Midmark procedure lights are a staple in medical offices, dermatology practices, and surgical suites. They’re designed to provide bright, reliable illumination, whether mounted on rolling stands for portability or ceiling-mounted for fixed, overhead lighting.
Midmark’s lineup has evolved over time, with two main models commonly seen today:
- Midmark 355 – the older, halogen-bulb style light.
- Midmark 255 – the newer LED-based system.
Both are well-built and long-lasting, but like any piece of equipment, they have their quirks. Below are the most common problems technicians see with Midmark lights — and what you can do about them.
1. Midmark 355 – Light Won’t Turn On
The most common issue with the older Midmark 355 is simple: the light won’t come on.
What it looks like:
- Power switch is on, but the bulb doesn’t light up.
- Sometimes the bulb works for a while, then fails again within a short timeframe.
Why it happens:
- Most often, the halogen bulb has burned out.
- Repeatedly blowing bulbs may indicate the wrong bulb type was used or an issue with the transformer providing too much voltage.
- In some cases, wiring can get pinched inside the mounting tube if the light wasn’t installed correctly.
Fix:
- Replace the bulb. Always use gloves — oils from bare fingers can cause halogen bulbs to overheat and crack.
- If bulbs are failing quickly, check transformer settings. Lowering the voltage slightly can extend bulb life.
- If the light cuts out only in certain positions, the wiring may be pinched and will need to be re-routed by a technician.
2. Midmark 255 – LED Board Failure
The Midmark 255 uses an LED board instead of a halogen bulb. LEDs last much longer, which means fewer service calls — but when they fail, it’s usually the entire board.
What it looks like:
- Light stops working entirely.
- No response from the unit even though power is connected.
Why it happens:
- The most common cause is a failed LED board.
- Power surges or electrical fluctuations can shorten the lifespan of the board.
Fix:
- Replacing the LED board is the standard solution.
- Using surge protection can help reduce the risk of failure from sudden electrical spikes.
3. Overheating or Cracked Bulbs in the 355
Occasionally, users report that a bulb cracks almost immediately after installation.
Why it happens:
- This usually occurs when the bulb was installed without gloves. Oils from skin transfer onto the glass, and once the bulb heats up, the spot overheats and causes the glass to crack.
Fix:
- Always use gloves or a lint-free cloth when handling halogen bulbs.
- Ensure the light is powered off during replacement — halogens heat up almost instantly and can cause burns.
4. Wiring Issues During Installation
While not as common, wiring problems can create intermittent power failures.
What it looks like:
- Light works only in certain positions.
- Power cuts off when the arm is moved.
Why it happens:
- If the wiring inside the tubing wasn’t routed properly during installation, it can get pinched or strained. Over time, this leads to power interruptions.
Fix:
- A technician will need to remove and re-feed the wiring correctly through the arm assembly. Once corrected, the problem typically does not return.
5. Lights That Sway or Won’t Hold Position
Another issue that occasionally shows up is the light swaying or drifting out of place when you try to position it. This is especially frustrating during a procedure, when steady illumination is critical.
What it looks like:
- The light won’t stay in place after being positioned.
- It drifts slowly, or feels “loose” at the pivot point.
Why it happens:
- This usually means the counterweight system isn’t balanced correctly. Over time, or after adjustments, the counterweight can shift out of alignment, making it impossible for the light to hold its position.
Fix:
- In some cases, you can re-level the light by adjusting the counterweight position.
- If the counterweight itself is worn or damaged, it may need replacement to restore proper balance.
The Bigger Picture
Midmark procedure lights are generally very reliable. The 355 halogen model has the most common issues simply because bulbs wear out faster than LEDs. The 255 LED model requires far fewer service calls, though replacing the board is more involved than swapping a bulb.
Other occasional issues — from wiring to counterweights — typically stem from installation or long-term wear. The good news? All are repairable, and once fixed, Midmark lights continue to provide years of dependable service.
Preventive Tips for Midmark Lights
- Use gloves when handling halogen bulbs to avoid cracking from skin oils.
- Install surge protection to safeguard against power surges that can damage LEDs.
- Have lights professionally installed to prevent pinched wiring.
- Check counterweight balance if lights start swaying or drifting.
- Keep spare bulbs on hand for the Midmark 355.
- Schedule routine maintenance to check voltage settings, wiring, and light output.
Final Thoughts
Midmark procedure lights are simple, durable, and effective. For most users, problems are rare and easily solved — usually a bulb swap for the 355, an LED board replacement for the 255, or a quick adjustment to balance the counterweight.
By following basic preventive care and addressing issues early, you can maximize uptime and extend the life of your lights. And when the fix requires more than a bulb or board swap, Amtech Medical’s service team is here to help with expert troubleshooting, repairs, and replacement parts.
