Cuisinart GR-11 Instruction Manual - Page 6

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Once the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press is assembled properly, plug the cord into a standard electrical outlet. The red indicator light will illuminate to indicate that the power is on. If you intend to use the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press in the flat position, but you do not need the entire surface, it is recommended to use the bottom plate. We recommend you preheat in the closed position. It may take up to 8 minutes to reach operating temperature. When the thermostat has reached operating temperature, the green indicator light will indicate that the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press is ready for cooking. During operation, the light will continue to turn on and off as the thermostat regulates the temperature. This is normal. Always exercise caution when handling the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press during cooking, as the housing will become hot during use. To open the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press, grasp the black plastic area of the handle. This part of the handle stays cool to the touch while cooking. The arms are made of die-cast aluminum and will become hot during use. Do not touch them during or immediately following cooking. The cover is made of stainless steel and will become very hot and should not be touched during or immediately following cooking. If you need to adjust the cover, be sure to use oven mitts to prevent burns. The lower housing is made of plastic, and while it will become very warm, it will not burn you. If you need to move the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press during cooking, be sure to handle it from the base only while wearing oven mitts. Do not touch the cover. Allow the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press to cool down before handling (at least 30 minutes). NOTE: The first time you use the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press, it may have a slight odor and may smoke a bit. This is normal and common to appliances with nonstick surfaces. User Maintenance • Never use metal utensils, as they will scratch the nonstick plates. Instead, use only wooden or heat-proof plastic utensils. • Never leave plastic utensils in contact with the hot grill plates. • In between recipes, use a wooden or heatproof plastic utensil to scrape excess food buildup through grease channels and into drip cup, then wipe off any residue with a paper towel before proceeding with next recipe. • Allow the Griddler® Grill & Panini Press to cool down completely (at least 30 minutes) before cleaning. • Any other servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative. CLEANING AND CARE CAUTION: BEFORE CLEANING APPLIANCE, MAKE SURE IT IS UNPLUGGED AND HAS COOLED DOWN COMPLETELY. Once you have finished cooking, unplug the power cord from the wall outlet. Allow the unit to cool down for at least 30 minutes before handling. Dispose of grease from the drip tray once cooled. The drip tray can be cleaned by hand or in the dishwasher. Press the plate release buttons to remove plates from the housing. Be sure that the plates have cooled completely before handling (at least 30 minutes). The cooking plates can be washed in the dishwasher. Do not use metal objects such as knives or forks for cleaning. Do not use a scouring pad for cleaning; the nonstick coating can be damaged. If you have been cooking seafood, wipe the cooking plates with lemon juice to prevent the seafood flavor from transferring to the next recipe. The housing base and cover can be wiped clean with a soft, dry cloth. For tough stains, dampen cloth. Never use an abrasive cleaner or harsh pad. 6