This document is an instruction manual for Caple downdraft extractors, specifically models DD903BK and DD522BK. It provides comprehensive information on the installation, operation, and maintenance of these appliances.
The Caple downdraft extractor is designed to remove unpleasant odours and cooking vapours from the kitchen. It can be installed to operate in either externally vented mode, discharging extracted air outside, or recirculation mode, where air is filtered and returned to the room. The appliance is intended for personal use in the home and is suitable for various domestic and similar applications, including staff kitchen areas in shops, offices, and other working environments, farmhouses, hotels, motels, other residential type environments, and bed and breakfast type environments.
Function Description:
The downdraft extractor features a push-button control panel for operation. It includes a motor speed indicator that uses four different colours to signify the set speed: white for first speed, green for second speed, blue for third speed, and red for fourth speed. The control panel also has a 10-minute timer function, which, when activated, turns off the motor and closes the front panel after 10 minutes. This function is indicated by the motor speed indicator flashing.
The appliance's top panel can be opened to an intermediate position of 45° or a full opening of 90°. When switched off, the first touch of the control button activates the top panel to the 45° opening, and the motor automatically sets to the second speed. A subsequent press will open the panel to 90°, maintaining the motor speed. Another press will stop the motor and completely close the top panel. For the DD522BK model, only the 90° opening of the glass top is possible, without the 45° intermediate opening.
The downdraft extractor is equipped with intelligent electronics that include a timer device for speed controls, particularly when the air capacity exceeds 650m³/h. For internal motor models with maximum air capacity higher than 650m³/h, the timer automatically switches the speed from fourth to third speed after 6 minutes of operation. External motor models also have a timer device that switches down the speed when it exceeds 650 m³/h. Remote motors with air capacity exceeding 650m³/h at both fourth and third speed will automatically switch from fourth to second speed after 6 minutes of operation. If the appliance is working at third speed, it automatically switches to second speed after 7 minutes of operation. The energy consumption in standby mode is lower than 0.5W. The appliance also features an automatic turn-off function, where it turns off automatically after 4 hours of continuous operation from the last setup.
Usage Features:
For optimal performance, it is recommended to use an air exhausting pipe with a maximum length of 5 meters and limit the number of elbows in the piping, as each elbow reduces air capacity. A 150mm constant diameter rigid ducting pipe should be used for the entire length. The appliance should not be used near hobs powered by wood or coal or with power levels that could damage the appliance. Adequate ventilation in the room is crucial when the cooker hood and other non-electric appliances are used simultaneously to prevent the hood from sucking combustion fumes. There must be a minimum space of 50mm between the edge of a gas hob and the downdraft frame.
Maintenance Features:
Regular maintenance is essential for correct operation and optimal performance. Before any cleaning or maintenance, the hood must be disconnected from the electrical network.
- Cleaning External Surfaces and Accessories: Metallic scrubbers, abrasive products, or hard brushes should not be used. External surfaces and the light housing screen should be cleaned with commercially available household detergents diluted in water, then rinsed with clean water and dried with a soft cloth.
- Grease Filters: The downdraft will signal grease filter saturation after 30 hours of operation, indicated by the flashing red LED speed indicator when the cooker hood is off. To reset this alarm, the "TIMER" button should be held down for at least 3 seconds while the carriage is open. Grease filters can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher and need to be cleaned regularly to prevent fire hazards. After cleaning, the grease filters and front panel must be refitted properly to ensure the downdraft functions correctly.
- Active Charcoal Filter (Recirculation Mode Only): In recirculation mode, the active charcoal filter must be replaced periodically, on average every six months, to maintain effective use of the downdraft. To remove the charcoal filter, the grease filter must be removed first, then the plastic key of the charcoal filter panel should be pulled to disengage it. The steps are reversed to insert a new active charcoal filter.
The manual also provides troubleshooting tips for common issues such as the downdraft not working, low performance, or stopping during operation. For any anomalies, the appliance should be disconnected from the power supply. All repair charges will be incurred if the warranty card cannot be shown to Caple Service.
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