Knowledge Base › Troubleshooting Atlas › Equipment faults
Cold plate not cooling blocks
Also known as: cold plate malfunction, cooling failure
What it looks like
Blocks remain at room temperature or are warm to the touch, affecting the quality of tissue processing.
Where it usually appears: Typically observed during routine embedding processes when the cold plate fails to maintain temperature.
Likely causes
- Power supply issue
- Thermostat malfunction
- Refrigerant leak
- Blocked cooling vents
- Faulty compressor
Immediate checks
- Ensure the cold plate is plugged in
- Check the power indicator light
- Inspect for any visible damage to the unit
Corrective action
- Restart the cold plate
- Adjust thermostat settings
- Contact maintenance for repairs
Preventive action
- Regular maintenance checks
- Clean cooling vents regularly
- Monitor temperature regularly
This atlas is for educational purposes for laboratory professionals. It does not replace your institutional SOPs, manufacturer instructions, validated protocols or pathologist judgment. Adapt any action to your laboratory and equipment.
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