CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE (cont.)
Stainless Steel Care and Cleaning
To prevent rust or discoloration on stainless steel several important steps need to be taken. First, one must understand the properties
of stainless steel. Stainless steel contains 70-80% iron which will rust. It also contains 12-30% chromium which forms an invisible
passive film over the steel’s surface which acts as a shield against corrosion. As long as the protective layer is intact, the metal is still
stainless. If the film is broken or contaminated, outside elements can begin to breakdown the steel and begin to form rust or
discoloration. Treating a surface showing rust with CitriSurf 2310 will help restore the protective chromium oxide layer as well as
removing most of the surface rust when done as soon as any oxidation is noticed. At least every 6 weeks the stainless steel surfaces
should be cleaned and treated with a cleaner/polish like Weiman or 3M branded products. Use of “hard water” with minerals like iron
must be dealt with immediately (wipe dry) or the surface may start to rust.
CAUTION
Proper cleaning of stainless steel requires soft cloths or plastic scouring pads, never use steel
pads, wire brushes or scrapers! Use a 3M pad or a soft cloth – non-woven fabric works well.
Cleaning solutions need to be alkaline based or non-chloride based. Any cleaner containing chlorides will damage the protective film
of the stainless steel. If cleaners containing chlorides are used, be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly (like the use of hard water).
Routine cleaning of stainless steel can be done with soap and water. Extreme stains or grease should be cleaned with a non-abrasive
cleaner and plastic scrub pad. Always clean with the grain of the steel. There are also stainless steel cleaners available which can
restore and preserve the finish of the steel’s protective layer.
Early signs of stainless steel breakdown can consist of small pits and cracks. If this happens, clean thoroughly and start to apply
stainless steel cleaners in an attempt to restore the passivity of the steel.
CAUTION
Never use an acid based cleaning solution! Many food products have an acidic content which can
deteriorate the finish. Be sure to clean the stainless steel surfaces of all food products if they
come in contact.
Gasket Maintenance
Gaskets require regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew build up and to keep the elasticity of the gasket. Gasket cleaning can be
done with the use of warm soapy water. Avoid full strength cleaning products on gaskets. Do not use sharp tools or knives to scrape or
clean the gasket.
Gaskets can easily be replaced and don’t require the use of tools or authorized service technicians. The gaskets are "Dart" style and
can be pulled out of the grove in the door and replaced by pressing the new one back into place. If the gasket is torn or if the door isn’t
sealed properly when shut, immediately schedule to replace it. Over time gaskets will wear, as such they and other wear parts are not
covered by the appliance warranty.
Doors/Hinges
If the door is beginning to sag, tighten the screws that mount the hinge brackets to the frame of the unit. If the doors are loose or
sagging, this can cause the hinge to pull out of the frame which may damage both doors and door hinges. (It may be necessary
to insert some form of reinforcement if an old door & hinge set becomes loose so it can be tightened without stripping out of the
body).
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