Knowledge Base › Troubleshooting Atlas › Equipment faults
Slide-drying oven overheating
What it looks like
Slides may appear burnt or excessively dried, with visible discoloration or cracking. Tissue morphology may be compromised.
Where it usually appears: Typically observed during routine slide preparation when the oven is set to an inappropriate temperature.
Likely causes
- Thermostat malfunction
- Improper temperature settings
- Blocked ventilation
- Faulty heating element
Immediate checks
- Verify the oven temperature setting
- Inspect the oven for any obstructions
- Check the thermostat calibration
Corrective action
- Adjust the temperature setting to recommended levels
- Replace faulty thermostat or heating element
- Clear any blockages in ventilation
Preventive action
- Regularly calibrate the thermostat
- Perform routine maintenance checks on the oven
- Ensure proper airflow around the oven
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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