Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Farberware Superfast Fully Automatic Electric Percolator, Model 142B. This appliance is designed to brew rich, flavorful coffee quickly and efficiently. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your new percolator to ensure safe and optimal performance. Keep this manual for future reference.
Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:
- Read all instructions.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or percolator in water or other liquid.
- 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 appliance to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair, or adjustment.
- The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
- 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.
- Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove plug from wall outlet.
- Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
- Scalding may occur if the lid is removed during the brewing cycle.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Product Overview
Figure 1: Farberware Superfast Electric Percolator, Model 142B. This image shows the stainless steel percolator with its black handle and base, and the detachable power cord coiled in front. The percolator features a classic design with a spout and a black knob on the lid.
The Farberware Superfast Electric Percolator is designed for ease of use and durability. It features a stainless steel body, a comfortable handle, and a detachable power cord for convenient serving and storage. The automatic function ensures coffee is brewed to perfection and kept warm.
Setup
1. Unpacking
- Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Verify that all parts are present: percolator body, lid, stem, basket, basket cover, and power cord.
- Dispose of packaging materials responsibly.
2. Initial Cleaning
Before first use, wash all removable parts (lid, stem, basket, basket cover) in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Wipe the exterior of the percolator body with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the percolator body or power cord in water.
3. Assembly
- Place the stem into the center well of the percolator body.
- Place the coffee basket onto the stem.
- Place the basket cover on top of the coffee basket.
- Secure the lid onto the percolator body.
Operating Instructions
Brewing Coffee
- Fill with Water: Remove the lid, basket, stem, and basket cover. Fill the percolator with cold, fresh water to the desired level, indicated by the markings inside the pot. Do not fill above the maximum fill line.
- Add Coffee Grounds: Place the stem back into the percolator. Place the coffee basket onto the stem. Add desired amount of regular or percolator grind coffee into the basket. Do not use finely ground coffee as it may seep through the basket. A general guideline is one level tablespoon of coffee for every cup of water.
- Secure Lid: Place the basket cover on top of the coffee grounds in the basket, then securely place the lid onto the percolator body. Ensure the lid is properly seated to prevent steam from escaping.
- Connect Power: Attach the power cord to the percolator's base, then plug the other end into a standard 120V AC electrical outlet.
- Percolation Cycle: The percolator will automatically begin the brewing cycle. Water will heat and pump up through the stem, showering over the coffee grounds. You will hear the characteristic "perking" sound.
- Ready Indicator: Once the brewing cycle is complete (typically 5-10 minutes depending on the amount of coffee), the perking sound will subside, and the percolator will automatically switch to a "keep warm" mode. The indicator light (if present) will illuminate or change color.
- Serve: Unplug the percolator from the wall outlet. Carefully remove the lid, basket, stem, and basket cover. Serve the hot coffee directly from the percolator.
Note: For best results, allow the coffee to settle for a minute or two after brewing is complete before serving.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your percolator.
Daily Cleaning
- Always unplug the percolator and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Discard used coffee grounds.
- Wash the lid, stem, basket, and basket cover in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Wipe the interior and exterior of the percolator body with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
- Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling or storing.
Periodic Deep Cleaning (Descaling)
Mineral deposits from water can build up over time, affecting performance. Descale your percolator every 2-4 weeks, or more frequently if you have hard water.
- Fill the percolator with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Do not add coffee grounds.
- Assemble the percolator as if brewing coffee (with stem and basket in place, but empty).
- Plug in the percolator and allow it to complete a full "brewing" cycle with the vinegar solution.
- Unplug and let the solution sit in the percolator for 15-20 minutes.
- Pour out the solution and rinse the interior thoroughly with fresh water several times.
- Run 1-2 cycles with fresh water only to remove any residual vinegar smell or taste.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Percolator does not turn on. | Not plugged in; power outlet issue; damaged cord. | Ensure cord is securely plugged into both percolator and wall outlet. Test outlet with another appliance. Inspect cord for damage; if damaged, do not use and seek professional repair. |
| Coffee is weak or watery. | Insufficient coffee grounds; coffee grind too coarse; water level too high. | Increase amount of coffee grounds. Use a regular or percolator grind. Ensure water level is appropriate for the amount of coffee. |
| Coffee is too strong or bitter. | Too many coffee grounds; coffee grind too fine; over-percolation. | Reduce amount of coffee grounds. Use a coarser grind. Ensure percolator is unplugged promptly after brewing cycle completes. |
| Percolator leaks. | Lid not properly seated; overfilled. | Ensure lid is securely and correctly placed. Do not fill water above the maximum fill line. |
| Slow percolation or no perking sound. | Mineral buildup; stem or basket clogged. | Perform a deep cleaning (descaling) as described in the Maintenance section. Ensure stem and basket are free of debris. |
Specifications
- Brand: Farberware
- Model Number: 142B
- Color: Stainless Steel Silver
- Special Feature: Fully Automatic, Superfast Brewing
- Coffee Maker Type: Percolator
- Filter Type: Reusable
- Operation Mode: Fully Automatic
- Included Components: Carafe (Percolator body)
- Item Weight: 3 pounds
- Package Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 7.5 inches
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Farberware website. Do not attempt to repair the appliance yourself. Any servicing other than cleaning should be performed by an authorized service representative.
For further assistance, you may contact Farberware customer service through their official channels. Please have your model number (142B) and purchase date available when contacting support.