Environmental chambers, sometimes referred to as stability chambers or refrigerated incubators, are essential tools in life science research, manufacturing, and quality control for their ability to create precise temperature and humidity conditions for critical testing. When these chambers malfunction, it can compromise the validity of your research results, and delay project timelines and impact compliance. The guide below outlines common issues so you can catch malfunctions before they turn into bigger problems.

My Environmental Chamber Won’t Reach or Hold the Set Temperature

Symptoms: The chamber struggles to achieve the programmed temperature or fluctuates significantly during operation.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty or aging temperature sensors
• Failing heating or cooling components
• Blocked airflow from overloaded shelves or obstructed vents

Troubleshooting:

• Verify Settings: Ensure that the correct setpoint is programmed and that no safety limiters are engaged.
• Allow Stabilization: After adjusting settings, give the unit time to stabilize.
• Check Load Placement: Avoid overpacking shelves, which can restrict airflow.

Note: Persistent instability may indicate component failure or calibration drift, requiring professional environmental chamber maintenance.

My Chamber’s Humidity Levels are Inaccurate

Symptoms: The humidity reading is consistently higher or lower than the setpoint, or it fluctuates unpredictably.

Possible Causes:

• Malfunctioning humidity sensors
• Improper water supply or low water levels in humidity systems
• Mineral buildup in the steam generator or humidification line

Troubleshooting:

• Confirm Water Quality: Use the specified type of water to avoid mineral deposits.
• Check Drainage: Ensure drains are clear to prevent pooling or excessive moisture.
• Document Fluctuations: Record when humidity levels deviate to help your service engineers identify the cause.

Note: Humidity control issues often require specialized cleaning or component replacement by a specialized field service engineer.

My Chamber Takes Too Long to Recover After Door Openings

Symptoms: After opening the chamber door, temperature or humidity takes much longer than usual to return to setpoints.

Possible Causes:

• Worn or damaged door gaskets
• Weak refrigeration or heating output
• Sensor calibration drift

Troubleshooting:

• Inspect Door Seals: Look for cracks, warping, or debris that may prevent a tight seal.
• Minimize Door Openings: Keep access to essential instances only to reduce environmental disruption.
• Track Recovery Time: Record the difference between normal and current recovery rates for service engineer review.

Note: If seals or mechanical systems are compromised, contact your service provider for professional repair.

My Chamber is Displaying Error Codes or Alarms

Symptoms: The control panel shows error messages, or alarms activate during operation.

Possible Causes:

• Software or firmware glitches
• Loose or damaged wiring connections
• Power supply inconsistencies or surges

Troubleshooting:

• Power Cycle: Turn the unit off and back on to attempt a reset.
• Check Connections: Confirm that visible cables are secure.
• Refer to Manual: Match error codes to the manufacturer’s guidance to share with your service engineers.

Note: Some alarms are safety-critical – always notify a qualified service provider immediately for diagnosis and repair.

My Chamber Produces Unusual Noises or Vibrations

Symptoms: Loud humming, grinding, rattling, or vibration during operation.

Possible Causes:

• Fan motor wear or bearing failure
• Loose internal components
• Refrigeration system strain

Troubleshooting:

• Document Sound: Note when and how often the noise occurs.
• Check External Objects: Ensure no items are resting against the chamber that could transmit vibration.

Note: Never remove panels to access internal parts yourself – leave mechanical inspections to qualified service professionals.

Environmental Chamber Repair, Calibration, and Preventative Maintenance Solutions from MarathonLS

While identifying symptoms can help mitigate larger problems, repairs and environmental chamber maintenance should always be performed by trained professionals. MarathonLS offers comprehensive support for environmental chambers, including emergency repairs, calibration, and full preventative maintenance programs.

To learn more about MarathonLS’ full range of equipment service offerings, click here.