What to check when I get my old pump out of storage?

[kezoo]

So baby #3 is due in a couple of weeks, and I have a Medela PIS that I bought new for my first about 5 years ago. I pumped 2x/day at work for about a year for each baby (so total time used about 2 years), and it always worked well for me. Now I'm finalizing the last details for the new baby - is there anything I need to check or replace when I get my pump out of storage? I know some mamas have talked about some parts wearing out and thus the pump not working as well. Which parts might those be? I don't want to find out that my pump isn't working well on my first day back to work when I try to pump!!! TIA!

[BasicallyBliss]

I don't have a PIS, but I did store my pump for about three years before DD was born. First try out your pump with all the parts you currently have just to make sure it still works. If it works, then I would suggest replacing connectors, tubing, diaphragms/valves, and the collection containers.

If you will be using a lactation consultant, or if your hospital offers lactation services, you may be able to get replacement parts available for free or reduced cost. I wish I had checked ahead of time. I spent $50 on a new Ameda Hygienikit only to have my l.c. give me a new one for free.

[fuzzycakes]

you can probably find good info on medela's website. I think they recommend changing the valves- the thin white flappy things that make the vacuum on the end of the yellow thingies that get screwed inside your pumping bottles. Did you understand that?!

[kezoo]

Originally Posted by fuzzycakes you can probably find good info on medela's website. I think they recommend changing the valves- the thin white flappy things that make the vacuum on the end of the yellow thingies that get screwed inside your pumping bottles. Did you understand that?!

LOL - yeah! I think I already have some replacement valves...

[aept]

good thread! I kinda just figured mine would be ready to go as is....
I last used it about one year ago, so I should probably go try it out.