|
|
|
|
How long will food last in storage after vacuum sealing?
|
|
Storage Life in Freezer With Vacuum Packaging: 1 to 3 years Without Vacuum Packaging: 2 to 12 months Storage Life in Refigerator With Vacuum Packaging: 1 week to 8 months Without Vacuum Packaging: 1 day to 4 weeks Storage Life in Pantry With Vacuum Packaging: 3 weeks to 2 years Without Vacuum Packaging: 1 week to 8 months Storage time estimates depend on type of food being sealed, preparation, quality of food and storage conditions.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I clean the Removable Drip Tray now that it has collected liquids?
|
|
The VS75, VS100 and VS110 Seal-a-Meal® Vacuum Food Sealers are equipped with a Removable Drip Tray to trap any liquid that may be drawn from the bag. The Drip Tray contains Microban® antimicrobial product protection, which inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria and keeps the unit cleaner between cleanings. Normal cleaning practices should be maintained. Does not protect from food borne illnesses. 1. Absorb a large volume of liquid with a paper towel or cloth. 2. Lift tab on the right end of the Removable Drip Tray to release it from the drip tray compartment. 3. Carefully remove Drip Tray so as not to spill any contents. 4. Wash or soak in warm soapy water (with mild dish detergent). 5. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. NOTE The Removable Drip Tray can be placed in the top rack of the dishwasher for thorough cleaning.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I clean the Removable Lock ‘n Seal™ Nozzle / Drip Tray?
|
|
The VS105, VS120 and VS125 Seal-a-Meal® Vacuum Food Sealers are equipped with a Removable Lock ‘n Seal™ Nozzle / Drip Tray to trap any liquid that may be drawn from the bag. The Drip Tray contains Microban® antimicrobial product protection, which inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria and keeps the unit cleaner between cleanings. Normal cleaning practices should be maintained. Does not protect from food borne illnesses. 1. Pull lever forward to release Nozzle / Drip Tray 2. Carefully remove Nozzle / Drip Tray as not to spill any contents. 3. Over sink, open rubber drain plug located under the tray at the far end (Do NOT remove the recessed plug) and wash or soak in warm soapy water (use a mild dish detergent). 4. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. 5. Replace Lock ‘n Seal™ Nozzle.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Should my lid be difficult to close?
|
|
It is important for the Lid to be closed tight and locked, for maximum sealing performance. Do not be afraid to apply pressure to the Lid, you will not damage the sealer. Position both hands on the sides of Lid and then press firmly on both sides of Lid until you hear each side click into the locked position.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I replace the Bag Roll in my Food Sealer?
|
|
1. Pull out one end of spring loaded bag roll holder. 2. Remove Cardboard from empty roll. 3. Slide replacement roll onto holder. Make sure roll is positioned to dispense from the bottom. 4. Place end of holder back into slot. Please note: for VS120 and VS125 series the Built-in Bag Roll Holder and Cutter is located at the back of the unit. Open Bag Roll Cover and follow instructions above
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I seal delicate or moist foods?
|
|
When sealing delicate foods such as muffins or pastries, you have the option to bypass the auto-seal function. Simply press the Vacuum Button immediately followed by the Seal Button and the vacuum pump will stop as the bag is sealed. This will prevent soft foods from being crushed. HINT for best results delicate foods should be frozen prior to vacuum sealing so they maintain their shape. When sealing moist foods, such as sauces or stews, you again have the option to instantly seal the bag and bypass the auto-seal function if you see any liquid being drawn from the bag (or whenever you believe the process is complete). Simply press the Vacuum button immediately followed by the Seal button and the vacuum pump will stop as the bag is sealed. HINT for best results liquids should be frozen prior to vacuum sealing. Remove excess juices before sealing whenever possible.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I use the Soft Seal™ Vacuum Control?
|
|
The VS120 series is equipped with a Soft Seal™ Vacuum Control to make sealing delicate foods easier. To seal delicate foods, such as breads, muffins or strawberries, set the Soft Seal™ Vacuum Control on “Delicate.” As a guideline, seal 2 large muffins per quart bag or 4 per gallon bag. Results will vary depending on preparation, type and quantity of food being sealed and bag size used. If you are sealing very delicate foods or see that the food is beginning to crush when using the "Delicate" setting, simply press the Seal button. This will stop air from being drawn from the bag and instantly seal the bag. For best results, freeze delicate foods prior to vacuum sealing if using the “Regular” setting. This will help delicate foods to maintain their shape.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Can I microwave my Seal-a-Meal® Vacuum Packaging Bags?
|
|
Easily reheat by placing the bag directly in boiling water or microwave. To microwave, cut corner of bag to vent and place on microwave safe dish.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Can I reuse Seal-a-Meal® bags?
|
|
DO NOT reuse bags if they have been used to store any of the following. - Raw meats - Fish - Oily Foods Do not reuse bags if they have been boiled or microwaved. Bags containing other food items can be washed in warm, soapy water, or the dishwasher (if desired). To wash bags in dishwasher, turn bags inside out and spread over top rack. Allow bags to dry completely before using.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What should I do before using my Seal-a-Meal® Cord/Cordless Vacuum Food Sealer for the first time?
|
|
The Nickel Metal Hydride battery should be installed and charged for 12 or more hours before first use.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I install and charge the rechargeable battery?
|
|
1. Place Vacuum Sealer upside down on a clean, soft surface (such as a towel or cloth) (This protects the finish from scratches). 2. Using a Phillips head screw drivers, remove the two captured screws located on the Battery Compartment Door. 3. Plug in Battery Connector. The Connector is keyed and will only connect in one direction. Do Not Force. 4. Replace Battery Compartment Door tighten screws, making sure that battery wires are clear of the door and screws. 5. Attach Power Cord at rear of unit and plug into AC outlet. 6. Charge battery for 12 or more hours before first use.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Where do I locate the detachable power cord for my Cord/Cordless Vacuum Sealer?
|
|
Open the bag roll cover to locate the power cord stored in the cord storage comparment.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I check the status of my battery’s charge?
|
|
Press the Vacuum and Seal buttons at the same time. The Battery Indicator Light will show the following battery levels. - Green = fully charged - Yellow = low charge, (recommend charging) - Red = battery needs to be charged before use. During Cordless operation the Battery Indicator will also illuminate when either the Vacuum or Seal Buttons are pressed. When using with AC Power Cord plugged in the Battery Indicator Light will always be on to indicate the charge status. Sealer is fully charged when Battery Indicator Light turns green.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I remove the battery?
|
|
1. Place Vacuum Sealer upside down on a clean, soft surface (such as a towel or cloth) This protects the finish from scratches. 2. Using a Phillips head screw drivers, remove the two captured screws located on the Battery Compartment Door. 3. Squeeze battery connector to release latch and remove
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What kind of battery does my Rival Seal-a-Meal® Cordless Vacuum Food Sealer Use?
|
|
The VS125 uses a Nickel - Metal Hydride battery. Use and replace only with Rival® SC3000 battery.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What should I do if nothing happens when I press the Vacuum Button?
|
|
Make sure the power cord is correctly plugged into the electrical outlet. Make sure the power cord is not damaged in any way. Make sure the electrical outlet is operative by plugging in another appliance. If it is not, please check the circuit breakers or fuses in your home. For Cord/Cordless Vacuum Sealers (VS125 models), make sure the battery is connected. Prior to first use, you will need to install and charge the rechargeable battery for at least 12 hours. Also note, all units are equipped with a cool down period between vacuum cycles. Please wait 30 seconds and try again.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What should I do if air is not removed from the bag ?
|
|
Make sure the Nozzle is completely inside the bag. Check the bag to make sure it has no holes. Seal the bag with air and place it in water. If bubbles appear when applying pressure to the bag there is a leak, and a new bag should be used. Verify that the Removable Drip Tray or Lock ‘n Seal™ Nozzle/Drip Tray is in the Drip Tray compartment and seated properly. If you have a Lock ‘n Seal™ Nozzle/Drip Tray also check to make sure the rubber drain plug is properly installed. Make sure the lid is completely latched into place.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What should I do if air is not removed from the canister?
|
|
For all models, make sure the male end of the accessory hose is firmly inserted into the accessory port on your vacuum sealer and the other end is firmly attached to the valve on the lid of the canister. For the VS105 and VS120 series, also make sure the lid is closed and latched or the top panel accessory port will not function properly.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Can I stop the Vacuum process manually when marinating or sealing a canister or bottle?
|
|
Yes, when using the accessory port, you can stop the vacuum process at any time by again pushing the “Vacuum” button.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Can I seal non-food items in my Seal-a-Meal® Vacuum Food Sealer?
|
|
Store Clothing in Seal-a-Meal® bags to prevent potential damage when stored in an attic or closet . Protect valuable documents by sealing them in an airtight Seal-a Meal® bag. Place Cardboard or some stiff material on both sides of your documents to ensure that they maintain their continuity and shape. Keep your belongings clean and dry during boating or camping outings. Simply seal your clothing or materials prior to your trip.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I clean the finish of my Vacuum Food Sealer?
|
|
To clean your vacuum food sealer... - Always unplug unit before cleaning. - Always remove from wall mounted position prior to cleaning. - Do not immerse in water. - Do not use abrasives to clean unit. - For white, black or other non- Chrome finishes: Wipe the outside of the unit with a damp cloth and soap. For Chrome finish: Lightly spray a soft, clean cloth with a no wax formula furniture polish. Lightly rub outside surfaces (such as the lid) to remove fingerprints and restore the finish. NOTE Do not use no wax formula furniture polish on inside of unit or on plastic parts.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How do I clean my Seal-a-Meal® vacuum sealer’s foam pads?
|
|
Clean the sealing foam using a warm damp cloth with mild dish soap to remove any liquid or food particles that are on the surface.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What is Microban®?
|
|
Microban® is the global leader in antimicrobial protection that is built into products. From cutting boards to humidifiers, bathtubs to carpeting, socks to caulking, Microban® keeps products cleaner and fresher between cleanings, for the life of the product. Safe and effective, Microban® helps you create a cleaner home environment for you and your family.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Is my product still under warranty?
|
|
Check your Owner's Manual for the unit’s specific warranty time period. If your proof of purchase is less than the warranty length your unit is still under warranty. If you no longer have your Use & Care manual, you can find it online under Manuals.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What should I do for warranty requests?
|
|
Call Rival 1-800-557-4825 for instructions and a warranty order number.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Why are there S&H charges for returns?
|
|
The limited warranty does not cover shipping or handling costs, only the cost of repair or replacement. Return S&H costs vary by unit. Please check your warranty on-line or email us at service@theholmesgroup.com to get the S&H costs for your unit.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Does Rival® have walk-in repair service centers?
|
|
Units under warranty should be returned directly to Rival® for repair or replacement. No service centers are authorized to handle warranty claims on Rival's behalf within the United States. For information on Service Centers in Canada contact Rival 1-800-557-4825.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
How long does it take to receive a replacement unit?
|
|
Expect a replacement approximately 2-3 weeks after Rival® receives the unit under warranty.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Are there packaging requirements to return a unit?
|
|
Pack securely with packing materials to prevent damage during shipment. Rival® is not responsible for repairing damage that has occurred during shipment from improperly packed return units.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Can I return my unit to the store where purchased?
|
|
Policies vary. Most stores will exchange your unit with proof of purchase within 30-60 days of purchase. For your convenience, contact your store for their specific return policy, before returning your unit to Rival.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What if I do not have proof of purchase or a sales receipt?
|
|
Proof of purchase is required to determine if a unit is still under warranty. For special circumstances, please email us at service@theholmesgroup.com.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
What if you no longer make my unit?
|
|
At our discretion, Holmes will repair or replace any unit under warranty with the same model or one of equal or greater value if your model is no longer available.
|
| back to top |
|
|
|
|
Can I exchange my unit for a different model or upgrade?
|
|
Warranty repairs or replacements are honored for the model purchased. Upgrades and exchanges are not available.
|
| back to top |