Troubleshooting Steri24 autoclaves
Troubleshooting Steri24 autoclaves
Display messages, printer problems and error codes such as E13, E14, E16 — many of them you can solve yourself in minutes.
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Short answer
Many messages are harmless: E13 = refill water, E16 = replace bacteria filter. This page walks you through the most common cases — and tells you when a technician is needed.
Common messages & solutions
The autoclave’s built-in log printer no longer prints
Has the paper roll been replaced?
1) Please check whether you have inserted a new, compatible roll.
2) Only one side of the printer paper can be printed on. Please insert the printer paper the other way round and close the printer paper compartment.
3) The printer does not print if the lever of the paper compartment is not fully engaged. Please check that the compartment is closed correctly.
The message "Call customer service" appears on the display
This reminder serves as a notice to replace the bacteria filter. After changing the filter, the service reminder must be deactivated in the SERV settings.
To do this, switch to the SERV menu. The password is 03115. Then set the "Need Service" item to "OFF".
If you need help over the phone, please contact us at: +43 732 674 278
"Checking..." appears on the display during sterilization
If a USB stick larger than 16 GB or without FAT formatting is used, malfunctions may occur. Therefore, please run the next test cycle without a USB stick but with the printer activated.
If the next test cycle runs without problems, please use a suitable USB stick in future.
Error E13
There is too little water in the fresh water tank. The current cycle can still be completed. For the next cycle, the water tank needs to be refilled.
To clear the error message, please switch the autoclave off and on again. If no fixed water connection with AQUAdem is used, set the Auto Water Mode to 00 in the service menu to avoid the error in future.
Error E14
Replacement of the maximum water level sensor in the feed water tank.
Error E16
The HEPA bacteria filter is clogged and can be replaced by the user.
After sterilization there is water in the chamber
1) The front feet of the autoclave are height-adjustable by turning them. Please make sure that the front of the autoclave stands slightly higher so that the condensate can drain into the chamber outlet.
2) Please set the drying time of the 134°C program to 15 minutes.
ADV -> Sterilization Parameters -> Password: 00510
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Frequently Asked Questions
Troubleshooting for Steri24 autoclaves – key questions answered clearly.
What does error E13 on the Steri24 autoclave mean and how do I fix it?
E13 means there is too little water in the fresh water tank. The running cycle can still be completed; for the next cycle, refill the tank and briefly switch the device off and on again to clear the message. With automatic filling via AQUAdem, a reset is usually enough.
What does error E14 mean and can I fix it myself?
E14 concerns the maximum water level sensor in the feed water tank. Gently shake the sensor; if you do not hear a beep, it must be replaced by a service technician. As the error is not critical, a suitable appointment can be arranged at your convenience.
What does error E16 mean and does a technician need to come?
E16 indicates a clogged HEPA bacteria filter. You can replace it yourself as a user, then reset the message with the enclosed code. If that does not help, report the case via steri24.de/help.
My built-in log printer no longer prints — what can I do?
First check whether a new, compatible paper roll is inserted. Since only one side of the thermal paper can be printed on, turn the roll the other way round if necessary. In addition, the device only prints if the lever of the paper compartment is fully engaged and the compartment is closed correctly.
The display shows „Call customer service“ — what does that mean?
This reminder indicates that the bacteria filter is due for replacement. After changing it, deactivate the service reminder in the SERV menu by setting the „Need Service“ item to „OFF“. If you need help doing this, our service team will assist you by phone.
The display shows „Checking...“ during sterilization — what is the cause?
This message often appears when a USB stick larger than 16 GB or without FAT formatting is used. Run the next test cycle without a USB stick but with the printer activated; if it runs without problems, use a suitable stick in future.
After sterilization there is water in the chamber — what helps?
Use the height-adjustable front feet to raise the device slightly so that condensate can drain to the chamber outlet. In addition, a longer drying time in the 134-degree program can help. Residual moisture often also has to do with the load or the door seal.
Instruments are damp after sterilization — how do I get them dry?
Residual moisture usually results from an overly full load or too short a drying phase. Load the device more loosely, increase the drying time or activate intensive drying. If the problem persists, report it via steri24.de/help.
My autoclave no longer turns on and shows no sign of life — what should I do?
First check the fuse and the power cable, as this is often the cause. If the device smells burnt, switch it off immediately and unplug it. Report the error with a description and photos via steri24.de/help, then a technician will get in touch.
The door won't open after the program or is stuck — what can I do?
A locked door can often be released by switching the device off and on again. If it stays locked or water leaks out, report the problem with photos via steri24.de/help, then a technician will assist you by phone or on site.
What does a vacuum test error mean and what do I have to do?
A vacuum test error usually indicates that air is flowing into the chamber and that the contact pressure of the door seal must be increased or the seal replaced. You will find a short guide on the inside of the door; if that does not help, report the case via steri24.de/help.
Where do I find the reset code after changing the bacteria filter?
The code is enclosed with the bacteria filter on a printed slip. After the change, enter it on the device to reset the filter message and keep the documentation complete.
How do I change the bacteria filter myself?
Unscrew the old filter and fit the new one — you may and should do this yourself. The bacteria filter is changed roughly every 150 cycles or when the device displays the corresponding message. On touchscreen models, you then confirm the change with the enclosed code.
Can I still sterilize when the bacteria filter has expired?
Yes, sterilization is still possible. There is no override code, but you can ignore the warning message until the new filter arrives; it deliberately does not appear on the log. Nevertheless, replace the filter promptly.
How do I change the printer paper roll correctly?
Open the paper compartment, insert a new, compatible thermal roll and note that only one side of the paper can be printed on — if the printout is blank, turn the roll over. Close the compartment so that the lever fully engages, otherwise the device will not print.
My autoclave asks for a service password and can no longer be operated — what should I do?
The service password is reserved for technicians and is not given out. Please report the problem via steri24.de/help or contact support, then a technician will help you unlock the device.
How do I get into the service/calibration menu and may I change values there?
The service and calibration menu is reserved for service technicians and should not be changed on your own, as incorrect settings can impair sterilization safety. Please contact our support; a technician will carry out any necessary adjustments together with you.
Do I have to calibrate the pressure sensor when the pressure values look odd?
Manual calibration is not necessary — the pressure sensor calibrates itself: open the door, switch on the device and wait about one minute. The kPa values must not be changed; a negative kPa reading is correct and refers to sea level.
How do I back up the sterilization logs via USB stick?
Insert a USB stick that is as empty as possible, with a maximum of 16 GB in FAT formatting; the port is located on the door or at the bottom right of the device. The logs are saved as TXT files. Unsuitable sticks can cause malfunctions.
Which USB stick is suitable for the autoclave?
Use a stick with no more than 16 GB and FAT formatting, ideally empty. Larger or differently formatted sticks can trigger display messages such as „Checking...“ and malfunctions.
My autoclave doesn't print — how do I switch the printer on or off?
Many devices have the paper printer deactivated at the factory. You can switch it on or off via the menu (Settings, Printer). The logs are saved automatically regardless and can be exported via USB, LAN or WLAN.
During sterilization water leaks out at the door — what does that mean?
Water escaping at the door usually indicates a worn or incorrectly seated door seal. Please report the case via steri24.de/help, then a technician will inspect the seal and replace it if necessary.
The autoclave makes a loud noise during pressure release at the end of the cycle — is that normal?
An audible hiss during pressure release at the end of the cycle is usually normal. If the noise is unusually loud or has changed, switch off the device and report the case via steri24.de/help so that a technician can check it.
How do I clear the „Drain waste water“ message?
Drain the waste water completely via the designated hose connection and switch the device off and on again to reset the message. If it persists, report the case via steri24.de/help.
The filter change or pressure release is refused when the tank is full — why?
When the feed water tank is full, the autoclave refuses pressure release in order to prevent overflow. Drain some water via the „Clean“ hose connection, then the process is possible again.
What does a notice that maintenance is due mean, and can I clear it myself?
A maintenance reminder signals that the next scheduled service is due. This notice cannot be cleared on your own — after the maintenance has been carried out, the message is reset by the technician.
The temperature is not reached or the heating curve is not maintained — what should I do?
Send a photo of the error or sterilization log via steri24.de/help so we can check the cause. If the door will not open, switching the device off and on again often helps; a technician will then check the exact cause.
The device shows an error code that I can't find here — what do I do?
Send us a photo of the error or sterilization log and fill in the service form at steri24.de/help. A technician will then check whether it is a genuine fault or an operating or sensor notice, and will get back to you with a solution.
How do I report an error or defect most quickly?
Fill in the service form at steri24.de/help and describe the error, ideally with a photo of the log. A technician will then contact you with a suggested solution or to arrange an appointment.
Is there a loan unit if my autoclave fails?
Yes, we provide a limited number of loan units, especially in the event of a repair, so that your work is not interrupted. The loan unit is supplied with accessories such as a manual and a gripping tool.
How quickly is a technician on site in the event of a fault?
Depending on your location, our technicians are usually on site promptly. A replacement or loan unit bridges the downtime, and a 24-hour emergency line is available for urgent cases.
Do I have to send in my device for repair?
Not necessarily: in many cases a technician comes to you on site, or alternatively a repair at the factory is possible. Report the defect with a description and photos via steri24.de/help, then we will coordinate the procedure with you.
Does Steri24 also offer service and repair after the warranty has expired?
Yes, we repair and service your device even after the warranty has expired and without a maintenance contract. The usual service and spare parts costs then apply.
How long are spare parts available for my autoclave?
We keep spare parts available throughout the entire expected service life of the devices, so that repairs remain possible even after many years.
Can I get help from Steri24 for a fault on a third-party device?
As a rule we can only service and repair our own Steri24 and CertoClav devices, as we lack suitable spare parts and approvals for third-party devices. However, we can validate many third-party devices; as an alternative, we are happy to advise you on a suitable new device.
My sealing device no longer works — what should I do?
Please describe the error and, if possible, send a photo via steri24.de/help or to support. For validatable sealing devices such as the CertoSeal, a technician will assist you with the solution or maintenance.
Which water should I use so that no water-related errors occur?
Use distilled or demineralized water with the lowest possible conductivity. Commercially available distilled water from a drugstore or supermarket is suitable; tap water as well as technical battery or iron water are unsuitable and can damage the device.
A water warning appears although the tank is full — what is the reason?
The message often appears when the water has stood in the tank for too long or the filters of a water treatment system are exhausted. Empty and clean the tank, fill in fresh distilled water and, with an external system, replace the filters. If that does not help, report the case via steri24.de/help.
How do I switch off the automatic water mode if I do not use a fixed water connection?
If you do not use fixed water via AQUAdem, set the Auto Water Mode to 00 in the service menu to avoid water-related error messages in future. Our support is happy to help you with the correct setting.
How long does maintenance take and what happens during that time?
On-site maintenance is usually completed in a single appointment. With factory maintenance, the device is collected and returned after a few working days; during this time a limited number of loan units is available.
How reliably do the autoclaves run and how quickly is help available in an emergency?
Our autoclaves are very reliable and, with regular maintenance, long-lasting. In the event of a fault, a replacement or loan unit bridges the downtime, a technician comes on site promptly and a 24-hour emergency line is available for emergencies.
How do I tell whether a cycle was successful or there is an error?
On success, „Program finished“ or „Cycle finished“ appears — in accordance with EN 13060 as text rather than an OK symbol, often with several beeps, and the door unlocks. If there is an error, an error code appears on the display instead.
Do I absolutely need a fixed water connection for troubleshooting?
No, all our autoclaves are stand-alone devices with an integrated fresh and waste water tank and can be filled manually with distilled water. A fixed water connection is optional and can also be retrofitted later.
What can I do if my display is shown in the wrong language?
The autoclaves support several display languages that can be changed in the menu. The operating manual is also available in several languages; if needed, we will send you the appropriate version.
Which display messages can I resolve myself and when do I need a technician?
Many messages are harmless and quickly solved yourself, such as „Refill water“ or „Replace bacteria filter“. When it comes to sensors, the heating curve, seals or an unknown error code, report the case via steri24.de/help — then a technician will check the cause.
My label printer doesn't work — how do I connect it?
The label printer is connected to the SteriTrace tablet via an RS232-USB cable. For narrower rolls, remove the plastic inner part, insert the roll, close the lid and press „Feed“. We provide detailed instructions if needed.
Does a restart help with stuck display messages?
Yes, with many messages — for example after a successful cycle or after draining waste water — it is enough to briefly switch the device off and on again to reset the display. If the message persists, report the case via steri24.de/help.
How can I avoid my practice coming to a standstill in the event of a defect?
With a maintenance package and our on-site service we keep downtime short: in the event of a repair, a loan unit bridges the time, our own technicians come to your area and a 24-hour emergency line is available for emergencies.
How does Steri24 service differ from other providers when it comes to troubleshooting?
Unlike many established providers, where the device often has to be sent in for weeks, we rely on our own technicians and service partners near you, as well as a loan unit in an emergency — so you avoid long downtime.
What do I check first when a sterilization cycle aborts with an error?
First check the water level in the fresh water tank, the correct seating and closure of the door, and whether a suitable USB stick is being used. Many aborts can be resolved this way; if the error persists, send a photo of the log via steri24.de/help.