How do I check the age and condition of a dental practice’s chairs and compressors?

Make an equipment list with the owner. For every operatory, record the chair, light, delivery unit and suction, plus the compressor and any vacuum system. Note when each was bought, who serviced it and when it was last worked on.

Then use them. Run each chair through its range, check the foot controls, and look for leaks, slow motion or noise. Watch the compressor start, run and shut off. Frequent cycling, moisture in the lines or heat can point to trouble. Look at upholstery and covers as signs of general care.

Ask about repairs. Repeated fixes on one unit tell you something. Ask whether parts are still available and how much downtime the practice has had. Plan for replacement. An older chair that works today may need replacing soon, and a buyer should know what that would involve before agreeing a price. A dental equipment technician can inspect what you cannot, and your accountant can help you work out how repairs show in the books. Photograph the model and serial numbers as you go, then ask the manufacturer or a technician about support and parts. It is easier to learn that a part is no longer made before you buy than after the equipment has stopped working one busy morning.

Key takeaways

• Build an equipment list with purchase dates and service history.
• Operate each chair and watch the compressor’s full cycle.
• Have a dental technician inspect anything you are unsure about.