How to Desolder: The Basics

Once in a while, you may need the basics on how to desolder old soldered joints in order to strengthen the connection between wires or for repair purposes. Although a relatively simple procedure, desoldering requires attention and careful operation on your part. You will find below how to successfully desolder any soldered joint, regardless of its type.

 Step 1 – Purchase Equipment

Buy a soldering iron or a soldering station and a desoldering pump. If you are going to desolder on a regular basis, as part of your professional activities, then you are well-advised to purchase a soldreing station as it has more options and allows for better performance. However, if you will be desoldering only now and then, a soldering iron will do just fine for your purposes. As for the desoldering pump, choose one that is easy to operate (a pump should not cost you more than $10 or thereabouts). Moreover, you should also have a desoldering braid available to remove finer pieces of solder from the joint.

 Step 2 – Prepare the Area

Clean the area where you are going to work from any dust, dirt, or corrosion. Be careful not to snap the wires which you will desolder.

Step 3 – Read and Follow Safety Instructions

Before using the soldering unit, read the manufacturer's instructions on how to use it. Follow them carefully to avoid any burns and even serious injuries. Also, put on protective glasses and try to avoid breathing in the fumes while desoldering (it will be best if you can work in a well-ventilated room).

Step 4 – Adjust the Temperature of the Soldering Unit

Heat the soldering unit to a temperature appropriate for your joint: different types of solder will have different melting points, i.e. they will require a different temperature.

Step 5 – Desolder

Place the tip of the soldering unit close to the joint and hold it there until the joint melts. Do not desolder at a particular point for extended periods of time (e.g. over 1 minute) as this will damage the soldered wires. If a wire has stuck in the joint, use needle nose pliers to remove it. Be careful when using the tip of the soldering unit, so that you do not damage any adjacent equipment.

Step 6 – Absorb the Solder

As soon as the joint melts, put away the soldering unit and take the desoldering pump. Press the button of the pump and start absorbing the solder. Repeat the operation to suck in as much material as possible. To remove any remaining pieces of solder around the joint, use a desoldering braid. Place a portion of the braid over the solder debris and heat the braid with the soldering unit. This will make the solder stick to the braid via capillary action. Once this happens, lift the braid and dispose of the used portion. If necessary, clean further the wires, so that your new joint may be optimally strong.

Also, to keep the desoldering pump in good condition, be sure to clean it from the accumulated solder before you store it away. You may want to use dehydrated alcohol or any other appropriate cleaning substance.