VS450 - Vacuum packaging machines BLACK & DECKER - Free user manual and instructions

Technical specifications	BLACK & DECKER VS450 vacuum packaging machine
Device type	Vacuum packaging machine
Dimensions	Compact and easy to store
Weight	Lightweight for easy handling
Power	Sufficient power for effective packaging
Usage	Ideal for keeping food fresh, reducing food waste
Features	Vacuum and sealing function
Included accessories	Can use compatible bags
Maintenance	Easy cleaning with a damp cloth
Repair	Limited repairability, spare parts available
Safety	Equipped with safety systems to prevent overheating
General information	Manufacturer warranty, consult the user manual for more details

Frequently Asked Questions - VS450 BLACK & DECKER

How do I use the BLACK & DECKER VS450 device?

To use the device, place the bag in the vacuum chamber, close the lid, then press the suction button. The device will start removing air from the bag and seal it.

Why won\u0027t the device start?

Check that the device is properly plugged in and that the lid is securely closed. Also make sure the bag is correctly positioned in the chamber.

How do I clean the BLACK & DECKER VS450 device?

Unplug the device and wipe the outside with a damp cloth. For the inside, use a soft cloth and avoid using abrasive products.

Are the device\u0027s bags reusable?

The bags can be reused if they are not damaged and are clean. Make sure to wash them in hot water and let them dry completely before reusing.

What should I do if the bag does not seal properly?

Check that the edge of the bag is clean and free of debris. Also ensure the bag is compatible with the device and not too thick.

What is the lifespan of the device?

The lifespan of the device depends on usage and maintenance. Regular use and good maintenance can extend its lifespan.

Can I use non-certified bags with the device?

It is recommended to use only certified bags for your BLACK & DECKER VS450 device to ensure optimal operation and avoid damaging the device.

How do I know if the device is overheating?

The device is equipped with a safety system that can automatically shut off in case of overheating. If this happens, let the device cool down before restarting it.

Where can I find spare parts for the device?

You can find spare parts on the BLACK & DECKER website or in specialized appliance stores.

Is the device under warranty?

Yes, the device is generally covered by a limited warranty. Check the user manual for warranty details.

USER MANUAL VS450 BLACK & DECKER

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

Read all instructions.

To protect against a risk of electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plug or any part of this product in water or other liquid, or use on wet surfaces.

Do not place or store appliance where it can fall or be pulled into a sink or tub.

Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.

Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug or after the appliance malfunctions or is dropped or damaged in any manner. Return the product to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair or electrical or mechanical adjustment. Or, call the appropriate toll-free number listed on the cover of this manual.

Do not use outdoors.

Do not allow the cord to touch hot surfaces or hang over the edge of table or counter. Do not wrap the cord around the appliance.

To disconnect, grasp plug and remove from outlet. Do not pull by the cord. Congratulations … On your purchase of the Black & Decker

Professional-Performance Vacuum System! Your decision to purchase this product will have a permanent impact on your budget from now on. It will save you money because you will be able to purchase food in bulk and divide into portions that are exactly right for your family’s size and tastes. It will save you time, too. Imagine not having to worry what’s for dinner, because you’re able to give each family member a customized dinner that you’ve prepared, portioned, vaucuum-sealed and frozen in advance. Each meal needs only a few minutes heating in the microwave to be "fresh cooked." The Black & Decker

system is convenient, versatile and practical for today’s busy lifestyles. In just seconds, you can make custom-sized bags to hold individual or family-sized portions of food, then vacuum seal to keep that food fresh for as much as 5 times longer.

• Keep meats, poultry and blanched vegetables fresh and flavorful and free from freezer burn.

• Pantry staples like flours, sugars and dried peas and beans stay fresh, dry and free of bugs.

• Refrigerated foods like cheese and cold cuts stay fresher longer. All this means less food waste, so more money saved! The more you use the Black & Decker

system, the more ways you will find to expand its use in and around your home. POLARIZED PLUG This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not modify the plug in any way

ELECTRICAL CORD The cord of this appliance was selected to reduce the possibility of tangling in or tripping over a longer cord. If more length is needed, use an extension cord rated no less than 15-amperes. (For 220 volts rated products, use an extension cord rated no less than 6-amperes cord). When using an extension cord, do not let it drape over the working area or dangle where someone could accidentally trip over it. Handle cord carefully for longer life; avoid jerking or straining it at outlet and appliance connections. TAMPER-RESISTANT SCREW This appliance is equipped with a tamper-resistant screw to prevent removal of the bottom cover. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not attempt to remove the bottom cover. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Repair should be done only by authorized service personnel. SOFT-TOUCH PARTS Note: The soft touch parts of the appliance are free of natural rubber and latex. They are safe for individuals allergic or sensitive to these materials. IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. VS250.Pub1000001093 7/16/04 2:00 PM Page 24

1. Locking latch (one on each side)

8. Vacuum/seal button

Professional-Performance Vacuum Sealer Work? The Sealer unit has a powerful vacuum-pump system that pulls out the air that surrounds food, leaving the food sealed in its owns 5-ply plastic storage bag. What do I use to package my food for vacuum sealing? The Black & Decker

System uses 8-inch (21 cm) wide rolls and 11-inch (28 cm) wide rolls of 5-ply plastic to make custom-sized bags for meats, poultry, blanched vegetables, etc. The bags are freezer safe, hand washable and reusable. They are microwave safe and can be immersed in boiling water for reheating packaged food. Also available is a 2-size canister set (1- and 1

⁄2 liters) for refrigerator storage of fragile food items, like berries, or items you want to keep crisp and dry in the pantry like cookies and crackers. It’s also perfect for keeping coffee beans fresh in the pantry or freezer. How to use the Black & Decker

FreshGUARD™ Professional-Performance Vacuum System Sealer to make custom-size bags with rolls:

1. Place the unit on a flat, level surface that is comfortable to work on and plug

in the power cord. You see the green progress light come on in the middle of the unit.

2. Use sharp scissors to cut a piece from the roll that is long enough to hold the

4. Place one end of the bag on the sealing strip. Be sure the end does not extend

over the black rubber strip or into the vacuum channel.

5. Close the lid. The push bar on the lid pushes

down the open end of the bag into position (A).

6. Press down the top of the lid at the ends then

press in the side latches until you hear them click into place (B). The vacuum sealing process begins automatically. The progress indicator light starts blinking; the unit makes a deep humming sound.

7. When vacuum sealing process is complete, the

sound stops and the light goes from blinking green to red and then back to steady green. Press the release button (C ).

8. Press down the lid at the ends to release the

locking latches (D).

9. Lift the lid and remove the sealed bag. Let the

unit rest at least 20 seconds before using it again. 10.Unplug unit. Tip: Using a sharp pair of scissors with long cutting blades makes it easier to cut the roll straight. †1. Joint d'étanchéité en mousse (haut) (Part# 2900-3211)

How to use the FreshGUARD™ Professional-Performance Vacuum Sealer to vacuum seal:

1. Plug unit and lift lid.

2. Place food or other item in the bag. Do not try to seal fragile foods (breads,

chips, etc.) in vacuum-sealed bag. They will be crushed.

3. For proper vacuuming, place the entire open end of the

bag over the vacuum channel between the black foam gasket as shown in the upper picture (E). If the bag is placed as noted in the three lower pictures the unit will not vacuum the bag.

4. Close the lid. The push bar on the lid pushes down the open end of the bag

into position (see A).

5. Press down the top of the lid at the ends then press in the side latches until you

hear them click into place (see B). The vacuum sealing process begins automatically. The progress indicator light starts blinking; the unit makes a deep humming sound.

6. When vacuum sealing process is complete, the sound stops and the light goes

from blinking green to red and then back to green. Press the release button (see C).

7. Press down the lid at the ends to release the locking latches (see D).

8. Lift the lid and remove the sealed bag. Let the unit rest at least 20 seconds

before using it again.

How to use the FreshGUARD™ Professional-Performance Vacuum System canisters to vacuum seal:

1. Place food in canister, then place lid on canister.

2. Plug unit and lift lid.

3. Attach the small end of the hose to the canister

4. Press and hold the canister vacuum button for about

2 seconds, until the unit starts.

5. After the unit has started, place the large end of the hose

over the vacuum port in the center of the lid.

6. The unit will automatically shut off when canister is vacuum sealed.

7. Detach the hose from the canister and unit.

Care and Cleaning Cleaning the Vacuum Chamber Caution: Do not clean the vacuum chamber after every use. It is recommended to clean it every 30 cycles and only if liquids get inside the chamber. Important: If you see any food particles in the chamber, clean the chamber to prevent food from getting into pump.

2. Using a measuring cup, fill with 2 tablespoons of water ONLY.

3. Turn on by pressing the canister button.

4. Once unit shuts off, remove drain cup, clean it and insert back into the unit.

Food Preparation Before Vacuum Sealing AWord About Food Safety It is very important that you know and observe some basic safe-food handling practices as you vacuum seal food: Keep food, especially meats, fish and poultry refrigerated until ready to vacuum seal. Store vacuum-sealed meats, fish and poultry in the freezer immediately after sealing. Wash hands with warmest water possible and soap and dry with a clean towel or paper toweling before handling food. Re-wash hands as above after handling raw meat, fish or poultry and before handling any other food. Before re-using a bag in which food was sealed, wash in warmest sudsy water, rinse thoroughly and allow to thoroughly air dry. Do not re-use a bag in which raw meat, fish or poultry had been sealed. To safely thaw food, take from freezer and place directly in refrigerator to thaw, or defrost in a microwave oven. Since oxygen (air) and time are the major reasons foods spoil, it is important to note that vacuum sealing food cannot reverse food deterioration. Food that is not fresh when you vacuum seal it, will not be any fresher when you un-seal it. The fresher the food is when you vacuum seal it, the fresher and more flavorful it will be when it is un-sealed. While vacuum sealing extends the life of foods, it is not a substitute for canning. Follow the guidelines in this manual for sealing and storing different types of foods.

Preparing Vegetables for Vacuum Sealing Vegetables should be blanched before vacuum sealing to retain nutrients, flavor and color. To blanch vegetables, place them in a large pot of boiling water and cook according to the chart below, then immediately drain and plunge drained vegetables into a pot of very cold water to stop the cooking. Drain vegetables then place on paper toweling or on a kitchen towel to dry, then vacuum seal and freeze. Vegetables Blanching Where Recommended Black & Decker

Normal (home frozen) Time to Store Storage System Recommended System Storage Time Storage Time** Asparagus 1 to 3 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months Broccoli 3 to 4 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months Brussels 3 to 4 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months sprouts Cabbage 3 to 5 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months Cauliflower 3 to 4 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months Corn, on the cob 6 to 12 minutesFreezer Bag 3 years 10 months Corn, 4 to 6 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months whole kernel Green beans 2 to 3 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months Snow peas 1 to 2 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months Sugar snap peas 1 to 3 minutes Freezer Bag 3 years 10 months

• Recommended storage times are for quality only. Follow safe food-handling procedures and consult individual product recommendations. ** Food Marketing Institute, January 2003. ** Food Marketing Institute, January 2003. Preparing Cheeses for Vacuum Sealing If cheese is used frequently, you might want to make the bag longer than normal by 3 to 4-inches (7.5-10 cm). That will allow you to cut to open and leave enough room for 3 or 4 reseals. Tip: For cubed cheeses like Cheddar or Swiss, freeze cubes on a cookie sheet 30 minutes to 1 hour before vacuum sealing. For shredded cheeses, toss with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) all-purpose flour per 2 cups (500 ml) of cheese; spread cheese lightly on cookie sheet and freeze 20 minutes before sealing. Cheese Where Recommended Black & Decker

Normal to Store Storage System Recommended System Storage Time Storage Time** Processed cheese Refrigerator Bag 8 months 1 to 2 months (slices) Cheese, hard Refrigerator Bag 6 to 8 months 3 to 4 months (opened) Parmesan, Romano Refrigerator Bag 6 to 8 months 1 month (shredded) Hard and wax-coated Refrigerator Bag 6 to 8 months 3 to 4 weeks cheese, Cheddar, Edam, Gouda, Swiss (opened) STORAGE GUIDES* Preparing Meats/Poultry/Fish for Vacuum Sealing For best results, freeze for 1 to 2 hours before vacuum sealing. If pre-freezing is not an option, place a folded paper towel in the center of the bag to absorb excess liquid, then place meat in bag. Vacuum seal bag with paper towel and meat in place. Meat/Fish/Poultry Where Recommended Black & Decker

Normal to Store Storage System Recommended System Storage Time Storage Time** Meat (beef stew type) Freezer Bag 3 years 6 to 9 months Lamb Freezer Bag 2 years 3 to 4 months (steaks and chops) Pork (chops) Freezer Bag 2 years 2 to 3 months Ground beef Freezer Bag 1 year 2 to 3 months Poultry (whole chicken) Freezer Bag 3 years 12 months Fish (lean) Freezer Bag 2 years 6 to 8 months

Food Marketing Institute, January 2003. VS250.Pub1000001093 7/16/04 2:00 PM Page 89

Preparing Foods for Marinating Marinating is a great way to tenderize a less expensive cut of meat, and give added flavor to meats, poultry, fish and vegetables. The Black & Decker

Professional-Performance Vacuum System offers you two ways to have tender, flavorful meats, poultry and fish and flavor-infused vegetables and salads—and now it can be done in minutes, not hours. For larger pieces of meat, poultry or fish, use the 8-inch (21 cm) or 11-inch (28 cm) wide rolls to prepare a custom-sized bag. Place the food and marinade in bag and vacuum seal. Place in refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes. For cubes of meat, poultry or fish, or for marinated vegetables or salads use the appropriate size canister for the amount of food and marinade. Always place marinating food, whether in canister or bags, in the refrigerator until ready to cook or eat. Preparing Other Foods for Vacuum Sealing Baked goods (breads, rolls, cakes, pastries, bagels) should always be pre-frozen for 1 to 2 hours before vacuum sealing. Pre-freezing prevents baked goods from collapsing when the vacuum sealing process takes place. When vacuum-sealing foods like soups and stews that are liquid-based, pre-freeze in a shallow casserole or pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. The frozen food can then be easily removed from the container and placed in an appropriate sized bag. Food Where Recommended Black & Decker

Normal to Store Storage System Recommended System Storage Time Storage Time** Baked pies/pastry Freezer Bag 1 to 3 years 1 to 2 months Quick Breads Freezer Bag 1 to 3 years 3 to 6 months Coffee, beans Refrigerator Bag or canister 2 years 2 weeks (from can) Ground coffee, Pantry Bag or canister 3 years 2 years (from can) Cookies (packaged) Pantry Canister 6 months 2 months Nuts Freezer Bag or canister 2 years 6 to 12 months Pasta (uncooked) Pantry Canister 3 years 2 years Rice (uncooked) Pantry Canister 2 years 6 months Granulated sugar Pantry Canister 3 years 2 years Fruit, Cut Where Recommended Black & Decker

Normal to Store Storage System Recommended System Storage Time Storage Time** Apricots, Nectarines Freezer Bag 1 to 3 years 2 to 3 months Peaches, Plums Berries Refrigerator Canister 10 days 1 to 2 days Preparing Fruit for Vacuum Sealing Soft or delicate fruits and berries of all kinds should be individually pre-frozen for 1 to 2 hours until solidly frozen before vacuum sealing in bags. For example, slice stone fruits (peaches, plums, nectarines, etc.) and place slices on a cookie sheet and freeze, then place solidly frozen pieces in bag to vacuum seal. Berries can be individually frozen as above before vacuum sealing in a bag then freezing or vacuum-sealed fresh in a FreshGuard ™ canister and stored in refrigerator. ** Food Marketing Institute, January 2003. ** Food Marketing Institute, January 2003. VS250.Pub1000001093 7/16/04 2:00 PM Page 1011

VS250.Pub1000001093 7/16/04 2:01 PM Page 28NEED HELP? For service, repair or any questions regarding your appliance, call the appropriate "800" number on the cover of this book. Do not return the product to the place of purchase. Do not mail the product back to the manufacturer nor bring it to a service center. You may also want to consult the website listed on the cover of this manual. One-Year Limited Warranty (Applies only in the United States and Canada) What does it cover?

• Any defect in material or workmanship; provided; however, Applica’s liability will not exceed the purchase price of the product. For how long?

• One year after the date of original purchase What will we do to help you?

• Provide you with a reasonably similar replacement product that is either new or factory refurbished How do you get service?

• Save your receipt as proof of the date of sale.

• Check our on-line service site at www.prodprotect.com/applica, or call our toll-free number, 1-800-231-9786, for general warranty service

• If you need parts or accessories, please call 1-800-738-0245. What does your warranty not cover?

• Damage from commercial use

• Damage from misuse, abuse or neglect

• Products that have been modified in any way

• Products used or serviced outside the country of purchase

• Glass parts and other accessory items that are packed with the unit

• Shipping and handling costs associated with the replacement of the unit

• Consequential or incidental damages (Please note, however, that some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential or incidental damages, so this limitation may not apply to you.) How does state law relate to this warranty?