How to Use a Desoldering Pump

If you solder electronic components, you will find a need from time to time to replace items on a circuit board. A desoldering pump aids in the removal of the liquid solder. Typically a "one shot" device, the pump is operated by a spring-loaded vacuum pump and controlled by a simple trigger. By following a basic process, you can remove solder from most electronic circuit boards.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soldering ironSmall pair of wire cuttersDesoldering pumpSmall pair of needle-nose pliers

1. Plug the soldering iron into the wall outlet and allow the iron to come up to temperature.

2. Use the small pair of wire cutters to cut the component from the board. If the component is bad, it is better to sacrifice the small device instead of ruining the board. With the item removed, it will be easier to suck up the solder. Then you can replace the component.

3. Actuate the desoldering pump by pulling the spring lever to the rear of the pump. You will hear a click as the trigger holds the spring. Place the desoldering pump in one hand and the soldering iron in the other. This is a two-handed operation since you must quickly suck up the molten solder.

4. Touch the tip of the heated iron to the solder joint. Allow the solder to become fully liquid. Move the tip of the pump next to the molten solder. Move the iron out of the way and immediately cover the liquid solder puddle with the pump's tip. Pull the trigger.

5. Reheat the solder again, and repeat Step 4 until the solder is fully removed and the hole on the circuit board is exposed. It may take a few times of heating and sucking to fully remove the solder.

Tips & Warnings

• If the solder joint is really stubborn, you can use a braided copper solder wick to aid in removing difficult joints.
• Caution should be exercised when using a wick, since small pieces of copper can become dislodged and embed themselves on the circuit board. These small pieces could cause a short on the circuit boards traces.