Galaxy Equipment User Manual
External Vacuum Packaging Machines
Models: 177GVME12SS, 177GVME16SS
Date: 09/2020
Please read the manual thoroughly prior to equipment set-up, operation and maintenance.
Safety Tips
- Read this manual carefully before use.
- Do not use on or near a heat source.
- Do not immerse any part of the unit in water.
- Unplug unit when not in use.
- Do not pull the cord when unplugging the unit.
- Do not operate if plug or cord is damaged.
- Do not operate if unit is damaged or malfunctions.
- Only use unit for intended use.
- Do not allow children to use unit.
- Only use a grounded outlet.
- Do not modify the plug in any way.
- Do not allow cord to drape over counter or tabletop.
- Do not use near burner or oven.
- Use caution when sealing hot items.
- Do not use outdoors.
Food Storage and Safety
Vacuum packaging with any model in the Galaxy line yields significant results, removing up to 90% of air to keep food fresher up to 5 times longer than normal storage. It can be used for dry foods (pasta, cereal, flour), fresh meats (pork, chicken, beef), vegetables (carrots, potatoes, squash), and frozen liquids (soups, drink mixes). Packaged food can be cooked traditionally or sous vide.
Vegetables should always be blanched (cooked until crispy, then submerged in cold water) to stop the cooking process and kill enzymes that may cause out-gassing when vacuumed.
IMPORTANT: NEVER vacuum pack garlic, fungi (like mushrooms), or soft cheese (like Brie, Camembert, and Ricotta). A dangerous chemical reaction occurs when air is removed, making them extremely dangerous if ingested.
FOOD | TYPICAL STORAGE | VACUUM FRIDGE STORAGE | VACUUM FREEZER STORAGE |
---|---|---|---|
Fresh Beef & Veal | 1-2 Weeks | 1 Month | 1-3 Years |
Ground Meat | 1-2 Weeks | 1 Month | 1 Year |
Fresh Pork | 1 Week | 2-4 Weeks | 2-3 Years |
Fresh Fish | 3-4 Days | 2 Weeks | 2 Years |
Fresh Poultry | 1 Week | 2-4 Weeks | 2-3 Years |
Smoked Meats | 2-4 Weeks | 6-12 Weeks | 3 Years |
Fresh Produce (Blanched) | 1-2 Weeks | 2-4 Weeks | 2-3 Years |
Fresh Fruits | 3-4 Days | 2 Weeks | 2-3 Years |
Hard Cheeses | 2-4 Days | 6-12 Weeks | 6 Months |
Sliced Deli Meats | 1-2 Weeks | 6-12 Weeks | Not Recommended |
Fresh Pasta | 1 Week | 2-3 Weeks | 6 Months |
Features
The Galaxy vacuum packaging machine features a user-friendly design with several key components:
Top View: Includes a storage compartment for vacuum rolls, a built-in cutter for precise bag sizing, a membrane switch control panel for operation, a handle to secure the lid, an electrical socket for power, and a hose connection port for accessories.
Bottom View (Open Lid): Reveals the vacuum chamber, the seal wire for creating airtight seals, the chamber seal gasket that ensures a proper seal, and seal foam that cushions the lid.
Control Panel
The control panel allows for precise operation of the vacuum sealer:
- 1. Power/Stop Button: Connects power and turns the unit on/off. Press again to stop any active process.
- 2. Auto Vacuum Button (Start): Initiates automatic vacuum and seal cycle in Vacuum/Seal mode. In Marinate mode, it starts the marination process. Requires the lid to be closed for vacuum/seal and open for marinate.
- 3. Seal Button (Seal): Stops the vacuum cycle to instantly seal the bag, useful for delicate items or creating custom-sized bags.
- 4. Pulse Vacuum Button (Pulse): Allows manual control of the vacuum process for delicate items. Press repeatedly to achieve desired vacuum pressure.
- 5. Accessory Vacuum Button (Accy): Used for vacuuming canisters, bottles, and other accessories. The machine vacuums but does not seal automatically. Requires the lid to be open.
- 6. Impulse Seal Button (Impulse Seal): Activates a sealing-only mode, ideal for bags that do not require vacuuming. Requires the lid to be closed.
- 7. Mode Setting Button (Set): Selects between Vacuum-Seal and Vacuum-Marinate modes. Use the [Up Arrow] or [Down Arrow] buttons to adjust seal time or marinate time.
- 8. Vacuum Level Button (Vac Level): Selects the desired vacuum degree (indicated in inHg). The [Adjustable] option allows fine-tuning with the [Up Arrow] or [Down Arrow] buttons.
- 9. Time Adjusting Button ([Up Arrow] / [Down Arrow]): Adjusts seal time or marinate time. Setting to 0 disables sealing.
- 10. Digital Displayer: Shows real-time vacuum degree and selected seal/marinate time.
- 11. Indicator lights: Show the current working process.
- 12. Indicator lights: Indicate the vacuum degree.
Restore Factory Defaults
To restore factory defaults: Connect power, press the "Power" button, then simultaneously press the [Up Arrow] and [Down Arrow] buttons for 3 seconds. A beep and "rS" on the display indicate successful restoration.
Operating Instructions
How to Make a Bag from a Roll
- Choose a roll no wider than 12" for GVME12SS or 15½" for GVME16SS. Place the roll in the storage area and pull out the desired bag length. Lay the edge over the cutter and use the blade for a clean cut.
- Lay the open end of the bag across the seal bar, ensuring the bag ends do not extend past the seal pad.
- Close the lid firmly using the handle.
- Select the desired seal time by pressing "Set" until the seal time light illuminates. Use the [Up Arrow] or [Down Arrow] buttons to set the time from 0-6 seconds.
- Press the "Seal" button. The sequence is: Vacuum cycle begins, "Seal" light activates, vacuum cycle ends, and the lid unlocks. Note: For cold environments, set seal time to 6 seconds.
- Remove the bag and inspect the seal. A good seal is clear. Inadequate seals are spotty, incomplete, wrinkled, milky, or white. If inadequate, cut the sealed portion and restart from Step 1.
- Use the built-in cutter to cut the bag on the opposite end to the desired length.
- Follow instructions for Vacuum and Seal with Bags.
How to Vacuum Seal Bags
Note: For an instant seal, press the "Seal" button only.
- Press the "Power" button and set the desired vacuum level and seal time using the "Set" button.
- Choose a vacuum bag no wider than 12" (GVME12SS) or 15½" (GVME16SS). Place items in the bag, leaving at least 3 inches from contents to the top for effective sealing.
- Lay the open end of the bag across the seal bar, ensuring bag ends do not go past the seal pad.
- Close the lid firmly using the handle.
- Press the "Start" button to begin the process. Note: For fragile items, use the "Pulse" button for manual vacuum control, pressing it on and off until the desired vacuum is reached.
- If using "Pulse", press the "Seal" button to manually seal the bag. Otherwise, the machine automatically vacuums to the set pressure and seals.
- After the Vacuum & Seal cycle, the lid unlocks and lifts. Remove the bag and inspect the seal. Note: A good seal is clear. Inadequate seals are spotty, incomplete, wrinkled, milky, or white. If inadequate, cut and restart.
- Store contents normally. Perishable foods require refrigeration or freezing to prevent spoilage.
How to Vacuum Seal Canisters
Note: Use containers made for vacuum sealing. Ensure at least 1" space from food to lid, and that the lid is dry and free of food particles. Do not overfill.
- Place the lid on the container and turn the knob to the "Vacuum" position.
- Connect the accessory hose from the machine's Accessory Port to the canister lid port.
- Close the lid firmly using the handle.
- Press the "Accy" button while simultaneously pressing the canister lid for 3-5 seconds.
- After vacuuming, turn the canister lid to the "Lock" position. Remove the hose from the canister and machine. Wash the hose if necessary.
- Store the canister in the refrigerator or pantry. Do not freeze.
- To open the canister, twist the knob on the lid to the "Open" position.
Troubleshooting
Note: For optimal lifetime, allow at least 20 seconds between seals.
ISSUE | REMEDY |
---|---|
Unit won't turn on |
|
Not achieving a complete vacuum |
|
Bag loses vacuum after being sealed |
|
Not vacuuming canisters properly |
|
Buttons not working | In rare cases, buttons or programs may malfunction. Unplug the machine and plug it back in to reset the programming. |
Warranty Information
Galaxy warrants its equipment against defects in material and workmanship for 6 months from the date of purchase. This is the sole warranty provided by Galaxy. Claims must be made by the original purchaser within 6 months. Galaxy reserves the right to approve or deny repair/replacement requests. The warranty is not transferable. Equipment installed in food trucks or trailers has a 30-day warranty.
To Make a Warranty Claim:
Contact the location where the product was purchased:
- WebstaurantStore.com: Contact help@webstaurantstore.com. Have your order number ready.
- The Restaurant Store: Contact your local store directly.
- TheRestaurantStore.com: For online purchases, call 717-392-7261. Have your order number ready.
Failure to contact the designated location before obtaining service may void the warranty.
Galaxy disclaims all other warranties, express or implied, including warranties of MERCHANTABILITY and FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
This Limited Warranty does not cover:
- Equipment sold or used outside the Continental United States.
- Use of unfiltered water (if applicable).
- Wearable parts (at Galaxy's discretion).
- Equipment not purchased directly from an authorized dealer.
- Equipment used for residential or non-commercial purposes.
- Equipment altered, modified, or repaired by unauthorized personnel.
- Equipment with a removed or altered serial number plate.
- Damage or failure due to improper installation, utility connection, or airflow.
- Defects and damage from improper maintenance, wear and tear, misuse, abuse, vandalism, or Acts of God.
Any action for breach of warranty must be commenced within 6 months of the breach. Modifications to this warranty require written approval. The laws of Pennsylvania govern this warranty. Galaxy is not liable for incidental or consequential damages, including loss of profits.