Presto EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener (Model 08800) User Manual

Introduction

The Presto EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener (Model 08800) provides an efficient and automatic method for sharpening most non-serrated kitchen and sport knives. This two-stage system is designed to precision grind a perfect sharpening angle and then fine hone and polish the edge, delivering professional results for home use.

Figure 1: Front view of the Presto EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener.

Important Safeguards

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

• Read all instructions before using the sharpener.
• To protect against electrical hazards, do not immerse the sharpener in water or other liquids.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use, before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning.
• Avoid contact with moving parts.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Return appliance to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair, or electrical or mechanical adjustment.
• The use of attachments not recommended or sold by the appliance manufacturer may cause fire, electric shock, or injury.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• This appliance is intended for household use only.
• Always ensure the sharpener is placed on a stable, flat surface before use. The non-slip base helps secure the unit during operation.

Setup

1. Unpack the knife sharpener and place it on a clean, dry, and stable countertop.
2. Ensure the power switch is in the "OFF" (O) position.
3. Plug the power cord into a standard 120-volt AC electrical outlet.
4. Verify the non-slip suction cups on the base are securely attached to the countertop to prevent movement during sharpening.

Figure 2: Bottom view of the sharpener, highlighting the non-slip suction cups for stability.

Operating Instructions

The Presto EverSharp features a two-stage sharpening system. Stage 1 is for precision grinding, and Stage 2 is for fine honing and polishing. Always sharpen non-serrated knives. For serrated knives, refer to the specific instructions below.

Sharpening Non-Serrated Knives

1. Turn the sharpener ON by pressing the power switch to the "I" position. The sharpening wheels will begin to rotate.
2. Stage 1 - Coarse Sharpening: Insert the knife blade into the left slot of Stage 1 (marked '1'). Hold the knife with the blade perpendicular to the sharpener and pull it towards you with light, even pressure. The precision blade guides will automatically position the knife at the ideal sharpening angle.
3. Repeat this process 3-4 times for each side of the blade, alternating between the left and right slots of Stage 1. Ensure you pull the entire length of the blade through the slot, from heel to tip.
4. Stage 2 - Fine Honing: Move to Stage 2 (marked '2'). Insert the knife blade into the left slot of Stage 2. Again, pull the knife towards you with very light pressure, allowing the Sapphirite wheels to fine hone and polish the edge.
5. Repeat this 3-4 times for each side of the blade, alternating between the left and right slots of Stage 2. This stage refines the edge for a razor-sharp finish.
6. After sharpening, turn the sharpener OFF (O) and carefully wipe the blade with a damp cloth to remove any metal filings.

Figure 3: Demonstrating how to hold and guide a knife through the sharpening slot.

Figure 4: Close-up of the power switch, indicating ON/OFF positions.

Sharpening Serrated Knives

This sharpener can be used for non-electric serrated knives that are only serrated on one side. For these knives, only use Stage 2 (fine honing) and only sharpen the non-serrated side of the blade. Do not attempt to sharpen the serrated edge.

1. Turn the sharpener ON.
2. Insert the non-serrated side of the blade into the appropriate slot of Stage 2 (marked '2').
3. Pull the knife towards you with light pressure, ensuring only the non-serrated edge makes contact with the sharpening wheel.
4. Repeat 3-4 times.
5. Turn the sharpener OFF and clean the blade.

Helpful Tips

• Always use light pressure. Excessive pressure can slow the motor and damage the blade.
• Maintain a consistent speed when pulling the knife through the slots.
• For very dull knives, you may need additional passes through Stage 1 before moving to Stage 2.
• Sparks may occur when sharpening high carbon steel knives; this is normal.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity of your sharpener.

1. Always unplug the sharpener before cleaning.
2. Wipe the exterior of the sharpener with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the unit in water.
3. The sharpener is equipped with receptacles underneath to catch metal filings. To clean, remove the red plugs on the bottom of the unit and empty the filings. Replace the plugs securely after cleaning.
4. Do not attempt to lubricate the sharpening wheels or any other part of the sharpener.

Troubleshooting

• Sharpener does not turn on: Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into a working electrical outlet and the power switch is in the "I" (ON) position.
• Knife not sharpening effectively:
  • Ensure you are using light, consistent pressure. Too much pressure can hinder sharpening.
  • Verify you are pulling the knife through the correct slots for Stage 1 and Stage 2.
  • For very dull knives, more passes through Stage 1 may be required.
  • Ensure the knife is non-serrated, or if serrated, only the non-serrated side is being sharpened in Stage 2.
• Excessive sparks: While normal for high carbon steel, ensure you are not applying excessive downward pressure.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The Presto EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener (Model 08800) comes with a 1-year limited warranty against defects. For warranty claims or product support, please refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official Presto website.