GourmetVAC 480 - Vacuum packaging machines CASO - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL GourmetVAC 480 CASO

Item No. 138732 12 Instruction Manual Please read the information contained herein so that you can become familiar with your device quickly and take advantage of the full scope of its functions. Your vacuum sealer system will serve you for many years if you handle it and care for it properly. We wish you a lot of pleasure in using it!

12.1 Information on this manual

These Operating Instructions are a component of the vacuum sealer system (referred to hereafter as the Device) and provide you with important information for the initial commissioning, safety, intended use and care of the device. The Operating Instructions must be available at all times at the device. This Operating Manual must be read and applied by every person who is instructed to work with the device: • Commissioning • Operation • Troubleshooting and/or

• Cleaning Keep the Operating Manual in a safe place and pass it on to the subsequent owner along with the device.

12.2 Warning notices

The following warning notices are used in the Operating Manual concerned here. DANGER A warning notice of this level of danger indicates a potentially dangerous situation. If the dangerous situation is not avoided, this can lead to death or serious injuries. ► Observe the instructions in this warning notice in order to avoid the danger of death or serious personal injuries. WARNING A warning notice of this level of danger indicates a possible dangerous situation. If the dangerous situation is not avoided, this can lead to serious injuries. ► Observe the instructions in this warning notice in order to avoid the personal injuries. ATTENTION A warning notice of this level of danger indicates a possible dangerous situation. If the dangerous situation is not avoided, this can lead to slight or moderate injuries. ► Observe the instructions in this warning notice in order to avoid the personal injuries. PLEASE NOTE A notice of this kind indicates additional information, which will simplify the handling of the machine.33

12.3 Limitation of liability

All the technical information, data and notices with regard to the installation, operation and care are completely up-to-date at the time of printing and are compiled to the best of our knowledge and belief, taking our past experience and findings into consideration. No claims can be derived from the information provided, the illustrations or descriptions in this manual. The manufacturer does not assume any liability for damages arising as a result of the following:

• Non-observance of the manual • Uses for non-intended purposes

• Improper repairs • Technical alterations, modifications of the device

• Use of unauthorized spare parts Modifications of the device are not recommended and are not covered by the guarantee. All translations are carried out to the best of our knowledge. We do not assume any liability for translation errors, not even if the translation was carried out by us or on our instructions. The original German text remains solely binding.

12.4 Copyright protection

This document is copyright protected. Braukmann GmbH reserves all the rights, including those for photomechanical reproduction, duplication and distribution using special processes (e.g. data processing, data carriers, data networks), even partially. Subject to content and technical changes. 13 Safety This chapter provides you with important safety notices when handling the device. The device corresponds with the required safety regulations. Improper use can result in personal or property damages.

This device is only intended for use in households in enclosed spaces for vacuuming bags and canister, as well as sealing vacuum foils. In addition, this device can be used in the semi-professional sector (hunters, anglers, hobby cooks, etc.). Uses for a different purpose or for a purpose which exceeds this description are considered incompatible with the intended or designated use. Warning Danger due to unintended use! Dangers can emanate from the device if it is used for an unintended use and/or a different kind of use. ► Use the device exclusively for its intended use. ► Observe the procedural methods described in this Operating Manual. Claims of all kinds due to damages resulting from unintended uses are excluded. The User bears the sole risk.34

13.2 General Safety information

Please note Please observe the following general safety notices with regard to the safe handling of the device. ► Examine the device for any visible external damages prior to using it. Never put a damaged device into operation. ► If the power cable or plug are damaged, then they must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent in order to avoid a hazard. ► This device may be used by children aged 8 and above, if they are supervised or have been instructed at to the safe use of the device and have understood the resulting hazards. ► Cleaning and maintenance by the user must not be performed by children unless they are at least 8 years old and are supervised. Children are not allowed to play with the device. The device and its power cable must be kept away from children who are less than 8 years old. ► The device may be used by individuals with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or a lack of experience and / or knowledge of their use if they are supervised or have been instructed at to the safe use of the device and have understood the resulting hazards. ► Only customer service departments authorized by the manufacturer may carry out repairs on the device, as otherwise the guarantee entitlements will be null and void in the event of any subsequent damages. Improperly performed repairs can cause considerable dangers for the user. ► Defective components must always be replaced with original replacement parts. Only such parts will guarantee that the safety requirements are fulfilled. Please note ► Do not leave the device unsupervised when it is in operation.35 Please note ► When disconnect, please unplug by grasp the plug and not the cord, to avoid any injury. ► Never immerse the device in water or other liquids and do not place in the dishwasher.

13.3 Sources of danger

13.3.1 Danger of burns

Warning The sealing bar gets very hot. Please observe the following safety notice in order not to burn yourself or others. ► To avoid getting burned, never touch the sealing bar directly after sealing process.

13.3.2 Danger of fire

Warning There is a danger of fire due to the event the device is not used properly. Observe the following safety notices to avoid dangers of fire: ► Do not set up the device near flammable material. ► Keep this appliance away from sources of heat (gas, electric, burner, heated oven).36

13.3.3 Dangers due to electrical power

Mortal danger due to electrical power! Mortal danger exists when coming into contact with live wires or subassemblies! Observe the following safety notices to avoid dangers due to electrical power: ► Do not operate this device if it has a damaged cable or plug, if it is not working properly or if it has been damaged or dropped. If the power cable or plug are damaged, then they must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent in order to avoid a hazard. ► Do not open the housing on the device under any circumstances. There is a danger of an electrical shock if live connections are touched and the electrical or mechanical structure is altered. In addition, functional faults on the device can also occur. ► Before plugging the appliance in or when you operate it, make sure your hands are dry. ► Do not insert objects into the openings of the device.

13.4 Food storage safety information

This vacuum preservation system will change the way you purchase and store foods. Once you are accustomed to vacuum packing, it will become an indispensable part of your food preparation. Please follow certain procedures when using this appliance to ensure food quality and safety. Please note ► If perishable foods have been heated, defrosted or un-refrigerated, consume them immediately. ► Before vacuum sealing, it’s necessary to clean your hands, and all utensils and surfaces to be used for cutting and vacuum sealing foods. ► Refrigerate or freeze the perishable foods immediately, if you have vacuum-sealed them, and do not leave them sitting at room temperature. ► The shelf life of dry foods such as nuts, coconut or cereals will be extended in vacuum-sealed package, while storing them in dark place. Oxygen and warm temperature will cause high-fat content foods fat to rancidity. ► Before vacuum sealing some fruit and vegetables, such as apples, bananas, potatoes and root vegetables, peel them, this will extend their shelf lives.37 Please note ► When vacuum seal some vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage fresh for refrigeration, they will emit gases, so it’s need to blanch and freeze these foods before vacuum sealing. 14 Getting Started This chapter will guide you through safely unpacking and setting up your new unit.

14.1 Packaging safety information

Warning ► Do not allow children to play with packaging materials due to risk of suffocation.

14.2 What’s included

The vacuum sealer system GourmetVAC 480 includes the following components:

• Vacuum sealer system GourmetVAC 480 • 1 profi bag roll (30 cm x 3 m)

• 10 top-quality bags ((20 x 30 cm) • 1 vacuum hose

• 1 profi bag roll (20 cm x 3 m) • Instruction manual PLEASE NOTE ► Examine the shipment to ensure the unit and manual are included and inspect the unit for any visible damage. ► Immediately notify the carrier and/or the supplier about an incomplete shipment or any damage as a result of inadequate packaging or mishandling.

14.3 Uses and advantages of vacuum sealing

Vacuum sealing foods prolongs shelf life while preserving food’s freshness, flavor and nutrients . Vacuum sealing can maintain a food’s freshness for up to eight times as long as standard storage methods. Below are just a few of the ways you can use your vacuum sealer:

• Cook in advance then vacuum seal and store individual portions or entire meals.

• Prepare foods in advance for picnics, camping trips and barbecues.

• Keep frozen food safe from freezer burn.

• Package foods, such as meat, fish, poultry, seafood and vegetables for refrigerated storage.

• Maintain the freshness of dry foods, such as beans, nuts, and cereals.

• Besides storing food, there are many other uses for vacuum sealing: Protect moisture- sensitive items such as camping supplies, matches, first aid kits, roadside flares and clothing. Protect prized collectibles from dust and moisture.38

Carefully remove the packaging material and unit from the carton.

14.5 Disposal of the packaging

Caso believes in the importance of recycling and has selected packaging materials that not only protect your unit from damage during transit, but can be recycled to minimize any ecological impact. Recycling the packaging materials preserves raw materials and reduces waste. Take any packaging materials that are no longer required to a recycling collection point for proper disposal. PLEASE NOTE ► If possible, keep the original packaging for the duration of the guarantee period in the event a return is necessary.

14.6.1 Setup location requirements:

In order to ensure the safe and trouble-free operation of the device, the setup location must fulfill the following prerequisites:

• The device must be set up on a solid, even, horizontal surface capable of supporting the vacuum sealer and any items to be vacuum-sealed.

• Select a setup location where children cannot reach the hot sealing strip of the device.

• Do not set up the unit in a hot or damp environment or near flammable material.

• To operate correctly, the unit requires sufficient air flow. Leave at least 10 centimeters (4 inches) of space on all sides when setting up the unit.

• Do not move the vacuum sealer when it is in operation.

• The electrical outlet must be easily accessible so that the plug can be quickly disconnected in the case of an emergency.

• The setup of this unit in non-stationary locations (e.g., boats, airplanes, motor homes) must be carried out by a qualified electrician, provided they guarantee the prerequisites for the safe use of the unit.

14.7 Electrical connection

In order to ensure the safe and trouble-free operation of the device, the following instructions must be observed for the electrical connection:

• Before connecting the device, compare the connection data (voltage and frequency) on the rating plate with those of your electrical network. This data must agree in order that no damages occur in the device. If in doubt, ask your qualified electrician.39

• Make sure that the power cable is undamaged and has not been installed under the oven or over hot or sharp surfaces.

• The electrical safety of the device is only guaranteed if the device is connected to a properly installed protective conductor system. Operations using an electrical outlet without a protective conductor are prohibited. If in doubt, have the house installation checked over by a qualified electrician. The manufacturer cannot be made responsible for damages that are caused by a missing or damaged protective conductor.

14.7.1 Extension cords

If an extension cord is used: ► The electrical rating of the extension cord should be at least as great as the electrical rating of the unit. ► The cord should be arranged so that it does not drape over a countertop or tabletop where it can be pulled on by children or tripped over. 15 Complete Overview This chapter provides you with an overview of your vacuum sealer and explains some of its key features.

15.1 Appliance diagram

1 Progress LED indicators: Indicators progress of all working process.

2 hooks for latching of cover 3 sealing profile 4 upper gasket + 8 lower gasket 5 panel 6 connector for vacuum hose 7 sealing bar: contains a teflon-coated heating strip; which makes it possible to seal the bag without it sticking. Warning The sealing bar gets very hot. Please observe the following safety notice in order not to burn yourself or others. ► To avoid getting burned, never touch the sealing bar directly after sealing process. 9 removable vacuum chamber. The open end of the bag must be placed inside the chamber. This feature makes sure that air cannot escape from the bag and that excess liquid is removed. Easy to remove and clean. 10 cutter 11 vacuum hose41

Indicator lamps Indicator lamp Memory function Indicates that memory function is activated Indicator lamp Vacuum & Seal dry (Vakuum & Schweißen trocken) Indicates the Vacuum/sealing process Indicator lamp Vacuum & Seal moist (Vakuum & Schweißen feucht) Indicates the Vacuum/sealing process Indicator lamp Seal (Schweißen) Indicates the sealing process of the bag without vacuum Indicator lamp Adjustable Vacuum (Vakuumstärke) Indicates the vacuum process Indicator lamp Marinate (Marinieren) Indicates the marinateprocess for the canister Indicator lamp Vacuum Canister (Behälter) Indicates the vacuum process for the canister Buttons 1 Button Memory Activates the„V-Memory“ function 2 Button Vacuum & Seal dry (Vakuum & Schweißen trocken) Selection for dry vacuum food. Air is drawn off from inside the bag (vacuuming), immediately after this process the bag is sealed 3 Button Vacuum & Seal moist (Vakuum & Schweißen feucht) Selection for moist or marinated vacuum food.Air is drawn off from inside the bag (vacuuming), immediately after this process the bag is sealed 4 Button Sealing function (Schweißen) Seals a bag without first vacuuming 5 Button Adjustable Vacuum (Vakuumstärke) As long as you press the button, air is drawn off from inside the bag. When you release the button, this process will stop. Afterwards you must seal the bag via the seal function.42 6 Stop button You can stop the vacuum and sealing process at any time 7 Button Marinate (Marinieren) Press to marinate food with the canister. 8 Button Canister Vacuum (Behälter) Via the vacuum hose, air is drawn off from inside the vacuum canister

The rating plate with the connection and performance data can be founded on the bottom of the unit. 16 Operation This chapter provides instructions on the proper operation of your vacuum sealer:

16.1 Basics of sealing

After each sealing session and before starting up, check to make sure the unit and all accessories are clean and free of leftover food. Follow the cleaning instructions on in Chapter Cleaning and Maintenance. Step 1: Open the cover and insert the open side of a compatible bag into the vacuum chamber. Step 2: Close the cover. With the automatic lid lock the device locks the vacuum chamber automatically when the operation process starts. Step 3: Open the lid when the device beeps.

Please only use specified bags and rolls designed for vacuum sealing. Do not use other materials such as plastic wrap. All vacuum rolls and bags delivered by CASO are appropriate for cooking under vacuum (sous vide). Furthermore the vacuum rolls and bags can be used for defrosting and heating in the microwave at up to 70° C. Please make sure when vacuum rolls and bags of other producers are used, whether they are also microwaveable and suitable for cooking under vacuum. Please note that a bar vacuumsealer as this device can only be used with structured bags. You can buy a wide range of different bags and rolls from CASO.43

16.3 Preserve food with vacuum:

Place the unit on a dry place. Make sure the working area in front of the unit is free of obstacles and wide enough to accommodate the food bags.

1. Put the food that you want to preserve inside the bag.

2. Clean and straighten the open end of the bag, make sure that there are no wrinkles or

ripples on the panels of the open ends.

3. Make sure that open end of the bag are located within the vacuum chamber. (see

4. Close the cover. (see Step 2).

5. Press the “Vakuum & schweißen”-Button (dry or moist) and the corresponding LED

control light starts flashing, then the bag will be automatically vacuumed and sealed.

6. Open the lid when the device beeps. (see Step3).

7. Check the appearance of the sealed bag; it should have a stripe across the seal and no

wrinkles otherwise the seal may not be complete.

8. If you need to interrupt the vacuum operation (e.g. the bag is incorrectly positioned) first

presses the “Stop” button. PLEASE NOTE ► Do not overstuff the bag; leave enough empty length in the open end of the bag (at least a few inches) so that the bag can be properly placed in the vacuum chamber. ► Do not wet the open end of the bag. Wet bags may not seal properly. ► Clean and straighten the open end of the bag before sealing. Foreign matter or creases on the bag may result in a faulty seal. ► Press the bag to expel excess air before vacuuming it. Too much air inside the bag may result in a poor vacuum. ► If the food you’re sealing has sharp edges (such as bones or shells) pack the edges with kitchen paper to avoid tearing the bag ► We suggest you allow one minute of time in between sealing sessions to allow the sealer to cool. ► When vacuum sealing liquid-based foods (such as soups or stew) freeze them first in a baking pan or tempered dish before bagging and vacuum sealing them. ► Blanch vegetables by cooking them briefly in boiling water. Allow them to cool then vacuum seal them in convenient portions. ► When vacuum sealing unfrozen food, allow at least two additional inches of bag length for expansion while freezing. Place unfrozen meat or fish on a paper towel and vacuum seal with the paper towel in the bag to absorb any extra moisture. ► Before storing foods such as tortillas, crepes or bread, use wax or parchment paper between them to stack the pieces. This will make it easier to remove an individual piece, reseal the rest and immediately replace them in the freezer.44

16.4 Making a bag using the bag roll

1. Unroll the foil to the desired length and cut the bag to the appropriate length with

precise and clear cut.

2. Open the cover and put one end of the bag on top into the vacuum chamber, then close

the cover (see Step 1).

4. Press the “Schweißen”-Button and the corresponding LED control light starts flashing.

5. When the LED light turns off, the bag is sealed.

6. Now you have a custom-sized bag.

Please note ► Make sure that the bag you want to use is at least 8cm/3.1in. longer than the food. Add another 2 cm/0.8in. each time the bag is re-used.

16.5 Use of the function "Adjustable vacuum strength"

Since the pressure of the vacuuming becomes too strong for specific foods and these could be crushed in the bag, you can adjust the length and strength of the vacuuming process via the function "Adjustable Vacuum strength". So you can adjust the vacuum strength to the consistency of your vacuum food and also seal soft foods (for example berry fruit) without crushing them. Due to the time and pressure control, the crushing of delicate foods is prevented. You can also use this function for the packaging of juicy foods to prevent that fluids are aspirated and drawn out. Adjustable Vacuum strength

1. Put the foods you want to store into the bag.

2. Clean and smooth the open end of the bag and be sure that there are no folds or

waves on the surfaces of the open ends.

3. Be sure that the open end of the bag is within the vacuum chamber seal. This

guarantees that there is no escape of the vacuum.

4. Close the cover. Press the button "Vakuumstärke". As long as you press the button,

air is withdrawn. Only when you release the button, the process stops. Thus you can exactly control the vacuum and prevent the liquid from being sucked. Please hold the button pressed until the required vacuum has been reached.

5. Then press the button "Schweißen" and seal the bag.

** Press the button “Stop” to interrupt the process.

16.6 Use of„V-Memory“ function

With use of „V-Memory“ function you can repeat the last operation. For example you can use the adjustable vacuum strength function to vacuum gentle food and to seal afterwards. With V-memory cou can repeat this process with same vacuum strength, so that you can vacuum a larger quantity of gentle food.45 Place the bag into the vacuumchamber as usual. Close the lid. Perform the desired operation. Place next bag into the vacuumchamber. Press „Memory“ button to recall the last operation. The device repeats the last operation for example adjustable vacuumstrength + seal. Please note ► If you want to repeat the adjustable vauum strength function, then please consider that the volume in the bag has to be approximately the same otherwise gentle food may be crushed after all.

16.7 Vacuum package in a Canister

Wipe canister cover, canister base and ensure they are clean and dry. Put the items into the canister and do not fill up too full so that the cover can be in good contact with the canister bowl rim. Close the cover. Insert one end of the hose into the air intake and another end of the hose into the center hole of the canister cover. Close the cover. Press the “Behälter” (Canister) button to start vacuuming. To ensure there is no air leaking between the cover and the canister, use your hand to push down the cover at the beginning of the vacuuming work. The machine will stop automatically when enough vacuum pressure is achieved. Take out the hose tube from the canister or bowl immediately first after the job is completed.

16.8 Marinate with a Canister

Wipe canister cover, canister base and ensure they are clean and dry. Put the items into the canister and do not fill up too full so that the cover can be in good contact with the canister bowl rim. Close the cover. Insert one end of the hose into the air intake and another end of the hose into the center hole of the canister cover. Close the lid. Press “Marinieren” (marinate) button to start working. The indicator light has been on during the course. It will release air automatically after finished vacuum, the device will work for 5 cycles. When the indicator light crush out, the marinate process is completed. Pull off the hose accessory from canister port and canister cover.

16.9 Use of the cutter

To cut the foil at desired length, press down the cutter so that the foil is held firmly. Slide the cutter over the foil. Push it back into place until it latches.

16.10 Opening a sealed bag

Cut the bag straight across with scissors or the cutter, just inside the seal.46

Store the unit in its upright position, out of the reach of children. PLEASE NOTE ► To disconnect remove the plug from the outlet. ► Always unplug the appliance from its outlet immediately after using and before cleaning. 17 Cleaning and Maintenance This chapter provides important information on properly cleaning and maintaining your vacuum sealer.

17.1 Safety information

Attention Please observe the following safety notices, before cleaning the unit to avoid damage to the unit or personal injury: ► To ensure optimum performance, the unit must be cleaned regularly. Failure to clean the unit regularly can lead to potential malfunctions, as well as safety and health risks. ► Unplug the device before cleaning. ► The sealing bar remains hot after use. Wait a few minutes until the bar has cooled before cleaning. ► Clean the unit after every use as soon as it has cooled. Leaving the unit uncleaned for long periods can make it very difficult to remove leftover food and grime and may even damage the unit. ► If moisture penetrates the unit’s housing, it can damage the electronic components. Please ensure that no moisture enters the device. ► Do not use any harsh or abrasive cleaning agents. ► Do not attempt to scrape off stubborn grime with hard or abrasive tools. ► Dry all parts thoroughly before using after cleaning. ► Never immerse the device in water or other liquids and do not place in the dishwasher.

◆ Outside of the unit Wipe with a damp cloth or sponge and mild dish soap. ◆ Inside of the unit Wipe away any food or liquids with a paper towel. ◆ Inside of the device The device has removable vacuum chamber. Clean the chamber with warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly after before you install it again. Check that vacuum chamber is place correctly.47 ◆ Cleaning bags for reuse Wash the bags in warm water with a mild dishwashing soap, then rinse them well and allow them to dry completely before reusing. Attention ► Bags used to store raw meats, fish or greasy foods should never be reused due to risk of contamination. ◆ Sealing profile (which presses the bag against the sealing bar) Remove the sealing profile and clean it in warm soapy water. Please note ► The sealing profile should be cleaned thoroughly before installing it again. ► Be careful during re-installation, so that nothing will be damaged and sealing profile is placed well so that the device can work properly. ► Carefully return all removable parts to their original positions to avoid air leakage or faulty operation. 18 Troubleshooting The following table may help you narrow down and address minor malfunctions:

Attention ► Only qualified electricians, who have been trained by the manufacturer may carry out any repairs on electrical equipment. ► Improperly performed repairs may result in personal injury or damage to the device.

18.2 Troubleshooting table

Fault Possible Cause To Rectify Device does not turn

Defective power cord Send device to Customer Service A complete vacuum is not being created in the bag. The open end of the bag is not completely inside the vacuum chamber Position the bag correctly The bag is defective Select another bag There is residue on the welding and the seal Clean the welding / seals and retry once they are dry48 The bag is not being sealed correctly The sealing bar is overheating so that the bag melts Open the cover on the unit and let it cool down for a few minutes. Please use only specified bags and rolls Carefully follow all the steps in Chapter Vacuuming and sealing. Roll / bag is not positioned correctly. The bag does not hold the vacuum after it has been sealed The bag is defective Select another bag; wrap paper around any sharp edges within the bag. There are leaks along the welding seam as a result of creases, crumbs, grease or liquids. Open the bag again and clean the upper internal part of the bag. Remove any foreign matter that might be on the welding bar before sealing. PLEASE NOTE ► In the event of technical troubles, faulty devices or missing parts, please contact Customer Service. 19 Disposal of the Old Device To protect the environment, it’s important to dispose of old electronic devices properly. Do not place your old unit in the non-recyclable waste under any circumstances. PLEASE NOTE ► Please take your old unit to the nearest recycling center for safe disposal. ► Until it can be disposed of properly, store your old unit away from children. 20 Guarantee We provide a 24 month guarantee for this product, commencing from the date of sale, for faults which are attributable to production or material faults. Your legal guarantee entitlements in accordance with § 439 ff. BGB-E remain unaffected by this. The guarantee does not include damages, which were incurred as a result of improper handling or use, as well as malfunctions which only have a minor effect on the function or the value of the device. Consumables, transit damages, inasmuch as we are not responsible for these, as well as damages, which were incurred as a result of any repairs that were not performed by us, are also excluded from the guarantee entitlements. This device is designed for use in domestic situations and has the appropriate performance levels. Any use in commercial situations is only covered under the guarantee to the extent that it would be comparable with the stresses of being used in a domestic situation. It is not intended for any additional, commercial use. In the event of justified complaints, we will repair the faulty device at our discretion or replace it with a trouble-free device. Any pending faults must be reported within 14 days of delivery.49 All further claims are excluded. To enforce a guarantee claim, please contact us prior to returning the device (always provide us with proof of purchase). 21 Technical Data Device Vacuum sealer system Name GourmetVAC 480 Item No.: