Some practical points: Always filter the diluent before use. Clean nebulizer after use, also the narrow inlet with a thread. A corroded nebulizer chamber has to be replaced. Check the needed air pressure from your AAS user manual and make sure that your air supply has enough pressure and does not fluctuate. Aspirate some sample before calibration so that the chamber gets wetted. At the same time check burner height and air flow (affects repeatability).