KitchenAid KCMS185JBT Microwave Oven Owner's Manual

A Note to You

Thank you for purchasing a KITCHENAID® appliance. This Use and Care Guide provides essential information for operating and maintaining your new microwave oven. Please read it carefully. We also recommend completing and mailing the enclosed Product Registration Card.

For assistance or service, call the KitchenAid Customer Interaction Center toll-free at 1-800-422-1230. Before calling, please have your appliance's complete model and serial number ready. You can find this information on the model and serial number label/plate.

Keep this manual and your sales slip together in a safe place for future reference, as proof of purchase or installation date is required for in-warranty service.

Service Information:

• Model Number: _________________________
• Serial Number: _________________________
• Date Installed: _________________________
• Builder/Dealer Name: _________________________
• Address: _________________________
• Phone: _________________________

Microwave Oven Safety

Your safety and the safety of others are paramount. Always read and obey all safety messages provided in this manual and on the appliance.

Safety Alert Symbol: ⚠️ This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.

DANGER means you can be killed or seriously injured if you do not immediately follow instructions.

WARNING means you can be killed or seriously injured if you do not follow instructions.

Important Safety Instructions

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should be followed:

• Read all instructions before using the microwave oven.
• Follow specific precautions to avoid excessive microwave energy exposure.
• The microwave oven must be grounded. Connect only to a properly grounded outlet. Refer to "Grounding Instructions" in the "Installation Instructions" section.
• Install or locate the microwave oven only in accordance with the installation instructions.
• Do not heat whole eggs or sealed containers (e.g., closed glass jars) as they may explode.
• Use the microwave oven only for its intended purpose as described in this manual. Do not use corrosive chemicals or vapors. This oven is designed for heating, cooking, or drying food, not for industrial or laboratory use.
• Close supervision is necessary when used by children.
• Do not operate the oven if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, or if it has been damaged or dropped.
• The microwave oven should be serviced only by qualified service personnel. Call an authorized service company for examination, repair, or adjustment.
• Do not cover or block any openings on the microwave oven.
• Do not store the microwave oven outdoors. Do not use it near water (e.g., near a kitchen sink, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool).
• Do not immerse the cord or plug in water.
• Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter.
• See "Caring for Your Microwave Oven" for door surface cleaning instructions.
• Do not operate any heating or cooking appliance beneath the microwave oven.
• Do not mount the microwave oven over or near any portion of a heating or cooking appliance.
• Do not mount over a sink.
• Do not store anything directly on top of the microwave oven surface when it is in operation.
• To reduce the risk of fire in the oven cavity: Do not overcook food. Carefully attend the microwave oven if paper, plastic, or other combustible materials are placed inside the oven to facilitate cooking. Remove wire twist-ties from paper or plastic bags before placing them in the oven. If materials inside the oven ignite, keep the oven door closed, turn the oven off, and disconnect the power cord or shut off power at the fuse or circuit breaker panel. Do not use the cavity for storage purposes. Do not leave paper products, cooking utensils, or food in the cavity when not in use.

Precautions to Avoid Possible Exposure to Excessive Microwave Energy

• (a) Do not attempt to operate this oven with the door open, as open-door operation can result in harmful exposure to microwave energy. It is important not to defeat or tamper with the safety interlocks.
• (b) Do not place any object between the oven front face and the door, or allow soil or cleaner residue to accumulate on sealing surfaces.
• (c) Do not operate the oven if it is damaged. It is particularly important that the oven door closes properly and that there is no damage to the: (1) door (bent), (2) hinges and latches (broken or loosened), (3) door seals and sealing surfaces.
• (d) The oven should not be adjusted or repaired by anyone except properly qualified service personnel.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Installation Instructions

Before operating the oven, carefully read the following instructions.

1. Empty the microwave oven and clean inside with a soft, damp cloth. Check for damage such as a misaligned door, damage around the door, or dents. If any damage is found, do not operate the oven until a designated service technician has checked and repaired it.
2. Place the oven on a cart, counter, table, or shelf that is strong enough to hold the oven and its contents. The control side is the heavier side; use care when handling. The oven weighs approximately 35 lbs (16 kg). The microwave oven should be at a temperature above 50°F (10°C) for proper operation.

NOTE: Your microwave oven can be built into a wall or cabinet using one of the trim kits listed in the "Built-in kits" section.

NOTE: Do not block the exhaust vents or air intake openings. Allow a few inches of space at the back and sides where the exhaust vents are located. Blocking the vents can cause damage and poor cooking results. Ensure the microwave oven legs are in place for proper airflow. A sensitive thermal safety device will automatically turn the oven off if vents are blocked; it will resume normal operation once cooled.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows the rear/side view of a microwave oven, indicating the Power supply cord, Air intake opening (in rear), and Exhaust vent (on side).

Electrical Requirements

Observe all governing codes and ordinances. A 120 Volt, 60 Hz, AC only, 15- or 20-amp fused electrical supply is required. A time-delay fuse is recommended. It is recommended that a separate circuit serving only this appliance be provided.

⚠️ WARNING: Fire Hazard

Do not install the oven next to or over a heat source without a UL approved trim kit. Doing so can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard

Plug into a grounded 3 prong outlet. Do not remove the ground prong. Do not use an adapter. Do not use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

Grounding Instructions

• For all cord-connected appliances: The microwave oven must be grounded. In the event of an electrical short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electric shock by providing an escape wire for the electric current. The oven is equipped with a cord having a grounding wire and plug. The plug must be inserted into an outlet that is properly installed and grounded. WARNING: Improper use of the grounding plug can result in a risk of electric shock. Consult a qualified electrician or serviceman if the grounding instructions are not completely understood or if there is doubt about whether the oven is properly grounded.
• Do not use an extension cord. If the power supply cord is too short, have a qualified electrician or serviceman install an outlet near the microwave oven.
• For a permanently connected appliance: The microwave oven must be connected to a grounded, metallic, permanent wiring system, or an equipment grounding conductor should be run with the circuit conductors and connected to the equipment grounding terminal or lead on the microwave oven.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Getting to Know Your Microwave Oven

This section explains the concepts of microwave cooking and the basics needed to operate your oven.

How Your Microwave Oven Works

Microwave energy is not hot; it causes food to make its own heat, which cooks the food. Microwaves are similar to TV waves, radio waves, or light waves – they are invisible but their effects are visible.

A magnetron in the oven produces microwaves, which move into the oven cavity and contact the food as it turns on the turntable. Your oven features a multiple microwave distribution system, releasing energy from two locations for better, more even cooking.

Diagram Description: A cross-section of the microwave oven cavity is shown, illustrating the components: Oven cavity, Magnetron, Glass turntable, and Metal floor.

The glass turntable allows microwaves to pass through. They then bounce off the metal floor, back through the turntable, and are absorbed by the food. Microwaves pass through most glass, paper, and plastics without heating them, so food absorbs the energy. Metal containers reflect microwaves, preventing food from absorbing the energy.

Radio Interference

Your microwave oven may cause interference to your radio, TV, or similar equipment. To reduce or remove interference:

• Clean the door and sealing surfaces of the oven.
• Adjust the receiving antenna of the radio or television.
• Move the receiver away from the microwave oven.
• Plug the microwave oven into a different outlet so it and the receiver are on different branch circuits.

For the Best Cooking Results

• Always cook food for the shortest recommended time. Check food periodically. If needed, use the EASY START function.
• Stir, turn over, or rearrange food about halfway through the cooking time for recipes to ensure even cooking.
• If you do not have a cover for a dish, use wax paper, microwave-approved paper towels, or plastic wrap. Remember to vent plastic wrap by turning back a corner to allow steam to escape during cooking.

Testing Your Microwave Oven

To test the oven, place 1 cup (250 mL) of cold water in a glass container inside the oven. Close the door securely. Cook at 100% power for 2 minutes. The water should be heated.

Testing Your Dinnerware or Cookware

Test dishes before use. Place the dish in the oven with 1 cup (250 mL) of water beside it. Cook at 100% power for one minute. If the dish becomes hot and the water remains cool, do not use the dish. Some dishes (melamine, ceramic) absorb microwave energy, slowing cooking times. Metal containers not designed for microwave use, or containers with hidden metal (twist-ties, foil lining, staples, metallic glaze/trim), could damage the oven.

Operating Tips

• Never lean on the door or allow a child to swing on it when the door is open.
• Use hot pads. While microwave energy does not heat containers directly, the heat from the food can make the container hot.
• Do not use newspaper or other printed paper in the oven.
• Do not dry flowers, fruit, herbs, wood, paper, gourds, or clothes in the oven.
• Do not start a microwave oven when it is empty, as this may shorten product life. If programming the oven, place a container of water inside. The oven door may appear wavy during operation; this is normal.
• Do not attempt to melt paraffin wax in the oven, as it passes microwaves without melting.
• Ensure the glass turntable is securely in place and rotates freely. Handle the turntable with care to avoid breakage. Contact your dealer for replacement if cracked.
• When using a browning dish, its bottom must be at least 3/16 in. (5 mm) above the turntable. Follow the browning dish manufacturer's directions.
• Never cook or reheat a whole egg in its shell, as steam buildup may cause it to burst. Slice hard-boiled eggs before heating. Cover poached eggs and allow a standing time of one minute before cutting.
• For best results, stir any liquid several times during heating or reheating. Liquids in certain containers (especially cylindrical ones) may become overheated and splash out, potentially harming the oven.
• Microwaves may not reach the center of roasts; heat spreads from the outer cooked areas. Allow standing time for foods like roasts or baked potatoes to finish cooking.
• Do not deep fry in the oven, as microwavable utensils are not suitable and maintaining deep-frying temperatures is difficult.
• Do not overcook potatoes. They will continue cooking during standing time. Let potatoes stand for 5 minutes after microwaving.

Electrical Connection

If your electric power line or outlet voltage is less than 110 volts, cooking times may be longer. Have a qualified electrician check your electrical system.

Microwave Oven Features

Diagram Description: An illustration of the inside of a microwave oven with numbered callouts pointing to features:

1. Door Safety Lock System: The oven will not work unless the door is securely closed.
2. Window with Metal Shield: Prevents microwaves from escaping and allows viewing of food.
3. Glass Turntable: Rotates food for more even cooking. Must be in place during operation. (For Model KCMS185J only, the turntable can be stopped by touching the TURNTABLE ON/OFF pad.)
4. Removable Turntable Support: Located under the turntable.
5. Control Panel: Touch pads are used to perform all functions. (Model KCMS185J shown.)
6. Light: Automatically turns on when the door is opened or when the oven is running.
7. Cooking Guide Label: Typically located inside the oven door.
8. Model and Serial Number Plate: Usually found on the back or inside the door frame.
9. Rack Supports: (Model KCMS185J only) Used to hold the cooking rack.
10. Cooking Rack: (Model KCMS185J only) Part No. 8172101. Provides extra space for multi-level cooking. Store outside the oven when not in use.

Diagram Description (Model KCMS185J Only): Shows the correct placement of the cooking rack (horizontal bar) and an incorrect placement (rack on the oven floor) marked with a red 'X'.

NOTES:

• Do not operate with no load.
• Ensure the rack is positioned correctly as shown.

Control Panel Features

Diagram Description: An illustration of the microwave oven's control panel with numbered buttons and their functions:

1. Display: Shows clock, time, power settings, quantities, weights, and cooking functions.
2. AUTO SENSOR REHEAT: Reheats food from various categories.
3. AUTO SENSOR COOK: Cooks food from various categories.
4. AUTO SENSOR POPCORN: Pops a bag of popcorn (3 sizes).
5. CUSTOM DEFROST: Defrosts frozen food by weight.
6. CUSTOM COOK: Cooks food at custom settings.
7. PERSONAL CHOICE: Adjusts sound volume, weight measurement (lbs/kgs), language, scroll speed, clock format (12/24 hr), or turns Demo mode on/off.
8. COOK TIME: Sets the cooking duration.
9. COOK POWER: Sets the microwave energy level (higher number means higher power/faster cooking).
10. KEEP WARM: Keeps hot, cooked food warm. Can be used independently or to follow a cooking cycle.
11. Number pads: Used to input values for sound, weights, language, clock, cooking times, cook powers, quantities, etc.
12. TIMER: Sets or cancels the kitchen timer function.
13. CLOCK SET: Enters the correct time of day.
14. START/EASY START: Starts a function or adds 30 seconds of cooking at 100% power.
15. TURNTABLE ON/OFF: (Model KCMS185J only) Starts or stops turntable rotation during manual cook cycles.
16. CANCEL/OFF: Clears an incorrect command or cancels a program. Does not erase the time of day.

Audible Signals

Your oven uses audible signals: a programming tone sounds with each pad touch. Three tones signal the end of a cooking cycle, and five tones signal the end of the timer function. Tones can be turned off via the "Using PERSONAL CHOICE" function.

Interrupting Cooking

You can stop the oven during a cycle by opening the door. To restart cooking, close the door and touch START. To stop completely, close the door (the light will turn off) or touch CANCEL/OFF.

NOTE: Before setting a function, touch CANCEL/OFF to ensure no other function is active.

Using the Child Lock

The Child Lock prevents children from using the microwave. To lock: Touch and hold CANCEL/OFF until "LOCKED" appears on the display (approx. 4 seconds). To unlock: Touch and hold CANCEL/OFF until "UNLOCK" appears.

Using Personal Choice

You can select or change functions by touching PERSONAL CHOICE:

To use: 1. Touch PERSONAL CHOICE for the desired function. 2. Touch the number pad corresponding to your choice (e.g., "1" for "lbs" or "2" for "kgs"). 3. Touch START.

Example Graphic: A display shows "LB 5/165", illustrating weight measurement selection.

Built-in Kits

(For Model KCMS185J)

You can build your microwave oven into cabinetry using one of the following trim kits. These kits are available from your dealer. If unavailable, you can order by kit model number by calling 1-800-422-1230.

(For Model KCMS145J, KCMS145K)

You can build your microwave oven into cabinetry using one of the following trim kits. These kits are available from your dealer. If unavailable, you can order by kit model number by calling 1-800-422-1230.

* Approved, electric single ovens only.

Setting the Clock

When you first plug in your microwave oven, the display shows ": ". If power is interrupted, the display will show ": " again when power is restored. You can cook without setting the clock, but the display will show ": " after cooking is completed.

1. Touch CLOCK SET.
2. Touch number pads for the time of day (e.g., touch "700" for 7:00).
3. Touch CLOCK SET.

Using the Minute Timer

You can use your microwave oven as a kitchen timer for up to 99 minutes.

1. Touch TIMER.
2. Touch number pads for the desired time (e.g., touch "1000" for 10 minutes).
3. Touch START, or TIMER, or allow the timer to start automatically after a short delay.

At the end of the set time: The timer will count down to zero, display "TIMER END", and sound 5 tones. NOTE: To cancel the timer at any time, touch TIMER.

Using the Cooking Rack (Model KCMS185J only)

The Cooking Rack (Part No. 8172101) provides extra space for cooking on more than one level.

NOTES:

• Do not store the metal rack in the oven. Arcing and damage could result if the oven is accidentally started.
• Do not operate the oven with the metal rack stored on the oven floor. This will damage the interior finish.
• Do not use this rack in other cooking appliances.
• Do not use the rack with a browning dish.
• Do not place a metal cooking container directly on the microwave oven rack. Place a microwave-safe plate between the metal container and the rack to prevent possible arcing and damage to the oven.

Using Your Microwave Oven

This section provides instructions for operating each function.

Cooking at High Cook Power

1. Place the food in the oven and close the door.
2. Touch COOK TIME. The display will show "STAGE 1".
3. Touch number pads for the desired time (e.g., for 10 minutes, touch "1000").
4. Touch START.

At the end of the cooking time: The display will show "END" and 3 tones will sound.

Cooking at Different Cook Powers

1. Place your food in the oven and close the door.
2. Touch COOK TIME. The display will show "STAGE 1".
3. Touch number pads for the desired time.
4. Touch COOK POWER.
5. Select the number pad for the desired power setting (see the following chart).
6. Touch START.

At the end of the cooking time: The display will show "END" and 3 tones will sound.

For best results, some recipes require different cook powers. Lower cook power means slower cooking. The chart below shows the percentage of cook power for each level and common names used. Follow recipe or food package instructions.

NOTE: Refer to a reliable cookbook for cooking times.

Cooking with More Than One Cook Cycle

Your oven can be set to change power levels automatically for up to 3 cycles, plus a defrost cycle.

1. Put your food in the oven and close the door.
2. Touch number pads to set the cooking time for the first cycle.
3. Touch a number pad to set the cook power for the first cycle.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to set the cooking time and cook power for each additional cycle.
5. Touch START.

After each cycle is complete, 2 tones sound, and the next cycle(s) will count down. At the end of the cooking time: The display will show "END" and 3 tones will sound.

NOTES:

• You can set cook functions in any order. However, CUSTOM DEFROST must be the first cycle if used.
• Cooking with more than one cook cycle does not work with AUTO SENSOR COOK or AUTO SENSOR REHEAT functions.

Using Custom Defrost

Defrost food by choosing a category and setting a weight. CUSTOM DEFROST has preset times and cook powers for 3 categories: Meat, Poultry, and Fish.

1. Touch CUSTOM DEFROST. Touch once for Meat, twice for Poultry, three times for Fish.
2. Touch number pads for the desired weight (from .1 to 6.0 lbs [45 g to 2.7 kg]).
3. Touch START.

During defrosting, 5 tones will sound. These tones indicate when to check, turn over, separate, or rearrange the food. To restart the oven, touch START.

At the end of the defrosting time: The display will show "END" and 3 tones will sound.

Weight Conversion Chart

Use this chart to convert fractional pounds to decimals.

Defrosting Tips

• Remove metal twist-ties from bags and replace with strings or elastic bands.
• Open sealed containers before placing them in the oven.
• Always slit or pierce plastic pouches or packaging.
• If food is foil-wrapped, remove foil and place in a suitable container.
• Slit the skins of food like sausage.
• Bend plastic pouches to ensure even defrosting.
• Underestimate defrosting time; if food is still icy, return it to the oven.
• Defrosting time varies with how solidly food is frozen.
• Shallow packages defrost more quickly than deep blocks.
• As food begins to defrost, separate pieces for more even defrosting.
• Use small pieces of aluminum foil to shield parts of food (like chicken wings, leg tips, fish tails) that start to get warm. Ensure foil does not touch oven sides, top, or bottom, as it can damage the lining.
• For best results, let food stand after defrosting. See "Microwave cooking tips" in the "Cooking Guide" section for standing time information.
• Turn food over during defrosting or standing time. Break apart and remove food as required.

Using Custom Cook

1. Touch CUSTOM COOK. Touch once for Bacon (select 2-6 slices), twice for Beverage (select 1-2 cups), 3 times for Frozen Roll/Muffin (select 1-4 rolls), 4 times for Fresh Roll/Muffin (select 1-4 rolls), or 5 times for Oatmeal (select 1-6 servings).

At the end of cooking time: The display will show "END" and 3 tones will sound.

Using Easy Start

Easy Start cooks food for 30 seconds at 100% power. It can also add 30-second increments to manual programs.

NOTES:

• Each touch of EASY START adds up to 3 minutes, then adds 1 minute to a total of 10 minutes.
• Easy Start can be activated after closing the door or touching CANCEL/OFF.
• The pad can also increase remaining cook time during manual programs.

1. Ensure your food is in the oven.
2. Touch EASY START. (Each additional touch adds 30 seconds of cooking time up to 3 minutes, then adds 1 minute up to a total of 10 minutes.)

At the end of the cooking time: The display will show "END" and 3 tones will sound.

Using Keep Warm

⚠️ WARNING: Food Poisoning Hazard

Do not let food sit in the oven more than one hour before or after cooking. Doing so can result in food poisoning or sickness.

Keep Warm maintains the temperature of hot, cooked food in your microwave oven.

NOTES:

• Food should be covered during Keep Warm, except for pastry items (pies, turnovers, etc.).
• Complete meals on a dinner plate should be covered.
• Do not use more than 1 complete Keep Warm cycle, as food quality may suffer.

1. Put hot, cooked food in the oven and close the door.
2. Touch KEEP WARM. "WARM HOLD" scrolls twice, then "START" flashes until you touch START.
3. Touch START. The display will show "WARM".
4. To cancel KEEP WARM, open the door or touch CANCEL/OFF.

Auto Sensor Cooking

Your microwave oven features a sensor that detects humidity released by food, determining the cooking or heating time. This sensor is used for AUTO SENSOR COOK, AUTO SENSOR REHEAT, and AUTO SENSOR POPCORN functions.

NOTES:

• For manual cooking (time and power), refer to the "Microwave cooking guide" in the "Cooking Guide" section.
• The oven should be plugged in at least 5 minutes before sensor cooking.
• Room temperature should not exceed 95°F (35°C).
• Ensure the exterior of the cooking container and the interior of the oven are dry. Wipe them with a paper towel.
• The oven will not generate microwave energy for approximately 28 seconds at the beginning of the sensor cooking cycle.
• When covering foods, leave an opening large enough for moisture to escape so the sensor can accurately determine cooking or reheating time.

Using Auto Sensor Cook

1. Put the food in the oven and close the door.
2. Touch AUTO SENSOR COOK until the desired food type is displayed. AUTO SENSOR COOK will start automatically after a short delay.

(See Auto sensor cooking chart.)

Auto Sensor Cooking Chart

Using Auto Sensor Reheat

1. Put the food in the oven and close the door.
2. Touch AUTO SENSOR REHEAT until the desired food type is displayed. AUTO SENSOR REHEAT will start automatically after a short delay.

(See Auto sensor reheating chart.)

NOTE: When covering foods, be sure to leave an opening big enough for moisture to escape so that the sensor can determine cooking or reheating time.

Auto Sensor Reheating Chart

Using Auto Sensor Popcorn

AUTO SENSOR POPCORN lets you pop commercial microwave popcorn with one touch.

NOTES:

• Pop only 1 package at a time.
• If using a microwave popcorn popper, follow manufacturer's instructions.

1. Place the bag in the center of the turntable and close the door.
2. Touch AUTO SENSOR POPCORN.

NOTE: The sensor will determine "popping time" based on the size of the package.

Auto Sensor Popcorn Chart

How well your popcorn cooks depends on the brand and fat content. Try several brands. For best results, use fresh bags of popcorn.

Cooking Guide

Microwave Cooking Tips

Amount of Food

If you increase or decrease the amount of food, cooking time will change. For example, doubling a recipe may require adding a little more than half the original cooking time. Check for doneness and add time in small increments if necessary.

Starting Temperature of Food

Food at room temperature reheats more quickly than food at refrigerator temperature. Lower starting temperatures require longer cooking times.

Composition of Food

Food with high fat and sugar content heats faster than food with high water content. Fat and sugar also reach higher temperatures. Denser foods take longer to heat than lighter, more porous foods.

Size and Shape

Smaller pieces of food cook faster than larger pieces. Same-shaped pieces cook more evenly than different-shaped pieces. Thinner parts of food cook faster than thicker parts; place thinner parts (like chicken wings/legs) in the center of the dish.

Stirring, Turning Foods

Stirring and turning foods spreads heat quickly to the center, preventing overcooking at the edges.

Covering Food

Cover food to reduce splattering, shorten cooking times, and keep food moist. Use any covering that allows microwaves to pass through. Ensure venting if using Auto Sensor functions.

Releasing Pressure in Foods

Foods with skins or membranes (e.g., baked potatoes, sausages, egg yolks, some fruits) can build up steam and burst. Pierce these foods before cooking with a fork, cocktail pick, or toothpick.

Using Standing Time

Always allow food to stand after cooking. Standing time allows temperature to spread evenly throughout the food, improving results. The duration depends on the food's density and quantity, ranging from a few minutes to 10 minutes for larger, denser items.

Arranging Food

For best results, place food evenly on the plate. For multiple items of the same food, arrange them in a ring. For foods of uneven shape or thickness, place thinner or smaller areas towards the center. Layer thin slices of meat. Score the skin of whole fish to prevent cracking. Do not let food or containers touch the oven's top or sides to prevent arcing.

Using Aluminum Foil

Metal containers are generally not recommended, but exceptions exist for prepackaged foods in aluminum foil containers (follow package instructions). When using aluminum foil containers without specific instructions:

• Place the container in a glass bowl and add water to cover the bottom (no more than ¼ in. / 0.64 cm high) to ensure even heating of the container bottom.
• Always remove the lid to avoid oven damage.
• Use only undamaged containers.
• Do not use containers taller than ¼ in. (1.9 cm).
• Container must be at least half filled.
• Ensure a minimum of ¼ in. (0.64 cm) between the aluminum container and the oven walls, and between two aluminum containers, to avoid arcing.
• Always place the container on the turntable.
• Reheating food in aluminum foil containers typically takes double the time compared to other materials.
• Let food stand for 2 to 3 minutes after heating for even heat distribution.

Cooking You Should Not Do in Your Microwave Oven

• Do not can foods in the oven. Closed glass jars may explode, damaging the oven.
• Do not use the microwave oven to sterilize objects (like baby bottles), as it is difficult to maintain the high temperatures needed for sterilization.

Caring for Your Microwave Oven

Proper maintenance ensures your microwave oven looks good and works well for a long time. Follow these instructions carefully.

For Interior Surfaces

Wash often with warm, sudsy water and a sponge or soft cloth. Use only mild, non-abrasive soaps or detergent. Keep areas clean where the door and oven frame touch when closed. Wipe well with clean water. Stains from food particles are normal over time.

For stubborn soil, boil a cup (250 mL) of water in the oven for 2-3 minutes to soften the soil with steam. To remove odors, boil a cup (250 mL) of water with lemon juice or vinegar.

For Exterior Surfaces and Control Panel

Use a soft cloth with spray glass cleaner. Apply cleaner to the cloth, not directly on the oven. NOTE: Abrasive cleansers, steel-wool pads, gritty wash cloths, and some paper towels can damage the control panel and oven surfaces.

Turntable and Turntable Support

Wash in mild, sudsy water. For heavily soiled areas, use a mild cleanser and scouring sponge. The turntable and support are dishwasher-safe.

Questions and Answers

Troubleshooting

Most cooking problems can be resolved by checking simple issues. Consult the lists below before calling for assistance or service. If you still need help, see the "Requesting Assistance or Service" section.

If Microwave Does Not Operate, First Check the Following:

• Is the microwave plugged into a live outlet with the proper voltage? (See Installation Instructions.)
• Have you blown a household fuse or tripped a circuit breaker?
• Has the electric company experienced a power failure?

Other Possible Problems and Their Causes:

If none of these items is causing your problem, see the "Requesting Assistance or Service" section.

Requesting Assistance or Service

To avoid unnecessary service calls, check the "Troubleshooting" section first. If you still need help, follow the instructions below.

If You Need Assistance or Service

Call the KitchenAid Customer Interaction Center toll-free at 1-800-422-1230.

When calling: Please provide KitchenAid with the purchase date and the complete model and serial number of your appliance (refer to the "A Note to You" section). This information will help us respond to your request more effectively.

Our consultants provide assistance with:

• Features and specifications on our full line of appliances.
• Installation information.
• Accessory and repair parts sales.
• Specialized customer assistance (e.g., Spanish speaking, hearing impaired, limited vision).
• Referrals to local dealers, service companies, and repair parts distributors.

KitchenAid-designated service technicians are trained to fulfill product warranty and provide after-warranty service throughout the United States. To locate a designated service company in your area, you can also check your local telephone directory's Yellow Pages.

For Further Assistance

If you need further assistance, you can write to KitchenAid with any questions or concerns at:

KitchenAid® Brand Home Appliances
Customer Interaction Center
c/o Correspondence Dept.
MD 8020
553 Benson Road
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2400

Please include a daytime phone number in your correspondence.

Microwave Oven Warranty

KITCHENAID DOES NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion or limitation may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

Outside the 50 United States, this warranty does not apply. Contact your authorized KitchenAid dealer to determine if another warranty applies.

If you need service, first see the "Troubleshooting" section of this book. After checking "Troubleshooting," additional help can be found by checking the "Requesting Assistance or Service" section or by calling our Customer Interaction Center telephone number, 1-800-422-1230, from anywhere in the U.S.A.

Document Version/Date: 3/00