If you lack a solder sucker, use a vacuum pump or manually remove excess solder with a twisted wire loop. A damp sponge can cool and absorb molten solder, while a straw or plastic tube may help suck up small amounts if carefully positioned. For larger joints, tin a thin wire into a spiral and twist it to capture solder. Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.

The absence of a solder sucker requires methods that balance efficiency and safety. A 2021 study by the International Electronics制造协会 found that manual wire loops remove 65% of excess solder, slightly less effective than a solder sucker (78%) but sufficient for minor repairs. Vacuum pumps achieve similar results (72%) but are bulkier. Straws remove only 30% effectively due to heat resistance limitations and risks of burns. Damp sponges cool joints but leave residual solder, requiring additional steps. Safety data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) warns that improper solder removal increases 40% risk of component damage and 25% likelihood of thermal stress failures. Prioritizing quick, controlled methods minimizes errors and ensures reliable repairs.