How to Troubleshoot the Rival Seal-A-Meal

Air contains oxygen and oxygen oxidizes organic matter. That's why most food left out of containers doesn't stay fresh for any length of time. Air-tight containers offer a half-measure of protection because they only prevent additional outside air from reaching the food. They do nothing about air trapped in the air-tight container. Rival's Seal-A-Meal system vacuums the air out of plastic food storage bags, then heat-seals the bag, vacuum-packing the food inside. No air means no oxidation and maximum storage life.

Instructions

No Response When the Vacuum Button is Pressed

1. Plug the unit into an AC outlet.

2. Plug another device into the same outlet to test the outlet. Check the circuit breakers or fuses controlling the outlet.

3. Connect the battery and make sure it is fully charged if the unit is a cordless model and operating in cordless mode.

Air is not Completely Vacuumed Out of the Bag

1. Insert the vacuum nozzle fully inside the storage bag.

2. Check the other end of the storage bag to verify the bag has no punctures or tears. Fill the storage bag with air and seal it, then place the bag under water. If you see any bubbles, replace the storage bag.

3. Install the Lock 'n Seal Nozzle/Drip Tray in its compartment in models VS105, VS120 and VS125.

4. Check the rubber drain plug in the drip tray and make sure it is properly installed.

5. Check the latches on both sides of the lid and make sure they are securely latched.

Air Leaks Into Bag After Sealing

1. Look for a hole, wrinkle or other defect along the seal. Cut the bag open, trimming away any suspect part and attempt to re-seal it. Dispose of the bag if it will not seal.

2. Check for any moisture or food particles in the seal. Cut the bag open and attempt to re-seal it. Dispose of the bag if it will not re-seal. Freeze liquid foods before sealing to prevent moisture from degrading the seal.

3. Examine the contents of the bag for any sharp objects that might have caused a hole or tear. Discard the bag and re-seal the food in a new bag.

Sealer Melts the Bag

1. Check to see if the sealer has become too hot from continuous use. Wait 30 seconds between uses for the sealer to cool.

2. Open the lid and leave it open for one to two minutes to allow sealer to fully cool if it continues to melt bags.

3. Check the bag after allowing the sealer to cool to make sure it has cooled down enough.

References

• Seal-A-Meal: Seal-A-Meal Troubleshooting

Resources

• Seal-A-Meal: Seal-A-Meal Food Storage Comparison Chart