Suction Therapy Isn’t Producing a Vacuum

There are several reasons Suction therapy may not be producing a vacuum. Follow the troubleshooting steps below to identify and solve the issue.

First let’s check and see if VOCSN is producing a vacuum from its port:

1. Remove the Travel Suction Canister or the External Suction Adapter.
2. Start suction therapy.
3. Place your finger over the hole in the side of VOCSN where the suction accessory attaches.
4. You should be able to feel the vacuum. If no vacuum is produced, provide an alternative suction method to the patient and take the unit out of service. Please fill out this form. One of our clinical specialists will contact you. 

If you do feel vacuum pressure from the device port, you should next check the hydro-phobic filter in the canister or adapter. To check the filter:

1. Remove the travel canister or adapter.
2. If you’re using the travel canister, remove the filter by moving the blue dial to the “dot.” Place your thumbs on the clear filter on the back side of the travel canister and your fingers on the front and pop the filter out.
3. If the filter is wet (a wet filter will swell up like a marshmallow) replace the travel canister or external adapter.

Ensure the correct ¼ inch suction tubing is connected to the canister and it is not occluded and does not have any leaks. Replace the tubing if it is leaking.

If you’re using an external suction canister, check it for the following: 

1. Make sure the lid of the canister is securely fastened.
2. Make sure the ¼ inch suction tubing is secure.
3. Make sure all ports not being used are tightly capped.