Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including:
- READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING THIS APPLIANCE.
- DO NOT touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against electrical shock, DO NOT immerse cord, plug, or any part of the motor base in water or other liquids.
- Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
- Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
- DO NOT operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Return the appliance to the nearest repair shop for examination, repair, or adjustment.
- The appliance is for household use only.
- DO NOT use outdoors.
- DO NOT let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- DO NOT place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
- To disconnect, turn any control to "OFF", then remove plug from wall outlet.
- DO NOT use appliance for other than intended use.
- A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the risk resulting from becoming entangled in or tripping over a longer cord.
- Extension cords may be used if care is exercised in their use.
Introduction
The Nostalgia 3-Tier Electric Chocolate Fondue Fountain is designed to create a cascading flow of melted chocolate, cheese, or other fondue liquids for dipping various treats. This compact and easy-to-use appliance is perfect for small gatherings, parties, or family fun.
Parts
Familiarize yourself with the components of your fondue fountain:
- Motor Base: The main unit containing the heating element and motor.
- Stainless Steel Bowl: The basin where the fondue liquid is heated and collected.
- Auger/Center Spindle: The rotating screw mechanism that transports the liquid to the top.
- Tiered Sections: The plastic levels over which the fondue liquid cascades. This model features three tiers.
- Control Knob: Used to select between OFF, HEAT, and HEAT MOTOR functions.
- Indicator Light: Illuminates when the unit is powered on.
Image: The Nostalgia 3-Tier Electric Chocolate Fondue Fountain, showing its compact size with approximate dimensions of 7.5 inches width and 12.75 inches height. The base is black with a stainless steel bowl, and clear plastic tiers are stacked above.
Setup
Before first use, clean all parts as described in the "Cleaning and Maintenance" section. Ensure the unit is completely dry before assembly.
- Place the motor base on a stable, level surface away from the edge of the counter.
- Insert the Auger/Center Spindle into the center hole of the stainless steel bowl, ensuring it sits securely.
- Carefully place the largest tiered section over the auger, aligning the central opening with the auger and the three small posts in the bowl.
- Continue stacking the remaining tiered sections from largest to smallest, ensuring each tier is properly seated and aligned. The top tier has a small notch that should align with the top of the auger.
- Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
Operating Instructions
Follow these steps to operate your fondue fountain:
- Prepare the Fondue Liquid:
- For chocolate, melt 24 ounces of chocolate chips with a small amount of vegetable oil (as per chocolate package instructions) in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth and fluid. The chocolate must be completely melted and have a thin, flowing consistency to cascade properly.
- For cheese or other sauces, ensure they are heated and have a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Preheat the Fountain: Turn the control knob to the HEAT position. Allow the base to preheat for approximately 5 minutes. This helps maintain the liquid's temperature and ensures smooth flow.
- Add Fondue Liquid: Carefully pour the prepared fondue liquid into the stainless steel bowl at the base of the fountain. Ensure the liquid level is sufficient to cover the base of the auger.
- Start the Motor: Turn the control knob to the HEAT MOTOR position. The auger will begin to rotate, drawing the liquid up through the center column and allowing it to cascade over the tiers.
- Enjoy Dipping: Use skewers or forks to dip fruits, marshmallows, pretzels, or other desired items into the flowing fondue.
Image: The Nostalgia 3-Tier Electric Chocolate Fondue Fountain with melted chocolate cascading down its tiers. The chocolate appears smooth and glossy, ready for dipping.
Image: The Nostalgia 3-Tier Electric Chocolate Fondue Fountain surrounded by plates of fresh fruit (strawberries, pineapple, raspberries), marshmallows, and cookies, illustrating various dipping options.
Image: A close-up view of various items, including strawberries, cookies, and a cherry, coated in smooth, melted chocolate, showcasing the delicious results of using the fondue fountain.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning ensures the longevity and hygiene of your fondue fountain:
- Turn Off and Unplug: Once finished, turn the control knob to OFF and unplug the unit from the electrical outlet.
- Allow to Cool: Let the fondue liquid and the unit cool down completely before disassembling or cleaning.
- Disassemble: Carefully remove the tiered sections and the auger from the motor base.
- Remove Excess Liquid: Scrape any remaining hardened fondue liquid from the stainless steel bowl and tiered sections. Dispose of it properly (do not pour down the drain).
- Hand Wash Parts: Wash the tiered sections, auger, and stainless steel bowl in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. DO NOT wash these parts in a dishwasher.
- Clean Motor Base: Wipe the exterior of the motor base with a damp cloth. NEVER immerse the motor base in water or any other liquid.
- Storage: Store the clean and dry fondue fountain in a cool, dry place.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fondue liquid not flowing smoothly. | Liquid is too thick or not hot enough. | Add more vegetable oil (for chocolate) or appropriate liquid to thin the mixture. Ensure the unit has preheated for 5 minutes. |
| Fountain is noisy or vibrating excessively. | Unit is not on a level surface. | Adjust the unit's position to ensure it is perfectly level. |
| Liquid not reaching the top tier. | Insufficient amount of fondue liquid in the bowl. | Add more fondue liquid to the base bowl. |
| Unit not turning on. | Not plugged in or power issue. | Check power cord connection and wall outlet. Ensure control knob is set to HEAT or HEAT MOTOR. |
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 7.5 x 12.75 inches
- Item Weight: 2.8 pounds
- Model Number: CFF965
- Capacity: Holds up to 24 ounces of fondue liquid.
- Power: Standard household electrical outlet (110V, verify local voltage requirements).
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the contact details provided in your product packaging or visit the official Nostalgia website. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
For additional products and information, visit the Nostalgia Store.