Consultants’ Comments

• “The tank is very spacious.”
• “Simple controls.”
• “Very easy to drain and clean.”
• “The noise during operation is low.”
• “Standard cassettes do not fit in the tank.”

Description

Soniclean ultrasonic cleaners are available in three sizes: 1.5-, 2.5-, and 5.5-gallon capacities. The M250 Soniclean, 2.5-gallon unit, was evaluated. The 14-lb unit measures 29.2 x 24.1 x 15.2 cm (11.5″ x 9.5″ x 6.0″) and can be recessed or placed on the counter. It has two, 40-kHz sweeping transducers that provide uniform cleaning with a 180-W maximum input power. Controls are located on top of an angled panel rising from the back edge of the cleaner. When the unit is installed recessed, the tank cover is flush with the countertop, and only the control panel projects above. The mechanical timer is turned clockwise to activate the unit in one-minute intervals, up to 60 minutes. A hold function allows continuous operation, during which the water-based solution will stabilize at 60¬∞C (140¬∞F). M250 Soniclean has a built-in drain and is supplied with a tank drain kit. Also included are a cover, perforated insert tray, instrument basket, and instruction/installation manual. M250 Soniclean was used by 12 consultants during a nine-month evaluation period. This ultrasonic cleaner received a 92% clinical rating.

Equipment Features

The smooth surfaces and rounded edges of M250 Soniclean are esthetic, easy to clean, and provide few areas for debris to accumulate. The small footprint and top-mounted controls take minimal space on a busy counter top. Consultants found the unit made discernable noise during operation. When recessed, consultants appreciated the compact form and the noise was reduced. Consultants preferred having the unit shut off after completing a cycle, rather than using the available hold function. Smooth instruments are cleaned more effectively than those with serrated surfaces. The highest scores were for the ease of draining. The drain kit connects to an opening on the side of the unit and has a valve, hose adapter, drain tube, and a protective cap to cover the drain when not in use. The 14-page operator’s/installation manual contains helpful illustrations, tables and ordering information for consumables and accessories for the M250 Soniclean. Seventy-five percent of consultants found M250 Soniclean equal to or better than their current ultrasonic unit and 63% would recommend and switch to this unit.

Clinical Tips

• Run the unit 5 to10 minutes after new solution is placed to drive out the dissolved gasses, raise the temperature of the solution and allow for more effective cleaning.
• Do not place objects directly on the bottom of the tank – this may damage the transducers. Use the supplied wire basket or suspend objects into the tank from wires.
• M250 Soniclean will not accept standard 20.3 x 27.9 cm (8″ x 11″) cassettes. Special order 20.3 x 26.7 cm (8″ x 10.5″) cassettes.