Important Safety Instructions
Please read these instructions carefully before using the appliance and keep them for future reference. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Always ensure the appliance is unplugged from the power outlet before cleaning or when not in use.
- Do not immerse the appliance, cord, or plug in water or any other liquid.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
- Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with 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.
- Do not use the appliance outdoors.
- Do not let the power cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Always place the appliance on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Surfaces of the appliance may become hot during use. Use oven mitts or a cloth when handling hot parts.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads to clean the non-stick plates.
Product Overview
The Strex XL Toaster & Contact Grill is a versatile 2200W appliance designed for preparing a variety of grilled dishes, from toasted sandwiches and paninis to meats and vegetables. It features adjustable temperature control and large non-stick plates for efficient and easy cooking.
Image: The Strex XL Toaster and Contact Grill in an open position, showing its large grilling plates. Four sandwiches are placed on the bottom plate, ready for grilling. The appliance features a silver and black design with a temperature control dial and indicator lights on the front.
Key Features:
- Powerful 2200W Heating Element: Ensures rapid heating and even heat distribution.
- Adjustable Temperature Control: Allows precise temperature settings for various foods.
- Spacious Non-Stick Plates (31x29 cm): Provides ample cooking surface and easy cleaning.
- Indicator Lights: Clearly show when the appliance is preheating and ready for use.
- Cool-Touch Handle: Ensures safe and comfortable operation.
- 180° Adjustable Design: Can be used as a contact grill or opened flat for a larger grilling surface.
- Compact and Space-Saving Storage: Features a smart locking system for vertical storage.
Setup
Unpacking the Appliance:
Carefully remove the Strex XL Toaster & Contact Grill from its packaging. Ensure all components are present and undamaged. The box should contain the grill unit and this user manual.
Image: An illustration showing the contents of the product box, including the Strex 2200W Grill, its packaging, and the user manual (available in English and Dutch).
Before First Use:
- Wipe the grilling plates with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any dust or manufacturing residues. Dry thoroughly.
- For the first use, it is recommended to lightly grease the non-stick plates with a small amount of cooking oil.
- Plug the appliance into a grounded power outlet. The indicator lights will illuminate.
- Allow the appliance to heat up for approximately 5-10 minutes without food. A slight odor or smoke may be present during this initial heating; this is normal and will dissipate. Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
- Unplug the appliance and allow it to cool completely before wiping the plates clean again.
Placement:
Place the grill on a flat, stable, and heat-resistant surface, away from walls, curtains, and other heat-sensitive materials. Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the appliance.
Operating Instructions
Preheating the Grill:
- Close the grill and plug it into a suitable power outlet.
- Turn the temperature control dial to your desired setting. The red indicator light will illuminate, indicating the appliance is heating.
- Wait for the green indicator light to illuminate. This indicates that the grill has reached the set temperature and is ready for use.
Image: A close-up of the Strex XL Toaster and Contact Grill's control panel, highlighting the temperature adjustment dial (Min to Max) and the red and green status indicator lights. An egg is shown on the lower grill plate, demonstrating its use.
Cooking with the Contact Grill:
- Once preheated (green light on), carefully open the grill.
- Place your food (e.g., sandwiches, paninis, meat) onto the lower grilling plate. Do not overload the grill.
- Close the top plate gently over the food. The floating hinge allows the top plate to adjust to the thickness of your food.
- Cook for the recommended time or until desired doneness is achieved. Cooking times will vary based on food type and thickness.
- Use a heat-resistant plastic or wooden utensil to remove food. Do not use metal utensils as they can damage the non-stick coating.
Using as an Open Grill (180° Function):
The Strex XL Toaster & Contact Grill can be fully opened to a 180-degree flat position, providing a larger grilling surface for cooking multiple items simultaneously, similar to a griddle.
Image: The Strex XL Toaster and Contact Grill displayed in its 180-degree open position, showcasing its versatility for grilling different foods such as toasted sandwiches, meat, fish, and vegetables. Skewers are shown on one plate and chicken on the other, demonstrating the expanded cooking area.
- Ensure the grill is unplugged and cool.
- Locate the hinge release button/lever on the side of the appliance.
- Press the button/lever and gently push the top plate back until it lies flat, forming a continuous grilling surface with the bottom plate.
- Plug in the appliance and preheat as described above.
- Place food on both plates. Remember that heat distribution might vary slightly between the two plates.
- After cooking, unplug the appliance and allow it to cool before returning it to the closed position for storage.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning will extend the life of your Strex XL Toaster & Contact Grill and ensure optimal performance.
Cleaning the Grilling Plates:
- Always unplug the appliance and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Wipe the non-stick plates with a soft, damp cloth or sponge. For stubborn food residue, you may use a small amount of mild dish soap.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scouring pads, as these will damage the non-stick coating.
- Ensure no water or cleaning solution enters the appliance's electrical components.
- Dry the plates thoroughly before storing or using the appliance again.
Image: A hand wiping the non-stick surface of the Strex XL Toaster and Contact Grill with a pink cloth, demonstrating the ease of cleaning. The image emphasizes the "Non-Stick Coating" feature.
Cleaning the Exterior:
Wipe the exterior of the appliance with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Dry thoroughly.
Storage:
Once clean and completely cool, the grill can be stored vertically to save space. Use the smart locking system to secure the plates in the closed position.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Appliance does not heat up. | Not plugged in; power outlet malfunction; appliance malfunction. | Ensure the plug is securely inserted into a working power outlet. Check your circuit breaker. If the issue persists, contact customer support. |
| Food sticks to the plates. | Plates not properly cleaned; insufficient oil; worn non-stick coating. | Ensure plates are clean before use. Lightly grease plates with cooking oil. If coating is worn, consider replacement. |
| Smoke or odor during first use. | Manufacturing residues burning off. | This is normal for the first use. Ensure good ventilation. It should dissipate after a few minutes. |
| Indicator lights not working. | Appliance not powered; faulty indicator light. | Check power connection. If the appliance heats but lights don't work, it might be a minor fault; if it doesn't heat, contact support. |
Specifications
- Brand: Strex
- Model Number: SP327
- Color: Silver
- Material: Metal
- Power/Wattage: 2200W
- Plate Dimensions: 31 x 29 cm
- Product Dimensions: 31D x 29W x 13H cm; 3.1 kg
- Special Features: Adjustable temperature, Indicator lights, Spacious plates, Powerful heating element, Non-stick plates
- Included Components: 1x User Manual, 1x Strex 2200W Grill
Image: The Strex XL Toaster and Contact Grill shown with its dimensions labeled: 31 cm (depth) and 29 cm (width). A grilled steak is visible on the lower plate, illustrating the cooking capacity.
Warranty and Support
Manufacturer's Warranty:
This Strex appliance comes with a manufacturer's warranty for 1 year from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, neglect, accident, alteration, or unauthorized repair.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact your retailer or the Strex customer service department. Refer to the product packaging or the retailer's website for specific contact details.





