My Philips Avent electric breast pump's suction is too low

Always use the original power adapter or charging cable that came with your pump. If you’ve purchased a newer model that didn’t include a power adapter, check your pump’s user manual and make sure the charging accessories match the recommended specifications.

For some Philips Avent electric breast pumps, a worn or older power adapter can affect the performance.

If you are using an older adapter version, contact Philips Consumer Care Center to check if a free-of-charge replacement is available.

The valve is the key to keeping good suction. It helps create the vacuum needed for effective milk expression.

Check that:

• The valve is fully closed when not in use
• The valve is not damaged, stretched, or misshapen
• During pumping, the pointed end of the valve does not open excessively

If the valve looks damaged or does not close fully, replace it.

Check:

• Valves
• Membranes
• Breast cushions
• Breast shields
• Inserts (if you use them with your breast pump)

Look for:

• Cracks
• Tears
• Holes
• Deformation
• Worn-out parts

If any part looks damaged or worn out, replace it.

Even a small air leak can reduce suction.

Make sure that:

• All parts are connected securely
• The pump is correctly assembled as described in the user manual
• Only Philips Avent parts are used
• Parts from different pump models are not mixed together

 

Important: For the Philips Avent Natural Care Hands-free Wearable Breast Pump
Make sure that the membrane is completely dry before assembling the breast pump. Moisture can prevent the membrane from creating an airtight seal, allowing water to enter the air path and reducing vacuum performance.

If the membrane was wet/moist and moisture may have entered the motor unit:

1. Disassemble the breast pump.
2. Dry all pump parts completely before the next use.
3. Allow enough time for any moisture inside the motor unit to evaporate (up to 12 hours).
4. Before reassembling the breast pump, check the surface of the motor unit and make sure that it is completely dry.
5. Assemble the breast pump and try pumping again.

Milk residue, moisture, or damaged parts can affect how well your pump works and may reduce suction performance.

Before first use and after every pumping session:

• Disassemble all parts that come into contact with the breast and breast milk
• Clean and disinfect them as described in the user manual
• Inspect the membrane and valve for damage, wear, or deformation
• Allow all parts to dry completely before reassembling the pump
• Handle the valve and membrane carefully

To clean the valve:

• Wash it gently in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing liquid
• Rub it gently between your fingers
• Do not insert any object into the valve

The suction level may be set too low.

Gradually increase the suction to a higher level, but still comfortable.

Use the highest setting that feels comfortable and does not cause pain.

 

Important: For the Philips Avent Natural Care Hands-free Wearable Breast Pump

If you are using a double breast pump, make sure that both sides (both pumps) are set to the same expression level. Each pump is adjusted independently. The pump has 16 expression levels displayed using 8 LEDs. A partially illuminated LED and a fully illuminated LED represent different expression levels. Check both the LED position and the brightness on each pump to ensure the settings match.

Learn more about the buttons and light indicators on your breast pump:

For Philips Avent Natural Care Hands-free Wearable and Philips Avent Hands-free Electric Breast Pumps only

If your breast shield or insert isn’t the right size, it can make pumping less effective.

Signs of poor fit include:

• Little or no milk output
• Discomfort during pumping
• Excessive nipple rubbing

For Philips Avent Natural Care Hands-free Wearable Electric Breast Pump – see our FAQ article "How do I choose the correct breast shield/nipple insert size for my Wearable Breast Pump?"

 

For Philips Avent Hands-free Electric Breast Pump – see our FAQ article "How do I choose the correct breast shield/nipple insert size?"

Before pumping:

• Apply a warm towel to your breast
• Massage your breast gently
• Start with the stimulation mode before the expression mode

This may help start the let-down effect and support the milk flow.

If the issue continues after you have tried all the above-mentioned steps:

• Visit Philips Support online
• Contact Philips Customer Care
• Consult your healthcare professional or lactation consultant