FAQ
Here you will find all answers to frequently asked questions.
If you haven't found an answer to your questions, please contact us using the contact form .
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How long does the atomizer last?
The nebulizer is designed for about 90 applications of 10 ml NaCl 0.9 % solution and up to 3 months after the first use. The use of other inhalants can lead to a significant reduction in the service life of the nebulizer
Please ensure that no salt water flows into the USB ports.
NaCl solution leaked into the power connection, what now?
Please rinse both the USB port and the USB connector thoroughly with distilled water. You can use a disposable syringe for this. Then let them dry thoroughly.
Can I put the inhaler on the heater to dry?
Please don't. The inhaler can warp or even soften on the heater. It's best to remove the atomizer, dry it thoroughly with a cloth, open the sealing material, and place it in a living space.
Will the inhaler fit my pony?
Generally, yes. For smaller horses, the neck strap can be used. The sealing material can definitely be tightened. The inner circumference is up to 64 cm, and the inner opening measures approximately 16 cm x 23 cm.
Can medications also be nebulized with the Equilator?
The nebulizer can normally cope with all medications suitable for nebulization with a mesh nebulizer. Due to the large number of medications, we cannot guarantee that a medication can be nebulized. This can also significantly impair performance and service life.
The nebulizer is tested with NaCl 0.9% solution.
What is the particle size of the nebulizer?
The nebulizer's mesh has a mesh size of 5 micrometers. This corresponds to the mesh size of other nebulizers for horses. Physically and empirically, it can be assumed that nebulization with this mesh size will produce particles between 1 and 5 micrometers. However, particle size measurements have not yet been performed. Furthermore, the nebulizer is positioned directly in front of the horse's nostrils, which significantly reduces droplet conglomeration compared to other nebulizers.
What are the follow-up costs?
If 15 ml of NaCl is inhaled daily, the nebulizer will last for at least 90 uses with proper care. You can find a new nebulizer in our Spare Parts/Nebulizer section. Our nebulizer is also designed for repairability and durability. Most parts can be unscrewed and replaced if damaged. Please see the Spare Parts section.
How long does the battery last?
The battery lasts for at least 30 applications of 15 minutes each.
What is the capacity of the nebulizer?
The nebulizer holds 15 ml of liquid.
Are there multiple sizes?
No, so far the inhaler has fit all horses. Please check the size information .
Is the inhaler food safe?
The inhaler is made of polylactic acid, polycarbonate, and thermoplastic urethane. These plastics are food-safe.
How does the inhaler differ from other brands?
Since we personally have not owned any other inhaler, we cannot make a comparison.
Can you move the horse while inhaling?
Yes, the inhaler is safe.
When do I know when the liquid is used up?
You can usually hear when the fluid is used up. The fogging noise then stops. You can also see the fluid level when viewed against the light. Mist no longer comes out of the front or bottom.
How do I know if the horse has inhaled everything?
The nebulization takes place directly in front of the nostrils. Naturally, your horse cannot absorb the entire inhaled product. This also applies to all other inhalers and is due to so-called dead volumes. However, due to the direct nebulization in front of the nostrils and the optimized flow pattern, the yield is comparable to or even higher than with other inhalers.
Can I send in a used nebulizer and have just the membrane replaced?
This is not planned for the time being. Experience has shown that it is not the durability of the plate or the electronics that limits the nebulizer's lifespan, but rather corrosion of the USB connector due to spilled NaCl solution.
With very careful handling and very good care, the nebulizer can therefore far exceed the specified service life ☺️
My nebulizer is making strange noises, it's "crackling." What should I do now?
The problem occurs when dust has entered the membrane. The following generally helps:
1) Carefully blow out the liquid container, contact mesh and USB cable.
2) Use a syringe to inject distilled water into the container and onto the membrane under slight pressure to loosen any adhesion caused by the salt.
3) Fill the container halfway with distilled water, close it, shake well and pour it out.
4) Allow the nebulizer and cable to dry overnight at room temperature (21 °C) (please DO NOT place on the heater)
The nebulizer is dripping. Is it leaking?
The nebulizer has an outlet for condensate and body fluids below the membrane. This prevents the accumulation of fluid on the membrane and ensures proper function.
If it is actually leaking, you can tighten the four screws by about half a turn using the included wrench.
What to do when rust appears?
Although all metal parts are sealed, burnished or made of stainless steel, prolonged contact with moisture can lead to corrosion. As a preventative measure, we recommend removing all magnetic components after use so that no moisture can collect between the components.
If corrosion does occur, snap hooks can be cleaned with WD-40. Plastic parts can be cleaned with isopropanol and a soft cloth, magnets carefully with a glass fiber pen (e.g. BERNSTEIN Ø 4 mm). The surfaces can then be sealed with a protective lacquer (e.g. NEUFELD® touch-up pen black glossy, 12 ml). Both products are available from Amazon, among others.
The Equilator also offers the option of replacing individual assemblies if this is easier or more practical for you.
The nebulizer has short "interruptions." What could be the cause?
This is generally due to air bubbles stuck on the inside of the mesh. It can also happen that fluid collects on the outlet side of the mesh. Drops form on the mesh. Cleaning the mesh with a frog cleaner often helps. Simply take the cleaner or a drop of dish soap and rub it over it.
How do I know if I just need a nebulizer disc or a new nebulizer?
If everything lights up and can be switched on, but the nebulization performance decreases, then you need a new plate. If the lamp no longer lights up when switched on or keeps going out on its own, or the screw connection is worn out, you need a new nebulizer.