Help! My Tandem Mobi Pump is Misbehaving

When Your Tandem Mobi Pump Stops Working: Quick Solutions

A tandem mobi pump malfunction can be alarming, but knowing how to respond to sudden alarms, connectivity issues, or a halt in insulin delivery is crucial for preventing health complications.

Most Common Tandem Mobi Malfunctions:

• Pumping Stopped: Complete halt of insulin delivery
• Obstruction of Flow: Occlusion in tubing or cartridge
• Pump & IOB Reset Alarm: System reset that stops all insulin delivery
• Connectivity Issues: Lost connection between pump, app, and CGM
• Software Glitches: Including recalls for incorrect insulin dosing

Fortunately, most pump malfunctions are manageable with basic troubleshooting. Your immediate priorities during any malfunction are to check your blood sugar, assess the situation, and have a backup plan ready. Staying calm and following a systematic approach will help you get your diabetes management back on track.

Most issues are resolved without adverse health impacts when users respond appropriately. Being prepared with backup supplies and knowing who to call for help is the most important step.

Tandem mobi pump malfunction vocabulary:

• Tandem Mobi Pumps
• tandem mobi pump accessories

Understanding a Tandem Mobi Pump Malfunction: Alarms, Errors, and What They Mean

When your Tandem Mobi pump malfunctions, its alarms and error codes are trying to tell you what's wrong. Understanding these messages is key to a quick fix.

"Pumping Stopped" (Device Problem Code 1503) is the most critical alarm. It means your pump has completely stopped delivering all insulin. While serious, this can often be resolved with help from technical support.

"Obstruction of Flow" (Device Problem Code 2423), or an occlusion alarm, indicates a blockage. This is often caused by a kinked tube in your infusion set or an issue with the cartridge. A simple infusion set or cartridge change usually solves the problem.

The "Pump & IOB Reset Alarm" means your pump has rebooted. All insulin delivery stops, and your Insulin On Board (IOB) resets to zero. Your pump will blink red lights three times in a row, repeating this pattern five times. Your personal settings and profiles are saved.

Low Power Alarms are a straightforward warning that your pump needs charging to avoid a complete shutdown.

Temperature Alarms activate if the pump is exposed to extreme heat or cold, which can damage both the insulin and the device's internal components.

Beyond these alerts, a tandem mobi pump malfunction can also be caused by software defects or physical damage.

Known Causes of a Tandem Mobi Pump Malfunction

Understanding the root cause of a pump problem helps you troubleshoot more effectively.

Software glitches have caused serious issues. A bug in the t:connect mobile app version 2.7 caused crashes that drained pump batteries and led to unexpected shutdowns, resulting in over 200 reported injuries from hyperglycemia. The fix was to update the app, highlighting that the app is as critical as the pump.

A Class 1 Device Recall was issued for software version 7.9 of the Tandem Mobi. This defect caused incorrect glucose interpolation during CGM data gaps when blood sugar was high, creating a risk of dangerous under- or over-delivery of insulin. The recall required users to immediately turn off the Control-IQ+ feature.

Physical damage can also cause malfunctions. A cracked casing from a drop or water exposure beyond its IP28 rating (8 feet for 2 hours) can lead to system failure.

Many issues are actually infusion set problems, such as kinked tubing or dislodged cannulas. Other common user errors include an empty cartridge or a low battery.

How a Pump Reset Affects Insulin Delivery and IOB

A "Pump & IOB Reset Alarm" creates immediate safety concerns that require quick action.

First, all insulin delivery stops immediately, including basal and bolus insulin. This makes it essential to act quickly to prevent high blood sugar.

Second, your IOB calculation resets to zero. The insulin already in your body is still active, but the pump no longer accounts for it. This can lead to dosing errors if you are not careful.

Third, the Max Hourly Bolus Alert is unreliable for 60 minutes after the reset, temporarily disabling a key safety feature.

Your pump settings, basal rates, and personal profiles are not affected by the reset. To safely recover, you must dismiss the alarm in the app, reload your cartridge, and restart your CGM session. For detailed steps, see the Pump & IOB Reset Alarm on the Tandem Mobi System guide. Due to the temporary loss of IOB tracking, consult your healthcare team if you are unsure about insulin dosing after a reset.

What to Do First: Your Immediate Action Plan

When your Tandem Mobi pump malfunctions, a calm, systematic approach will keep you safe while you resolve the issue.

Immediate Steps for a Tandem Mobi Pump Malfunction

Follow this action plan to respond confidently to a tandem mobi pump malfunction:

1. Check your blood glucose with a meter. This is the most important first step. Your CGM may be inaccurate or unavailable during a malfunction, so a fingerstick reading provides the most reliable information.
2. Visually inspect your pump and infusion set. Look for simple fixes like kinked tubing, a disconnected infusion set, an empty cartridge, or visible damage to the pump casing.
3. Follow the mobile app prompts. The app is your control center and will often guide you through resolving specific alarms, such as an "Obstruction of Flow" or "Pump & IOB Reset Alarm."
4. Administer insulin by injection if needed. If your blood sugar is high and the pump is not delivering insulin, use an insulin pen or syringe for a correction dose. This is crucial for preventing hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis, which may require intervention from medical professionals.
5. Contact Tandem Technical Support. If basic troubleshooting fails, call support. They can provide advanced guidance or arrange for a replacement pump.

Your goal is to restore insulin delivery safely and quickly. Using your backup supplies while you troubleshoot is always the right choice.

Has There Been a Recall on the Tandem Mobi?

Yes, the FDA issued a Class 1 Device Recall—the most serious type—for the Tandem Mobi Insulin Pump with Interoperable Technology running software version 7.9.

• The Problem: A software defect caused the pump to misinterpret glucose trends during CGM data gaps when glucose was above 255 mg/dL.
• The Risk: This glitch could lead to dangerous under-delivery of insulin (risking hyperglycemia and DKA) or over-delivery (risking severe hypoglycemia).
• Required Action: The recall instructed users to immediately turn off the Control-IQ+ feature to prevent automated adjustments based on faulty data. Manual pump use could continue.

This recall highlights the importance of paying attention to system alerts and keeping backup supplies ready. For the latest information, always check the FDA's Search Alerts/Recalls database.

Connectivity Chaos: Troubleshooting Pump, App, and CGM Issues

Sometimes, a tandem mobi pump malfunction is not a hardware failure but a communication breakdown between your pump, smartphone app, and CGM sensor. These devices rely on Bluetooth, and when one connection fails, you may see "Out of Range" or "Pump Disconnected" alerts.

Most connectivity problems have straightforward solutions.

Troubleshooting Pump-to-CGM Connection

Your pump needs a stable connection to your Dexcom G6 or G7 to use Control-IQ+ technology. If you lose CGM data, try these steps:

• Check Proximity and Line of Sight: Keep your pump within a few feet and on the same side of your body as your sensor. Your body and other objects can block the Bluetooth signal.
• Wait for Sensor Warm-Up: A new Dexcom G6 requires a 2-hour warm-up, while the Dexcom G7 needs 30 minutes. No readings will be available during this time.
• Restart the Sensor Session: If you suspect a sensor error, restarting the session through the Tandem Mobi app can often resolve the issue.
• Use a Blood Glucose Meter: Always use a meter for treatment decisions if CGM readings are unavailable or don't match how you feel.

For issues with the CGM sensor or transmitter itself (e.g., pairing failures, accuracy concerns), contact Dexcom Product Support at 844-607-8398. If your Dexcom works with its own app but not your pump, call Tandem Technical Support at 877-801-6901. For detailed pairing steps, see these Mobi pairing instructions.

Troubleshooting Pump-to-App Connection

If your pump and smartphone app lose their connection, you can't control your pump from your phone. Try these steps to restore it:

• Check Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both your phone and pump.
• Stay Close: Keep your pump and phone within five feet of each other.
• Restart the App: Force-close the Tandem Mobi app and reopen it.
• Toggle Bluetooth: Turn your phone's Bluetooth off for a few seconds, then turn it back on.
• Restart Your Smartphone: A full restart can resolve underlying software issues.

During a pump-to-app disconnection, your basal insulin, active boluses, and Control-IQ+ will continue to function based on the last available data. However, you won't see updated pump information in the app. Always keep your app updated to the latest version to prevent connectivity bugs.

For more details, consult this guide on disconnected states. If problems persist, contact Tandem Technical Support.

Always Be Prepared: Your Malfunction Safety Net

Sometimes, a pump issue cannot be fixed immediately. This is why a solid backup plan is essential for every insulin pump user. Being able to switch to insulin injections ensures you can maintain insulin delivery even when your pump is out of commission, preventing dangerous high blood sugars and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Your emergency kit should contain:

• Rapid-acting insulin (pen or vial/syringes) for meals and corrections.
• Long-acting (basal) insulin (e.g., Lantus, Levemir) to replace your pump's basal rate.
• Syringes or pen needles.
• Blood glucose meter and test strips.
• Alcohol swabs.
• Fast-acting glucose (tablets, gel, or juice).
• Extra infusion sets and cartridges, as a bad set is a common cause of malfunctions.

Crucially, you need a written plan from your healthcare provider with specific instructions on how to transition from your pump to injections, including dosages. This is a critical part of your diabetes care guidelines. Ensure you have prescriptions for all backup supplies.

Water Resistance and Prevention

The Tandem Mobi pump has an IP28 rating, meaning it's water-resistant up to 8 feet for 2 hours. This protects it from daily activities like showering or accidental splashes.

However, water-resistant is not waterproof. Tandem recommends disconnecting your pump before swimming or other activities involving prolonged submersion. For more details, see Tandem's guidance: With an IP28 rating, it is water resistant to a depth of 8 feet for up to 2 hours.

If your pump is exposed to saltwater or chlorine, rinse it immediately with fresh water, pat it dry, and inspect it for any cracks or damage. If you see damage or the pump behaves unusually, contact Tandem Technical Support to prevent a water-related tandem mobi pump malfunction.

Who to Call for Help: Support Resources

Knowing who to call saves time and stress.

• Tandem Technical Support (877-801-6901): Call for any issue with the pump device, cartridges, infusion sets, or software. Also call if your Dexcom CGM connects to its own app but not to your Tandem pump. Find more resources at support.tandemdiabetes.com or in your User Guide.

• Dexcom Product Support (844-607-8398): Call for problems with the Dexcom sensor, transmitter, or app, including pairing failures, warm-up issues, or accuracy concerns.

• Your Healthcare Team: Contact your doctor or diabetes educator for clinical guidance, backup insulin plans, prescriptions, and any health concerns related to a pump malfunction.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tandem Mobi Pump Issues

Here are concise answers to common questions about Tandem Mobi pump problems.

What are the most common Tandem Mobi malfunctions?

The most frequent issues are physical problems like "Obstruction of Flow" (occlusions) and "Pumping Stopped" alarms, often related to the infusion set. Software-related issues, such as the "Pump & IOB Reset Alarm" or bugs requiring recalls, and connectivity problems between the pump, app, and CGM are also common.

What are the biggest health risks if my Mobi pump malfunctions?

The primary risks stem from incorrect insulin delivery. A lack of insulin can cause hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), potentially leading to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a medical emergency. Conversely, an over-delivery of insulin, as was a risk in a past recall, can cause severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can lead to confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.

What should be in my emergency backup kit for a pump failure?

Every pump user needs a backup kit. It should contain:

• Rapid-acting insulin (vial/syringes or pen)
• Long-acting (basal) insulin
• A blood glucose meter with test strips
• Alcohol swabs and syringes or pen needles
• A source of fast-acting glucose (e.g., tablets, gel)
• Extra infusion sets and cartridges
• A written plan from your healthcare provider with instructions for switching to injections.

At ProMed DME, we understand the importance of having these backup supplies and work with most insurance plans to help you get them affordably.

Conclusion

When a tandem mobi pump malfunction occurs, you have the knowledge to handle it. The key is to stay calm, troubleshoot methodically, and always be prepared. Your emergency kit is not just a collection of supplies; it's your insurance policy against the unexpected, allowing you to manage any issue with confidence instead of panic.

You are not alone. Tandem and Dexcom technical support, along with your healthcare team, are valuable resources when you need help. While the Tandem Mobi is an incredible piece of technology, it's still a machine. Understanding its quirks and having a solid backup plan ensures you remain in control of your health.

At ProMed DME, we get it. Managing diabetes technology can be a challenge. That's why we're here to ensure you have the supplies and support you need. Based in Stuart, Florida, we ship quality diabetes supplies across the United States. We offer free shipping, have a dedicated nurse on staff for expert guidance, and work with most insurance plans to keep your costs down.

With the right preparation and support, you can steer any tandem mobi pump malfunction that comes your way. For More info about diabetes supplies and our services, we're here to help you master your diabetes technology safely.