Product Overview
The NESCO VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer is designed to offer versatility and high performance for food preservation. It features multiple seal settings and vacuum pressure options to keep various food types fresh up to 5 times longer than traditional methods. Its compact design includes convenient built-in storage and a bag cutter.
Image: The NESCO VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer shown with vacuum-sealed cucumber slices and various fresh fruits and vegetables, highlighting its food preservation capabilities. Two rolls of vacuum seal bags are visible in the background.
Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the vacuum sealer and all accessories from the packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or shipping.
- Placement: Place the unit on a flat, stable, and dry surface. Ensure there is enough space around the unit for operation.
- Power Connection: Plug the power cord into a standard 120 Volt electrical outlet.
- Bag Roll Installation:
- Open the lid of the vacuum sealer.
- Locate the built-in roll storage compartment.
- Insert one of the included bag rolls (8.6” x 9.85’ or 11.8”x 9.85’) into the compartment. The unit can store any brand of vacuum sealer bags.
- Pull out a desired length of bag material and use the built-in bag cutter to create a custom-sized bag.
Image: A close-up view of the NESCO VS-12 Vacuum Sealer with its lid open, revealing the internal bag roll storage compartment and the control panel. This illustrates the built-in storage and bag cutter features.
Operating Instructions
- Prepare the Bag: Create a bag from the roll using the integrated cutter. Ensure one end is sealed.
- Place Food in Bag: Place the food item into the bag, leaving sufficient space (at least 2-3 inches) from the open end for sealing.
- Position the Bag: Open the sealer lid. Place the open end of the bag into the vacuum channel, ensuring it lies flat and smooth.
- Close and Lock: Close the lid and firmly press down on the easy-lock handle until it clicks into place.
- Select Settings:
- Seal Setting: Choose from Dry (for dry items like rice), Moist (for items with some liquid, like marinated foods), or Double (for added strength and security, especially with liquid-based or moist foods).
- Vacuum Pressure: Select Normal for maximum air extraction or Gentle to prevent crushing softer foods.
- Start Vacuum and Seal: Press the Vac & Seal button. The unit will automatically remove air and then seal the bag. The progress indicator will show the countdown.
- Manual Seal: For delicate items, you can press the Manual Seal button to stop the vacuum process at any time and initiate sealing.
- Pulse Vacuum: Use the Pulse Vacuum button for precise control over vacuum pressure, ideal for delicate foods or liquids, allowing you to stop vacuuming before liquids reach the seal bar.
- Release: Once the sealing process is complete (progress indicator shows 0), lift the handle to release the vacuum and open the lid. Remove the sealed bag.
Image: The NESCO VS-12 Vacuum Sealer highlighting its ability to keep food fresh and its optimal performance with a 130-watt double vacuum pump.
Image: The NESCO VS-12 Vacuum Sealer demonstrating its optional double-heat seal feature, providing extra strength for sealing moist or liquid-based foods like meat, asparagus, and zucchini slices.
Maintenance
- Cleaning:
- Always unplug the unit before cleaning.
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not immerse the unit in water.
- Clean the vacuum channel and drip tray regularly, especially after sealing moist foods, to prevent residue buildup. The drip tray is not removable but is easily accessible for wiping.
- Seal Gaskets: Inspect the foam gaskets around the vacuum channel regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure they are clean and free of food debris to maintain an effective seal.
- Heat Sealing Strip: Allow the heat sealing strip to cool down between multiple sealing cycles to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Storage: Store the unit with the lid unlocked to prevent deformation of the sealing gaskets.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not turn on. | Not plugged in; power outlet issue. | Ensure unit is properly plugged into a working outlet. |
| Bag does not vacuum properly. | Bag not positioned correctly; dirty/damaged gaskets; bag material issue. | Ensure bag is flat in vacuum channel. Clean or inspect gaskets. Use appropriate bag material. |
| Bag does not seal. | Moisture in sealing area; heat strip too hot/cold; bag material issue. | Wipe sealing area dry. Allow heat strip to cool. Use appropriate bag material. |
| Food is crushed during vacuuming. | Vacuum pressure too high for delicate food. | Use "Gentle" pressure setting or "Pulse Vacuum" for manual control. |
Specifications
- Brand: NESCO
- Model Number: VS-12
- Material: Plastic
- Color: Silver
- Product Dimensions: 15.75"L x 8"W x 4.5"H
- Item Weight: 6 Pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Operation Mode: Manual
- Wattage: 130 watts
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Double Vacuum Pump: 25.1 InHG for optimal performance.
- Bag Compatibility: Accommodates up to 11.8" width bags, compatible with any brand.
Warranty and Support
NESCO offers various protection plans for your VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer:
- 3-Year Protection Plan
- 4-Year Protection Plan
- Complete Protect: One plan covers all eligible past and future purchases (monthly billing).
For detailed information on these plans or for product support, please refer to the official NESCO website or contact their customer service.
