1. Regular Cleaning

• External Cleaning
  Wipe the pump’s surface with a dry or slightly damp soft cloth (avoid water immersion) to remove dust, oil stains, or debris. This prevents dust from entering the internal components through vents over time.
  Note: Disconnect the power before cleaning to avoid electric shock.
• Ventilation Check
  Ensure the air inlet/outlet vents are not blocked by dust, fabric, or other objects. Blocked vents can cause overheating, reduced airflow, or increased noise. Use a soft brush or compressed air (at low pressure) to gently clean the vents if clogged.
• Filter Maintenance (if equipped)
  Many miniature pumps have inlet filters (e.g., foam, mesh) to prevent particles from entering the pump chamber.
  • Clean reusable filters: Rinse with clean water, dry completely, and reinstall.
  • Replace disposable filters: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually every 1–3 months, depending on usage environment).

2. Avoid Overloading and Overheating

• Operate Within Rated Parameters
  Never exceed the pump’s rated voltage, current, or pressure range (positive/negative pressure). Overloading can burn the motor or damage internal seals.
  • Check the nameplate or user manual for specifications (e.g., 12V DC, max 0.5MPa).
• Prevent Continuous Overuse
  Miniature pumps are often designed for intermittent use (e.g., 30 minutes on/10 minutes off). Prolonged continuous operation may cause overheating.
  • If used in continuous-duty applications, ensure the pump has adequate heat dissipation (e.g., avoid enclosing it in a tight, unventilated space).

3. Protect Against Contaminants

• Avoid Moisture and Corrosive Gases
  • Keep the pump away from water, steam, or high humidity environments unless it’s explicitly rated as waterproof. Moisture can rust metal parts or short-circuit the motor.
  • Do not use the pump to handle corrosive gases (e.g., acids, alkalis) unless it’s made of corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., PTFE components). Such gases can degrade seals or internal tubing.
• Prevent Liquid Suction
  If the pump is used for gas sampling or fluid transfer, install a check valve or liquid trap in the pipeline to avoid accidental liquid suction into the pump chamber, which can damage diaphragms or pistons.

4. Lubrication (if applicable)

• For piston-type pumps with lubrication ports (rare in miniatures), follow the manufacturer’s instructions to add a small amount of recommended lubricating oil (e.g., food-grade oil for pumps in contact with consumables) every 6–12 months.
• Never use inappropriate oils (e.g., cooking oil), as they may clog components.

5. Check for Abnormalities

• Listen for Unusual Noises
  A well-functioning pump produces steady, low noise. Rattling, scraping, or sudden loud noises may indicate:
  • Loose screws or components (tighten them gently).
  • Worn diaphragms, bearings, or impellers (needs repair or replacement).
• Monitor Performance
  If the pump’s airflow/pressure drops significantly, or it fails to start, check:
  • Power connections (loose wires, damaged plugs).
  • Blocked tubes or filters (clean or replace).
  • Internal leaks (e.g., cracked hoses, worn seals—contact the manufacturer for repair).

6. Storage and Idle Periods

• When not in use for an extended period (e.g., weeks/months):
  • Store the pump in a dry, clean, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures (ideally 5–35°C).
  • Disconnect it from power sources and detach any connected tubes to prevent pressure buildup.
  • For pumps used with fluids, run it briefly (1–2 minutes) before storage to expel residual moisture.

7. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

• Some medical-grade pumps require sterilization with specific methods (e.g., ethylene oxide) instead of water cleaning.
• High-precision pumps may have delicate components that need professional servicing instead of DIY repairs.