What to Look for When Buying a Dental Autoclave

If you’ve ever browsed dental autoclaves online, you’ve probably been hit with a wall of specs — chamber sizes, vacuum stages, drying cycles, compliance codes. It’s a lot.

But here’s the thing: most of those specs mean nothing if the unit doesn’t perform in a real clinical environment.

So how do you cut through the noise and buy something that actually does the job — without overpaying or ending up with a lemon?

Class B vs Class S (Yes, Again)

If you’re in Australia and you're sterilising dental instruments — there’s no debate: Buy a Class B autoclave.

It’s legally required for:

• Wrapped instruments
• Hollow tools like handpieces
• Any reusable item that touches mucosa

Key Features to Look For

• Pre-vacuum and post-vacuum: Ensures steam reaches every surface and dries completely.
• Cycle speed: Shorter wrapped cycles = higher efficiency. Look for ~20–30 minutes for typical loads.
• Drying performance: No damp pouches. No moisture = true sterility.
• Chamber size: 18–23L is perfect for small-to-medium clinics. Make sure trays are deep enough for your kits.
• Water compatibility: Some require distilled water only. Others have automatic filtration.
• Data logging: USB or printout is ideal — you'll need records during audits.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

• What’s the warranty period?
• Where are repairs handled — in Australia or overseas?
• Are spare parts locally stocked?
• Is cycle data printable/exportable?
• Can I get service reminders?

Signs of a Good Supplier

• Transparent about local servicing
• Offers bundled servicing or spare parts
• Doesn’t upsell for your clinic size
• Supports post-sale training

We’re an online-only store — we don’t offer service or installation — but we only list models that are widely supported in Australia by authorised technicians.

Best Use Cases by Clinic Type

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