FDK500GCW - Food Dehydrator GORENJE - Free user manual and instructions

Product type	Food dehydrator
Brand	Gorenje
Model	FDK500GCW
Number of trays	5 transparent stackable trays
Adjustable height	280 mm to 500 mm (by rotating the upper trays into the clips)
Power supply	220-240 V (check the mains voltage indicated on the appliance)
Standby power consumption	0.8 W
Time to reach low power mode	1 minute
Adjustable temperature range	35°C to 70°C (in steps of 5°C)
Timer	0:30 to 24:00 (in steps of 30 minutes)
Main functions	Ventilated hot air drying with automatic circulation; automatic shut-off at end of cycle
Protection	Overheat protection
Cleaning and maintenance	Trays washable by hand with a damp cloth; do not immerse the base or wash it in the dishwasher; do not use abrasive products
Safety	Automatic shut-off after 24 hours; mandatory 2-hour cooling before restarting; hot accessible surface
Spare parts and repairability	Repairs exclusively by Gorenje or a qualified technician; power cord replaceable by customer service
Warranty	Gorenje international warranty (see warranty card)
Use	Household use only

Frequently Asked Questions - FDK500GCW GORENJE

How to start the Gorenje FDK500GCW dehydrator?

Plug in the appliance, a beep sounds and '0000' appears. Press the ⏻ button once to turn it on. The display shows the default time '10:00' (temperature 70°C). Use the '+'/'-' buttons to set the time (0:30 to 24:00) and press to set the temperature (35°C to 70°C). The cycle starts automatically after 3 seconds.

What is the maximum continuous use time?

Do not operate the appliance for more than 24 hours in a row. After 24 hours, turn it off with the '☐' button, unplug it and let it cool down for at least 2 hours before restarting.

How to clean the trays and the base?

Unplug the appliance and let it cool. Clean the trays with a damp cloth and a little detergent if necessary. Never wash the base in the dishwasher and do not immerse it in water. Use a soft brush for stuck-on food. Dry all parts before storing.

Can I dehydrate meat or fish?

Yes, but the shelf life is shorter: in the refrigerator, no more than 3 months; in the freezer, up to 1 year. Make sure the food is well dried before storage.

Why does the appliance display 'End'?

'End' means the drying cycle is finished. The fan continues turning for 10 seconds, then 20 beeps sound. You can then unplug the appliance.

Should I pre-treat fruits before dehydration?

It is recommended to pre-treat the fruits (for example, dip them in lemon juice to prevent oxidation). Pre-treated foods give better results.

How to store dehydrated foods?

Let the food cool, place it in an airtight container while removing air. Store in a cool, dry, and dark place (ideally at 15°C or less). Avoid metal containers. Check for moisture during the first few weeks.

What if drying is uneven?

Inspect the food every hour. If necessary, rotate and/or restack the trays for even air circulation.

Can I use less than three trays?

It is recommended to stack at least 3 trays, even if not all contain food, to ensure proper air circulation.

What if the appliance does not turn on?

Check that the plug is properly connected and that the socket is live. If the cord is damaged, have it replaced exclusively by Gorenje or a qualified technician. Do not attempt to repair it yourself.

USER MANUAL FDK500GCW GORENJE

HR UPUTE ZA UPORABU ....8

SRB-MNE UPUTSTVA ZA UPOTREBU 13

Splošni opis

1. Control panel
2. Base
3. Underpart
4. Adjustable trays
5. Cover
6. Clip

Product information for power consumption and maximum time to reach applicable low power mode.

Standby mode :0,8 W

The maximum time needed for the product to automatically reach the applicable low power mode or condition.:1 minute

CONNECTION

Check the mains voltage stated on the appliance. Unwind and straighten the power cord before use.

GETTING STARTED

Remove any packing from the product.

Place the packing inside the box and either store or dispose of responsibly.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

The following basic precautions should always be observed when using the electrical appliance.

PLEASE READ THESE

INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE USE AND RETAIN FOR FUTURE

REFERENCE

1. This appliance can be used by children aged 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge under supervision or if they have been given instruction concerning safe use of the

appliance and if they understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children unless they are older than 8 and supervised. Keep the appliance and its cord out of reach of children younger than 8 years.

1. This food dehydrator is designed for DOMESTIC USE ONLY and it is not suitable for commercial use. Do not use it outdoors.
2. When using the food dehydrator make sure that it is placed on a flat, level and sturdy surface; ensure there is no risk of it falling and that the surface can support the weight of the unit during use.
3. Failure to follow all instructions herein may result in electric shock, fire or serious personal injury. The warnings, cautions and instructions discussed in this instruction manual cannot cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur while the product is in use
4. Do not leave the food dehydrator unattended during use.
5. Always keep the food dehydrator out of children's reach as they are unable to recognize the hazards associated with incorrect handling of electrical appliances.
6. 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 have been given instructions concerning use of the appliance or they are supervised by a person responsible for their safety.

1. Before plugging the food dehydrator into the power mains, check if the voltage and power supply comply with the specifications on the food dehydrator's rating label.
2. Make sure that the food dehydrator is switched off and remove the plug from the wall power outlet when it is not in use; before cleaning and during repairs.
3. Ensure that the food dehydrator and power cord are not placed over sharp edges and keep them away from hot objects and open flames; otherwise the plastic will melt, which can result in a fire.
4. Under no circumstances should the food dehydrator or the plug be immersed in water or any other liquid. Do not use the appliance with wet hands.
5. Check the food dehydrator and power cord regularly for damage.
6. Do not use the food dehydrator if there is any damage to the plug or cord, following a malfunction, or after it has been dropped or damaged in any way.
7. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent or a similarly qualified person in order to avoid hazard.
8. Repairs to the food dehydrator should only be performed by a qualified electrician. Improper repairs may put the user at risk.
9. None of the product parts are dishwasher safe unless explicitly

specified otherwise.

1. Always turn off the power at the power outlet before inserting or removing the plug. Remove by holding the plug; do not pull on the cord.
2. Do not use your appliance with an extension cord unless this cord has been checked and tested by a qualified technician.
3. Never use an unauthorized attachment.
4. Avoid contact with moving parts. Keep hands, hair, clothing, spatulas and other utensils away during operation to reduce the risk of injury to persons and/or damage to the machine.
5. Please do not turn the draught of engine towards others or tinder.
6. Please do not keep the appliance next to a source of heat. Make sure the plug is not squeezed or pressed; otherwise it will cause a fire or electric shock.
7. If you pass this appliance on to a third party, these operating instructions must also be handed over.

CAUTION

● To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not immerse or expose the product, flexible cord or plug to rain, moisture or any liquid.
- Do not use the product near baths, basins or other vessels containing water or other liquids, or when standing in or on damp or wet surfaces. Don't keep the device in the watery environment;
- Keep the device away the place of high temperature, ray and wetly.
- Don't operate the device with wet hands.
- Please turn off the power supply in the watery environment.
- In the event where the appliance is dropped into the water, turn off the power at the power outlet and remove the plug immediately. DO NOT REACH INTO THE WATER TO RETRIEVE IT.
- It is important to note that the appliance will have to be inspected by a qualified technician before using it again.

ATTENTION! Do not run the appliance for more than 24 hours in one single use. After 24 hours,

press " button once to turn off the unit. Unplug and let it cool down at least 2 hours before operating again.

• Do not operate near gas spray cans.
• Incorrect operation and improper handling can lead to malfunction of the appliance and injuries to the user.
  ● The power cord can not be squeezed by something heavy or sharp, otherwise it will cause a fire or electric shock.
  ● The temperature of accessible surface may be HIGH when the appliance is operating.

FEATURE OF DEHYDRATOR

This unit features an automatic fan which circulates warm air to ensure even drying! Dried foods make a great snack because they retain nearly all of their nutritional value and flavour.

-Perfect way to preserve fruit, snacks, vegetables, bread, flowers and more.

• Adjustable trays: five easily stackable trays.
• Trays are easy to clean.
• Sophisticated rounded design.
• Transparent trays allow you to check the food status.

BEFORE USE:

Cleaning:

Before using the appliance for the first time, wipe all parts of the appliance. Clean the 5 trays with a lightly moistened cloth. Use detergent as needed.

Do not wash the BASE in a dishwasher or immerse it in water or any other liquid!!!

After cleaning, the unit must be run in for 30 minutes. Do not place any food in the dehydrator during this period. Any smoke or smells produced during this procedure are normal.

Please ensure sufficient ventilation. After the run in period, rinse the racks in water and dry all parts. This procedure is only necessary before using a new appliance for the first time. (DO NOT WASH THE BASE!!!)

Unplug the dehydrator from the power supply and let it cool down before cleaning. Use a soft brush to remove any food stuck to the surface. Dry all parts before storing the dehydrator.

Do not clean the appliance with aggressive chemicals or abrasives as this may damage the surface.

ASSEMBLING THE APPLIANCE:

Make sure that the dehydrator sits steadily on a solid, level surface. Stack the drying trays and connect the plug into a wall socket. The height of dehydrator can be increased from 280 mm to 500 mm by turning the upper trays into the clips for lower ones, which makes it possible to dry larger chunks food. The dehydrator is now ready for use.

USING THE APPLIANCE

1. Plug the dehydrator into a wall outlet, there is a beep sound at the beginning when it starts up. The LED screen will show "0000", then press "button once to turn on the unit, the appliance start to work, and the LED screen show the default time setting "10:00" (and the temperature setting is "70°C", the signal ":" between the time figures (hours and minutes) start flash. During the drying process, you can change or check the drying time and temperature, press "the

"button for transition the time and temperature.

when the LED shows the time information, use “+” or “-” button to change the drying time accordingly, setting it to a value between “0:30” to “24:00”, press “+” or “-” button once, the time increment or decrement is 30 minute/press. If you press and hold the “+” or “-” button for a long time, the time setting will increase or decrease continuously. 3 seconds after finishing setting, the system will automatically switch to standby mode in the

current time setup. Press the "button, let the LED screen shows the temperature information, use use "+" or "-" button to change the drying temperature accordingly, setting it to a value between "35C" to "70C", press "+" or "-" button once, the time increment or decrement is 5°C/press. Below the value 35 °C, there is a special setting "Fan" (= no heating, only fan in operation), which is indicated by FAN.

If you press and hold the "+" or "-" button for a long time, the time setting will increase or decrease continuously. 3 seconds after finishing, the system will automatically switch to standby mode in the current time setup.

When the set time counts down to "0:00", the heating element stops working first, the fan will continue running for 10 seconds and the buzzer will beep 4 times (once per second), the LECD shows "End"

1. In any function mode, press " " button once to turn off the unit, the heating element stops working first, the fan will continue running for 10 seconds.

Note:

1. Make sure that the fan base is always in place when operating. If you do not have time to dry all the food in one day, you can dry it in next day. In this case, you should store the food in a container

and put it in the freezer.

1. If finish drying, unplug the unit from the power mains.
2. It is recommended to stack at least 3 trays, whether there is food on them or not. Set low temperature for thin/small pieces of food or for a small load of food. Set high temperature for drying thick/big pieces of food and large loads. The temperature can also be used to decrease the temperature as the food is near the end of its drying cycle, which makes it easier to control the final moisture level in the food.

HINTS:

- This dehydrator includes 5 stackable transparent trays and it features overheat protection. The base contains the heating elements, motor, fan and thermostat.

·The air vents on the tray allow air to circulate.

- Using temperature-controlled heating, air is circulated from the base of the dehydrator to each of the five trays and the cover to eliminate moisture from food.

- Depending on the moisture in the food and the humidity in the air, drying time can change. Use the dryer in a dust free, well ventilated, warm and dry room. Good ventilation is also important.

- Fruit and vegetables dried in your food dehydrator will be different in appearance from those sold in health food stores and supermarkets. This is because your food dehydrator uses no preservatives, no artificial colouring and only natural additives.

Recording humidity and weight of the food before and after particular drying times will be helpful for improving your drying techniques in the future.

DRYING TIPS:

Drying time for pre-treated fruit will vary according to the following factors:

1) thickness of pieces or slices
2) number of trays used in the drying process
3) volume of food being dried
4) moisture or humidity in your environment
5) your preferences of drying for each type of dried food

It is recommended to:

• Check your food every hour.
• Rotate and/or re-stack your trays if you notice uneven drying.
• Label food with contents, date and weight before drying. It will also be helpful to note the drying time for future reference.

● Pre-treated food will give the best effect in drying.

- Correct food storage after drying also will help to keep food in good condition and preserve the nutrients.

STORAGE

• Store food only after it has cooled down.

• Food can be kept longer if stored in a cool, dry and dark place.

• Remove all the air you possibly can from the storage container and close tightly.

• Optimal storage temperature is 15°C or lower.
  ● Never store food directly in a metal container.
• Avoid containers that "breathe" or have a weak seal.
• Check the contents of your dried food for moisture during the weeks following dehydration. If there is moisture inside, you should dehydrate the contents for a longer time to avoid spoilage.
• For best quality, dried fruit, vegetables, herbs, nuts, and bread should not be kept for more than 1 year if kept in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Dried meats, poultry and fish should be stored for no more than 3 months if kept in the refrigerator, or 1 year if kept in the freezer.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

After use, unplug the dehydrator from the power supply and let it cool down before cleaning. Use a soft brush to remove food stuck to the trays. Dry all parts with a dry cloth before storing the dehydrator. Clean the surface of the housing with a wet cloth.

Use paper towels to remove any excess marinade. Do not clean the appliance with aggressive chemicals or abrasives to avoid damaging the surface.

WASTE DISPOSAL

The symbol ☒ on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product may not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Guarantee & service

If you need information or if you have a problem, please contact the Gorenje Customer Care Centre in your country (you can find the phone number in the worldwide guarantee leaflet). If there is no Customer Care Centre in your country, please contact your local Gorenje dealer or contact the Service department of Gorenje domestic appliances.

For personal use only!

GORENJE WISHES YOU A LOT OF PLEASURE WHEN USING YOUR APPLIANCE

Use paper towels to remove any excess marinade.

Do not clean the appliance with aggressive chemicals or abrasives to avoid damaging the surface.

УТИЛІЗАЦІЯ