Rocker Pumps FAQ

Yes! Rocker repair and maintenance videos are available to help you with routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and common repairs for Rocker vacuum pumps, filtration systems, and related equipment. Visit the Rocker Repair Channel to access step-by-step video guides and maintenance tutorials.

No. Rocker vacuum pumps should always be operated on a level, flat surface. Running Rocker 300 or 400 Series vacuum pumps while tilted can cause the internal prote® protection device in the inlet filter to activate, restricting airflow and reducing vacuum pump performance. For optimal performance and reliability, always keep the pump level during operation.

No. Rocker vacuum pumps should not be moved while operating. Before relocating the pump, turn it off and open the inlet to atmosphere to release the vacuum. Moving a running Rocker 300 or 400 Series vacuum pump may cause the internal prote® protection device in the inlet filter to activate, restricting airflow and reducing vacuum pump performance.

If your Rocker 300 Series or Rocker 400 Series vacuum pump is operating but there is no vacuum at the inlet hose barb, the internal prote® protection device may have activated. This commonly occurs if the pump was tilted or moved while operating. To restore vacuum, remove the inlet filter bowl and filter, then lower the prote® float back to the open position. Reinstall the filter and bowl, and the pump should operate normally.

The Rocker 300 Series and Rocker 400 Series vacuum pumps use 1/8 in. BSPT (British Standard Pipe Tapered) threads on the inlet port. This thread specification allows the inlet fitting to be replaced or adapted for compatible tubing and accessories. When selecting replacement fittings, be sure they are compatible with 1/8 in. BSPT threads to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

The Rocker 800 Series vacuum pumps and their accessories have been discontinued and replaced by the Rocker 900 Series, which offers improved performance and updated features. To select the best replacement model, refer to the Rocker Vacuum Pump Selection Guide or contact Sterlitech Sales for assistance in choosing a compatible alternative.

For optimal performance and longer service life, follow these maintenance recommendations: Rocker, Rocker~C, and Chemker oil-free vacuum pumps: After each use, run the pump for at least 2 minutes to remove any residual vapor or liquid from the pump head. Alligator 200 liquid pump: After each use, flush the tubing with clean water, then run the pump with air for at least 2 minutes to remove any remaining liquid. Cleaning: The Alligator 200 is not autoclavable. Clean the exterior regularly using purified water or 75% ethanol.

Yes. Rocker vacuum pumps are designed to operate on both 50 Hz and 60 Hz power supplies. However, the motor speed and flow rate vary with the input frequency.

When operated at 60 Hz, the motor runs approximately 20% faster, resulting in a flow rate about 1.2 times higher than at 50 Hz. Vacuum performance remains generally comparable, but the pumping speed increases at 60 Hz.

Rocker vacuum pumps are equipped with a built-in thermal overload protection device. If the motor coil reaches approximately 125°C, the pump automatically shuts down to prevent overheating. Once the motor cools to about 105°C, the pump will automatically restart if the power switch remains ON. If your pump shuts down due to overheating, switch it OFF and move it to a well-ventilated area to help it cool more quickly before resuming operation.

Rocker vacuum pumps use a relative vacuum gauge, so the reading is affected by atmospheric pressure, altitude, and local environmental conditions. To verify the pump's vacuum performance: Use an absolute vacuum gauge (recommended) to compare the measured vacuum with the pump specification. If an absolute gauge is unavailable, calculate the actual vacuum using: Actual Vacuum = Gauge Reading + (Standard Atmospheric Pressure − Current Atmospheric Pressure) Example: Atmospheric pressure: 980 mbar Gauge reading: 135 mbar Actual vacuum = 135 + (1013 − 980) = 102 mbar Since 102 mbar is below the Rocker 300 specification of 105 mbar (absolute), the pump meets its rated performance.

Note: Always use the same pressure units (e.g., mbar, kPa, or Torr) throughout the calculation.

Yes. Most Rocker Series vacuum pumps (excluding compressor models) are designed for continuous operation and can run for more than 100 hours when used in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. For a demonstration of continuous operation, watch the Rocker 101-Hour Non-Stop Test on YouTube.

There is no fixed replacement interval for the Rocker vacuum pump inlet filter. Replacement frequency depends on the operating environment, sample conditions, and usage. As a general guideline, replace the inlet filter if it becomes dirty, wet, or shows discoloration, as these conditions can reduce vacuum pump performance and airflow.

The Rocker 900 and Rocker 910 vacuum pumps are high-flow vacuum pumps. Under certain operating conditions, the internal overflow protection device may float and temporarily block the air inlet due to the high airflow. These models are primarily designed for dry vacuum applications that do not involve liquid filtration, where overflow protection is generally not required.