As a "cleansing wonder" for relieving nasal ailments like rhinitis and sinusitis, electric nasal irrigators have become a staple in many families thanks to their constant pressure irrigation and convenient operation. However, long-term neglect of maintenance can lead to abnormal water pressure, nozzle blockage, and even motor damage. This not only affects the effectiveness of treatment but can also breed bacteria and cause secondary infections.
Daily Cleaning After Each Use
The frequency of cleaning an electric nasal irrigator directly affects its hygiene and performance stability. We recommend following the "use after use" principle and immediately perform the following steps after each use:
Separate Removable Components
Turn off the power and remove the removable components, including the water tank, nozzle, and connecting tube, one by one. Be careful not to pull forcefully to prevent damage to the clips or seals.
Rinse with running water
Rinse the inside of the water tank, nozzle holes, and the inner wall of the connecting tube with warm running water (30-35°C) to remove salt crystals, mucus, or residual medication. Tips: Use a soft-bristled brush (such as an old toothbrush) to gently brush the inside of the nozzle to avoid scratching the surface with hard objects.
Disinfection and Sterilization to Prevent Cross-Infection
Physical Disinfection: Soak the cleaned components in boiling water for 2-3 minutes (make sure the equipment material is heat-resistant, such as silicone or PP plastic).
Chemical Disinfection: Wipe the nozzle and water tank connection with 75% medical alcohol, or soak in a chlorine-containing disinfectant prepared according to the instructions for 10 minutes (thoroughly rinse to remove any residue).
Contraindications: Avoid using highly corrosive cleaning agents such as 84 disinfectant to prevent component degradation.
Thoroughly Dry Before Reassembly
Place the disinfected components upside down on a clean towel and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area (approximately 1-2 hours). Do not wrap them with paper towels or blow directly with a hair dryer to prevent fiber residue or deformation due to high temperatures.
Assembly Inspection: Ensure the seal is intact and the nozzle holes are clear, then reassemble according to the instructions.
Regular Deep Care
In addition to daily cleaning, electric nasal rinsers require regular, systematic maintenance to prevent performance degradation:
Motor and Battery Maintenance
Avoid Idling: Ensure the water tank is sufficiently liquid before each use to prevent damage to the motor due to dry-burning.
Battery Management: For rechargeable nasal rinsers, it is recommended to charge the battery immediately when the battery drops below 20% to avoid excessive discharge, which can shorten battery life.
Long-Term Storage: If the device is unused for more than one month, charge it every two weeks to maintain battery life.
Scale and Salt Removal
Scale Removal: After use in hard water areas, white scale may remain on the inner wall of the water tank. Soak it in a citric acid solution (1:10 ratio) for two hours, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Preventing Salt Scale: Use special nasal rinse salts, not table salt, to prevent impurities from clogging the nozzle. If salt scale has formed, gently rub the nozzle with a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar.
Pressure Calibration and Sealing Check
Pressure Test: Some high-end models are equipped with a pressure regulator. Regularly use a pressure gauge to check if the water pressure is within the range specified in the manual (usually 12-15 kPa).
Sealing Check: After assembly, fill the water tank with water and gently press the nozzle to observe for leaks. If leaks occur, check the seal for displacement or deterioration.
Replacement of Nozzle Head Wear
The nozzle head is a consumable part. After long-term use, the holes may enlarge or deform, causing water flow dispersion. It is recommended to replace it every 6-12 months (refer to the manual for specific intervals).
Purchasing Tip: Prioritize genuine parts to ensure compatibility with the main unit.
Safe Storage
Proper storage can prevent damage to the electric nasal irrigation device from external forces or environmental factors:
Dust and Moisture Protection
Store the device in a dedicated storage box or dry cabinet to prevent dust from entering the nozzle head and motor.
Contraindications: Never place the nasal irrigation device in humid environments such as bathrooms to prevent short circuits or rust on metal components.
Avoid high temperatures and direct sunlight
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures (>40°C) or sunlight can cause plastic components to become brittle and battery performance to degrade. The recommended storage temperature is between 5°C and 35°C.
For example, in summer, the temperature inside a car may exceed 60°C. Never leave the nasal rinser in a car.
Drop and Pressure Resistance
Handle the device with care to avoid collision with hard objects. When storing, do not place heavy objects on top of the device to prevent deformation of the nozzle or rupture of the water tank.
Child and Pet Safety
Keep the nasal rinser out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental disassembly or swallowing of small parts.
Troubleshooting
Even with regular maintenance, the electric nasal rinser may malfunction due to improper operation or aging of components. The following are common problems and their solutions:
Insufficient Water Pressure
Cause: Low water tank level, clogged nozzle, low battery.
Solution: Refill the fluid to the highest mark, clean the nozzle, charge or replace the battery.
Device Won't Start
Cause: Power not connected, poor battery contact, motor damage.
Solution: Check that the charging cable is securely plugged in, clean the battery connector with a cotton swab, and contact after-sales service for motor inspection.
Unusual Noise
Cause: Foreign matter in the motor, worn bearings.
Solution: Remove the water tank and inspect for debris. If the noise persists, send the device for repair.
Maintaining an electric nasal rinser isn't a complex task. Through careful attention to detail, including daily cleaning, regular maintenance, and safe storage, you can maximize both its performance and lifespan.
