Graef DA-2042 Food Dehydrator User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Graef DA-2042 Food Dehydrator. This appliance is designed to efficiently remove moisture from various foods, preserving their nutrients, flavors, and aromas. Dehydration is a simple and effective method for creating healthy snacks, preserving fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even making jerky. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the appliance to ensure safe and optimal performance.

2. Important Safety Instructions

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Do not immerse the appliance, cord, or plug 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.
• 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.
• This appliance is for household use only.

3. Parts and Features

Familiarize yourself with the components of your Graef DA-2042 Food Dehydrator.

Figure 1: Front view of the Graef DA-2042 Food Dehydrator. The appliance is black with a white top panel and chrome accents, featuring a transparent front door to view the drying process.

Figure 2: The Graef DA-2042 Food Dehydrator with its front door open, revealing multiple stainless steel drying trays inside. This view highlights the internal capacity and tray design.

Components:

• Main Unit: The primary housing containing the heating element and fan.
• Drying Trays: Five (5) stainless steel trays for holding food items.
• Control Panel: Located on the top, with knobs and a digital display for setting temperature and time.
• Transparent Door: Allows monitoring of the drying process without opening the unit.
• Drip Tray: Collects any liquids or crumbs.
• Herb Mat: A flexible mat, often silicone, for drying smaller items like herbs.

4. Before First Use

1. Unpack: Carefully remove all packaging materials and accessories.
2. Clean: Wash the drying trays and drip tray in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Wipe the interior and exterior of the main unit with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the main unit in water.
3. Placement: Place the dehydrator on a stable, flat, heat-resistant surface, away from walls or other appliances to allow for proper air circulation. Ensure there is at least 15 cm (6 inches) of space around the unit.
4. Initial Run: Before drying food, operate the dehydrator empty for 30 minutes at 70°C (158°F) to burn off any manufacturing residues. A slight odor is normal during this initial run. Ensure the area is well-ventilated.

5. Operating Instructions

Control Panel Overview:

Figure 3: Close-up view of the control panel on the Graef DA-2042, showing two rotary knobs for temperature and time settings, a digital display, and a power button.

• Left Knob: Typically controls the temperature setting.
• Right Knob: Typically controls the timer setting (up to 24 hours).
• Digital Display: Shows current temperature and remaining time.
• Power Button: Turns the unit on/off.

Steps for Dehydration:

1. Prepare Food: Wash, peel, core, and slice food items uniformly. Thinner, even slices will dry more consistently. Pre-treatments (e.g., blanching, soaking in lemon juice) may be necessary for some foods to prevent discoloration or improve texture.
2. Load Trays: Arrange food in a single layer on the drying trays, ensuring there is space between pieces for air circulation. Do not overload the trays. Place the drip tray at the bottom of the unit.
3. Set Temperature: Close the door securely. Plug in the dehydrator. Use the left knob to set the desired drying temperature. Recommended temperatures vary by food type (e.g., 40-50°C for herbs, 50-60°C for fruits/vegetables, 60-70°C for meats).
4. Set Time: Use the right knob to set the desired drying time. The dehydrator can typically run for up to 24 hours.
5. Start Dehydration: Press the power button to start the drying process. The display will show the set temperature and countdown timer.
6. Monitor and Rotate: Periodically check the food's progress. For even drying, it is recommended to rotate the trays every few hours (move top trays to bottom, and vice-versa).
7. Check for Doneness: Food is properly dehydrated when it is pliable but not sticky for fruits, brittle for vegetables, and leathery for jerky. Allow a piece to cool completely before testing.
8. Cool and Store: Once drying is complete, turn off the dehydrator and unplug it. Allow the food to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures the longevity and hygiene of your dehydrator.

1. Unplug: Always unplug the dehydrator from the power outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
2. Remove Trays: Take out all drying trays and the drip tray.
3. Wash Trays: Wash the stainless steel drying trays and the drip tray in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Note: The trays are NOT dishwasher safe.
4. Clean Interior/Exterior: Wipe the interior and exterior surfaces of the main unit with a soft, damp cloth. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
5. Clean Door: Wipe the transparent door with a soft, damp cloth.
6. Storage: Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling and storing the dehydrator in a clean, dry place.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Technical Specifications

9. Warranty and Customer Support

For warranty information, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Graef website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Graef Customer Service:
Please visit www.graef.de/en/service/ for contact details and further assistance.