Autoclaves are large water-consumers in the lab, and can consume 45-50 gallons of water per minute. These devices are also a critical component in most labs, and can help reduce waste by sterilizing and reusing lab plastics, glass, and metal components rather than single-use plastics.
Consider the following strategies to make sure your autoclave is run as efficiently as possible.
- Be sure that all autoclaves and dishwashers are only run with full loads and are on standby mode when not in use. Establish clear procedures and communicate them with your lab team.
- Install a water mizer on your current autoclave, which eliminates “tempering” water consumption during the non-sterilizing portion of the cycle.
- Purchase a water efficient autoclave.