1. Introduction
Welcome to the Alessi Plissé MDL08G/USA Toaster instruction manual. This document provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and care of your new toaster. Please read this manual thoroughly before first use and retain it for future reference.
The Alessi Plissé toaster, with its distinctive pleated design, is crafted from thermoplastic resin and features a US plug with 850W power. It is designed to bring both style and functionality to your kitchen, offering up to 6 levels of browning for various bread types.
Image 1.1: The Alessi Plissé MDL08G/USA Toaster in Grey.
2. Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, always follow these basic safety precautions:
- Read all instructions before operating the toaster.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against electrical hazards, do not immerse the cord, plug, or toaster 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.
- 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.
- Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
- Oversize foods, metal foil packages, or utensils must not be inserted in a toaster as they may involve a risk of fire or electric shock.
- A fire may occur if toasters are covered or touching flammable material, including curtains, draperies, walls, and the like, when in operation.
- Do not attempt to dislodge food when toaster is plugged into electrical outlet.
- Always unplug the toaster before cleaning the crumb tray.
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Alessi Plissé Toaster:
- Toasting Slots: Two slots for bread, bagels, or other items.
- Lifting Lever: Lowers and raises food into the toasting slots.
- Browning Control Knob: Adjusts the desired level of toast browning (1-6).
- Cancel Button: Stops the toasting cycle at any time.
- Defrost Button: Defrosts and toasts frozen items.
- Bagel Button: Toasts the cut side of bagels while gently warming the outer side.
- Reheat Button: Warms previously toasted items without further browning.
- Power Indicator Light: Illuminates when the toaster is in operation.
- Removable Crumb Tray: Collects crumbs for easy cleaning.
Image 3.1: Close-up view of the browning control knob, function buttons (Cancel, Defrost, Reheat, Bagel), and lifting lever on the Alessi Plissé Toaster.
4. Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove the toaster and all packaging materials. Retain packaging for storage or if the product needs to be returned.
- Placement: Place the toaster on a stable, flat, heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials such as curtains or walls. Ensure adequate ventilation around the toaster.
- First Use: Before toasting food, operate the toaster empty for one cycle at the highest browning setting (6) to burn off any manufacturing residues. A slight odor or smoke may be present; this is normal and will dissipate.
- Power Connection: Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC electrical outlet.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps to toast items using your Alessi Plissé Toaster:
- Insert Food: Place one or two slices of bread, bagels, or other items into the toasting slots. Ensure items are not too thick to prevent jamming.
- Select Browning Level: Turn the browning control knob to your desired setting, from 1 (lightest) to 6 (darkest).
- Lower Lever: Press the lifting lever down until it locks into place. The power indicator light will illuminate, and the toasting cycle will begin.
- Use Special Functions (Optional):
- Press the Defrost button for frozen items.
- Press the Bagel button for bagels (toasts cut side, warms outer side).
- Press the Reheat button to warm already toasted items.
- Toasting Completion: The toaster will automatically shut off and raise the food when the selected browning level is reached.
- Cancel Cycle: To stop the toasting cycle at any time, press the Cancel button.
Image 5.1: The Alessi Plissé Toaster in operation, with two slices of bread being toasted.
6. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your toaster.
- Unplug and Cool: Always unplug the toaster from the power outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Empty Crumb Tray: Slide out the removable crumb tray from the bottom of the toaster. Discard accumulated crumbs. Wipe the tray with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly before reinserting.
- Clean Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the toaster with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or metal scouring pads, as these can scratch the surface.
- Internal Cleaning: Never insert metal objects into the toasting slots to clean. If food becomes lodged, unplug the toaster and carefully turn it upside down to dislodge the item.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Alessi Plissé Toaster, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Toaster does not turn on. | Not plugged in; power outlet malfunction; circuit breaker tripped. | Ensure the toaster is securely plugged into a working outlet. Check your household circuit breaker. |
| Food is not toasting or toasts unevenly. | Browning control set too low; food too thick; internal heating element issue. | Adjust the browning control to a higher setting. Ensure food fits freely in slots. If issue persists, contact customer support. |
| Smoke coming from toaster. | Food lodged in slots; crumbs in crumb tray; first use residue. | Immediately press the Cancel button and unplug. Remove any lodged food carefully after cooling. Empty and clean the crumb tray. Initial smoke on first use is normal. |
| Lifting lever does not stay down. | Toaster not plugged in; internal mechanism issue. | Ensure the toaster is plugged in. If the issue persists, contact customer support. |
8. Specifications
- Brand: Alessi
- Model: MDL08G/USA
- Color: Grey
- Material: Thermoplastic Resin (exterior), Stainless Steel (internal components)
- Product Dimensions: 6"D x 11"W x 7.5"H
- Specific Uses: Bagel, Bread
- Wattage: 850 watts
- Number of Slices: 2
- Special Features: Defrost Mode, Bagel Mode, Reheat Mode, Cancel Function
- Number of Settings: 6 browning levels
- Voltage: 120 Volts (AC)
- Item Weight: 3 Pounds
Image 8.1: Diagram showing the dimensions of the Alessi Plissé Toaster (7.5" H, 11" W, 6" D).
9. Warranty and Customer Support
Your Alessi Plissé MDL08G/USA Toaster is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms and conditions, including coverage duration and limitations.
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact Alessi customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the Alessi official website or on the product packaging.
