This manual describes the FWE Mobile Humi-Temp Cabinets, which are heated holding cabinets designed to keep food hot, moist, and "oven fresh" for extended periods. These units are suitable for continuous use.
Function Description:
The FWE Mobile Humi-Temp Cabinets are designed to hold hot food at safe and optimal temperatures, preventing drying out and shrinking while maintaining a desired humidity level. They achieve this by utilizing a heating element and a humidifier pan that can be filled with hot water. The cabinets are equipped with a thermostat to control the internal temperature and an indicator light to show when the unit is heating. They are also designed for mobility, featuring casters and a positive transportation latch to secure contents during movement.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Requirements: FWE Humi-Temp models typically operate on 110/120 volt, 60 Hz, 1 phase, A.C. (unless otherwise ordered). They are equipped with a three-prong grounding cord plug for safety. The amperage is stamped on the nameplate.
- Temperature Range: A common holding temperature range for most foods is 150°F - 160°F (65°C - 71°C). The thermostat allows for adjustment within a broader range, with a lower limit of 140°F (60°C) for food safety.
- Humidity Control: A humidifier pan, located at the inside bottom of the unit, is filled with hot water to add humidity to the cabinet's air. A normal humidity level of approximately 40% can be achieved by keeping the pan filled and the thermostat set around 150°F. Dry heat can be achieved by draining the water from the pan.
- Heating Elements: Various heating element configurations are available, ranging from 1000 Watt to 2000 Watt, with options for 115v or 220v. Specific part numbers are provided for different wattages and voltages, including split cavity, standard, and upgraded elements.
- Casters: The cabinets come with different caster options: 5" rigid, 5" swivel with brake, 6" rigid, and 6" swivel with brake.
- Models: The manual references several series:
- "P" Series: Banquet Servers (e.g., P-200)
- "UHS" Series: Universal Servers (e.g., UHS-12)
- "TS" Series: Tray Servers (e.g., TS-1633-14L with optional see-thru door)
- "PS" Series: Pan Servers
- "TS PIZZA" Series: Designed for 16" Pizzas (Open/Boxed/Pan)
Usage Features:
- Pre-heating: The cabinet should be pre-heated for 15-30 minutes before loading hot foods. The amber indicator light signals when the selected temperature has been reached (it will go off). Pre-heating ensures optimal temperature maintenance and results.
- Loading Food: Food should be loaded hot into a pre-heated cabinet. Doors should be kept closed as much as possible during loading and should not be opened again until ready to serve.
- Temperature Setting: A thermostat knob allows users to select the desired holding temperature. For most foods, 150°F - 160°F is recommended. The amber light cycles on and off as the heating element maintains the set temperature.
- Humidity Management: Filling the humidifier pan with hot water before heating helps condition the air and prevent food from drying. For dry heat, the pan should be drained.
- Mobility and Transport: The cabinets are mobile and equipped with a positive transportation latch for safety. Before moving, it's recommended to wait for the amber cycling light to go off, indicating the internal temperature has recovered. The unit should be unplugged for transport and re-plugged at the serving location to reactivate the thermostat.
- Safety Warnings:
- Always plug into a properly grounded three-prong wall receptacle. Do not cut or remove the grounding prong.
- Only qualified electricians should attempt electrical repairs.
- Always unplug the unit from the electrical source before removing the control panel.
- The water pan, air tunnel, and heating element are hot during use and can cause injury. Caution is advised when loading and unloading, and protective gloves are strongly recommended.
- Holding food at temperatures below 140°F (60°C) may be dangerous as it promotes the growth of harmful bacteria and toxins.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The interior and exterior should be wiped with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soapy solution as needed.
- Removable Components: The interior tray slide assemblies and humidifier pans are removable for easy cleaning.
- Recommended Cleaners: A stainless steel cleaner/polish is recommended for the exterior to maintain its appearance.
- Prohibited Cleaners: Never use abrasives, acids, or strong cleaners. Do not flood or allow electrical parts to get wet. Do not use wax or strong cleaners on door gaskets or vinyl trim.
- Troubleshooting: A comprehensive troubleshooting chart is provided for common issues like "Temp Too Hot," "Temp Not Hot Enough," and "No Heat At All," offering possible causes and remedies. This includes instructions for thermostat recalibration (a simple procedure that is excluded from FWE warranty but can be done by the user).
- Parts and Service: The manual provides contact information for the FWE Parts Department (815 459 7500) and emphasizes the need to provide the Model Number and Serial Number (found on the nameplate near the electrical cord portal) when ordering parts or service. A service record section is included for users to log this information.
- Warranty: A limited two-year warranty covers defects in material or factory workmanship for new standard catalog products and factory custom/modified units. Parts are covered for two years, and labor for one year, from the date of original shipment. For units used in Correctional Environment/Facilities, parts are covered for one year and labor for six months. The warranty requires returning the registration card within 30 days and immediate notice of defects. It does not cover misuse, alteration, non-observance of operating instructions or voltage, accidents, reinstallation, calibration, or customer-undertaken repairs.