Note that some units have a built-in automated decontamination cycle which can be run after regular cleaning. Filters should be replaced every six months to one year. Some lab incubators include HEPA filters, which trap fine particulate matter present in the incoming air to reduce the potential for chamber contamination.Clean the fan and fan wheels every few months.Remember to clean the outside of the unit, especially the door handle.Quaternary ammonium disinfectant is one of the best options for many applications. Make sure any disinfectants used won’t harm your cell cultures or corrode the incubator chamber. Depending on the application, disinfection may be sufficient, or complete sterilization might be required. Clean the humidity pan, chamber, shelves, and any other removable parts regularly.If using a humidity pan, change the water in the pan at least once per week.Always wear gloves when handling containers to be placed inside the unit.As such, it’s important to stick to a strict cleaning schedule for your unit. If your incubator is contaminated, it’s likely your results will be negatively impacted. The CO2Cell Incubator and the SCO Air Jacket CO2 Incubator both utilize IR sensors. You can check CO2 levels using an external gas analyzer every few months. CO2 sensors help here by signalling when and how much CO2 needs to be added to the chamber. This is typically kept at 5% to maintain a constant pH for optimal growth. Ideal humidity is usually around 95%, and to keep it at this level, you need to make sure the water tray (under the incubator) is never at risk of running dry.įor CO2 incubators, you’ll need to monitor the CO2 level. If the humidity is too low, there’s a chance your cell culture media can evaporate or your growth media may become too concentrated. Tissues and cells are sensitive to changes in these parameters, so they need to be monitored closely. Optimal growth conditions for cell cultures also include a specific humidity level and in some cases, CO2 level. The TH-G Temperature and Humidity Chamber has a lock and key whereas the IL Air-jacketed Low Temperature Incubators comes with a keypad lock. If you’re concerned about the incubator door being inadvertently opened, you can opt for a unit with a door lock. You can check this against the sensor temperature and if they’re different, you know the sensor needs to be recalibrated.Īvoiding opening and closing the door unnecessarily can help keep the temperature stable (and prevent contaminants from entering the chamber). If your incubator has a glass door, you can attach a calibrated thermometer to the inside of the glass and read it without having to open the door. Temperature sensors are included units, but how do you know that you can always rely on your sensor? One way to ensure the correct temperature is use a second thermometer. ![]() Deviations in temperature could inhibit growth or even destroy cultures. Incubators are often maintained at 37☌ for optimal growth of cell cultures. As that is often not practical nor feasible, taking into account the factors above will suffice for most applications. Ideal conditions for a lab incubator would be in a temperature-controlled environment and cleanroom conditions. Ensure the area around the unit is as clean as possible.Place units away from sources of vibration such as shakers, stirrers, or refrigerators, as vibrations can affect cell growth.Avoid humid, damp areas that may be harboring fungal growth.Place floor incubators on a stand to limit the risk of contaminants sweeping in when the door is open. ![]()
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