Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips

Thank you for your purchase of our SinuPulse Elite Sinus Irrigation System. The following troubleshooting steps and maintenance tips will resolve most issues quickly and will ensure optimal performance.

Motor is running but solution is not pumping, noisy, or unit leaks

1a) If the motor is running but the solution is not pumping, experiencing reduced water flow, excessive noise (squeal), or leaking appears under the unit - this is almost always a quick and easy fix. On the outside bottom of the water tank you will find a small black O-ring (Fig.1a). This seals the water tank when seated on top of the SinuPulse and helps regulate water flow. The O-ring may be dry and require lubrication prior to first use, from a period of regular use, or after a period of inactivity. To lubricate the O-ring simply apply a very small thin application of Vaseline with your finger around the O-ring which does not need to be removed. A small application, before first use and periodically as needed, is all that is needed to ensure optimal performance. Clean the SinuPulse Elite regularly as directed, including periodic dilute vinegar rinse, to minimize mineral deposits and calcification which can contribute to reduced performance (flow rate) and premature wear. Use of distilled water is recommended best for long term durability. Remember to empty water tank after each use, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry. Do not leave solution in water tank when not in use.

 

      Fig.1a 

 

1b) If flow rate has not been properly restored which may also occur on first use it may just need some simple priming. Hold or place the handle with the sinus tip on the sink bottom below the height of the SinuPulse. Turn the control knob, while the unit is running, from the lowest setting (1) to highest setting (7) and back to the lowest setting again (Fig 1b). Do this 2-3X (or more) to remove any air that may have become trapped in the system.

Fig.1b

1c) Carefully inspect the hose for any areas that might be pinched or crimped preventing the solution from exiting the tip.

 Fig.2

Excessive Noise

Unusual noise (squeal) can occur if water tank is not fully secure. This is due to the robust motor and pump assembly that creates strong suction and possible air gap between the enhanced O-ring on the water tank and the SunuPulse unit. This is easily resolved by simply pushing down on the water tank to ensure it is fully seated. A small application of Vaseline around the O-ring, before first use and periodically as needed, will help to ensure proper placement and seal if O-ring is dry on first use, becomes dry from a period of continued use, or recent storage. 

The noise level of the motor and pump assembly is comparable to most standard oral irrigator (water pik type) products. The robust motor and pump assembly has been designed specifically to withstand the corrosive effects of saline. The electronic piston driven pump assembly creates a 1200 pulse per minute intermittent pulsating rinse for maximum cleansing benefit reported so effective at removing bacteria. The high-performance motor and piston driven pump assembly have been carefully designed to balance the need for high performance and durability with sound level. Certain bathroom environments and non-sound absorbing surfaces and countertops such as granite and tile may increase sound levels. A simple hand towel placed under the unit will help reduce the sound level considerably. 

Water leaking from where hose inserts into the bottom of the handle/wand

The leaking described is almost always a result of the tip not being fully inserted. The tip needs to be inserted all the way and flush with top of the handle. A small amount of Vaseline around the base of the sinus tip as shown below (the end that goes into the handle) will help lubricate for an easy fit and secure seal. Sometimes the tip assembly can be dry on first use. This is recommended once or twice a year for maintenance as the tip assembly can become dry from continuous exposure to saline and mineral deposits. This is especially true if not using distilled water or after a period of inactivity.

 Fig. 3

Atomizer (spray) tip disengages during operation and leaks 

If the sinus or throat atomizer (spray) tips disengage or pop out from the handle during operation: 

1) Be sure spray tip is fully inserted and there is no gap. Twist to the left and right to ensure tip is fully secure. 

2) Reduce the pressure by turning the control knob to the recommended setting generally between 3-6. The atomizer (spray) tips are designed to be used at the lower settings. Although unusual higher setting may cause the tip to dislodge from the handle during use.

Will not turn on - No power (LED display does not light up)

Check your outlet, especially if it is a GFI pictured below. The breaker may have been tripped and needs to be reset. Check the SinuPulse on an alternate outlet on an entirely different circuit. We recommend in the kitchen on a non GFI outlet this can also help force a reset of the internal breaker inside the unit if it was tripped due to a voltage spike or overheating. The device will generally reset within 30 minutes once the motor cools down.

There is power but I don't hear the motor (LED lights up but no sound from motor or pump assembly)

This is usually an issue with older units resulting from wear especially calcification and mineral deposits which can cause build up and obstruct movement of the gears. Often the obstruction can be dislodged with a firm couple of taps on the bottom of the unit. If the mineral build up can be dislodged the motor and gear assembly will be free to move and should resume pumping. You may need to adjust the control knob from low to high a few times to help remove air that may have become trapped in the system and resume water flow. It is advisable to run 16 ounces of dilute white vinegar (2:1) through the unit to further break up any remaining mineral deposits and calcification. Vinegar is an excellent natural decalcifier and disinfectant.

I thought water pressure would be stronger

As indicated earlier in the troubleshooting steps, first be sure to lubricate the O-ring located on the bottom of the water tank as directed in the user guide. The O-ring may be dry prior to first use, from a period of regular use, or after a period of inactivity. To lubricate the O-ring simply apply a very small application of Vaseline with your finger around the O-ring which does not need to be removed. A very small, thin application is generally all that is needed to ensure optimal performance with periodic applications 2-3X annually. Clean the SinuPulse regularly as directed, including a dilute vinegar rinse, to minimize mineral deposits and calcification which can contribute to reduced performance (flow rate) and premature wear. Use of distilled water is recommended best for long term durability.

The SinuPulse Elite is considerably different than other nasal wash products such as squeeze bottles that simply wash the nasal passages and rely on pressure alone (fire hose up the nose mentality). The higher pressure can contribute to ear sensitivity, irritation, and drive infection deeper. Pulsatile irrigation provides a safe more effective irrigation to enhance the body's natural defenses and address the underlying causes of chronic allergy and sinus problems. The SinuPulse delivers a gentle electronic pulsating saline rinse for maximum cleansing benefit. The oscillating rinse removes bacteria and debris that other nasal wash products can leave behind. At the maximum setting the SinuPulse delivers up to 24 oz in less than a minute and is 3X greater than other methods. Our pulsating rinse action has been reported in published medical journals to help break down biofilm, remove bacteria at a rate far greater than non pulsating methods, and help restore natural ciliary function. All critical for long term sinus relief and protection. Our goal is to treat the cause not simply the symptoms.

Helpful hint: Some users have found it helpful to modify their throat rinse tip as pictured below for increased flow rate and pressure control. Remove sides of the tongue scrapper with a small plier and a slight wiggle back and forth.  Place one of the silicone nasal bulbs on the throat tip (it doesn't matter which) for greater pressure adjustment. While we do not recommend this "off label" use it is always important to begin at the lowest setting and increase only if it remains comfortable to do so.

General Cleaning 

Use of saline solutions contribute to mineral and salt deposits which can accumulate in your irrigator, causing it to lose pressure and effectiveness over time. Following some simple steps will keep your SinuPulse® irrigator clean and ensure optimal performance.

After each use rinse the water tank thoroughly with warm water to remove any residual saline and allow to air dry. Soap and water may also be used periodically for cleaning. It is beneficial to frequently rinse the unit after use by running through a full reservoir of pure warm water til there is no more water in the reservoir and none is being ejected from the tip. Once the water has all gone, continue to allow the unit to run for about 5 seconds, to push out any residual moisture. Be sure to wipe down the unit regularly to remove any saline solution that may have spilled on the exterior to minimize accumulation of salt deposits. Rinsing the unit periodically with dilute vinegar (3:1) every 1 -3 months is recommended to help reduce mineral deposits and calcification.

It's easy to keep your SinuPulse® irrigator clean so you continue to get the maximum benefit for your sinus health.

How to Decalcify and Disinfect your SinuPulse Elite® in 5 Easy Steps

Mineral deposits and other materials can collect in your SinuPulse irrigator, causing it to lose pressure and effectiveness. Here are 5 steps for simple cleaning with water and vinegar to keep your SinuPulse irrigator performing at its best. Complete this process every 1-3 months to ensure optimal performance.

1. Clean the outside of the unit
2. Clean the water reservoir
3. Clean the internal parts
4. Clean the handle 
5. Clean the sinus irrigator tip

Step 1: Clean the Outside of the Unit

Clean the outside of the product when necessary by using a soft cloth and mild non-abrasive cleanser.

Step 2: Clean the Water Reservoir

• Remove the water reservoir from the unit.
• Gently remove the white valve cone (reservoir valve) being careful not to lose it in the sink drain. Clean the valve by massaging it under warm water for 30-45 seconds and set aside.
• Rinse reservoir by hand with warm soapy water
• If you removed the valve cone, place it back in the reservoir before use. (flat side up, push in place so the four prongs are visible on the bottom of the reservoir.)

Step 3: Clean the Internal Parts

• Prepare a dilute white vinegar solution (3:1) with 1 warm water.
• Run this solution through the unit until the reservoir is empty.
• Rinse by repeating with a full reservoir of clean warm water.

Step 4: Clean the Handle (Countertop Models)

• Remove the tip from the unit using the tip release.
• Insert a small amount of the dilute vinegar solution into the handle opening where the Sinus tip is inserted and allow to soak for 5 minutes.
• Gently wipe down the handle with the dilute vinegar solution paying attention to the pause button to remove any mineral deposits and calcification.
• Clean the SinuPulse tip separately using step #5.

Step 5: Clean the SinuPulse Sinus Tips

• Remove the tip from the unit using the tip release.
• Soak the SinuPulse tip in a container of dilute white vinegar solution for 5 minutes.
• Rinse the sinus tip under warm water.
• For maximum effectiveness we recommend replacing SinuPulse spray atomizer tip as needed. The spray atomizer tip can become clogged and/or affected by mineral deposits.

Do not use the water tank to soak the tips as it is not intended to store solutions. Following these steps will help ensure proper operation and optimal performance.It's easy to keep your SinuPulse Elite® clean so you continue to get the maximum benefit for your sinus health. If you have other product questions, check out our Product Support (FAQ) and Product Manuals.

REMINDER: THE WATER TANK IS NOT INTENDED TO STORE LIQUIDS. EMPTY WATER TANK AFTER EACH USE.