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WARNING! To prevent electrical shock, always remove the reaction module from 
the thermal cycler base or unplug the base before cleaning the instrument.
WARNING! Never touch or allow solutions to touch the optical system that is 
located behind the heated plate holes in the inner lid (Figure 105).
Figure 105. Heating plate holes in the inner lid.
TIP: For instructions on handling and cleaning radioactive or biohazardous 
materials, consult the guidelines for radiation safety and biosafety provided by your 
institution. These guidelines include cleaning, monitoring, and disposal methods 
for hazardous materials.
• Clean the outer surface. Use a damp cloth or tissue to clean spills off the outside 
case. If needed, use a mild soap solution and then rinse the surface with a damp cloth. 
Cleaning the cover will prevent corrosion
• Clean the cooling fins. Remove dust with a soft brush or damp cloth. Remove any 
heavy dust that is deep in the vents with a vacuum cleaner. Use water and a soft, lint-free 
cloth to remove debris that is stuck to the fins. Avoid scratching the surface. If needed, 
use a mild soap solution and rinse well to remove residue completely. Cleaning the fins 
improves precise sample heating and cooling
NOTE: Never use cleaning solutions that are corrosive to aluminum, such as bleach 
or abrasive cleansers.
• Use of oil in the wells is not recommended. If oil is used, the wells must be cleaned 
thoroughly and often. Remove the oil when it is discolored or contains dirt. Use a 
solution of 95% ethanol to clean oil. Do not allow oil to build up in the block
• Clean the wells in the block. Clean spills immediately to prevent them from drying. Use 
disposable plastic pipets with water (recommended), 95% ethanol, or a 1:100 dilution of 
bleach in water. Also use a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel and water to clean the 
block. Always rinse the wells with water several times to remove all traces of cleaning 
reagents
WARNING! Never clean the block with strong alkaline solutions (strong soap, 
ammonia, or high-concentration bleach). Never use corrosive or abrasive cleaning 
solutions. These cleaning agents can damage the block and prevent precise 
thermal control.
Never touch anything
Block (96-well)
behind these holes










