Freestyle® Breastpump Troubleshooting
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LOW or NO SUCTION - FREESTYLE™
- Make sure the breastshield is assembled correctly and the back cap is firmly attached at all three connection points
- Make sure the breastshield forms a complete seal around the breast
- Make sure the tubing ends are securely attached into the pump and breastshield assemblies. There should be a slight click when the tubing connection is properly made.
- Take care not to kink the tubing
- If single pumping, make sure the unused tube is securely connected to the tubing dock
- Make sure battery is not low (flashing battery symbol with one bar). If low, use power cord to charge.
BATTERY PROBLEMS - FREESTYLE
- Make sure the battery has been inserted into the pump. When first opening the Freestyle packaging, the battery is inside the top portion of the plastic tray that contains the pump.
- Battery may not be properly inserted into the pump. Make sure the “This side down” message is inserted toward the bottom of the pump and that the pull tab is facing up. When properly inserted the battery should easily slide into the battery compartment.
- Make sure pump is plugged into a wall outlet and the power cord symbol is displayed when charging
- Make sure you are using the power cord that came with the pump. If the power cord symbol is flashing, this indicates a problem with the voltage and/or power supply.
DISPLAY ERROR MESSAGES - FREESTYLE
- “Err” accompanied by 3 beeps (pump may or may not work). This indicates a problem with the pump’s hardware. Call Medela Customer Service at 800-435-8316.
- Power cord symbol flashing and pump does not turn on: This indicates a problem with the voltage and/or power supply. First, make sure to use the appropriate Medela power cord that came with the pump. If this does not solve the problem, call Medela Customer Service at 800-435-8316.
- Battery symbol (outline and one bar) flashing: This indicates low battery power. Connect the pump to the power cord and plug in to charge the battery. Note: A fully charged battery, if removed from pump, will cause the battery symbol to flash when re-inserted. Recharge for 24 hours to reset flashing battery symbol.
- Battery symbol (outline only) flashing and pump does not turn on:
- This indicates a problem with the battery.
- First, connect the pump to the power cord and plug in until battery is fully charged
- If this does not work, disconnect the power cord and remove the battery for at least 10 seconds. Reinsert the battery, connect the power cord, and plug in for a full charging cycle (this may take up to 24 hours).
- If this does not work, replace with a new battery (call Medela Customer Service at 800-435-8316)
- Battery message “bAtt” is displayed: This indicates the pump is in initial charging mode or the initial charge mode has been interrupted (battery was removed and reinserted). The pump will need to go through a complete charging cycle (18-24 hours) prior to use. For best results allow the pump to charge plugged in and uninterrupted for 24 hours. There is no need to remove the battery unless replacing.
OTHER CONCERNS - FREESTYLE
- Moisture in tubing: It is recommended that tubing be dry prior to pumping. However, if there is some residual water in the tubing left over from cleaning, it is okay to operate the pump. To avoid getting moisture into tubing, make sure breastshield assemblies are dry before use. To remove moisture in tubing, allow pump to run 1-2 minutes with tubing attached.
- Traveling outside of the U.S.: When traveling outside of the U.S., you have three options:
- Use the power cord that came with Freestyle in conjunction with the proper travel adapter for the relevant country (available at many electronic or travel stores)
- Use battery power
- Use Medela 12V Vehicle Lighter Adapter (#67153) sold separately
- Discomfort: If you experience discomfort while pumping, contact a breastfeeding specialist.
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