MaxVac Vacuum Sealer

How to Vacuum Package with a Bag

Plug the unit into a power source and turn the switch to 'on'. Open the lid and insert the product into an approved vacuum bag, leaving 2-3 inches of headspace for sealing. Ensure the sealing area of the bag is clean and dry. Center the open end of the bag into the vacuum chamber, across the heat bar, making sure there are no folds or creases in the sealing area and that the bag is clear of the vacuum port. Lower the vacuum lid. For moist products, it is recommended to pre-freeze them or use a soaker pad. Press 'Auto Cycle' or 'Manual Vacuum'. Lightly press on the lid. When all air is removed during the auto function, the MaxVac will automatically seal the bag. If using the manual cycle, press the 'Manual Seal' button when the desired vacuum is reached. The unit will vacuum for an additional 2-4 seconds and then seal the bag. After sealing, the vacuum lid will release. Allow the heating element to cool (the cool indicator light will illuminate). After cooling, remove the sealed bag. Do not attempt to open the lid before the cycle is completed, as this may damage the unit or the bag.

How to Make a Bag from Vacuum Sealer Material

Plug the unit into a power source and turn the switch to 'on'. Open the lid. Cut vacuum sealer bag material 3 inches longer than needed for the product. Place one open end of the material over the seal bar, ensuring it is flat (it is easier to place material curl down). While holding the material in place, press 'Manual Seal' and gently press down the lid. The unit will cycle and seal the bag. Wait until the lid is released and remove the sealed bag.

How to Use the External Port Hose with Vacuum Canisters

Lift the lid to expose the Vacuum Port Hole and insert the hose. Place the product to be sealed in a canister, leaving at least a ½ inch headspace. Place the lid on the canister. Connect the other end of the vacuum hose to the vacuum port on the lid. Press 'Auto Cycle' on the control panel. The MaxVac will pull air from the canister and automatically release when air is exhausted. Note: Do not pull the hose from the vacuum port until suction has been released.

Other Use

The MaxVac can also be used for resealing potato chip bags or mylar-type bags. If the bags are silver inside, they will vacuum very tightly. For bags like Lays potato chip bags (white inside), small cuts may be necessary at the top of the bag for effective vacuuming.

Consumable Parts

The Teflon tape, heat bar, and oval foam are considered consumable parts and may wear over time. These parts are not covered under warranty. They, and most other parts, are available by calling LEM Products at 1-877-536-7763. Always ensure the unit is unplugged and turned off before replacing parts.

How to Replace Teflon Tape

Open the lid. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the two screws at either end of the tape. Gently pull the tape up to expose the heat bar and discard the old tape. Remove the backing from the replacement tape and carefully adhere it to the top of the heat bar, smoothing it from end to end. Avoid wrinkles or air pockets under the tape. Replace the two screws, being careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.

How to Replace Heat Bar

Follow the directions above to remove the Teflon tape. Carefully remove the two screws at either end of the heat bar with a Phillips head screwdriver. Note: The bars holding the screws are tensioned; do not allow a screw to fall into the base of the vacuum sealer. Check the Teflon tape on the heat bar for wear or burn spots and replace if necessary before installing the new heat bar. Place one screw into one of the heat bar eyelets and gently tighten (do not overtighten). Place the other screw into the other eyelet. Using your finger or a nonmetallic object, gently press the other tension bar towards the center to thread the second screw. Once the heat bar is installed, follow the directions above for replacing the Teflon tape.

How to Remove and Replace Oval Foam

To remove the foam, pinch it at any point and lift it out of the groove. Be careful not to stretch the foam during removal or cleaning. To replace the foam, place it over the groove and press it into place, again being careful not to stretch it. Follow these instructions for both the upper and lower foam. If replacing foam, both should be replaced at the same time. The foams are reversible, and the upper and lower pieces are identical.

Troubleshooting

Machine Will Not Turn On:

• Ensure the power switch on the rear of the unit is in the 'On' position. The power indicator light should illuminate.
• Ensure the power cord is firmly inserted into the unit's power cord port.
• Ensure the power cord is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet. Try a different outlet if necessary.
• Check if the circuit breaker has tripped.

Circuit Breaker Has Tripped:

The LEM MaxVac is equipped with a circuit breaker to protect the unit from damage during power disruptions, abnormal operation, or overheating. If the motor temporarily shuts down:

1. Turn the 'On/Off' switch to 'OFF'.
2. Unplug the unit.
3. Wait 1-2 minutes, then plug the unit back into the wall outlet.
4. Press and release the 'Restart Button'.
5. Plug in the unit.
6. Turn the switch 'on'.
7. Resume operation.

Thermal Overload Switch:

The MaxVac Sealer has a thermal overload switch that automatically shuts down the unit if it overheats. If this occurs, turn the power switch to 'off', open the lid, and allow the unit to cool for 10 minutes before restarting.

Vacuum Will Not Pull Air From Bag:

• Seal Not Made: Apply light pressure to the lid for 3-4 seconds to ensure the upper and lower gaskets form an airtight chamber and engage the vacuum.
• Bag Opening Not in Chamber: The open end of the bag must be inside the vacuum chamber for vacuum to occur.
• Vacuum Port Covered: Ensure the vacuum and sealing area of the bag is clear of the vacuum port so air can be pulled from the bag. Covering the port will prevent proper suction.
• Damaged Bag: Inspect the bag for damage or small holes that could allow air to enter. Discard the damaged bag and use a new one.
• Incompatible Bag: Ensure the bag is compatible with the LEM MaxVac Sealer. LEM MaxVac Bags are recommended for optimal performance. Check availability at www.lemproducts.com.
• Liquid in Pump: If liquid has entered the pump mechanism, turn off and unplug the unit. Let it stand overnight to allow the pump to dry. Plug in and turn on the unit as normal.

Bags Will Not Seal:

• Check the vacuum bag for creases, folds, or holes.
• Excessive Moisture: For very moist foods like fish or raw steaks, freeze the food prior to sealing or use a paper towel/soaker pad at the top of the bag to absorb moisture from the sealing area.
• Powdery Items: Powdery items like flour or baking powder can interfere with sealing. Wrap or package these items before placing them into the vacuum bag.
• Damaged Bag: Discard the bag and start over.
• Bag Overfilled: Ensure 2-3 inches of headspace at the open end and 1 inch on the sides for adequate airflow.
• Dirty Gasket/Tape: Clean the foam gasket/Teflon tape with a warm, soapy cloth and wipe dry.
• Seal Not Made: Apply light pressure to the lid for 3-4 seconds to ensure the upper and lower gaskets form an airtight chamber and engage the vacuum.
• Broken Heating Element: Carefully remove the Teflon tape and check if the heating element is intact. If broken, replace the heat strip by calling 877-536-7763 for parts.

Bag Was Vacuumed/Sealed and Now Air Has Entered the Bag:

• Damaged Bag: Discard the bag and start over.
• Seal Not Made: Apply light pressure to the lid for 3-4 seconds to ensure the upper and lower gaskets form an airtight chamber and engage the vacuum.
• Check the vacuum bag for creases, folds, or holes.
• Ensure there are no sharp edges that may have punctured the bag. Discard the bag and start over. Consider covering sharp products with a paper towel before vacuuming.
• Liquid in Sealing Area: Use a soaker pad or paper towel with moist products, or pre-freeze moist products before sealing.
• Food in Seal Point: Open the bag, wipe the sealing area dry, move food 2-3 inches away from the sealing area, or place the food in a larger bag. Food particles in the sealing point can allow air to seep in.

Bag is Melting:

• Incorrect Bag Type: Ensure you are using bags specifically designed for vacuum sealers.
• Overheating Heat Strip: Allow the unit to cool for 30-60 seconds between seals, or leave the lid open for 1-2 minutes to cool the unit.