Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Russell Hobbs 17888-56 Cook at Home 3-in-1 Panini, Grill & Griddle. This versatile appliance is designed to provide convenient and efficient cooking for a variety of meals, from toasted sandwiches to grilled meats and vegetables. Please read this instruction manual carefully before use to ensure safe and optimal performance of your appliance.
Important Safety Instructions
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 appliance 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.
- Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
- 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.
- This appliance has a non-stick coating. Do not use metal utensils that could scratch the surface.
Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the appliance from its packaging. Retain the packaging for future storage or disposal.
- Initial Cleaning: Before first use, wipe the non-stick cooking plates with a damp cloth or sponge. Dry thoroughly.
- Placement: Place the appliance on a stable, heat-resistant, and level surface. Ensure there is adequate space around the appliance for ventilation. Do not place it directly under cabinets or near flammable materials.
- Drip Tray Installation: Ensure the removable drip tray is correctly inserted into its slot at the front of the appliance to collect excess fats and liquids during cooking.
Image: The removable drip tray, designed to collect excess grease, is shown correctly positioned at the front of the appliance.
Operating Instructions
The Russell Hobbs 3-in-1 appliance features non-stick plates and indicator lights for easy operation.
Image: A close-up view of the red power indicator light and the green ready indicator light located on the front of the appliance.
Pre-heating the Appliance
- Close the appliance and plug it into a suitable power outlet (240 Volts).
- The red power indicator light will illuminate, indicating the appliance is receiving power.
- Allow the appliance to pre-heat for approximately 5-10 minutes. The green ready indicator light will illuminate when the appliance has reached its optimal cooking temperature.
Using as a Panini Press / Contact Grill
This mode is ideal for making toasted sandwiches, paninis, or grilling thinner items like chicken breasts or vegetables.
Image: The Russell Hobbs 3-in-1 appliance in use as a panini press, with two sandwiches being cooked between the top and bottom plates.
- Ensure the appliance is pre-heated (green light on).
- Carefully place your food item(s) onto the bottom cooking plate. Do not overload the appliance.
- Gently lower the top plate onto the food. The floating hinge design allows the top plate to adjust to the thickness of your food, ensuring even cooking.
Image: A side view of the appliance highlighting the floating hinge, which allows the top plate to adapt to various food thicknesses for even cooking.
- Cook for the desired time, checking periodically for doneness. Cooking times will vary based on food type and thickness.
- Once cooked, use heat-resistant plastic or wooden utensils to remove the food. Do not use metal utensils as they can damage the non-stick coating.
Using as an Open Grill / Griddle
The appliance can open 180 degrees to provide a larger cooking surface, ideal for grilling multiple items simultaneously or for use as a griddle.
Image: The Russell Hobbs 3-in-1 appliance fully opened to a flat position, demonstrating its use as an open grill for cooking chicken breasts and sliced bell peppers.
Image: The appliance laid flat, functioning as a griddle, cooking strips of bacon, sliced tomatoes, and whole mushrooms.
- Ensure the appliance is pre-heated (green light on).
- To open the appliance flat, gently push the release button/lever (if present, otherwise simply open fully) and lay the top plate back until it rests flat, creating a continuous cooking surface.
- Place your food items on both cooking plates.
- Cook for the desired time, turning food as needed for even cooking.
- Once cooked, use heat-resistant plastic or wooden utensils to remove the food.
Note: The appliance does not have an on/off switch or temperature control. It operates at a fixed optimal temperature. Unplug the appliance from the wall outlet to turn it off.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Proper cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your Russell Hobbs 3-in-1 appliance.
- Always unplug the appliance from the power outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Empty the Drip Tray: Remove the drip tray and discard any collected grease or liquids. Wash the drip tray in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. It is not dishwasher safe.
- Clean Cooking Plates: Wipe the non-stick cooking plates with a damp cloth or sponge. For stubborn food residue, dampen a cloth with a small amount of cooking oil and wipe the plates while they are still slightly warm (but unplugged). Then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or metal utensils, as these will damage the non-stick surface.
- Clean Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the appliance with a soft, damp cloth. Do not immerse the appliance in water or any other liquid.
- Storage: Once clean and dry, store the appliance in a cool, dry place. The cord can be wrapped around the base for neat storage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Appliance does not turn on. | Not plugged in or power outlet is faulty. | Ensure the appliance is securely plugged into a working power outlet. Check the circuit breaker. |
| Food is not cooking evenly. | Appliance not fully pre-heated or food is too thick/unevenly distributed. | Wait for the green ready light to illuminate before placing food. Ensure food is evenly spread and not excessively thick. For thicker items, consider opening the grill flat. |
| Smoke or unusual odor during first use. | Protective oils burning off. | This is normal for first use. Ensure good ventilation. If smoke persists, unplug and contact customer support. |
| Food sticks to the plates. | Plates not properly cleaned or insufficient oil/butter used. | Ensure plates are clean. Lightly brush plates with cooking oil or butter before pre-heating, especially for items prone to sticking. Avoid using metal utensils. |
Specifications
- Model Number: 17888-56
- Brand: Russell Hobbs
- Special Feature: Non-Stick Coating
- Wattage: 1800 watts
- Voltage: 240 Volts
- Item Weight: 3.37 Kilograms (7.41 pounds)
- Product Dimensions: 13.78 x 7.48 x 14.17 inches (L x W x H)
- First Available: September 13, 2012
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Russell Hobbs website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For further assistance, you may contact Russell Hobbs customer service through their official channels. Please have your model number (17888-56) ready when contacting support.