Oster BVST-SS12XTH-033 Pod + 10-Cup Space-Saving Combo Brewer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Oster BVST-SS12XTH-033 Pod + 10-Cup Space-Saving Combo Brewer. This appliance offers versatile coffee brewing options, allowing you to prepare a single serving using a pod or up to 10 cups of drip coffee into a thermal carafe. Its compact design is intended to optimize countertop space. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, setup, brewing, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your coffee brewer.

2. Important Safeguards

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or injury to persons, including the following:

• Read all instructions before operating this appliance.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electric 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 result in fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
• 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.
• The thermal carafe is designed for use with this appliance only. It must never be used on a range top.
• Do not place a hot carafe on a wet or cold surface.
• Do not use a cracked carafe or a carafe having a loose or weakened handle.
• Do not clean carafe with cleansers, steel wool pads, or other abrasive material.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present and in good condition:

• Oster Pod + 10-Cup Space-Saving Combo Brewer Unit
• 10-Cup Stainless Steel Thermal Carafe with Lid
• Removable Water Reservoir
• Drip Coffee Filter Basket
• Reusable Single-Serve Filter (for ground coffee in single-serve mode)
• Single-Serve Pod Holder Attachment (for K-Cup compatible pods)
• Water Filtration System (filter included)
• Measuring Scoop

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Oster Combo Brewer.

Figure 4.1: Front view of the Oster Combo Brewer with the thermal carafe in place. The control panel is visible at the base.

Figure 4.2: The brewer in single-serve mode, dispensing coffee into a mug. A K-Cup pod and loose coffee grounds are shown next to the machine, illustrating its dual functionality.

Figure 4.3: An exploded view showing the main removable components: the water reservoir, the single-serve pod holder, the reusable single-serve filter, the drip coffee filter basket, and the thermal carafe.

Figure 4.4: A closer look at the drip coffee filter basket, designed to hold paper filters or the reusable filter, and the stainless steel thermal carafe with its pouring lid.

Figure 4.5: A hand demonstrating the removal of the clear water reservoir from the side of the brewer, facilitating easy refilling and cleaning.

Figure 4.6: The brewer accommodating a tall travel mug for single-serve brewing, highlighting its flexibility for different cup sizes.

5. Setup and First Use

5.1 Unpacking and Initial Cleaning

1. Remove all packaging materials, stickers, and labels from the brewer.
2. Wash the thermal carafe, carafe lid, drip coffee filter basket, reusable single-serve filter, and single-serve pod holder attachment in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
3. Wipe the exterior of the brewer with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the main unit in water.

5.2 Water Reservoir and Filter Installation

1. Remove the removable water reservoir (Figure 4.5).
2. If your model includes a water filtration system, install the filter cartridge according to the instructions provided with the filter.
3. Fill the reservoir with fresh, cold water up to the MAX fill line.
4. Place the filled reservoir back onto the brewer, ensuring it is seated correctly.

5.3 Initial Cleaning Cycle (Before First Brew)

Before brewing coffee for the first time, run a cleaning cycle to flush out any manufacturing residues.

1. Ensure the water reservoir is filled with water.
2. For drip mode: Place the empty thermal carafe with its lid on the warming plate. Insert the empty drip coffee filter basket.
3. For single-serve mode: Insert the empty single-serve pod holder (without a pod or grounds) and place a mug on the drip tray.
4. Initiate a brew cycle (e.g., select 10 cups for drip or a large cup size for single-serve) without coffee grounds or a pod.
5. Allow the cycle to complete. Discard the hot water.
6. Repeat this process once more for thorough cleaning.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Brewing Drip Coffee (Carafe Mode)

1. Fill Water Reservoir: Ensure the removable water reservoir is filled with fresh, cold water to the desired level for the number of cups you wish to brew (up to 10 cups).
2. Add Coffee Grounds: Open the brew basket cover. Place a standard basket-style paper filter (not included) into the drip coffee filter basket, or use the reusable filter. Add the desired amount of ground coffee. A general guideline is 1 tablespoon of coffee per cup, adjusted to personal preference. Close the brew basket cover securely.
3. Place Carafe: Ensure the thermal carafe lid is properly attached and place the empty thermal carafe onto the warming plate. Ensure it is seated correctly to activate the drip mechanism.
4. Select Brew Strength (Optional): If a stronger coffee is desired, press the 'Strong Brew Selector' button on the control panel.
5. Start Brewing: Select the desired number of cups (e.g., 10 cups) on the control panel and press the 'Brew' button. The brewing indicator light will illuminate.
6. Grab-a-Cup Feature: If you need a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete, you can temporarily remove the carafe. The flow of coffee will pause. Return the carafe to the warming plate within 20 seconds to prevent overflow.
7. Brew Cycle Completion: Once brewing is complete, the brewer will beep, and the indicator light will turn off. The thermal carafe will keep coffee hot for hours.

6.2 Brewing Single-Serve Coffee (Pod Mode)

This brewer is compatible with K-Cup* pods and reusable single-serve filters for ground coffee.

1. Fill Water Reservoir: Ensure the removable water reservoir is filled with fresh, cold water to at least the minimum fill line for single-serve brewing.
2. Insert Pod Holder: Open the brew basket cover. Insert the single-serve pod holder attachment into the brew basket area.
3. Add Pod or Grounds:
   • For K-Cup* Pods: Place a K-Cup* pod into the pod holder.
   • For Ground Coffee: Fill the reusable single-serve filter with your desired amount of ground coffee (do not overfill). Place the filled reusable filter into the pod holder.
4. Place Mug: Place your coffee mug or travel mug (Figure 4.6) on the drip tray beneath the dispenser.
5. Select Brew Size: Select the desired cup size (e.g., 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz) on the control panel.
6. Start Brewing: Press the 'Brew' button. The brewing indicator light will illuminate.
7. Brew Cycle Completion: Once brewing is complete, the brewer will beep, and the indicator light will turn off. Carefully remove the hot pod or reusable filter and discard grounds.

*K-Cup is a trademark of Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. Sunbeam Products, Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Keurig Green Mountain Inc.

6.3 Programming the Brewer (Brew Later)

The 'Brew Later' feature allows you to set the brewer to start at a specific time.

1. Prepare the brewer for either drip or single-serve brewing as described above, including water and coffee.
2. Press the 'Program' button. The program indicator will flash.
3. Use the 'HR' (Hour) and 'MIN' (Minute) buttons to set the desired brew time.
4. Press the 'Program' button again to confirm the setting. The program indicator will remain illuminated, indicating the delayed brew is set.
5. The brewer will automatically start brewing at the programmed time.

7. Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your coffee brewer.

7.1 Daily Cleaning

1. Unplug: Always unplug the appliance before cleaning.
2. Wash Removable Parts: Wash the thermal carafe, carafe lid, drip coffee filter basket, reusable single-serve filter, and single-serve pod holder attachment in warm, soapy water after each use. Rinse thoroughly and dry. These parts are generally top-rack dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended for longevity.
3. Wipe Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the brewer with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
4. Clean Drip Tray: Remove and empty the drip tray. Wash it with warm, soapy water and dry before replacing.

7.2 Descaling (Mineral Deposit Removal)

Mineral deposits (calcium and lime) can build up in your brewer over time, affecting performance and coffee taste. Descale your brewer every 1-3 months, depending on water hardness and frequency of use.

1. Prepare Solution: Fill the water reservoir with a mixture of one part white vinegar and two parts cold water.
2. Run Cleaning Cycle: Place the empty thermal carafe on the warming plate (for drip mode) or a large mug on the drip tray (for single-serve mode). Do not add coffee.
3. Initiate a full brew cycle. Allow half of the solution to brew through, then turn off the brewer and let it stand for 30 minutes.
4. Turn the brewer back on and allow the remaining solution to brew through.
5. Rinse Cycles: Discard the vinegar solution. Fill the water reservoir with fresh, cold water and run two full brew cycles with only water to rinse thoroughly.

7.3 Water Filter Replacement

If your model uses a water filter, replace it every 30-60 days or after 30-40 gallons of water, whichever comes first, to maintain optimal water quality and coffee flavor. Refer to the filter packaging for specific instructions.

8. Troubleshooting

Review the following common issues and solutions before contacting customer support.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Oster website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Oster Customer Service: For assistance, please visit www.oster.ca or refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging.