We do not recommend glass or ceramic cookware for use on your glass-ceramic cooktop

  • To get the best performance out of your cooktop, we recommend that you use heavy gauge, flat, smooth bottom, metal pans which are not more then 1-inch larger then your cooking area.

To see if your pan will allow even heat distribution, try this test.

– Put an inch of water in the pan.
– Place the pan on the cooktop and turn it on HIGH.
– If the water bubbles evenly around the pan, you can count on good   performance.
– If the water bubbles unevenly then that means there are hot spots and poor   heat distribution is likely to occur.

February 18th, 2010

Posted In: Ranges Ovens Cooktops Rangehoods

Depending on how dirty your cooktop is, different cleaning methods will apply.

  • If your cooktop is light to moderately dirty, use either cooktop cleaner, hand dishwashing detergent and water, or a baking soda paste. Apply with a non-abrasive cloth or paper towel.

    Note:
    If using hand dishwashing detergent or baking soda paste, make sure to thoroughly rinse and dry your cooktop when done cleaning.

  • If your cooktop is very dirty, has metal marking, or brown/gray stains from hard water, clean gently with cooktop cleaner using a non-abrasive cloth or paper towel. Put more cleaner on the cooktop and cover with damp paper towels to keep cleaner from drying out. Let it stand for 30 – 40 minutes. Then you can scrub off any remaining stains.
  • If your cooktop has burnt or crusty food on it, you can use a razor to get it off. Hold a razor blade scraper at a 30 degree angle and very carefully scrape off the burned food. Clean the rest of the cooktop with a cleaner.Note: Never use abrasive powders or pads – they could scratch your cooktop.

February 18th, 2010

Posted In: Ranges Ovens Cooktops Rangehoods

If you have a newer model, you can usually find your model number on the bottom of the pressure cooker or canner body. If it’s a very old model, the number can probably be found on a label attached to the top of the cover. Old units have model numbers like 40, 50, 204, 603, etc. Newer models usually start with 01/ or 02/ followed by letters like PA or PC and more letters and/or numbers. The most recent styles always have seven digit ( all numerical) model numbers starting with 01 or 02 (Example: 0136001).

Note: All Presto Pressure Cookers and Canners also have the number “409A” stamped on the bottom. This is not the model number! It is a number used to indicate the product’s listing by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Do not enter this number. Continue to look for a number more like the ones described above.

February 18th, 2010

Posted In: Pressure Cookers

  1. Do not run the mixer for longer than 5 minutes at a time.
  2. Be guided by the manufacturer’s instructions and use the right attachment and bowl for the type of mixture being mixed.
  3. When creaming fat and sugar together, make sure the fat is softened first (but do not allow it to melt and become oily), as this prevents it from sticking to the beaters and sides of bowl. If time is short and the fat is hard, rinse the bowl and beaters with very hot water first as this helps to soften the fat.
  4. To ensure that the ingredients are mixed properly, scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently with a spatula or wooden spoon, remembering to turn the machine off first.
  5. Light mixtures which require whisking such as sponges and meringue should be mixed at high speed. Medium weight mixtures such as cakes with creamed butter and sugar should be mixed at a medium speed, as a high speed would cause the mix to splatter up the sides of the bowl, and a low speed could labor the machine. For heavier mixing jobs like kneading and rubbing in, use a low speed only. As a general rule, use a low speed for heavy mixes and small quantities, and a higher speeds for greater quantities and lighter mixtures.
  6. Avoid over mixing, this is especially important with whipping cream and rubbing fat into flour. When rubbing in, mix until it just resembles fine breadcrumbs, especially when making pastry, as over mixing will cause the dough to become tough and hard to handle. Watch cream carefully while beating, and mix at a low speed, as it will very quickly turn to butter if over beaten.
  7. Follow manufacturer’s instructions regarding maintenance and never operate a faulty machine.
  8. Wash washable parts in warm to hot detergent water, avoiding the use of abrasives, powerful detergent powders, washing soda, and bleaches.
  9. Wipe wipe able parts with a cloth wrung out in hot detergent water, then dry with a tea towel.

February 18th, 2010

Posted In: Mixers

Fault codes can and do vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, even between models from the same manufacturer these codes may well be different. This guide is designed only as a generalized guide and is not intended to replace your owners manual, if you have problems always check the owners manual first, it may well have the information you need and will be specific to your Appliance. We assume no responsibility for any action you may undertake as a result of using this guide.

Asko Dishwasher

Failure Code Condition Check/Repair
“F1” Water heating fault, selected temperature not reached within 60 minutes · Incoming water temperature too cool
· Heating element burned out
· Thermostat defective
“F2” High water level · Plugged/Bad water pump
· Defective water inlet valve
“F3” Thermistor fault · Open thermistor
· Bad wiring to thermistor
“F4′ Fault with water fill (only on machines with level-controlled fill)

Note: Lights blinking, pump running and controls dead indicates an over fill fault

  1. Disconnect the power to the unit
  2. Remove the lower access panels and check the tray under the dishwasher (you will probably find it is full of water)
  3. Use a towel or a sponge to remove the water
  4. There is a float that should stop the operation of the dishwasher and run the pump if water is in this tray. Check this pump to see if it is functional
  5. Test the dishwasher
  6. If there are no leaks from the dishwasher into the pan, check the drain hose under the sink
  7. The drain hose must run up to the top of the underside of the countertop then down to the drain. (If the hose is not set up like this, water from the sink drain will flow into the dishwasher and overfill the tray)
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GE Dishwashers
– From Late 1990’s forward

Failure Code Condition Check/Repair
“PF” Power Failure Push cancel to clear. If code persists check electrical connections to dishwasher and electronic control
“C1” Partially restricted drain, pump-out not accomplished in the normal time of less than 95 seconds Check drain line, if clear, check for a restricted drain valve in pump
“C2” Drain line totally blocked, pump-out not accomplished in the maximum time of 405 seconds Check drain valve for restriction in pump, check drain line. Note: If a new garbage disposer was installed, remove knock out plug for dishwasher drain
“C3” Will not go into drain Call for service
“C4” Water over-fill fault Check for high water pressure to unit, usually an indication of a bad water inlet valve
“C5” Low water fill Check for low water pressure to unit, usually an indication of a bad water inlet valve
“C6” Water temperature too low after 20 minute extension Check heating element and thermostat, both should have continuity
“C7” Temperature sensor bad Replace sensor (located inside door, remove door panel to access)
“C8” Detergent cup blocked Keep objects clear of cup when loading
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LG – Dishwashers

Failure Code Condition Check/Repair
“1E” Water inlet problem >Condition : Not reached to the normal water level in spite of 10 minute water supply Water supply problem. The inlet hose is kinked. The water pressure is to low (10psi) Inlet valve. The inlet water valve filter is clogged. The hall sensor. The impeller of Air guide is bound. Remedy : Check resistance of inlet valve ( 950-1300ohms) Clean valve. Check pressure. Replace the Air braker.
“OE” Drain error > Condition: The drain hose kinked or blocked. Wiring connections. The drain outlet of sump is blocked. The drain pump/motor or circuit is troubled. Remove kink. Check wiring. Measure the resistance of drain motor (20-40ohms) Replace the drain motor or repair the circuit.
“E1” Leakage error > Conditon: Excessive RPM of washing motor happened during wash cycle due to water leakage. Possible cause: Water leakage in hose connections,water is leaked by damages. The motor water seal leakage of sump assembly. The height of drain hose connection ( sink drain hose ) is not over 20″. Impeller of the washing pump is worn away. Replace the connections of hose. Check the point of damages and repair or replace the related parts. Correct drain connections. Replace the impeller of the washing pump.
“FE” Excess Error > Condition : Excessive water is supplied than normal water level (automatically drain pump operated.) Possible cause: The inlet valve is troubled,or the controller. Possible cause: The inlet valve is troubled,or the controller. Replace valve or the controller.
“bE” (Thermal error) Condition: the resistance of the thermistor not normally out put. Possible cause the inlet water temperature is very high(over 194°F) Wiring connections. Thermistor problem. Check temps to dishwasher 120°F needed. Check thermistor 11-14kohms at 77°F. Replace the PCB.
“LE” ( Motor error ) Condition : The motor is working abnormally. Possible cause : Wiring connections. The impeller of washing pump is locked. The rotor of washing motor is locked. The blade is locked. Correct wiring connections. Replace the cause of resrtiction. Replace the washing motor. Replace the PCB.
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Sears / Kenmore

Sears are a department store not a manufacturer, they contract other manufacturers to build the appliances for them and these are then sold under the Sears/ Kenmore brand.

To find who made your appliance, check the first three digits of your model number against the list below and this will give you the manufacturer of your appliance.

Amana Caloric D&M Fedders
596.####### 174.#######
960.#######
587.####### 484.#######
GE Gibson Jenn Air Kelvinator
362.#######
363.#######
253.####### 629.####### 417.#######
628.#######
662.#######
Litton Maycor Roper Speed Queen
747.####### 925.####### 103.#######
155.#######
647.#######
835.#######
911.#######
651.#######
Tappan Toshiba WCI Whirlpool
791.####### 562.####### 790.####### 106.#######
110.#######
198.#######
562.#######
665.#######
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February 18th, 2010

Posted In: Dishwashers

Have you ever had a glass window break for no apparent reason? Then replaced it, only to have it break again shortly after?

Unless your grill’s glass window has been broken due to an accident, you may be looking at a problematic burner. Due to gunk, rust, aging, or another reason, your burner holes can get corroded, causing a larger outlet of gas, turning into a hot spot in your grill. The problem is not only a safety hazard, but can also effect the quality of the cooking.

If your window breaks unexpectedly, always check your burner for corrosion or any other problems.

February 11th, 2010

Posted In: BBQ Maintenance

If the grill has been stored for a period of time please read our maintenance posts especially the one on cleaning burners (checking for blockages) and checking hoses for signs of wear.

Grill Safety

If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply immediately. Extinguish any open flames. Check for gas leaks as described in our Leak Testing post. If odor persists, contact your dealer or gas supplier immediately.

  • Never attach or disconnect a LP cylinder, or move or alter gas fittings when the grill is in operation or is hot.
  • Never use an LP cylinder if it shows signs of: dents, gouges, bulges, fire damage, corrosion, leakage, excessive rust or other forms of visual external damage; it may be hazardous and should be checked by a liquid propane supplier.

When lighting a gas grill, always keep the lid open to prevent a flash off from gas build-up.

  • Do not lean over the grill when igniting the burners or cooking.
  • If a burner doesn’t ignite, turn off the gas. Keep the grill lid open and wait five minutes before trying to light it again.
  • If the burners go out during operation, turn all gas valves to OFF. Open the lid and wait five minutes before attempting to relight, using lighting instructions.

Keep children away from the hot grill, this also includes making sure children can’t grab utensils that are being used on the grill and may be hot or sharp.

  • The grill should have an adult by it at all times while it is in use, and while it is cooling.
  • The gas bottle should be removed from the grill when it is no longer in use; this prevents children accidentally turning controls on.
  • When changing gas bottles ensure that the valves on both bottles are turned to the off position
  • Do not attempt to move the grill while it is either still in use or still hot

To put out flare-ups, either raise the grid the food is on, or spread the coals out, or adjust the controls to lower the temperature.

  • If you must douse the flames with a light spritz of water, first remove the food from the grill.
  • Use baking soda to control a grease fire and have a fire extinguisher handy. A bucket of sand or a garden hose should be near if you don’t have a commercial extinguisher.
  • Do not use aerosols around the grill, as these may be flammable

Should electrically operated accessories (i.e. rotisseries, etc.) be used, be sure they are properly grounded in accordance with local codes. Electrical cords should be placed away from walkways.

  • Use long-handled grill utensils to avoid burns and splatters.
  • Do not wear loose or baggy clothing, wear a non flammable apron

Placement of the grill:

The grill should be sited on a stable, even surface, that is well ventilated and not underneath hanging branches or a roof, where heat and carbon monoxide fumes can build to dangerous levels,

It should be sited well away from the area in which children are going to play, so that it cannot be knocked over or run into by overexcited children.

Grills are designed for outdoor use only. Never grill in your trailer, tent, house, garage, or any enclosed area because carbon monoxide may accumulate and kill you.

Set up grill in an open area away from buildings, overhead combustible surfaces, dry leaves or brush. Be sure to avoid high traffic areas and always Grill in a well-ventilated area. Be aware of the wind blown sparks.

When using a grill be sure all parts of the unit are firmly in place and the grill is stable.

February 11th, 2010

Posted In: BBQ Maintenance

Grill interior:

  • First cover the valve gas jet area and any ignitor wires with a protective cloth or plastic, or aluminum foil (Fig. 1)

  • Scrape off heavy grease or cooking debris accumulation with a putty knife or scraper (Fig. 2)

  • Next vacuum the dry debris with a vacuum or scrub the interior with a strong detergent solution (Fig. 2)
  • Rinse, and let dry
  • Remove protective covers installed earlier

* Do not paint the interior of your grill

Grill exterior:

  • If the grill is not badly oxidized(whitened), a good warm water and detergent solution will brighten it’s appearance
  • A light coating of cooking oil evenly applied will actually restore the black color

Did this help? If not you may want to try:

  • Paint the castings, which will restore them to near new condition
  • To remove heavy oxidization on the grill’s exterior, brush with steel wool or a wire brush
  • Lightly sand the whole grill, then rinse
  • Make sure no grease remains, as the paint will not adhere
  • Using a good quality grill paint, lightly coat the whole exterior (Fig. 3)

  • – Two or three light coats are better than one heavy coat
  • Let air dry
    – The paint will bake on during it’s first use

February 11th, 2010

Posted In: BBQ Maintenance

YOUR GAS GRILL TAG

The information on the gas grill tag is important for many services offered at this site

This article will help you find your:

  • Make
  • Model number
  • Serial number

Your gas grill should have some sort of aluminum tag. The location of this tag is generally on the body of the frame at ground level, it should be approximately at ankle height. However, if it is a built in grill the tag will most likely be on the post of your grill.

Example of an aluminum grill tag

Tag Placement for Charbroil and Thermos models.

Model: Big Easy

Tag can be found on the back of the front panel.

Model: Front Avenue, Commercial Series Grills

Tag can be found at the back above vents.

Model: Grill2Go

Tag can be found on the gray plinth, where the regulator goes into the burner assembly.

Model: Professional Series

Tag can be found at the back above vents

Model: Quickset

Tag can be located at back of support brace.

Model: Quickset Traditional 7000/ 8000/ 9000 Series

Tag located on back of the bottom shelf in between the wheel and the leg extender.

Model: Quickset Widebody 7000/ 8000/ 9000 Series

Tag located on back of the bottom shelf in between the wheel and the leg extender.

February 11th, 2010

Posted In: BBQ Maintenance

Whether you are a BBQ guru, or the occasional weekend warrior, there are not many things better than grilling on a hot summer day.

The fact is, grilling is ten times more convenient than charcoal, much easier to control temperatures, and adaptable to any cooking situation. The great flavor of grilling comes from food oils and basting solutions falling to the hot surface below and creating the smoke that flavors the food. Yum!

To repair or replace your grill:

Have you ever thought: “Is this old grill still all right? Do I need to buy a new one?”
Even the best grill manufacturers using the best grill component parts available, cannot make them hold up forever. Since you are reading this, you have probably already experienced what I am talking about..

Are you ready for a shocker?
Average grill quality you would buy in stores is actually declining! Each year grills are produced to meet a lower and lower price point. Quality is shaved off year after year. Burners are now aluminized steel no longer stainless steel, stampings replace heavy castings, large windows replace solid lids because glass is cheaper than aluminum. Gas grills produced 5, 10, or 15 years ago are actually worth 2 to 10 times or more than the original list price! Very few of the “bells & whistles” on newer grills are practical and most can be added as accessories.

DIY is simple:

As a rule, gas grill construction is really pretty simple. You can repair and rebuild your gas grill easily and usually without any assistance. Of course if you do require assistance, you can always contact us at any time. The cost of repairing your gas grill yourself is much less that the replacement cost of the gas grill you already have.

Buyers beware, what you should look out for when buying replacement parts:

Don’t be misled by the cheap gas grill replacement parts that mass merchants offer, you get what you pay for. Here are some general specifications to look out for:

  • Very small cooking surface
  • Shallow bottom housings (less aluminum cost) resulting in excessively hot, uncontrollable cooking characteristics
  • Cheap aluminized steel burners!

    Whether you grill every chance you get, or just occasionally, please take care when purchasing your replacement parts.

    At Appliance Factory Parts, we pride ourselves on giving you the highest quality parts at the lowest possible price. We will beat any competitor’s price by 5%. If you have any questions, please contact us.

February 11th, 2010

Posted In: BBQ Maintenance

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