EFFENNE Agila
PATENTED
THE VACUUM PACKING SYSTEM FOR THE HOME
We compliment you on your purchase and thank you for your confidence in us. You are advised to carefully read these directions, which will enable you to use the EFFENNE Agila
properly and obtain optimal results in terms of food preservation. Furthermore, we suggest you keep these instructions handy for further reference.
GB
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD IN BAGS
HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD IN CONTAINERS
POINTS TO REMEMBER
In order to optimise the preservation of foods and ensure perfect hygiene, a number of important
rules must be followed:
• Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and clean all the implements and surfaces you
will be using to cut and vacuum pack the food.
• If possible, wear gloves when handling the food.
• Once perishable food has been packed, place it in the fridge or freeze it immediately,
maintaining a constant fridge or freezer temperature. Do not leave the food for a long time
at room temperature.
• Place the containers of vacuum packed food carefully in the fridge or freezer so that the
food will cool rapidly to a low temperature.
• After opening tinned food or food that has been factory vacuum packed, it can be vacuum
packed again. Follow the instructions to cool the food after opening and put it away as soon
as it has been vacuum packed.
• Pre-packed foods must in any case be consumed by the use-by date shown on the original
package.
• Once you have warmed up or defrosted perishable food, it must be eaten. Do not eat perishable
food if it has been left at room temperature for many hours. This is especially important if the
food has been prepared with a dense sauce, in a vacuum pack or in other low-oxygen content
environments.
• Do not defrost food in boiling water or using other heat sources, unless the food in question
is liquid (soups, juices, etc.).
• Vacuum packing extends the life of dried food. Food which has a high fat content becomes
rancid due to oxygen and heat. Vacuum packing extends the life of food like nuts, coconuts,
or cereal products. Store in a cool, dark place.
• Vacuum packing will not extend the life of fruit and vegetables such as bananas, apples,
potatoes and several vegetables, unless it has been peeled prior to vacuum packing.
• Soft foods and food with a delicate structure (like fish, berries, etc.) must be pre-frozen for
one night before they can be vacuum packed and placed in the freezer.
• Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage give off gas when they are vacuum packed
fresh for storage in the freezer. To prepare these foods for vacuum packing, heat and freeze
them.
• To ensure correct and safe vacuum packing, use only original bags, containers and accessories.
remove or touch the appliance under water until you have pulled out the plug. Do not use the
appliance after its removal from water (take it immediately to an authorised service centre
or your dealer).
• To avoid burns, do not touch the sealing bar while using the appliance.
• Never use adapters for power supplies different from the one indicated on the bottom of the
unit (plate details).
• Always unplug the appliance after you finish using it.
• Do not open or tamper with the appliance. Servicing may be performed by authorised personnel
only. Any unauthorised repairs will invalidate the warranty.
• The Manufacturer, the Retailer and the Importer are responsible for safety, reliability and
performance only if: a) the unit is used following the instructions for use; b) the electrical
system of the premises where the appliance is used is in conformity with current laws.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been
given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for
their safety.
• Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
• No lids or use containers that have cracks or is damaged!
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
ATTENTION: Do not store the machine with the LOCK buttons hooked. After several uses, the seals (6) may become worn and the machine in stand-by may switch on accidentally.
In this case, you must replace the seals, as they are considered consumable materials and are not under warranty.
Before use, always thoroughly clean your appliance and any accessories coming in contact
with food (containers, caps, jars etc.) as directed in the "INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING"
paragraph.
1 Positioning the appliance
Position the appliance in a dry place on a level surface, making sure that the work area in
front of the appliance itself is clear of obstacles and there is enough room to accommodate
the bags with the food to be packed. Plug the power cord into a power socket corresponding
to the voltage of the appliance (see technical details).
2 Tips on using bags
The bags are available in two widths: 20 and 30 cm. Choose the bag size suited for the food
you intend to preserve. Check that the bag you are going to use is at least 8 cm longer than
the food to be packaged, taking into account an additional 2 cm for each time the bag will be
subsequently reused.
3 Making bags from rolls
- Unroll a bag of suitable length and cut it as shown in Fig. A. Now you can seal an open
side of the cut bag as follows:
- Lift the lid (1) and turn it in the open position.
- Seal either of the two open ends of the bag by positioning it on the sealing gasket (7) with
the smooth side facing down (fig. C1).
Attention: do not allow the bag to protrude into the vacuum chamber (8) or on the seal (6).
See the yellow dotted line (fig. C1)
- Close the cover (1), put pressure on the two opposite ends and hook in by pressing the
LOCK (4) buttons, see (fig. C2). The unit will automatically start the packing cycle and will
stop at the end of the cycle.
- Press down on the rounded recessed area of the manual valve (2) to release the lid.
- Lift the lid and turn it in the open position.
- Check the quality of the seal obtained, which should appear as a regular, wrinkle-free
crosswise strip with no internal ridges in the bag (fig. B).
4 Vacuum packing with bags cut from a roll or pre-cut bags
- Lift the lid (1) and turn it in the open position.
- Place food in the bag without creasing it excessively or stretching surfaces. Eliminate any
liquids or food residues from the area inside the bag that will be sealed.
- Place the bag and its contents in front of the appliance and place the open end inside the
vacuum chamber (8) with the smooth side facing down (fig. D1).
ATTENTION: have the end of the bag protrude inside the VACUUM CHAMBER. See the green
dotted line (fig. D1)
- Close the cover (1), put pressure on the two opposite ends and hook in by pressing the
LOCK (4) buttons, see (fig. C2). The unit will automatically start the packing cycle and will
stop at the end of the cycle.
- Press down on the rounded recessed area of the manual valve (2) to release the lid.
- Lift the lid and turn it in the open position.
- Check the quality of the seal obtained, which should appear as a regular, wrinkle-free
crosswise strip with no internal ridges in the bag. (fig. B)
- You can interrupt a packaging cycle already in progress at any time by means of the manual
valve (2), keeping it pressed until the machine turns off.
5 Vacuum packing in Executive containers or in containers sealed with Universal Caps
Executive containers and the Universal Caps with star-shaped knob (see fig. E1) make vacuum
packing easier, because the connection hose can be directly introduced into the knob central
hole (see fig. E2).
Universal Caps, available in two diameters (100 mm and 125 mm), are to be used on jars for
preserving food and bowls and receptacles made of tempered glass. The Universal Caps work
just like the Caps for Executive containers.
WARNING: When using Universal Caps do not use plastic or glass containers that are not
suitable since they could implode under the vacuum pressure of the appliance and cause
injury.
- Fill the container leaving at least 3 cm of room between the contents and upper rim. Place
the lid on the container and turn the knob to the "VACUUM" position (fig. E1).
- Connect the container lid knob to the appliance air inlet (3) by means of the connection hose
(fig. E2).
- Lock the lid (1) by pushing the LOCK buttons (4); the machine will carry out a vacuum packing
cycle and turn off automatically on its completion.
- Remove the hose from the container lid knob.
- Turn the knob to the "CLOSED" position.
- To open the containers turn the knob to the "OPEN" position, you should hear a hissing of air
as it enters the container. This sound guarantees that the contents have been packed in a
vacuum.
6 Vacuum packing in Family containers
Multipurpose containers ideal for storage of frequently used products such as dry and fragile
foods; powder foodstuffs; fresh, pureed or strained fruit and vegetables. Their transparency
and design makes them attractive to display on kitchen shelves while ensuring that their contents
are clearly visible.
- Fill the container leaving at least 3 cm of room between the contents and upper rim and
position the cap on the container.
- Connect the container lid to the air inlet (3) of the appliance (fig. F) by means of the connection
hose (15).
- Lock the lid (1) by pushing the LOCK buttons (4); the machine will carry out a vacuum packing
cycle and turn off automatically on its completion.
- Remove the hose from the container lid.
- Press the central button (16) to open the containers (fig. F).
7 Vacuum packing in glass jars sealed with metal caps (Leifheit type)
Use the large-sized cap attachment to pack foods in large-mouthed glass jars with a metal cap.
A small-sized cap attachment is also available for narrow-mouthed jars sealed with metal caps.
- Fill the container leaving at least 3 cm of room between the contents and upper rim.
- Connect the cap attachment (17) to the air inlet (3) of the appliance by means of the connection
hose (15). Place the cap attachment directly on the jar with the metal cap only (18) and press
down, making sure it fits correctly. (fig. G1)
- Lock the lid (1) by pushing the LOCK buttons (4); the machine will carry out a vacuum packing
cycle and turn off automatically on its completion. Make sure that the cap attachment holds
firmly by keeping it pressed with your hand.
- Disconnect the hose from the cap attachment. Remove the cap attachment from the jar.
- Apply the ring (19) supplied with the jar and screw it down all the way (fig. G1).
- To open a glass jar vacuum-sealed with a metal cap, use the cap opener provided (the side
with writing should be turned up). Position the cap opener as shown in (fig. G2) and gently
pry open the cap until the vacuum is released. Remove the metal cap. This accessory allows
you to reuse the cap.
8 Vacuum packing with bottle caps
The Bottle Cap may be used to seal partly filled bottles of wine or non-fizzy beverages. Using
the Bottle Cap will allow you to create a vacuum inside the bottle so as to slow down oxidisation
and preserve the freshness and flavour of its contents for a longer time.
- By means of the connection hose (15) connect the air inlet (3) of the appliance to the Bottle
Cap (20) (fig. H). Press the Cap firmly into the bottle.
- Lock the lid (1) by pushing the LOCK buttons (4); the machine will carry out a vacuum packing
cycle and turn off automatically on its completion.
- Disconnect the hose from both the Bottle Cap and the appliance immediately.
- To open a bottle sealed with the Bottle Cap, simply pull the cap out of the bottle. You will
hear the air rushing into the bottle.
9 Vacuum packing with the cap attachment in Executive containers or in containers sealed
with Universal Caps with the previous model of knob
To use the Cap Attachment in Executive containers or in containers sealed with Universal Caps
with the previous model of knob, read the instructions supplied in our web page
www.flaemnuova.it.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING
• The appliance is provided with a lower part (9) which is entirely removable and washable
also on the dishwasher top rack (fig. I1). Before washing the lower part, remove both gasket
(6) (fig. I2) and sealing gasket (7) (fig. I3). Clean both gaskets using a sponge moistened with
a mild washing up liquid and leave them to completely dry before positioning them again.
Once cleaning and drying are over, carefully fit both gaskets back in their places. Then reinsert
the lower part (9) in the port provided on the lid (1).
• Please refer to the instructions on the accessory pack.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Disposal:
In conformity with Directive 2002/96/EC, the symbol shown on the appliance
to be disposed of indicates that this is considered as waste and must therefore undergo
“sorted waste collection”. The user must therefore take (or have taken) the above waste
to a pre-sorted waste collection centre set up by the local authorities, or else give it
back to the dealer when purchasing a new appliance of the same type. Pre-sorted waste
collection and the subsequent treatment, recovery and disposal operations favour the production
of appliances made of recycled materials and limit the negative effects of any incorrect waste
management on the environment and public health. The unlawful disposal of the product by the
user could result in administrative fines as provided by the laws transposing Directive 2002/96/EC
of the European member state in which the product is disposed of.
TROUBLESHOOTING
• Leaks along the seam may be caused by creases, crumbs, grease or liquids. Reopen the bag,
clean the upper inside part of the bag and remove any foreign material from the Sealing Bar
before resealing it.
• Check that the bag has no holes in it which have caused air to leak in. Use paper napkins to
protect any sharp edges on the contents of the bag.
The appliance does not create a vacuum in the containers
• By means of the Connection Hose, connect the container lid (or the Cap Attachment if
necessary) to the Air Inlet of the appliance.
• Leave enough room (at least 3 cm) between the contents and the top of the jar or container.
• If liquids come out during the vacuum-packing process, remember that they must first be
chilled in a refrigerator, not left at room temperature.
• Check that the rim of the jar or container and the universal lid are not damaged in the sealing
area. Wipe the rim and cap clean with a cloth moistened with lukewarm water and repeat
the vacuum-packing process.
• Make sure that the gasket of the container cap or the universal cap is set properly in place
and is not damaged.
Executive containers or Universal Caps do not maintain a vacuum
• Make sure that the arrow on the knob of the container cap is positioned on "VACUUM" before
creating a vacuum in the container and it is positioned on "CLOSED" after a vacuum is formed.
• Make sure that the O-ring beneath the knob of the container cap or the universal cap is set
properly in place.
Family containers do not maintain a vacuum
• Make sure that the gasket beneath the central button (16) of the container cap is set properly
in place and is not damaged.
Partial or total reproduction prohibited. - FLAEM NUOVA reserves the right to make technical and functional changes to the product without prior notice.
Voltage:
230V~ 50Hz 170W
Marked:
Dimensions:
39 (L) x 12 (D) x 10 (H) cm
Weight: 1.7
kg
Product approved by the F.I.C (Italian Federation of Chefs)
The performance of the systems has been tested by the (Italian Association of Food Technology).
Electromagnetic compatibility
The EFFENNE Agila has been engineered to meet current electromagnetic compatibility
requirements. However if you suspect that the appliance is interfering with the operation of
your TV, radio or other electrical appliance, try relocating the unit until the interference ceases.
Alternatively try plugging the appliance into a different power socket.
The manufacturer takes every step necessary to ensure utmost product quality and
safety. However, as for all electrical appliances, you should follow some basic safety
rules to avoid creating a hazard for people, animals and/or property.
• Before using the appliance for the first time, and periodically throughout its life, check the
power supply cord for any damage; if you detect any damage, do not plug it in. Take the
appliance immediately to an authorised service centre or your dealer.
• Carefully read the directions before using your EFFENNE Agila and keep them handy for
future reference.
• The appliance is not designed for continuous operation. Do not carry out more than one
complete cycle every 2 minutes. The operating cycle is 50 seconds approx and after then
there’s the break until 2 minutes. In extreme ambient conditions, an intensive use of the
appliance may trigger the automatic thermal protection devices. In such a case allow the
appliance to cool down sufficiently to enable resetting of the protection devices.
• Do not use the appliance on or in proximity to hot surfaces.
• The casing of this unit is not protected again the penetration of liquids.
• Do not draw liquids into the vacuum chamber. Should this happen, immediately dry the
vacuum chamber.
• Do not immerse the appliance in water and do not use it if the cord or plug are wet; should
they get wet during use, immediately pull out the plug wearing dry rubber gloves. Do not
Vacuum packing for the freezer
First of all, use the freshest possible food. The system will allow you to retain all the freshness
of the food only if it is properly preserved. Some foods have a soft consistency which could
be damaged by vacuum packing the product when fresh. To prepare delicate foods like meat,
fish, berries, bread, etc., it is advisable to pre-freeze them first. In the first twenty-four hours
there is no risk of freezer burns, so you can vacuum pack the products frozen the previous day
in bags, and then keep them in the freezer for long periods so as to preserve all the nutritional
values and flavour of the product you have packed.
When vacuum packing soups, stews or other liquid food, pre-freeze it in a pan or high-strength
dish. When the food becomes solid, vacuum pack it, add a label and replace in your freezer.
To vacuum pack vegetables, peel them and then blanche them briefly in boiling water or a
microwave oven until they are warm but still firm. Then vacuum pack them in convenient
portions.
If the food is not pre-frozen, leave an extra 5 cm in the length of the bag to allow for expansion
due to freezing. With regard to meat and fish, it is advisable to place the food on a paper towel
and vacuum pack it with the towel in the bag. This will absorb any moisture in the food.
To preserve food like focaccia, crêpes and small hamburgers, stack them on top of each other,
placing greaseproof paper or film between each piece. This will make it easier to remove some
of the food, repackage the rest and replace it immediately in the freezer.
Vacuum packing for the fridge
For busy households, food can be prepared in advance, then vacuum packed and kept in the
fridge for use at different times, ready to be heated as and when necessary.
Vacuum packing for the larder
Even foods that can keep at room temperature (like, for example, coffee, flour, pasta, sugar,
etc.) can benefit from vacuum packing. If these products are to remain unused for several
days, such as when you go away on holiday, it is advisable to protect all foods by vacuum
packing. They will keep better and moisture, mould and insects will not attack and ruin them.
Defrosting bags
To defrost vacuum packed food such as meat, fish, fruit, vegetables or other delicate foodstuffs,
place it on the lowest shelf in the fridge to defrost slowly; bread and focaccia should be left
at room temperature, while soups or other liquid foods should be immersed in hot water still
in the vacuum bags until they reach the right temperature. When you leave food at room
temperature or heat it in a bain-marie, make sure you cut one corner of the bag to let the steam
escape. When the food has been defrosted, it must be consumed immediately. Do not re-freeze
it.
Repackaging pre-packed food
Many foodstuffs, like cheese and meat, are sold pre-packed in factory-prepared vacuum bags.
To retain the flavour and freshness of these foods, repackage them in bags after the factory
package has been opened.
Pre-packed foods must always be consumed by the use-by date shown on the original package.
They must also be handled with the greatest care and hygiene when repackaging.
Useful tips…
- For food with tapered ends or sharp edges, like bones and spaghetti, pad the edges with
paper towels to prevent perforating the bag.
- Fragile and delicate foodstuffs like strawberries, crackers or biscuits should be preserved
in containers.
- There are many non-food products which can be vacuum packed, such as camping equipment
including matches, first aid kits and clean, dry clothes. You can even preserve the emergency
triangle in the car. Silverware and collections can also be vacuum packed to protect the
items against oxidation, etc.
Warning: Do not use plastic or glass containers that are not suitable since they could implode
under the vacuum pressure and cause injury.
Freezing in containers
To freeze food in plastic containers use only containers or, in the case of glass receptacles,
used tempered glass suitable for freezer temperatures.
Vacuum packing food in containers
Vacuum packing in containers is ideal for products that you use frequently. Dried foodstuffs
like pasta, rice, flour, sugar, crisps, savouries or biscuits, and pet food, will maintain all their
shape and freshness.
Salad foods and vegetables can be cleaned for the whole week and kept in a container. They
will remain firm and fresh. To absorb excess moisture, fold a paper towel and place it on the
bottom of the container.
Warning: Liquids must be cooled before vacuum packing. Hot liquids will expand and leak
from the container during depressurising.
Food in powder or granule form can be covered with a paper towel before vacuum packing.
This will prevent the powder or granules from getting into the vacuum paths or being deposited
in the Vacuum Cap seal.
Oil used once for frying can be filtered, cooled, vacuum sealed in a container and kept in the
fridge. This will enable you to use the oil again at least once, since it has been preserved in
an airless and cold environment, thereby retaining its characteristics.
Larder items like flour, rice and cake mixes stay fresh for longer if they are vacuum packed.
Nuts and condiments retain their flavour and will not become rancid.
Marinating
To marinate meat, poultry or fish, use the square “quick marinating” Executive container
(ACO1073) and follow the instructions regarding how to use the container itself. The food will
be marinated in 20 minutes as if it had been marinated all night!
Tips for preserving food in jars
To preserve food in jars, use lids which have been checked and are free from defects. To create
and maintain a good vacuum, the seals of the lids must be in perfect condition. To keep the lids
in good condition, immerse them in boiling water for three minutes and then rub the dry seal
with a drop of oil. This will restore the necessary elasticity to the seals of the lids.
IMPORTANT: Always unplug the appliance before cleaning the.
• Carefully wash your hands before proceeding to clean the appliance and its accessories.
• Both before and after use, clean the exposed surfaces of the using a sponge moistened
with a mild, non-abrasive dishwashing detergent. If any liquids accidentally get inside the
appliance, do not connect it to the mains electricity supply and do not use it; contact your
nearest dealer or authorised service centre.
The appliance does not work
• Make sure the appliance has been plugged in properly. Check the electric socket by plugging
another appliance into it.
• The appliance will stop automatically if overheated. Allow it to cool down for 15 minutes and
try again.
• Check for faults in the power cord or the plug. Should you detect a fault, do not use the
appliance.
The appliance fails to apply the first seal on the bag cut from the roll
• Make sure the bag cut from the roll is properly positioned as described in the paragraph:
"Making bags from appliance rolls"
The appliance does not create a complete vacuum in the bags
• To seal the bag properly, you must make sure that the open end remains completely inside
the Vacuum Chamber.
• Make sure that the Sealing Bar, the Sealing Gaskets and Airtight Gaskets are free of impurities.
After cleaning them, put them properly back in place.
• The bag might have a hole in it. To check it, seal the bag with air on the inside. Dip the bag
in water and apply pressure. The appearance of bubbles means that there is a leak.
Reseal or use another bag.
The appliance does not seal the bag properly
• If the Sealing Bar overheats and melts the bag, you may have to raise the Lid and allow the
Sealing Bar to cool down for a few minutes.
• The appliance is built in conformity with current safety standards. Overheating will cause
it to turn off automatically. Allow the appliance to cool down for 15 minutes and try again.
The appliance bag does not maintain a vacuum after being sealed
