Vac Smart 557 - Vacuum Sealer Solis - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL Vac Smart 557 Solis

Exploded view diagram of a device with numbered parts for identification

A B C Vacuum & Seal Cancel Seal

Person holding a black tray-like device with handles, no visible text or symbols

Two grayscale photos of kitchen utensils: one open with a refrigerator, the other closed with a tray and cup (no text or symbols visible)

Abb. 20 Abb. 21

▲ PROBLEME UND MÖGLICHE URSACHEN

DAS GERÄT FUNKTIONIERT NICHT

Solis of Switzerland AG

Exploded view diagram of a device with numbered parts for identification

▲ DESCRIPTION DE L'APPAREIL

A B C Vacuum & Seal Cancel Seal

III. CONDITIONNEMENT SOUS VIDE D'UN RECIPIENT SOLIS AVEC COUVERCLE

Person holding a black open toolbox, no visible text or symbols on the object itself

Interior view of a kitchen appliance showing stacked plates and a cylindrical container (no visible text or symbols)

Fig. 20 Fig. 21

DEPANNAGE

L'APPAREIL NE FONCTIONNE PAS

Solis of Switzerland SA

Solis-Haus • CH-8152 Glattbrugg-Zurich • Suisse

Exploded view diagram of a device with numbered parts for identification

▲ DESCRIZIONE DELL'APPARECCHIO

A B C Vacuum & Seal Cancel Seal

Person holding a black briefcase with metal clamps, no visible text or symbols

Interior view of a kitchen cabinet with stacked plates and a bowl (no visible text or symbols)

Interior view of a laboratory or lab equipment setup with no visible text or symbols

Fig. 20 Fig. 21

▲ PROBLEMI ED EVENTUALI CAUSE

L'APPARECCHIO NON FUNZIONA

Solis of Switzerland SA

Solis-Haus • CH-8152 Glattbrugg-Zurigo • Svizzera Telefono [phone] • Fax [phone] [e-mail] • www.solis.ch • www.solis.com

▲ IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Please read through this user manual thoroughly before using your vacuum sealer, so that you become familiar with your appliance and can use it safely. We thoroughly recommend that you keep these instructions and, if you pass the appliance on, that you also hand these instructions to the new owner.

For your own safety, please observe the following safety measures when using electrical appliances:

1. To avoid electric shock, neither the vacuum sealer, power cable nor plug are allowed to come into contact with water or other fluids. Water can enter the housing and damage the appliance! If the appliance or power cable / plug should come into contact with water, immediately pull the plug out from the socket using dry rubber gloves.
2. Do not operate or unplug the appliance with wet or moist hands or feet.
3. Before using the appliance, check that the voltage stated on the type plate matches your mains voltage.
4. Do not leave the power cable hanging over table edges so that it can be pulled. Make sure that it does not come into contact with hot surfaces, such as hotplates or a radiator, or with the appliance itself. Fully unwind the cord before use.
5. Keep the appliance away from hot gas, hot ovens and other heat-emitting appliances or heat sources. Never use the appliance on a hot or wet surface. Never place the appliance near moisture, heat and naked flames. Keep the appliance away from moving parts or appliances.

6. Never carry the appliance by the power cord and do not place anything on the power cord. Never pull on the power cord to disconnect the appliance from the power mains. Only pull on the plug.

7. We recommend that you do not use an extension cable with this appliance. Do not place the appliance directly underneath a power socket.

8. Before you insert or remove the plug from the socket, please always check that the cover is not locked shut.
9. Place the appliance while in function on a stable, level and dry surface, like a table or work surface. Do not use the appliance outdoors.
10. Unplug the appliance when it is not in use or unattended, and before cleaning. We recommend the use of a residual current device (RCD safety switch) to ensure additional protection during the use of electrical appliances. It is advisable to use a safety switch with a rated residual operating current of 30 mA maximum. For professional advice consult an electrician.
11. Do not make any adjustments to the appliance, cable, plug or accessories.
12. Incorrect use may cause injury!
13. Never take hold of an appliance that has fallen into water. Always take the plug out of the power socket before removing the appliance from the water. Do not use the appliance again until you have had it's ability to function safely checked by Solis or a Solis approved service centre.
14. Never place the appliance where it could fall into water or may come into contact with water (e.g. in a sink).
15. Never submerge the appliance, power cable or plug in water, or bring it into contact with water or other liquids.
16. Place the appliance so that it is never exposed to direct sunlight.
17. Never put sharp or pointed objects and tools into the appliance openings. The appliance may become damaged – danger of electric shock!

18. Do not shake or relocate the appliance while it is in operation.

19. Only use the appliance as described in this manual. Only use with the provided accessories or accessories recommended by Solis, incorrect accessories can lead to damage of the appliance, resp. to fire, electric shock or personal damage.

20. Never start the appliance using a remote or timer.
21. This appliance is only for domestic use and is not suitable for commercial use.
22. Remove and discard all packaging materials and potential stickers or labels before using the appliance for the first time.
23. Check the appliance before each use and ensure that the appliance, power cord and plug are not damaged.
24. In order to avoid electric shock, do not use the appliance if the cable or plug are damaged or the appliance is otherwise faulty, dropped or damaged. Never attempt repairs yourself, but take your appliance to Solis or a Solis approved service centre in order to get it inspected or mechanically and electrically repaired.
25. People with limited physical, sensorial or mental capabilities as well as unknowing or inexperienced people and children must not use the vacuum sealer except when supervised or thoroughly instructed on how to use the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Additionally, they must be aware of the dangers arising from the appliance and know how to operate it safely. Cleaning and maintenance of the appliance must not be done by unsupervised children. Under no circumstances must the appliance be used by children under 8 years of age.
26. Always keep the appliance and power cord out of the reach of children.
27. Children must be supervised, so that they do not play with the appliance.

28. CAUTION: the sealing bar gets very hot during operation! Do not touch the sealing bar during or shortly after use.

29. The appliance is not designed for constant use. Leave the appliance to cool for one minute, before vacuuming the next bag or container.

30. The appliance and the sealing bar are fitted with overheating protection. To prevent overheating of the sealing bar, no more than 30 bags in a row may be sealed using the function Seal.
31. Before using, always check that your hands are clean and dry.
32. Please prevent liquids from being sucked into the vacuum chamber. Should any liquid be sucked in, it will mostly be collected by the drip tray. In such a case, empty the drip tray and wipe away all liquid remaining in the vacuum chamber.
33. Use exclusively Solis vacuum bags or containers that were designed for this appliance. The Solis container must be undamaged and free of cracks. Only use the appliance for vacuuming and sealing, never use for any other purpose.
34. Unwind the power cord fully before plugging the plug into the socket.
35. Oils or lubricants must not be used with this appliance.

▲ APPLIANCE DESCRIPTION

Exploded view diagram of a device with numbered parts for identification

▲ APPLIANCE DESCRIPTION

1 Membrane keyboard with function buttons

- you can find the precise description of the buttons and their function on page 98.

2 Appliance cover

3 Release buttons

- by pulling up both buttons, the appliance cover is unlocked and can be opened. CAUTION: Do not press down on the release buttons to close the appliance, only do so on the front corners of the appliance cover!

4 Rubber contact strip

- the counterpart of the sealing bar which makes sure that the end of the bag is pressed flat against the sealing bar, to provide an optimal seal.

5 Locking catches

6 Canister Switch button

- this button must be pressed, in order for lidded containers to be vacuumed through the air extraction hose. CAUTION: Please use only the original Solis containers and the original air extraction hose (included in the container set).

7 Air extraction opening

- for sucking air out of the vacuum bag resp. for connecting the air extraction hose for evacuating Solis containers.

8 Vacuum chamber with removable drip tray

- the open end of the bag is placed here so that the air can be extracted from the bag; the inlying drip tray can be removed for easy cleaning.

9 Sealing bar

- the teflon coated bar heats up and seals the end of the bag.

10 Upper and lower seal

- so that the end of the bag is shut airtight, allowing all of the air to be removed; the lower seal can be removed for cleaning.

11 Power cable in cable compartment

12 Non-slip rubber feet

- to ensure safe footing when the appliance is operating.

▲ APPLIANCE DESCRIPTION

A B C Vacuum & Seal Cancel Seal

The control panel with function buttons

For your control, the control light by the function buttons (except the Cancel button) lights up and / or flashes depending on the function you have activated by pressing the corresponding button. Once a function has been completed, the corresponding control light stops flashing. The blue control light by the Vacuum & Seal button constantly lights up once the appliance has been connected to the power to indicate that the appliance is in standby mode.

A Vacuum & Seal

Button with blue control light. Starts evacuation process and automatically seals afterwards. During the extraction process, the blue control light flashes. Once the sealing process starts, the green light by Seal flashes additionally. When both processes are completed, only the blue control light by Vacuum & Seal lights up constantly. The green light by Seal goes out.

B Cancel

Press this button during use will immediately stop the current vacuuming resp. sealing process.

C Seal

Button with 2 functions with green indicator light:

1. For manually sealing film bags, f.e. when you wish to make a bag from a roll and therefore need to seal one end of the bag.
2. For stopping the vacuuming process and immediately sealing the bag in Vacuum & Seal function. Example: If you have selected the Vacuum & Seal function and notice the pressure getting too high for the foods in the bag during automatic vacuuming, you can immediately stop the extraction pump and start the sealing process by pressing the Seal button.
   The green control light flashes while the appliance seals. Once the process is completed, the green control light goes out, only the blue control light by Vacuum & Seal lights up constantly.

▲ FIRST USE

CAUTION: Before using the appliance always make sure that the appliance and the containers / bags are absolutely clean and free of damage so that food does not get contaminated.

APPLIANCE INSTALLATION

Place the appliance on a suitably large, horizontal, clean and dry work surface. Note that you also need space for the food filled bags to be vacuumed.

Plug the power plug into a suitable power outlet. The blue control light by Vacuum & Seal lights up and indicates that the appliance is switched on.

NOTE: Should you use ready made vacuum bags, you can proceed directly to point II. of these instructions.

I. SEALING A BAG FROM VACUUM FILM

1. Cut a suitable bag length from the film. (see Fig. 1)
2. Open the appliance cover ② by pulling up the left and right release button in the case the appliance cover is locked shut.
3. Place the open bag end on the sealing bar ⑨ of the open appliance. The bag end should not extend into the vacuum chamber ⑧. (see Fig. 2)
4. Close the cover and push down on the two front corners of the appliance cover until you hear a "Click" from both sides. The cover is now locked on both sides. (see Fig. 3)
   CAUTION: Never press the release buttons to close the cover. Their only purpose is opening the cover.
5. Press the Seal (C) button in order to seal the end of the bag. The green indicator light flashes several times and goes out again when the sealing process is finished. (see Fig. 4)
6. Once the green indicator light goes out, pull up both release buttons to open the cover. (see Fig. 5)
7. Remove the bag with the sealed end.
8. Check if the seal seam is straight and without creases. Should this not be the case, cut the seal seam off and repeat the process.

II. AUTOMATIC VACUUMING AND SEALING A FILLED BAG: FUNCTION VACUUM & SEAL (A)

1. Open the appliance cover ② by pulling up the left and right release button in the case the appliance cover is locked shut.
2. Place the fresh food into the bag. Please use the original Solis vacuum bags or vacuum foil exclusively to avoid damage to the appliance and to ensure best results.
   For item-numbers and descriptions, please read the enclosed order form. You can purchase accessories for your vacuum sealer in good retailers or by mailing Solis of Switzerland Ltd.
   Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone], email: [e-mail] or www.solis.ch (shipping only within Switzerland).
3. Clean the open end of the bag inside and out, then smooth it flat. The end must be free of dust and wrinkles.
4. Place the open bag end in the vacuum chamber ⑧. CAUTION: The air-extraction opening ⑦ must not be covered by the bag end (see Fig. 6)!
5. Push the cover down by firmly pressing down on both front corners of the appliance cover with both hands until you hear a "Click" from both sides. Now the cover is locked in at both sides. (see Fig. 7).
   CAUTION: Never press the release buttons to close the cover. Their only purpose is opening the cover.
6. Then press the Vacuum & Seal (A) button, now the appliance will vacuum and seal the bag automatically (see Fig. 8). During the extraction process, the blue control light flashes. The green light by Seal will start flashing additionally once the sealing process is started.

NOTE: The appliance produces a fairly high vacuum pressure in the bag. If this pressure might crush fragile food then observe the vacuum pressure in the bag during vacuuming. When the desired vacuum is achieved, press the Seal (C) button. The appliance switches off the extraction pump from vacuuming and begins sealing the bag.

1. When vacuuming and sealing have been completed, that is once only the blue control light lights up constantly, pull up both release buttons to the left and right of the appliance. The cover opens up and you can remove the bag (see Fig. 9).
2. Check whether the new seal seam is straight and uncreased (see Fig. 10). Should this not be the case, repeat the process after cutting off the weld.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• In order for the appliance to perform best, it should be left for 1 minute to cool before you inserting the next bag. Always wipe away any leaked fluid in the vacuum chamber after each use.
• If you do not follow the one-minute cool down time of the appliance and immediately try to continue vacuuming, the heating element will overheat and the thermal fuse can be destroyed due to such incorrect operation.
• The appliance works with Solis vacuum bags or -films, please do not use other bags to achieve optimum results and to prevent damage to the appliance.

There are Solis vacuum bags in different sizes or vacuum bag film with which you can set the bag size. Always choose a bag size appropriate for the food. Keep in mind that the bag should be at least 8 cm larger than the food and you will need an additional 2 cm for the seal.

For item numbers and descriptions, please refer to the enclosed order form. You can find accessories for you vacuum-appliance in good stores or you get them from Solis of Switzerland Ltd. Telephone: [phone], telefax: 0848 804 890, email: [e-mail] or www.solis.ch (Shipping only within Switzerland).
- Use scissors to open a vacuum sealed bag and take out the food.

III. VACUUMING SOLIS CONTAINERS WITH LIDS

CAUTION:

Please use only the containers and the air extraction hose made by Solis for this appliance. Only these containers are designed for the negative pressure created by the Solis Vac Smart.

For item numbers and descriptions, please refer to the enclosed order form. You can find accessories for you vacuum-appliance in good stores or you get them from Solis of Switzerland Ltd.

Telephone: [phone], telefax: 0848 804 890 email: [e-mail] or www.solis.ch (Shipping only within Switzerland)

A. Vacuuming of Solis containers with twist-knob on the lid (see Fig. 11)

• Wash the container in water and clean the lid with a damp cloth; dry all completely.
• Place the food into the container and leave at least 3 cm room between the food and the top edge of the container (see Fig. 12). Clean the top edge of the container again and the underside of the lid and the seal of the container lid, then place the container lid on the container. Turn the control dial on the lid to the "SEAL" position (see Fig. 11).
• Open the appliance cover. Take the air extraction hose included in the Solis container set. Insert one end of it into the air extraction opening ⑦ of the appliance and the other end into the opening of the twist-knob on the lid (see Fig. 13+14).
• Press the Canister Switch ⑥ button (see Fig. 14), the vacuum process begins. To make sure that no air can enter between the container and the lid, press down on the lid of the container with your hand during vacuuming. The appliance switches off automatically once the required vacuum has been reached.
• Gently pull out the air extraction hose from the lid.
• To open the lid of the container, turn the control dial to the "OPEN" position. You will hear a slight hissing sound as the air enters the container again. This hiss guarantees that there was an air vacuum in the container.

B. Vacuuming Solis containers without twist-knob on the lid (see Fig. 15)

The multi-functional Solis containers are ideal for storing dry foods, powdered foods, and fresh, dry or pureed fruit and vegetables. Due to its transparent design, the contents can be easily seen and the practical date-indicator gives an indication of the shelf-life of the contents.

• Wash the container in water and clean the lid with a damp cloth; dry all completely.
• Place the food into the container, leaving at least 3 cm between the food and the top edge of the container. Clean the upper edge of the container again, along with the underside of the lid with the seal and place the lid on the container (see Fig. 16).
• Open the appliance cover. Take the air extraction hose included in the Solis container set. Insert one end of it into the air extraction opening ⑦ of the appliance and the other end into the opening of the twist-knob on the lid (see Fig. 17+18).
• Press the Canister Switch ⑧ button (see Fig. 18), the vacuum process begins. To make sure that no air can enter between the container and the lid, press down on the lid of the container with your hand during vacuuming. The appliance switches off automatically once the required vacuum has been reached.
• Carefully pull out the air extraction hose from the container lid.
• To open the lid of the container, press the button right beside the air extraction opening, so that the vacuum pressure is released. You will hear a slight hissing sound as the air passes back into the container. This hiss guarantees that there was an air vacuum in the appliance.

IMPORTANT:

• Make sure that the container lid is firmly pressed around the container. Press the air extraction hose as deep as possible into the opening on the lid, so that no air can enter the container.
• To check if there is enough vacuum pressure in the container, try to move the lid a little. If it cannot be moved then the vacuum pressure is perfect.

CLEANING VACUUM CONTAINERS

1. The containers without the lids can be hand washed in warm, soapy water.
2. ATTENTION: Do not immerse the lids of the containers into water and don't put them into a dishwasher. The inner cap underside of the container lid can be removed and washed. Clean the lids themselves only with a damp cloth. Allow them to dry thoroughly and re-insert the cap on the underside of the lid.
3. Allow all accessories to dry completely, before storage or use.
4. We recommend, to keep the rubber seals elastic, to rub them from time to time with a few drops of cooking oil.

▲ TIPS FOR OPTIMAL VACUUMING

1. Do not overfill the bag. Always leave enough empty space at the end of the bag so that it can be placed in the vacuum chamber without problem and without wrinkles or creases. Calculate for 8 cm of space between bag contents and bag end plus 2 cm for the weld and 2,5 cm for every planned opening and re-vacuuming.
2. The open bag end should not be wet, since wet bags can not be sealed.
3. Clean the open bag end and pull it straight, before you seal it. Make sure that there is no food residue on the end of the bag and that there are no creases in the end of the bag. The sealed seam must be completely smooth, otherwise it will not be airtight.
4. Never leave too much air in the bag. Press on the bag a little to get most of the air out before vacuuming. Too much air in the bag means more work for the extraction pump, which could overload the motor. The consequence could be that not all of the air is vacuumed out of the bag.
5. Please do not vacuum foods with sharp edges, such as e.g. fish bones and mussels. The sharp edges can cut through the film so that it is no longer airtight. To vacuum such foods we recommend using a container instead of a plastic bag. Alternatively you can cover the sharp edges and ends with folded kitchen paper so that it cannot damage the bag or poke holes in it.
6. You should wait for a minute after every vacuum programme before you vacuum the next bag, so that the appliance can cool down.
7. If the necessary vacuum pressure has not been reached after one minute, the appliance will switch off automatically. If this happens, please check if the bag/container is not airtight or whether the end of the bag is not clean and straight in the vacuum chamber or whether there is another possible reason.
8. Always make sure that the seals around the vacuum chamber are clean and without deformations or tears. In the first case, clean and dry the seals (the lower one can be removed), in the second case replace them with new ones.
9. Small amounts of liquid, crumbs or food particles might get sucked into the vacuum chamber, block the extraction pump and damage your appliance. To avoid this, we recommend freezing moist or juicy foods before vacuum sealing them or placing a folded paper towel in the bag as packing beneath the weld. Also freeze soups or liquid foods in bags or Solis containers before vacuum sealing them. When vacuum sealing powdery or finely ground foods, do not overfill the bag and place a sheet of kitchen paper as a seal in the bag before vacuuming it.
10. In general fruits should be pre-frozen and vegetables blanched before vacuuming in order to achieve best results.

11. Delicate foods such as pastries or berries should be vacuumed in Solis containers. Alternatively, freeze the food 24 hours before vacuuming in a bag.

12. Fluids must always be cooled before vacuuming. Hot liquids foam or form bubbles and increase in volume if they are vacuumed. Note: Use only our Solis containers for vacuuming.

13. Keep perishable foods in the freezer or fridge. Vacuum packing extends the life of food, but does not turn it into a "preserve", i.e. a stable product at ambient temperature.
14. Fill a bag 2/3 full with water, seal the end of the bag (do no vacuum!) and lay the bag in the freezer. You can use the ice for cooling drinks but also for sporting injuries.
15. Many foods are already vacuum packed when bought, such as cheese or ready meals. With our vacuuming-appliance, you can vacuum them again (in Solis bags!), if the packaging has been opened, so that it stays fresh and retains it's full flavour. However, these foods should still only be consumed up until the date printed on the original packaging.
16. Cereals such as flour, rice and cake mixes stay fresh longer if they are vacuum packed. Nuts and spices hold their flavour better and will not go rancid. Ideal for long journeys.
17. Freshly washed salads can be vacuumed in a Solis container and kept in the refrigerator for up to a week – so there is always fresh and crispy salad to hand at meal times. If you line the container with a paper towel it will absorb excess moisture.
18. Powdered or small grain foods can be vacuumed in Solis containers, if kitchen paper is placed on top of the food as a barrier so that the powder or grains can not get into the extraction pump or inside the air extraction hose.
19. Foods with sharp edges and points, such as bones or dry pasta should be wrapped in kitchen paper so that they can no longer damage the bag or cause punctures.
20. You can also vacuum pack more than just food. Camping products such as matches, first aid bandages or clothing stay clean and dry when vacuum packed. Vacuum packed silverware doesn't tarnish, a vacuum packed candle is always advisable.
21. The main use of the vacuum sealer is to conveniently keep many foods fresh for longer without losing their flavour. In general you could say that vacuum packing quadruples the shelf life of foods in comparison to traditional storage methods. Once you have enjoyed the advantages of this appliance, it will soon become indispensable to you and you will have to throw much less food away and thereby save money.

- Sensible ideas:

a) Cook larger portions in advance and vacuum into individual portions or meals.
b) Vacuum packing is excellent for keeping pre-prepared foods fresh for pick nicks, camping expeditions and barbecues.
c) Vacuum packing reduces freezer burn.
d) Vacuum pack meat, fish, poultry and seafood before you put them in the fridge or freeze them.
e) Also keeps dried fruits, beans, nuts and cereals fresh for longer.

1. Vacuum packing enables you to live health consciously, or pre-cooking meals specifically with suitable ingredients if you suffer from allergies; you can weigh ingredients exactly if you want to diet and have to work in an office, or if you would like to take vacuumed home-made meals in, without any hassle.
2. You can also use vacuum packing for valuable objects: photos, important documents, stamp collections, credit cards, comics, screws, nails, medicine, plasters – everything is perfectly preserved and protected from dirt and moisture when it's vacuum packed.

NOTE:

After vacuuming, always store with the lid open, never with the lid locked shut, otherwise the seals will deform and affect the function of the appliance.

1. Always use the freshest possible foods.
2. Delicate products such as meat, fish, berries etc. should be pre-frozen so that they are not crushed during vacuuming.
   Foods can be frozen for up to 24 hours without freezer burn occurring – this fact is something we will make use of. Ideally food should be split into portions before freezing. As soon as they are frozen (after about 24 hours) vacuum them in Solis vacuum bags and return them to the freezer.
3. If you wish to vacuum pack soups, stews or other liquid dishes, then they must be pre-frozen, until they have a solid consistency. Ideally this should be done in a Solis container. After vacuuming the container can be put back in the freezer.
4. The same method applies for products with high fluid content. The infiltration of fluid into the vacuum system can cause damage to the appliance. This is not covered by the guarantee.
5. If you wish to vacuum and freeze foods without pre-freezing them, the length of the bag should be 5 cm longer than would normally be required since food expands when frozen.
6. Fresh vegetables should be cleaned or peeled and before freezing they should be blanched in boiling water (or if necessary a microwave oven can be used). This ensures that the vegetables remain fresh. After allowing the food to cool, it can be split into suitable portions and frozen in Solis vacuum bags.
7. If you wish to vacuum and freeze meat or fish without pre-freezing them then we recommend that you line the Solis vacuum bag or container with kitchen rolls so that the kitchen rolls will catch any escaped moisture. Foods that are meant to be vacuum sealed in a number of layers (f.e. hamburgers, crêpes or tortillas) are best placed in the bag resp. Solis container separated by a sheet of baking paper.

DEFROSTING FROZEN SOLIS VACUUM BAGS

Defrosting meat, fish, fruit, vegetables and other delicate foods: These foods should be defrosted slowly in the refrigerator.

Defrosting bread and pastry: These foods can be defrosted at room temperature. If this is the case you should cut open the bag to allow the steam to escape.

Always consume food immediately after defrosting and do not re-freeze.

▲ WHY DO VACUUM PACKED FOODS LAST LONGER?

1. Chemical reactions in food with air, ambient temperature and dampness, enzym-reactions, the formation of micro-organisms or contamination by insects can spoil food.
2. The main reason why food nutrients lose their firmness and flavour is the oxygen in the air. The formation of micro-organisms is usually caused by air, because this removes the moisture of the foods, on the other hand, it also transports ambient moisture back into the food if they are not hermetically sealed. Frozen foods get in the freezer air, often the freezer burn.
3. The vacuum-system removes up to 90% of air from the packaging. Since air is approximately 21% oxygen, it means that only 2–3% of the oxygen remains in the packaging. However in an oxygen content of less than 5%, most micro-organisms cannot multiply.
4. In general, micro-organisms can be divided into three categories: mould, yeasts and bacteria, they are present everywhere, but can only cause damage in certain conditions.
5. In an environment with little air or moisture, mould cannot develop. In moisture, sugar and warmth, yeast can spread with or without air, cooling slows the growth of yeast and freezing stops it altogether.
6. Bacteria can spread with or without air.
   One of the most dangerous bacteriums is Clostridium botulinum which can, under certain conditions, spread without air – it only needs a temperature of between 4 °C and 46 °C. It spreads in food without acid, in environments with little acid and in temperatures that are above 4 °C for long periods of time.
7. The bacterium Botulinum cannot do any harm to frozen, dried or acid rich foods or foods with a high salt or sugar content.
   The following foods can be lightly infected with Botulinum:
8. Foods without acid e.g. meat, seafood, poultry, fish, eggs, mushrooms and olives in brine
   – Foods with little acid like most vegetable
9. Foods with moderate acid content such as tomatoes, onions, chilli-peppers, figs and cucumbers.
10. Foods without acid e.g. meat, seafood, poultry, fish, eggs, mushrooms and olives in brine
11. Foods with little acid like most vegetable
12. Foods with moderate acid content such as tomatoes, onions, chilli-peppers, figs and cucumbers.
13. To store the above at-risk foods, you should keep them in the refrigerator for short term storage or in the freezer, for long term storage, and after heating they need to be eaten straight away.

14. Some enzymes in foods can change the colour, texture and flavour of foods, which depends on storage time, storage temperature and oxygen. To prevent this enzyme reaction, vegetable should be blanched or steam cooked for a short time, or cooked in the microwave. Foods with a high acid content such as most fruits, must not be blanched. In this case, vacuum packing is enough to slow or inhibit the enzyme reaction.

15. Some dry foods, such as flour and cereals, contain insect larvae. If the food isn't vacuum packed, these can hatch during storage, making the food inedible. To prevent this these foods should be vacuumed.

16. Generally, foods should be stored at low temperatures since most micro-organisms can also spread without air.
17. If the temperature in your fridge is above 4 °C then this can, most of all during long-term storage, support the growth of dangerous micro-organisms. Therefore the temperature setting in your fridge should be max. 4 °C or less.
18. If the temperature in your freezer is -17^ or less, it is ideal for storing food, but remember: freezing does not kill micro-organisms, it only slows their growth.
19. The shelf life of vacuum packed dried foods is also longer, the cooler the storage temperature is: For every 10 °C cooler the storage temperature, the shelf life extends by 3 – 4 times.

FURTHER TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL VACUUMING:

1. Always wash your hands before preparing and vacuuming, equally the materials and appliance which you use, should be absolutely clean.
2. As soon as the foods have been vacuumed, put them in the fridge or freezer, do not leave them to sit at room temperature. Make sure that the temperature in the refrigerator does not increase.
3. Vacuum packing extends the shelf life of dried foods, foods with high fat content quickly become rancid in warm temperatures and oxygen. Vacuum packing extends the shelf life of nuts, coconuts or cereals. Store these in a cool, dark place.
4. Vacuum packing does not extend the shelf life of fruit and vegetables such as apples, bananas, potatoes and root vegetables, unless they are peeled first!
5. Cabbage vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower or cabbage give off gas when vacuum packed fresh for refrigeration. To preserve them, they must be first blanched, then frozen before packing.

WHAT YOU SHOULD GENERALLY KNOW WHEN PROCESSING FOOD:

The following food safety instructions are based on scientific findings and experience and are important for your health and optimal storage of foods:

1. As soon as you thaw, or remove foods from the fridge, consume them immediately.
2. Canned or ready vacuum packed foods can be vacuum packed again after opening. Follow the instructions, storing foods in a cool place once opened (not at room temperature!) and treating vacuumed foods just as carefully as fresh foods. Take note of the use by date printed on the original packaging.
3. Never defrost foods in warm water or with the help of other heat sources (i.e. microwave), regardless of whether they are vacuum packed or not. Foods are most gently defrosted in the fridge.
4. Do not consume highly perishable foods that have been stored for hours at room temperature. This is especially dangerous if they are in a thick sauce, if they are vacuum packed, or if they are kept in a low oxygen environment.
5. Distribute vacuum bags evenly in the freezer so that they freeze as quickly as possible.

▲ CLEANING AND CARE

To clean your vacuum-appliance, please proceed as follows:

1. Always first pull the plug out of the socket.
2. Never submerge the appliance in water or hold it under running water.
3. Do not use aggressive cleaning agents, solvents or abrasive materials for cleaning with appliance, these could damage the surfaces.
4. Wipe the appliance with mild cleaning agents and with a soft, damp cloth.

NOTE: The drip tray found in the vacuum chamber ① can be easily removed for thorough hand-cleaning in warm dishwater (see Fig. 19). Should the lower seal have come into contact with food liquid, it can be removed and cleaned in warm water. After that, let it air dry completely and correctly reinsert it all around.

Person holding a black tray with handles, no visible text or symbols

1. Leave the appliance to completely air dry, before storing or using the appliance.
2. The appliance must not be oiled.

- NOTE: The lower seal around the vacuum chamber should be completely dry in any case after you have removed it for thorough cleaning and want to reattach it. It should be reattached at the exact same position to prevent air from getting into the vacuum chamber.

POWER-CABLE STORAGE

If the appliance is not in use, the power cable should be rolled up and placed in the cable compartment on the underside of the appliance. Never wrap the cord around the appliance!

▲ STORING THE APPLIANCE

- CAUTION: Before storing, always check that the lid of the appliance is not locked shut! Otherwise the seals will become no longer airtight.

Store the appliance in a flat dark place, out of reach of children, at best in its original packaging. The vacuum sealer can be stored standing on the appliance base or, to save space, on the side (upright or lengthways) (see Fig. 20+21).

The upper cover must remain open with the locking catches disengaged. Moreover, nothing should be placed on top of the appliance so that there is no pressure on the seals. Seals are consumables and are not covered by warranty.

Interior view of a kitchen appliance showing stacked plates and a plate with a spoon (no visible text or symbols)

Interior view of a laboratory or industrial equipment setup with no visible text or symbols

Fig. 20 Fig. 21

▲ PROBLEMS AND POSSIBLE CAUSES

THE APPLIANCE DOESN'T WORK

1. Check that the plug is plugged into the correct socket.
2. Check whether the power cable is damaged. If this is the case, bring the appliance to Solis or a Solis approved service centre to get the cable replaced.
3. Check whether the socket is working by connecting another electrical device.
4. Check that the end of the bag is correctly in the vacuum chamber.
5. The vacuum sealer switches off automatically if it overheats. Let it cool down first before starting to use it again.

THE APPLIANCE IS NOT SEALING AN EMPTY BAG

Check that the end of the bag is lying correctly on the sealing bar, as is described in section I. (Page 100).

THE AIR IS NOT COMPLETELY SUCKED OUT OF THE BAG

1. So that the bag gets completely sealed, the open end of the bag must lie completely in the vacuum chamber without any wrinkles.
2. Check that the sealing bar and the seals around the vacuum chamber are free from dirt and in the correct position. Also, the seals must not be broken or porous. Clean the seals and the sealing bar.
3. Check whether the bag has a hole in it. To do this, seal the bag with some air in it and submerge it in water. If bubbles rise from it, it is leaking, use another bag.
4. Use bags and films from Solis exclusively!
5. Perhaps the bag is not completely sealed, because of crumbs, fat or liquid in the seal or the bag was not flat and has wrinkles or creases. Open the bag, clean the inside of the bag end, the sealing bar and the rubber contact strip and make sure to place the bag end absolutely evenly in the vacuum chamber.
6. Check if the cover is firmly shut on the left and right side.

THE APPLIANCE DOES NOT SEAL AFTER VACUUMING

1. In the appliance there is a vacuum pressure sensor. If the pressure is not high enough, the sealing pressure will not automatically start. Check the sealing bar and the seals for contamination and clean if necessary. Also check that they are in the correct position and start the appliance again.
2. Check whether the seals are broken or twisted. Put them back in place or replace them with new ones – Solis or your nearest Solis service station can help you further.
3. Check whether the bag has a hole in it. To do this, seal the bag with some air in it and submerge it in water. If bubbles rise from it, it is leaking, use another bag.
4. Perhaps the bag is not completely sealed, because of crumbs, fat or liquid in the seal or the bag was not flat and has wrinkles or creases. Open the bag, clean the inside of the bag end, the sealing bar and the rubber contact strip and make sure to place the bag end absolutely evenly in the vacuum chamber.

AIR GOES BACK INTO THE BAG AFTER IT HAS BEEN SEALED

1. Perhaps the bag is not completely sealed, because of crumbs, fat or liquid in the seal or the bag was not flat and has wrinkles or creases. Open the bag, clean the inside of the bag end, the sealing bar and the rubber contact strip and make sure to place the bag end absolutely evenly in the vacuum chamber.
2. Some foods produce natural gasses or ferment, such as e.g. fresh fruit and vegetables. If you suspect this to be the case, open the bag and check the food. If it is fermenting, throw the bag away. Temperature fluctuations in refrigerators can also spoil vacuum packed foods. If in doubt, always throw the food away.
3. Check if the bag has a hole which has let air in. Sharp edges of foods should be covered or „padded“ with folded kitchen paper, so that the edges cannot cause holes.

THE BAG BOILS OR DOES NOT SEAL PROPERLY

Should the sealing bar or the rubber contact strip overheat, the bag can melt. In this case, unplug the appliance, open the lid and allow these parts to cool for a few minutes.

THE CONTAINER WILL NOT VACUUM

1. Check whether the air extraction hose is securely attached to the lid of the container and the air-extraction opening on the appliance.
2. Press down on the lid or the hose connection to ensure that the container is airtight.
3. If the container or the adaptor is visibly damaged, change the container or adaptor. Make sure that the container lid is tight all around.
4. If fluid leaks from the container during vacuuming, the container and it's contents should first be cooled in the fridge.
5. Check the functioning of the appliance.
6. Check that the edge of the container and the lid are completely dry and that there is 3 cm distance between the food and the top edge of the container.
   If none of these suggestions apply, please contact Solis or a Solis approved service station.

THE HEXAGONAL CONTAINER IS NOT MAINTAINING A VACUUM

1. Check that control dial is at the "SEAL" position, before, during and after vacuuming.
2. Check that the rubber seal is sitting correctly and is undamaged.

THE SQUARE CONTAINER IS NOT MAINTAINING A VACUUM

Check that the rubber seal is sitting correctly and is undamaged.

▲ STORAGE TIMES

Storage type Food		Tempera-ture	Normal storage time	Storage time with vacuum packing in Solis containers or bags
Refrigerator	raw, red meat	5±2 °C 2–3 days	8–9 days
	raw, white meat	5±2 °C 2–3 days	6–9 days
	Game meat	5±2 °C 2–3 days	5–7 days
	Salami, sliced	5±2 °C 4–6 days	20–25 days
	Soft cheese	5±2 °C 5–7 days	14–20 days
	Hard cheese	5±2 °C 15–20 days	25–60 days
	Fresh fish Seafood	5±2 °C 1–3 days	4–5 days
	Cooked meat	5±2 °C 3–5 days	10–15 days
	Vegetables	5±2°C 1–3 days	7–10 days
	Fruit	5±2 °C 5–7 days	14–20 days
	Eggs	5±2 °C 10–15 days	30–50 days
Freezer	Meat	-18±2 °C	3–5 months	>1 year
	Fish	-18±2 °C	3–4 months	>1 year
	Seafood	-18±2 °C	3–5 months	>1 year

Storage type Food		Temperature	Normal storage time	Storage time with vacuum packing in Solis containers or bags
Room-temperature	Bread	25±2°C	1–2 days	6–8 days
	Sponge	25±2°C	4–6 months	>1 year
	Flour	25±2°C	4–5 months	>1 year
	Pasta/Rice	25±2°C	5–6 months	>1 year
	Peanuts Pulses	25±2°C	3–6 months	>1 year
	Medical supplies	25±2°C	3–6 months	>1 year
	Tea	25±2°C	5–6 months	>1 year
	Coffee, ground	25±2°C	2–3 months	>1 year

▲ TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Model no.	Type 577
Product	Vacuum sealer
Voltage / frequency	220–240V~ / 50 Hz
Power	110 Watt
Dimensions	ca. 37 x 7 x 14.5 cm
Weight	ca. 1.3 kg

Technical changes reserved

ACCESSORIES:

Item-No	Item
922.52	Vacuum films
	2 rolls 15 x 600 cm
922.51	2 rolls 20 x 600 cm
922.50	2 rolls 30 x 600 cm
922.61	Vacuum bags
	50 bags 20 x 30 cm
922.64	50 bags 30 x 40 cm
922.79	Square container
	2 piece set
	1'000 ml/2'800 ml with air extraction hose
922.78	Hexagonal container
	3 piece set
	700 ml/1'400 ml/2'000 ml with air extraction hose

*food safe

You can purchase accessories for your vacuum appliance in good stores or from Solis of Switzerland Ltd.

Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone],

email: [e-mail], www.solis.ch

(shipping only within Switzerland).

▲ DISPOSAL

EU 2002/96/EC

Information for correct disposal of the product in accordance with the European Directive 2002/96/EC

At the end of its working life this equipment must not be disposed of as an household waste. It must be taken to special local community waste collection centres or to a dealer providing this service. Disposing of electrical and electronic equipment separately avoids possible negative effects on the environment and human health deriving from an inappropriate disposal and enables its components to be recovered and recycled to obtain significant savings in energy and resources. In order to underline the duty to dispose of this equipment separately, the product is marked with a crossed-out dustbin.

Solis of Switzerland Ltd reserves the right to carry out technical and visual changes and modifications to improve the product at any time.

HELPLINE:

091 802 90 10

This item stands out due to its long-life cycle and reliability. Despite this though, if a malfunction ever occurs, simply give us a call. Often a breakdown can be easily and quickly remedied with the right tip or technique without having to straight away send off the device for repair. We will give you all the advice and practical support you require.

Keep the original packaging in a safe place so that you may use it in the event that transportation or shipping of the product becomes necessary.

Solis of Switzerland Ltd

Solis-House • CH-8152 Glattbrugg-Zurich • Switzerland

Phone [phone] • Fax [phone]

[e-mail] • www.solis.ch • www.solis.com

▲ BELANGRIJKE VEILIGHEIDSVOORSCHRIFTEN

▲ PRODUCTBESCHRIJVING

Exploded view diagram of a device with numbered parts for identification

▲ PRODUCTBESCHRIJVING

▲ PRODUCTBESCHRIJVING

A B C Vacuum & Seal Cancel Seal

HET APPARAAT NEERZETTEN

Person holding a black briefcase with handles, no visible text or symbols on the device itself

Interior view of a kitchen cabinet with stacked plates and a rack (no visible text or symbols)

Interior view of a laboratory or lab equipment setup with a curved device and control panel (no visible text or symbols)

Afb. 20 Afb. 21

▲ PROBLEMEN EN MOGELIJKE OPLOSSINGEN

HET APPARAAT WERKT NIET

Solis of Switzerland AG

Solis-Haus • CH-8152 Glattbrugg-Zürich • Zwitserland

Telefoon [phone] • Fax [phone]

[e-mail] • www.solis.ch • www.solis.com