How to Maintain a Microscope
A microscope is an investment. Even student models come at a price tag that will make you take your microscope seriously. Microscopes vary in quality and function, but their lifespan will be extended if you maintain them properly. In fact, with the right maintenance, most microscopes will last for many years. If you are the proud owner of a microscope, now is the time to learn how to maintain it.
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Instructions
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Keep your microscope on a firm, flat surface at all times. This will prevent the microscope from motion that could cause parts to break or come loose.
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Select a location for your microscope that is cool and dry. This will prevent the growth of mold, mildew and fungus and keep parts from becoming rusty or brittle.
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Cover your microscope with plastic any time it is not being used. This will keep dust off the lens. Plastic microscope covers can be purchased wherever microscopes are sold and many microscopes come with such covers.
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Check for dust on the lens periodically. If you spot any dust, gently remove it using a camelhair art brush.
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Buy lens cleaning fluid and lens paper. These are used to remove oil from the lens of a microscope.
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Store the microscope for long periods of time by placing it in a large, sealable plastic bag. Throw a few packets of silica gel into the bag before sealing it. This will keep the air inside the bag dry and prevent mold from forming.
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Keep the metal parts of your microscope lubricated with silicone grease. This should be done at least twice a year.
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Tips & Warnings
If you look at a specimen through the eyepiece of your microscope and see a blurry image, try focusing the lens. If the blurry image persists, you may have oil on the lens that needs to be removed.
When choosing a location for your microscope for daily use, pick a place that is a safe distance away from water sources. You don't want your microscope to get splashed accidentally.
Never use bulbs in your microscope that have a higher wattage than that recommended by the manufacturer. To do so could damage the delicate internal parts of your microscope.
Do not apply more than nominal pressure when cleaning oil off a microscope lens. Too much pressure can cause scratches to the lens, even if you are using approved lens paper to do the cleaning.
