An ultrasonic cleaner uses high-frequency waves to remove dirt particles from an object. The object is placed in a liquid. When the ultrasonic cleaner is turned on, the liquid vibrates, and those vibrations generate force that removes dirt particles. It is a bit like waves crashing against the shore.
Maybe you just bought your first ultrasonic cleaner, or you are planning to get one. You might be wondering how to get the best results from your ultrasonic cleaner. Like every other machine, there are dos and don'ts. I will take you through the best practices for your ultrasonic cleaner to help you use it effectively.
Always Ensure The Tank Is Filled Before Switching On
Ultrasonic cleaners are usually powered by electricity. You must only switch the machine on when the tank has been filled to the required level. If the machine is switched on before it is filled, the transducer will burn out, destroying your ultrasonic cleaner. When not in use, switch off the machine and the socket where it is plugged.
If you want your ultrasonic cleaner to last longer, you should not ignore this practice. It takes a few seconds to check if all switches are off.
Do Not Place Any Part Of Your Body In An Ultrasonic Cleaner
Ultrasonic cleaners are designed to clean objects such as jewelry, surgical instruments, and musical instruments. They are not designed for the human skin.
It is risky to put your fingers or any part of your body in an ultrasonic cleaner. These machines emit waves that can be harmful to your skin. Ensure the machine has been switched off before taking out objects. If possible, wear a rubber glove for extra protection.
Cover The Machine When Not In Use
Most ultrasonic cleaners come with a cover. If yours doesn't, you should find a way of making sure it is covered when not in use.
Covering the ultrasonic cleaner will prevent dust, dirt particles, and other contaminants from getting into the machine. Particles can mix with the cleaning solution, contaminating it and reducing its effectiveness.
You should clean your ultrasonic cleaner regularly to prevent dirt build-up. For your cleaner to work effectively, it has to be clean.
Properly Clean Your Ultrasonic Cleaner
As mentioned earlier, your ultrasonic cleaner should be cleaned frequently and thoroughly. Keep in mind that all the dirt from the parts you clean ends up in the ultrasonic cleaner.
The cleaning solution or detergent you use should be changed periodically. You should also wipe the tank after draining. Use a clean rag to wipe the tank after rinsing with clean water.
Read The Manual
Instruction manuals are meant to be read. Familiarize yourself with your ultrasonic machine. Ultrasonic cleaners are not all the same. Hence it is important to go through the instructions manual thoroughly.
Reading the instruction manual can prevent you from making mistakes and destroying your machine. Keep in mind that an ultrasonic cleaner is an investment; hence you must use it the right way.
You should also research what type of solution to use for what object to get the best results. Let's take a look at some cleaning solutions and what they are used for.
Neutral Solutions
Neutral solutions are used to clean grease, dust, and other contaminants from objects made of rubber, glass, and plastic. They are also ideal for cleaning jewelry.
Alkaline Solutions
Solutions that have a pH of 10 or more are usually referred to as Alkaline solutions. Solutions that fall in this category can be used to clean metals like zinc, copper, and stainless steel.
Acidic Solutions
These are solutions that have a pH of 5.0 or lower. Acidic solutions can be corrosive. Hence it is not safe to use if your cleaner is not corrosion safe. Ultrasonic cleaners can be one of the best investments you have ever made or one of the worst. It all depends on the way you handle your cleaner.
Keep It Clean And Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaners can last for years if you use the best practices. Every ultrasonic cleaning machine is unique and should be treated as such. By using the above practices, you avoid damaging your cleaner or reducing its effectiveness.