Klasse B, depending on the number of practitioners and the quantity of instruments; for several practitioners a device with documentation and practice software integration (e.g. Premium). For approx. 15 individually wrapped instruments, the 12L is often sufficient. It is best to use the configurator or a brief consultation.
Which autoclave is suitable for a podiatry practice?
For podiatry practices the 3L Klasse B Pro (compact, fast) is usually the most popular; for larger practices with many treatments, the 12L is more suitable. We recommend the right value bundle with the necessary accessories. The configurator finds the right model in just a few minutes.
Which autoclave is suitable for foot care, beauty or nail studios?
For foot care, beauty and nail studios the Klasse B Pro 3L (small, fast, compact) is usually the most popular choice. From around 8 treatments per day or with several staff members, we recommend the 12L Pro, which offers four times the volume for a small surcharge. It is best to fill out our configurator.
Which autoclave is suitable for a tattoo or piercing studio?
Tattoo and piercing studios need a Klasse B autoclave. The most popular are the 3L or 12L Pro; for solo work the 3L is often sufficient, for higher volumes we recommend the 12L. Self-sealing pouches and an accessories value bundle are the best fit alongside it.
Which autoclave is suitable for a gynaecological practice?
For gynaecological practices we usually recommend the 23L autoclave (Pro or Premium), as gynaecological instruments such as specula are relatively large and require a lot of space; for lower demand an 18L is also sufficient. It is best to fill out our configurator so we can recommend exactly the right device.
Which autoclave is suitable for a family, internal medicine or dermatology practice?
Our Klasse B autoclaves are suitable for medical, family, internal medicine and dermatology practices; depending on the quantity and size of the instruments, the 12L or 23L is usually the right choice, and for low volumes the 3L as well. The exact choice depends on the largest instrument and the quantity per cycle.
Which autoclave is suitable for a veterinary practice or veterinary medicine?
Our Klasse B autoclaves are suitable for veterinary medicine; most veterinary practices order the 12L or 23L Pro, and for very low demand the 3L may be sufficient. For veterinary practices, validation is generally not required, as the validation obligation only concerns reprocessing on humans.
Which autoclave is suitable for eye or plastic surgery?
For surgical facilities we usually recommend larger devices (23L or 45L), often as a complete set with installation and validation. Here, capacity, process safety and complete documentation are the priority. We are happy to advise you on the right complete solution.
What is the difference between autoclave classes B, S and N?
Klasse B uses a steam sterilisation process with fractionated vacuum and also sterilises wrapped, hollow and porous instruments of very complex shape. Klasse S is usually a special design for specific applications. Klasse N works without a vacuum pump and is only suitable for unwrapped, solid instruments of simple geometry.
What does Klasse B mean for an autoclave?
Klasse B refers to full-featured steam sterilisers with a fractionated vacuum process that can also sterilise wrapped, hollow and porous instruments. For reprocessing instruments in medical facilities in Germany, a Klasse B device is required.
Which class is mandatory for medical instruments?
For reprocessing critical instruments that come into contact with blood or injured mucous membranes on humans, Klasse B with saturated steam is the standard. Klasse N is not permitted for such instruments in human medicine. We are happy to assess your needs honestly.
Is a Klasse N autoclave enough for my practice?
Klasse N may only sterilise unwrapped, solid instruments of simple geometry and is not permitted for reprocessing critical instruments in human medicine. For medical practices you need a Klasse B device. When in doubt, we advise you on the correct classification of your instruments.
How does a Klasse B autoclave work?
A Klasse B autoclave sterilises according to the principle of steam sterilisation: the device generates steam, which heats the instruments in the chamber to high temperatures and thereby kills adhering germs including spores. After sterilisation, the steam is discharged and the contents are dried using a vacuum process.
Why is the vacuum pump so important in a Klasse B autoclave?
The fractionated vacuum removes the air from the chamber and from cavities so that the steam fully penetrates even wrapped, hollow and porous instruments. Without this process, trapped air in complex instruments could prevent reliable sterilisation. That is why Klasse B is the standard for demanding instruments.
How do I classify my instruments by risk?
Medical devices are classified before reprocessing as non-critical, semi-critical and critical (risk assessment according to KRINKO/RKI). Critical instruments that penetrate skin or mucous membranes and come into contact with blood must be sterilised. If the classification is in doubt, the higher requirement must be applied.
Which instruments must be sterilised?
Critical medical devices that penetrate the skin or mucous membranes and come into contact with blood, internal tissues or wounds must be sterilised after cleaning and disinfection – usually with moist heat in a Klasse B autoclave. Semi-critical instruments require at least disinfection. Describe your instruments to us and we will assess the need.
Do I need an autoclave for every item?
No. Depending on the risk classification of the item, possibly no autoclave at all, a device of a lower class or a Klasse B autoclave is required. Non-critical items usually only need to be cleaned/disinfected, whereas critical instruments must be sterilised. We help you determine the actual need.
What should I consider regarding capacity so that I don't buy too small?
The decisive factor is the real daily demand: how many instruments and how many cycles per day occur, and how long the instruments are. We size according to your actual needs – the right fit, not too tight – so that you don't have to constantly reload. The configurator takes exactly these factors into account.
What maximum instrument length fits in the various models?
The maximum length depends on the chamber depth: in the 12L, instruments should not be longer than approx. 31 cm; in the 23L (chamber approx. 45 cm deep), instruments up to approx. 32 cm fit, with very long instruments placed diagonally if necessary. For long instruments we therefore recommend the 23L.
How large are the autoclaves and will they fit on my worktop?
The dimensions vary by model; the 12L, for example, has external dimensions of approx. 65 x 44 x 36 cm, the 23L Pro a chamber of approx. Ø 25 x 45 cm. The devices are generally designed for worktops from approx. 55-58 cm deep. We are happy to provide exact dimensions and a dimensional drawing for your preferred model.
Which autoclave fits my sterilisation containers or basket dimensions?
That depends on the exact dimensions: the 23L, for example, holds 2 containers; the chamber corresponds roughly to a standard 23L device. It is best to give us your container or basket dimensions, then we will tell you the right device and, if necessary, prepare a quote.
What is the difference between the Pro and Premium models?
The autoclave and operation are fundamentally the same. The Premium models additionally offer a fixed water connection, WLAN/LAN integration with the practice software, as well as paperless batch release and documentation directly on the touchscreen (SteriTrace). With the Pro, documentation is done via the integrated printer/USB and manual water filling.
What is the difference between the 3L and the 3L Pro?
The basic 3L has no built-in waste water tank. The 3L Pro offers more functions: an integrated waste water tank, an integrated printer and touchscreen operation. The sterilisation programmes are the same on both.
What is the difference between the 3L and the 12L?
The 12L offers four times the volume and an integrated waste water tank (no external canister needed); the quick programme takes a little longer. Otherwise the devices are technically identical. The 3L is more compact and faster, the 12L costs only a little more.
Do I need a model with paperless documentation?
Paperless documentation (e.g. backing up the records to USB or via the practice software integration) saves time in everyday work. According to the RKI, dentists are not obliged to keep a paper printout, provided digital documentation is possible. The Premium models offer fully paperless batch release with SteriTrace.
How long does a sterilisation cycle take depending on the model?
The duration depends on the model, programme and load. Guideline values at full load with wrapped instruments: 3L approx. 11-22 minutes, 12L approx. 30-35 minutes, 23L approx. 45-50 minutes, 45L approx. 90 minutes. The smaller the device, the shorter the run time as a rule – this can be a selection criterion.
Which model has the largest capacity with a short run time?
Our largest device is the Klasse B Pro 45L with an average operating time of approx. 1 hour. For very high volumes, many customers instead set up two 23L devices in order to reprocess in parallel and more quickly.
Do you offer very large autoclaves (e.g. 95, 250 litres or more)?
Our largest device is the Klasse B Pro 45L. We do not offer very large volumes (e.g. 95, 250 or several hundred litres). For higher demand, many customers set up several 23L devices; for special volumes we refer you to specialised suppliers.
Do I also need a thermal disinfector or ultrasonic cleaner?
That depends on the risk class of your instruments: a thermal disinfector (washer-disinfector) or ultrasonic cleaner is suitable for cleaning and disinfection, after which critical instruments are sterilised in the Klasse B autoclave. In dental practices the thermal disinfector is very popular, while many general practices manage without one. We advise you on the right workflow.
What is included in an autoclave set or value bundle?
Our sets combine an autoclave and matching accessories at a reduced price and usually contain everything important for instrument reprocessing (e.g. ultrasonic cleaner, packaging pouches, Helix test). In addition, depending on the risk class, you need an unclean and a clean area and, if necessary, a thermal disinfector. A complete package including a sealing device and documentation is possible via the configurator.
How does the selection via the autoclave configurator work?
The configurator guides you step by step through the most important questions – field of application, quantity and length of instruments, documentation preference – and, in around 2 minutes, suggests the right model from this, without jargon. On request, we also advise you additionally by phone.
What should I consider regarding energy efficiency and operating costs?
Besides the purchase price, the ongoing operating costs are an important factor. Pay attention to high energy efficiency in order to reduce electricity costs and environmental impact. Our Klasse B Pro autoclaves are designed to be energy-efficient, and with a maintenance package the follow-up costs can be well anticipated.
Which standards and approvals should an autoclave meet?
Make sure that the autoclave, as a Klasse B medical device, meets the relevant standards (including EN 13060) and has the necessary CE marking. Our Steri24 autoclaves meet the standards required in Germany and Austria; CE conformity is verified via TÜV SÜD.
Do different requirements apply depending on the specialty?
Yes. Depending on the field of application – such as a dental practice, eye clinic, general practice or podiatry – different regulatory guidelines apply and therefore also different requirements for the device, validation and documentation. That is why we factor your specialty into the recommendation.
Which water must I use for the autoclave?
Use distilled or demineralised/fully desalinated water (conductivity ideally below 15-20 µS/cm). Standard distilled water from a drugstore, supermarket or hardware store is suitable; do not use technical battery/iron water. Tap water is not suitable and can damage the device.
Is validation mandatory and should I factor it into the selection?
In Germany, validation is mandatory for everyone who reprocesses critical instruments that come into contact with blood on humans (based, among others, on MPBetreibV). You should factor it into your planning, as it is carried out every 2 years on site with your instruments. Those who do not reprocess critical instruments are usually not required to validate.
Can I also buy an autoclave without validation?
Yes, you can also order the autoclave without validation and put it into operation yourself according to the manual. Whether validation is mandatory depends on your area of use. It can be added later at any time, and the device is ready to use immediately after delivery.
How important is maintenance when choosing a device?
Very important, because maintenance is legally required every 24 months or, at the latest, after 1,000 cycles. Make sure that the supplier reliably offers maintenance and service. With us, the maintenance contract itself is free of charge, and we remind you of due dates in good time.
How long do your autoclaves last?
With regular maintenance every 2 years, our autoclaves last around 20-25 years. The 3L Pro lasts about 10-15 years due to the smaller vacuum pump. We keep spare parts available for around 25 years accordingly – longevity is an important selection criterion.
Is there service and maintenance in my region too?
Yes, we have trained service partners on site in Germany, Austria and Switzerland who come for installation, validation, maintenance and repair – with free travel. You can find the nearest location on the service map at steri24.de/de/info/servicemap.html. A good service network should factor into the purchase decision.
Is a cheaper device worth it compared to the established expensive manufacturers?
Our Klasse B autoclaves to EN 13060 are comparable in performance to established, expensive devices, yet significantly cheaper – while also offering a large on-site service network in the DACH region and a warranty. This gives you the same sterilisation performance at a fairer price. We are happy to find the right replacement together with you.
What is a suitable replacement for my ageing premium device?
If you want to replace an older, high-quality device, we find the right successor based on chamber size: as a replacement for a 17/18L device, the 18L Pro is suitable, and for a 22/23L device, the 23L. Simply tell us the approximate size of your previous device, then we will assign the right Steri24 autoclave.
Should I rather buy a used autoclave?
With used devices you bear the risk of wear, a lack of warranty and an unclear maintenance history. A low-cost new purchase, on the other hand, offers a full warranty, long spare parts availability and a clean validation start. We are happy to suggest a suitable new device instead of a used-device risk.
Are your autoclaves also suitable for laboratory use or liquids?
Our Klasse B autoclaves are intended for medical instruments and are not suitable for sterilising liquids or for S2 laboratories. For laboratory applications, liquids or freely programmable cycles there are specialised laboratory autoclaves (CertoClav brand). Describe your use case to us and we will refer you accordingly.
Why is a hot-air steriliser not an alternative to the Klasse B autoclave?
Hot-air sterilisers do not meet the RKI recommendations for reprocessing critical instruments that come into contact with blood and fundamentally cannot be validated. For legally compliant reprocessing in human medicine you therefore need a Klasse B steam steriliser.
What can I do if I am unsure which device really fits?
You don't have to handle this on your own. In around 2 minutes, our configurator guides you to the right model without jargon, and on request we also advise you by phone and assess your needs honestly. This way you avoid a wrong purchase in terms of class, size and features.
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