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Lab Fume Hood Replacement
A fume hood is a vital piece of equipment in any laboratory, designed to protect researchers from harmful vapors and gases that may be emitted during experiments. It is important to regularly maintain and, if necessary, replace your fume hood to ensure the safety of all lab personnel.
Below you can find information on how to properly replace a fume hood, as well as important items to consider when selecting a new fume hood. If you have any questions or concerns regarding anything about your fume hood replacement, contact PSA.
When is it time to replace your fume hood?
When your hood sash wears out
The sash is a movable panel that covers the opening of the fume hood. Sashes are usually the first component to fail as there is constant tension on its cables and sash glides. If the sash cannot be repaired or replaced, it may be necessary to consider purchasing a new fume hood to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your laboratory’s ventilation system.
When it fails a safety check
Regular safety checks are crucial to maintaining an effective fume hood and a safe lab environment. If your fume hood does not pass its annual filtration efficiency test, you should replace it with a new hood.
When your fume hood begins to degrade
If your fume hood begins to degrade, it is a good time to replace it with a new one.
Signs of degradation include:
- Discoloration of materials
- Fogging on the sash
- Loud noises from the internal fan
- Corrosion
- Rust
- Permanent stains
- Warping
While these issues do not all necessarily require immediate replacement, they serve as indicators that your fume hood is no longer functioning at an optimal level and may not be filtering air effectively. If immediate fume hood replacement is not necessary, it may be in the near future.
When your lab size changes
If your lab is growing, it may be time to update your fume hood. Fume hoods will be used more as your lab grows, causing more wear and tear and potentially putting employees’ health at risk. If your lab is expanding, it might be time to update your fume hood to a newer, more efficient model.
How to select a new fume hood
When selecting a new fume hood, consider factors like size, material, and ventilation requirements to ensure you are choosing the optimal hood for your unique lab applications. Also, be sure to follow all manufacturer guidelines and recommendations for installation and ongoing maintenance.
For guidance on selecting the optimal replacement fume hood, contact the lab equipment experts at PSA. We’ll help pair you with the optimal fume hood model based on your specific needs.
How to replace a fume hood
To replace a fume hood in your laboratory, follow these general steps:
- Shut off all power to the fume hood and any connected equipment.
- Disconnect utilities, such as gas or water lines, that are connected to the fume hood.
- Remove all equipment or materials stored inside the fume hood.
- Carefully remove the fume hood from its installation location. Take care to avoid damaging the fume hood, surrounding area, or equipment.
- Install the new fume hood according to the manufacturer's instructions and any applicable building codes.
- Reconnect any utilities and equipment that were disconnected during the removal of the old fume hood.
- Test the fume hood to ensure everything is connected and functioning properly, meeting all safety requirements.
It is crucial to follow all manufacturer guidelines when installing a new fume hood to ensure optimal performance and a safe lab environment. It is also recommended to consult with a professional, such as an electrician or laboratory safety specialist (like us!), to ensure the fume hood replacement is done correctly.