How to Do a Daily Check on Your IPL or Laser Machine (Without a Tech)

Learn how to perform a quick, effective daily check on your IPL or laser machine without a technician. Keep your device safe, clean, and running smoothly with this simple routine.

Your IPL or laser device is the heart of your aesthetic practice—delivering results to your clients and revenue to your business. But like any high-performance equipment, it needs daily attention to ensure optimal performance and long-term reliability. The good news? You don’t need a technician to do a basic daily check.

At Ventura Medtech Solutions (VMS), we service and repair lasers every day, and we know from experience: the most common issues are preventable with routine care. Here’s how to perform a quick, effective daily inspection of your IPL or laser machine in less than 10 minutes.

1. Inspect the Handpiece and Cables

Start your day by giving the handpiece and all cables a once-over.

• Check for cracks, burns, or discoloration on the handpiece window.

• Gently move the cord and look for fraying, kinks, or signs of wear.

• Make sure connectors are tight and free of debris.

Pro Tip: Never twist or tightly coil the handpiece cable—it can damage the internal fiber

or wiring.

2. Power On and Listen

Turn on your device and listen carefully.

• A healthy machine will power up smoothly, without loud grinding, clicking, or high-pitched squeals.

• If fans sound strained or the screen flickers, it could be an early sign of internal wear or power issues.

Note: If the machine takes longer than usual to boot or shows error messages, don’t ignore them—log the details and contact your service provider.

3. Monitor Temperature and Cooling

Check that your cooling system is functioning properly.

• IPL Systems: Ensure the sapphire window is cool to the touch after startup.

• Diode and Er:YAG Lasers: Confirm fans or internal chillers activate as expected.

• Water-Cooled Units: Make sure coolant levels are full and clear—no cloudy or low-level fluid.

Red Flag: If the device overheats quickly or displays a temperature warning, stop use immediately.

4. Test Pulse Functionality

Use a test mode or low-energy setting to verify the pulse function.

• Place the handpiece on a laser-safe surface or test target.

• Fire one to two test shots and confirm:

  • Light emits cleanly

  • No delays or missed pulses

  • Cooling (if applicable) activates during the pulse

If there's hesitation or inconsistency, it’s time to call for service before the problem worsens.

5. Clean and Sanitize Contact Surfaces

After the inspection, take a moment to clean:

• Handpiece window or lens: Use a manufacturer-approved wipe or soft cloth.

• Housing and buttons: Disinfect with alcohol-free, non-abrasive cleaner.

• Foot pedal: Don’t forget this—grime here can affect performance.

Routine cleaning not only protects your patients but prevents buildup that could cause technical issues over time.

6. Log Your Daily Check

Maintain a simple log sheet or checklist to track your observations.

• Record any odd sounds, heat warnings, error codes, or visual damage.

• Include the initials of the staff member who completed the check.

• Notate when the next preventive maintenance or calibration is due.

A consistent log helps your technician pinpoint issues faster—and often saves you on labor costs.

Keep Your Laser in Peak Condition

Regular daily checks are your first line of defense against sudden breakdowns and expensive repairs. They're simple, quick, and can significantly extend the life of your IPL or laser equipment.

Need help with a deeper inspection or preventive service?

Contact VMS Biomedical for expert diagnostics, maintenance, and emergency repair for all major aesthetic laser brands.

Popular Brands We Service: Lumenis | Alma | Cynosure | Cutera | Quanta | Candela | Sharplight | Asclepion | Lutronic

At VMS, we keep your equipment running—so you can keep your business glowing. 📞 Call now or 📩 Request a Service Appointment