How to know when to replace pump parts?

Caz1221

I'm not pumping enough for LO at work (LO eats 13.5 oz at daycare, and I'm only pumping 11-12 oz), so I'm running through all of the possible solutions to boost my output (more water, more oatmeal, breast compressions while pumping, More Milk caplets instead of just the fenugreek I was taking before), and I'm wondering if I replacing any of my pump parts would help.

Here is some background in case it's helpful: I have a Medela PISA that I have been using since LO was born.  From 0-3 months old, I was pumping 5-7 times a day after LO ate (LO was having milk transfer issues).  From 3-6 months old, I was pumping 2 times a day to build my stash.  I came back to work 3 weeks ago and have been pumping 3 times a day at work and then one more time in the evening after LO goes to bed.  I wash all of the parts except the tubing every night using the Medela BM soap.  In between pump sessions, I store the parts in a ziploc or tupperware in the fridge.  I replace the white membranes about once per month.  I have never replaced any of the other parts, and I've only sterilized the parts in my microwave steamer once or twice.

Should I replace any of the other parts (now or on a regular basis)?

BelhurstBride

If you've never replaced the parts trying replacing some parts, particularly the membranes. (The little white flappy things.)

BellaOso

I notice a difference when I replace parts in both my manual and electric. I would definitely give it a try and 2nd the membranes because those definitely are the most likely to "wear out".

catskitch

I've never replaced anything other than the membranes. I barely pump enough as well, so I pull from the freezer stash when needed. I think I might replace the tubing because it sounds like some air may be leaking from it

magdalina.h

I would try to add a pump in in the morning. I haven't replaced any parts of my PISA in 5m.

ScarletOflaherty

An alternative to replacing the tubing is to clip an inch off the end, if you have air leaking it's most likely from where the tubing attaches to the pump, it can get stretched out, so clipping off the end should give it a 'like new' fit.

Unless you have a cat who's an asshole and likes to chew on the tubing, and that could be where your air leak is. <------2 sets of tubes lost to a cat.

Caz1221

Thanks everyone!  I have an extra set of tubes, so I'll try pumping with those to see if it makes a difference.  I just replaced the membranes about a week ago to see if that helped, and it didn't seem to make a huge difference.  However, I also got a stomach flu around that time, so it's tough to say for sure.  I wasn't pumping enough even before the stomach flu, and I'm just now getting back to pre-stomach flu output (which is still 1.5-2 oz. short every day).

alexkylee

I EP and use two sets of parts. I use one for work and one for home, each set gets used three times daily. I replace all of my parts (including tubing) every three months. I think it helped last time I did it. I just replaced my membranes yesterday (after about six weeks of use). My supply was dipping and I was trying everything you are. I think the membranes made a difference. I also inspect the pump membrane for any cracks or problems (a friend of mine had problems with hers). I work in a pharmacy that sells Medela parts so I get a good discount. I might not replace all of the parts as often if I paid full price.