Even with regular care, breast pumps can occasionally run into issues. Below are solutions for the most common problems, plus a general guide on when to replace parts to keep your pump performing at its best.
Loss of Suction
- Inspect valves and membranes for wear, stretching, or tears—these are the most common cause of suction loss.
- Make sure flanges are assembled tightly and positioned correctly during pumping.
- Check that tubing is connected securely and shows no cracks, moisture, or damage.
- Replace worn parts as needed (see replacement schedule below).
Motor Seems Weak or Loud
- Ensure your pump is fully charged or plugged in during use to provide consistent power.
- Confirm all connections are airtight and that no parts are loose.
- If the motor becomes unusually loud or loses power, stop using it and contact our service team for evaluation.
Milk Not Flowing Into Bottles
- Double-check that all parts are correctly and firmly assembled, especially valves, membranes, and bottle connections.
- Try breast massage or warm compresses beforehand to help trigger let-down.
- Make sure you are relaxed, comfortable, and using the correct flange size, as stress or poor fit can slow milk flow.
Moisture in Tubing
- Tubing should never have moisture inside. If milk or condensation gets into tubing, it cannot be fully dried and may allow mold or bacteria to grow.
- If tubing is wet inside or shows any buildup, discard and replace it immediately.
- Do not attempt to rinse or dry tubing internally—it will not fully dry and could contaminate your milk.
General Replacement Schedule for Pump Parts
Each pump model may have its own recommendations, but here’s a general guideline to keep suction strong and milk collection safe:
- Duckbill valves / membranes: Replace every 2–3 months (or sooner if you notice suction loss or stretching).
- Flanges / breast shields: Replace every 6 months or sooner if they become cracked, warped, or uncomfortable.
- Tubing: Replace every 6 months, or immediately if any moisture, milk, or mold is visible inside.
- Backflow protectors: Replace every 6 months or if the diaphragm becomes warped or worn.
Tip: If you pump multiple times a day, you may need to replace parts more frequently than these general guidelines to maintain strong suction and performance. Please refer to your specific pump’s User Manual for your exact replacement schedule.
