Undissolved Washer Detergent Sign of Bad Seal?

Q: We are having issues with undissolved detergent that is persisting.  We make sure the compartment is dry before use.  Can we try a liquid?

A: It sounds like you have a cup in door washer for the powdered detergent.  The seals there are not designed to hold a liquid – of course some seals are better than others, but they are more for powders and gels (think home dishwasher gel at home).  

I can say from direct experience, undissolved Alcojet detergent in the cup is almost always due to residual moisture.  I find that drying that out really helps.  This elaborates: Laboratory Cleaning: Alcojet Detergent not Dissolving in Washer.  But if you are already drying, perhaps the seals are letting water right at the onset.  That of course is suboptimal. 

So a couple thoughts… you can try the recommendations above, we can send a sample of Tergajet® Low-Foaming Phosphate-Free Detergent which is phosphate free and less “cakey,” or we can possibly try Solujet® Low-Foaming Phosphate-Free Liquid so we can see how it works in your washer.  Ultimately if the seals which are already not designed for a liquid, are the issue, Solujet detergent would not be the answer.

For general questions about Lab Washers, you can review our guide.