General Questions
How often should I calibrate my pipettes?
Most laboratories should have their pipettes calibrated at least once per year. However, laboratories operating under GLP, GMP, CLIA, CAP, ISO, or other quality systems often require calibration every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage and internal quality requirements.
High-use pipettes or those used for critical applications may also benefit from more frequent calibration.
If you're unsure what interval is appropriate, we're happy to help recommend a schedule based on your laboratory's needs.
Why do pipettes need regular calibration?
Even high-quality pipettes experience normal wear over time. Seals, O-rings, springs, and other internal components gradually wear, affecting both accuracy and precision.
Routine calibration and preventive maintenance help ensure reliable results, extend the life of your pipettes, and reduce unexpected downtime.
What's included with every calibration?
Complete inspection and cleaning
Preventive maintenance
Replacement of worn parts when needed
Calibration at low, middle, and high volumes
Detailed computerized calibration report
Calibration certificate
Digital record storage
One-year calibration guarantee
Do you calibrate all brands of pipettes?
Yes.
Tek-Pette services virtually all major manufacturers, including Rainin, Gilson, Eppendorf, Thermo Scientific, Sartorius, Oxford, Biohit, Fisherbrand, BrandTech, and many others.
We also service:
Single-channel
Multi-channel
Electronic
Repeater pipettes
On-Site Service
Do you offer on-site calibration?
Yes.
We provide on-site service throughout Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Kentucky.
Our technicians bring a fully portable calibration laboratory directly to your facility.
Is there a minimum for on-site service?
Most on-site visits require a minimum of 25 pipettes or a $500 service total.
If your laboratory has fewer pipettes, please contact us. Because we regularly visit many universities, hospitals, and research facilities, we can often coordinate smaller jobs with an existing trip.
Can multiple laboratories combine service?
Absolutely.
Neighboring laboratories or departments are welcome to combine their pipettes into a single visit to meet scheduling minimums.
Mail-In Service
How long does mail-in calibration take?
Most mail-in orders are completed within 48 hours of arrival.
If major repairs require special-order parts, we'll contact you with an estimate and updated turnaround time before proceeding.
How should I package my pipettes?
Proper packaging helps ensure your pipettes arrive safely and makes processing your order faster.
For single-channel pipettes, individual bubble wrapping is usually unnecessary. Instead, group them together in large zip-top bags and pack them securely using bubble wrap, packing paper, or other cushioning materials so they cannot shift during shipping.
For multi-channel pipettes, we recommend wrapping each pipette individually with bubble wrap, as they are generally more fragile and benefit from additional protection.
When shipping larger quantities, be sure to use a sturdy cardboard box and reinforce all seams with strong packing tape. Heavy shipments place significant stress on the bottom and side seams of a box, and extra tape helps prevent the box from opening during transit.
Finally, please include your name, laboratory or company, phone number, and email address inside the package. While shipping labels are usually sufficient, including your contact information ensures we can easily identify your shipment if the exterior label is damaged or becomes separated from the contents.
If you have any questions about packaging your shipment, feel free to contact us—we're happy to help.
Documentation & Quality
Will I receive calibration certificates?
Yes.
Every pipette receives a detailed computerized calibration report and certificate at no additional charge.
Do you keep copies of my reports?
Yes.
All calibration records are securely stored digitally, making it easy to retrieve documentation for inspections, audits, or replacement copies.
What testing equipment do you use?
Tek-Pette uses regularly calibrated Mettler Toledo balances specifically designed for pipette calibration, along with current calibration software using manufacturer-specific tolerance data.
Repairs
Will you repair my pipette if something is wrong?
Absolutely.
Every pipette is inspected before calibration. If additional repairs are required beyond routine maintenance, we'll contact you with an estimate before performing any additional work.
Do you use genuine replacement parts?
Whenever available, yes.
We use genuine manufacturer parts along with premium seals and O-rings to maximize long-term reliability.
Pricing
Are there hidden fees?
No.
We believe pricing should be straightforward. Every calibration includes detailed reports, certificates, and our standard calibration process without confusing service tiers or surprise charges.
Do you guarantee your work?
Yes.
Every calibration is backed by our one-year calibration guarantee, twice the industry standard.
Have a question you'd like us to answer? Email us, and we'll try to include it in our FAQ.