DH11 - Food Dehydrator Weston - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL DH11 Weston

Assorted fresh vegetables and food items arranged on a white table with a black water heater in the background (no visible text or symbols)

DH11

4 TRAY FOOD DEHYDRATOR

DÉSHYDRATEUR D'ALIMENTS À 4 PLATEAUX DESHIDRATADOR DE ALIMENTOS CON 4 BANDEJAS

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, and/or injury to persons, including the following:

1. Read all instructions.
2. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they are closely supervised and instructed concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
3. Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children unless they are supervised. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
4. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs, which may be warm. Use oven mitts.
5. To protect against a risk of electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plug, or base assembly in water or other liquid.
6. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, or moving the appliance. To unplug, grasp the plug and pull from the outlet. Never pull from the power cord.
7. Do not operate any appliance with a damaged supply cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Supply cord replacement and repairs must be conducted by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard. Contact Customer Service for information on examination, repair, or adjustment as set forth in the Limited Warranty.
8. The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.

9. Do not use outdoors.

10. Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter or touch hot surfaces, including stove.

11. Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
12. Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
13. Do not use plastic dishes or plastic wrap on tray.
14. Do not use appliance for other than intended purpose.
15. Do not operate the appliance by means of an external timer or separate remote-control system.
16. Do not leave the appliance unattended while the appliance is connected to an electrical outlet.
17. To disconnect, turn all controls to MIN; then remove plug from wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug and pull from the outlet. Never pull from the power cord.
18. Place the appliance only on a dry, level, and nonflammable surface.
19. During use, provide 4 to 6 inches air space above, behind, and on both sides for air circulation. Do not use on surfaces where heat may cause a problem.

20. Always allow the appliance to cool down completely before putting away. Never wind the cord around the appliance while it is still hot.

21. CAUTION: HOT SURFACE. The temperature of accessible surfaces may be high when the appliance is operating.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER CONSUMER SAFETY INFORMATION

This appliance is only intended for the preparation, cooking, and serving of foods. This appliance is not intended for use with any nonfood materials or products.

This appliance is intended for household use only.

⚠ WARNING Electrical Shock Hazard: This appliance is provided with a polarized plug (one wide blade) to reduce the risk of electric shock. The plug fits only one way into a polarized outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the plug by modifying the plug in any way or by using an adapter. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, have an electrician replace the outlet.

The length of the cord used on this appliance was selected to reduce the hazards of becoming tangled in or tripping over a longer cord. If a longer cord is necessary, an approved extension cord may be used. The electrical rating of the extension cord must be equal to or greater than the rating of the appliance. Care must be taken to arrange the extension cord so that it will not drape over the countertop or tabletop where it can be pulled on by children or accidentally tripped over.

To avoid an electrical circuit overload, do not use another high-wattage appliance on the same circuit with this appliance.

PARTS AND FEATURES

Before first use:

Wipe Inside of Base with a damp cloth and dry. Wash Trays and Lid in hot, soapy water.

1 2 NOTE: Top "TOP" mold center cap. must always top position 3 4 5 6 7

DIAGRAM NUMBER PART DESCRIPTION
1 LID
2 TOP DRYING TRAY WITH CLOSED CENTER (LABELED “TOP”)
3 3 DRYING TRAYS
4 BASE
5 TEMPERATURE KNOB
6 POWER LIGHT
7 DIFFUSER

If any components of this unit are broken, the unit does not operate properly, or you need a replacement instruction manual, visit us on the web at WestonBrands.com.

DEHYDRATOR PREPARATION

• The Top Tray must always be in the top position for proper drying. The Top Drying Tray has the word "TOP" labeled on the center.
• All four Trays should be used during each drying, even if some are empty.
• It is best to dry one type of similar food at a time; for example, all fruits or all vegetables.
• Always leave Trays in place until drying is complete. You may remove food from Trays when acceptably dried.
• Always place food in a single layer on each Tray for even drying. Do not overlap fruits, vegetables, or meats, or crowd Trays.

HOW TO USE THE DEHYDRATOR

WARNING Fire Hazard. Do not block the air vents at the bottom of the dehydrator.

It is important to read and understand all of the instructions and safeguards prior to using the Dehydrator.

1. Operate the Dehydrator on a clean, dry and level surface.
2. Plug the Dehydrator into an outlet.

3. Position the Dehydrator at least 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) from any wall during operation to allow for proper air circulation.

4. Turn Temperature Knob to desired temperature. When on, the Power Light will illuminate.

5. Stack the loaded Trays onto the Base. Ensure Top Tray is in top position before starting to dehydrate. Add Lid.

6. Remove any excess water from the food (this can be done by patting the food with a paper towel or napkin). Excess moisture may cause the Dehydrator temperature to drop.

7. Water droplets may form on the surface of some products while dehydrating. Periodically blot the product with a clean paper towel.

NOTE: Drying times may vary based on many circumstances, including, but not limited to: the relative humidity of the room, the temperature of the food at the beginning of the drying process, the amount of food in the Dehydrator, the leanness of the meat, etc.

Exploded view diagram of a multi-tiered kitchen appliance with fan and lid (no text or labels)

HOW TO USE THE DEHYDRATOR (cont.)

1. Check dryness after a few hours, then check every one to two hours until dehydrated.

2. When finished drying, turn the Dehydrator to MIN and unplug from the power source. Allow the Trays and the Base to cool before cleaning.

NOTE: Do not run the Dehydrator for more than 24 hours at a time. After 24 hours, turn the Dehydrator to MIN and unplug from the power source. Allow the Trays and the Base to cool for at least 2 hours before resuming operation.

FOOD SAFETY TIPS

- For food safety, to help ensure any bacteria present are destroyed, choose pretreatment or post treatment from below:

- Pretreatment of Meat Prior to Dehydrating – Heat oven to 350^ F ( 177^ C). Drain and discard marinade, if used, from meat. Pat dry with paper towels and place meat in a single layer, leaving a space around each piece on baking sheet. Bake 5 to 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160^ F ( 72^ C). Poultry must reach 165^ F ( 74^ C). NOTE: This method may reduce drying time and may result in a drier texture.

- Post Treatment of Meat After Dehydrating – Heat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil. Place jerky in a single layer, leaving a small space around each piece. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. Pat jerky dry with paper towels to remove any surface fats before storing.

- Marinating meats helps with the flavor and texture of jerky. Do not marinate meat longer than recipe or package directions call for.

TIP: Post treatment of meat after dehydrating may result in a more desirable jerky texture. Try each treatment to determine which jerky you like best.

• Visit www.usda.gov for any questions on meat and food safety.
• Never dehydrate meats with fruits and vegetables, due to cross-contamination of foods. Meats dry at a different temperature from fruits or vegetables.
• All dehydrated foods must be cooled completely before storing.
• For food safety, complete the food drying process. Do not start and stop the process for longer than 5 minutes. You may pause the process to check on the food's dryness or to remove dehydrated pieces.
• Label and date all containers of dried foods.

DEHYDRATING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

A. Food Preparation

• Always wash hands before starting food preparation.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables before preparation.
- Choose fruits and vegetables that are in season for the best flavor.
- Discard any fruits and vegetables that have bruises or mold.

DEHYDRATING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES (cont.)

• Cut foods the same thickness, size, or shape before drying to ensure even drying.
• Some foods, like garlic, onions, cauliflower, and broccoli, have a strong smell when drying.

B. Pretreatment

- Some fruits and vegetables require pretreatment before drying. Blanch or add color protectors to preserve natural color.

How to Blanch

• Blanching is recommended for some vegetables to help prevent color and flavor loss during drying and storage. Blanching is used to break the skins on some fruits to help shorten the drying process.
• Bring a large stockpot filled with cold water to a rolling boil.
• Place cleaned fruits or vegetables in a strainer with a handle.
• Dip strainer into the boiling water for the recommended time.
• Make sure that all the fruits or vegetables are covered with water for even blanching.
• After blanching is complete, plunge into a large bowl filled with ice water to stop the blanching process.
• Drain and completely pat dry the fruits or vegetables before dehydrating.

How to Protect Color

• Some fruits and potatoes may discolor during the drying process. To protect the color, follow these steps.
  • Prepare a solution of equal parts lemon juice and water.
• Dip pieces into the solution; drain.
• If using a commercial fruit preservative, follow package directions.

C. Determining Dryness

• Many things influence drying time, including moisture content, type and amount of food, shape and evenness of food slices, air temperature, humidity, and your personal preference in texture of your food.
• Drying charts are a guideline. Drying times and temperatures vary for different types of foods; start checking food at the minimum recommended time referenced on the chart. If the food is not listed on the chart, pick a similar food.
• Combine any remaining food to upper trays for ease of checking doneness.
• Check all trays for doneness at the minimum recommended time on the chart.
• All fruits should be able to bend and be slightly soft but not be tacky, except for apples and bananas which should be crisp.
• All vegetables should be crisp and easily broken.

STORING DEHYDRATED FOOD

• Dehydrated foods have to be cooled completely before packaging.
• Properly dried foods need to be stored in a clean, dry, airtight container, such as resealable plastic bags, plastic containers, or glass canning jars with a tight-fitting lid, to keep foods from rehydrating.
• Store all packages in a cool, dry place.
• Dried fruits stored at 60^ F ( 16^ C) may keep up to 1 year, while vegetables stored at 60^ F ( 16^ C) may keep up to 6 months.
• If jerky has been properly dried, cooled, and packaged, it may be stored up to 2 months in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Storing at higher temperature locations will shorten the storage time. Place packaged foods in the freezer for a longer storage time.
• It is a good practice to check dehydrated foods daily. Dehydrate again if you see fruits and vegetables getting soft or if they have condensation on them. Check frequently during the additional drying, since this process will be much shorter.
• Always check the condition of your food prior to consumption. When in doubt, throw it out.

DEHYDRATING FRESH HERBS

• Herb leaves that are larger such as basil, bay leaves, mint, sage, or sorrel should be picked from the stems before drying.
• Herbs such as cilantro, dill, parsley, or rosemary should be kept on the stem for drying. It is easier to remove the herbs after drying.
• Always rinse herbs with cold water and carefully remove any remaining water with a salad spinner or paper towels. Herbs must be completely dried before dehydrating begins.
• Herbs are fast-drying when compared to fruits, vegetables, and marinated meats.
  • Herbs crumble easily when dried.
• Herbs must be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container.

DEHYDRATING CHART FOR HERBS AT 100°F (40°C)

Fresh Herb Dehydrating Time**

Basil 4 to 6 hours

Chives 5 to 7 hours

Cilantro 4 to 6 hours

Fresh Herb Dehydrating Time**

Mint 5 to 7 hours

Parsley 4 to 6 hours

Rosemary 5 to 7 hours

DEHYDRATING CHART FOR FRUITS AT 135°F (57°C)

*B = Blanching #C = Color Protector

(See "How to Blanch" and "How to Protect Color" on page 7)

FRUIT HOW TO	PREPARE	PRE-TREATMENT/TIME	DEHYDRATING TIME**	HIGH PECTIN FRUIT
Apples Peeled, sliced	1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	#C 8 to 12 hours	Yes
Apricots Pitted, peeled	sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	#C 15 to 19 hours	Yes
Bananas Sliced 1/4	inch (0.6 cm) thick	#C 6 to 10 hours	No
Blueberries Whole *	B/1 minute 14 to 18 hours Yes
Cherries Pitted, halved	-22 to 26 hours No
Cranberries Whole *	B/1 minute 17 to 21 hours Yes
Green or Red Seedless Grapes	Halved - 19 to 23 hours Yes
Kiwi Sliced 1/4 inch	(0.6 cm) thick	-8 to 12 hours	Yes
Lemons, Limes, or Oranges	Sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	-17 to 21 hours	No
Mangoes Peeled, pitted	sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	-13 to 17 hours	No
Nectarines	Peeled, pitted, sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	#C 11 to 15 hours	Yes
Peaches	Peeled, sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	#C 11 to 15 hours	Yes
Pears Peeled, sliced	1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	#C 10 to 14 hours	Yes
Pineapples	Peeled, cored, sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	-12 to 16 hours	Yes
Plums	Pitted, sliced in eighths - 23 to 27 hours Yes
Strawberries	Sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	-6 to 10 hours	No

**Times may vary depending on the ripeness of your fruits and amount per tray. See “Dehydrating Fruits and Vegetables” on pages 6 and 7.

DEHYDRATING CHART FOR VEGETABLES AT 125°F (52°C)

*B = Blanching (See "How to Blanch" on page 7)

VEGETABLE HOW TO P	REPARE PRE-	TREATMENT/ TIME	DEHYDRATING TIME**
Bell Peppers Sliced 1/4	inch (0.6 cm) thick – 9 to 13 hours
Broccoli Small florets *B/2 minutes 9 to 13 hours
Carrots Sliced diagonally	1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	*B/2 minutes 11 to 15 hours
Cauliflower Small florets *B/2 minutes 8 to 12 hours
Celery Sliced diagonally	1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick	– 5 to 9 hours
Grape Tomatoes Halved – 13 to 17 hours
Green Beans Sliced 1/4	inch (0.6 cm) thick *B/2 minutes	12 to 16 hours
Mushrooms Sliced 1/4	inch (0.6 cm) thick – 8 to 12 hours
Onions Sliced 1/4 inch	(0.6 cm) thick – 14 to 18 hours
Squash, Yellow or Zucchini	Sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick – 7 to 11 hours
Tomatoes	Sliced 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick – 10 to 13 hours

**Times may vary depending on the water content of your vegetables.

CARE AND CLEANING

⚠ WARNING Electrical Shock Hazard. Before cleaning, assembling or disassembling the dehydrator, make sure the plug is removed from the outlet/power source. Always unplug the dehydrator when not in use.

⚠ WARNING Electrical Shock Hazard. Unplug before cleaning the dehydrator. Do not immerse dehydrator, cord, or plug in water or any other liquid.

1. Unplug and cool completely.
2. Wipe inside and out of Base with a damp soapy cloth. Use a damp cloth to wipe clean and dry. Do not use abrasive cleaners, since they will scratch the finish of the product.
3. Wash Trays and Lid in warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry.

NOTE: No parts of this appliance are dishwasher safe.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Food not drying.

• Food could be cut too thick, or peel could have been left on.
• Too much food on each tray. Remove some foods and dehydrate for a longer time.

Food drying unevenly.

• Foods need to be cut uniformly.
• Foods with uneven pieces can be rotated during the drying process.

Fruits or vegetables become soft during storage.

- Too much moisture was left in the food. Dry further to remove excess moisture.

WESTON

ONE-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

This warranty applies to products purchased and used in the U.S. and Canada. This is the only express warranty for this product and is in lieu of any other warranty or condition.

This product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase. During this period, your exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of this product or any component found to be defective, at our option. If the product or component is no longer available, we will replace with a similar one of equal or greater value.

This warranty does not cover unauthorized repairs or service to products, products sold "as-is" by retailers, glass, filters, wear from normal use, use not in conformity with the printed directions, or damage to the product resulting from accident, alteration, abuse, or misuse. This warranty extends only to the original consumer purchaser or gift recipient and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt, as proof of purchase is required to make a warranty claim. This warranty is void if the product is subjected to any voltage and waveform other than as specified on the rating label (e.g., 120V \~ 60 Hz).

We exclude all claims for special, incidental and consequential damages caused by breach of express or implied warranty. All liability is limited to the amount of the purchase price. Every implied warranty, including any statutory warranty or condition of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, is disclaimed except to the extent prohibited by law, in which case such warranty or condition is limited to the duration of this written warranty.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have other legal rights that vary depending on where you live. Some states or provinces do not allow limitations on implied warranties or special, incidental, or consequential damages, so the foregoing limitations may not apply to you.

To make a warranty claim, do not return this appliance to the store. Please call 1.800.814.4895 (001.216.901.6801 outside the US) or visit WestonBrands.com. For faster service, locate the model, type, and series numbers on your appliance.

PRÉCAUTIONS IMPORTANTES

Exploded view diagram of a multi-tiered kitchen appliance with fan and lid (no text or labels)

GARANTIE LIMITÉE D'UN AN

Exploded view diagram of a multi-tiered kitchen appliance with fan and lid components (no text or labels)

MODE D'UTILISATION DU DÉSHYDRATEUR (cont.)

Mixcoac, Benito Juárez,

"Y" y/o "MX" y/o "MXY" y/o "Z".

ATTENTION!

PLEASE INSPECT THIS PACKAGE THOROUGHLY FOR MISSING PARTS OR ANY PRODUCT DAMAGE. IF YOUR PRODUCT CONTAINS SHIPPING DAMAGE, PLEASE CONTACT RETAILER FOR ASSISTANCE.

For all other questions regarding product usage, missing parts, product damage, difficulty or warranty activation, please contact the Weston Brands Customer Service Team: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm ET, Monday thru Friday

[e-mail]

U.S. Residents Customer Service Line: 1-800-814-4895 (Outside U.S. Call: 001-216-901-6801)

Weston Brands, LLC, Southern Pines, NC 28387

WestonBrands.com

Please DO NOT return this item to the retailer before contacting Weston Brands Customer Service.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Refer to them often and use them to instruct others.

ATTENTION!

VEUILLEZ INSPECTER CET EMBALLAGE AVEC SOIN POUR Y DÉTECTER

TOUTE PIÈCE MANQUANTE OU ENDOMMAGÉE.

SI DES PIÈCES ONT ÉTÉ ENDOMMAGÉES PENDANT LE TRANSPORT, VEUILLEZ

COMMUNIQUER AVEC LE DÉTAILLANT POUR OBTENIR DE L'AIDE.

[e-mail]

Weston Brands, LLC, Southern Pines, NC 28387

WestonBrands.com

[e-mail]

Weston Brands, LLC, Southern Pines, NC 28387

WestonBrands.com