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3.1
3. Care, Maintenance, and Storage
O-Rings
The instrument utilizes o-rings as seals to prevent water from entering the battery compartment and sensor ports. Following
the recommended procedures will help keep your instrument functioning properly. If the o-rings and sealing surfaces are not
maintained properly, it is possible that water can enter the battery compartment and/or sensor ports of the instrument. If water
enters these areas, it can severely damage the battery terminals or sensor ports causing loss of battery power, false readings, and
corrosion to the sensors or battery terminals. Therefore, when the battery compartment lid is removed, the o-ring that provides the
seal should be carefully inspected for contamination (e.g. debris, grit, etc.) and cleaned if necessary.
The same inspection should be made of the o-rings associated with the sensor connectors when they are removed. If no dirt or
damage to the o-rings is evident, then they should be lightly greased without removal from their groove. However, if there is any
indication of damage, the o-ring should be replaced with an identical o-ring. At the time of o-ring replacement, the entire o-ring
assembly should be cleaned.
To remove the o-rings:
Use a small, flat-bladed screwdriver or similar blunt-tipped tool to carefully remove the o-ring from its groove. Check the o-ring and
the groove for any excess grease or contamination. If contamination is evident, clean the o-ring and nearby plastic parts with lens
cleaning tissue or equivalent lint-free cloth. Alcohol can be used to clean the plastic parts, but use only water and mild detergent on
the o-ring itself. Also, inspect the o-rings for nicks and imperfections.
Before re-installing the o-rings, make sure to use a clean workspace, clean hands, and avoid contact with anything that may leave
fibers on the o-ring or grooves. Even a very small amount of contamination (hair, grit, etc.) may cause a leak.
This section describes the proper procedures for care, maintenance and storage of the sensors. The goal is to maximize their
lifetime and minimize down-time associated with improper sensor usage.
General Maintenance
Using alcohol on o-rings may cause a loss of elasticity and may promote cracking. Do not use a sharp object to
remove the o-rings. Damage to the o-ring or the groove may result.
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