The KRUPS Crystal Arome and Crystal Arome Time coffeemakers, models #398 and #458 respectively, are designed to deliver a rich and aromatic coffee experience with a range of user-friendly features and advanced technology. These appliances are intended for household use and are built to a rigid code of quality standards, ensuring years of satisfying service with minimum care.
Function Description:
Both models are primarily designed to brew coffee. The Crystal Arome Time (Model #458) includes additional programmable features for enhanced convenience. The core function involves heating water, passing it through ground coffee held in a filter, and collecting the brewed coffee in a glass carafe on a warming plate.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Models: Crystal Arome (#398) and Crystal Arome Time (#458).
- Filter System: Exclusive "Crystal Clear" vegetable-based cocoa filter. This filter is designed to destroy up to 82% of unwanted chlorine taste from water, ensuring a smooth, rich coffee without bitterness, while important minerals like calcium are retained.
- Carafe: Unique hermetically designed glass carafe and lid, engineered to keep coffee hotter up to 20% longer than conventional carafes without sacrificing aroma or taste.
- Power Cord: Features hidden cord storage, allowing users to tailor the cord length to their needs (see figure 18).
- Electrical Rating: The appliance's electrical rating should be considered when using extension cords.
- Plug Type: Polarized plug (one blade wider than the other) for safety.
Usage Features:
- "Crystal Clear" Filter Cartridge (a): A removable filter cartridge located next to the water chamber for water filtration.
- Water Chamber (b): The reservoir for water, with a hinged lid to protect water from dust and dirt (see figure 5).
- Water Level Indicator (c): Easy-to-read indicator showing the quantity of water being filled (see figure 6).
- Filtration Indicator (d, j):
- Model #398 (d): A red indicator light that signals when the charcoal filter needs changing. It resets to grey (0 cycles) after filter replacement.
- Model #458 (j): An illuminated indicator that flashes when the charcoal filter needs changing. It stops flashing (resets to 0 cycles) after filter replacement by pushing a small hole to the left of the light with a pointed instrument.
- This indicator also signals when the coffeemaker needs decalcifying.
- Illuminated ON/OFF Switch (e) (Model #398): A simple switch to turn the coffeemaker on or off.
- Flavor Selector Buttons (f) (Model #398):
- "1-3" button: Extends the brewing cycle for 1-3 cups, allowing water to seep slowly for a richer, more aromatic flavor (see figure 9).
- "4-max" button: For brewing 4-10 cups.
- Filter Holder (g): Conveniently lifts out for easy cleaning. Designed to accommodate KRUPS size 4 paper filters, inserted with the seam facing right (see figure 7).
- Warming Plate (h): Automatic warming plate with a non-stick coating for easy cleaning. Raised edges keep the carafe firmly in place.
- Program Selector Panel (i) (Model #458):
- LCD Display: Flashes intermittently when first plugged in, signaling to set the digital clock (see figure 1).
- "h" and "min." Buttons: Used to set the hour and minutes for the digital clock (see figure 2) and for programming the "wake-up" time and auto shut-off duration.
- Selector Switch:
- "off": Turns the coffeemaker off.
- "on": Switches on without pre-programming (manual brewing).
- : Sets the current time.
- "prog.": Sets the pre-program time (the desired "wake-up" time for brewing).
- "auto.": Activates the pre-programmed time, indicated by a constant symbol in the display (see figure 13).
- "Stop'n Serve" Feature: Automatically stops the flow of brewed coffee through the filter cone if the glass carafe is removed from the warming plate during brewing. This allows for pouring a cup or two without dripping onto the warming plate. The filter cone closes effectively for about 20 seconds, and brewing resumes once the carafe is replaced.
- Caution: If coffee drips after carafe removal, it may indicate too much ground coffee, causing overflow and interference with the filter holder's snap-shut action. In such cases, replace the carafe immediately and allow the full brewing cycle to complete before removing the filter.
- 24-hour Programmable Timer (Model #458): Allows users to program the coffeemaker to start brewing at a pre-selected "wake-up" time within a 24-hour period (see figure 12).
- Programmable Auto Shut-Off (Model #458): Keeps coffee hot for 1-5 hours before automatically turning off. Initially set to 1 hour, it can be adjusted in 1-hour increments up to 5 hours by pressing the "min." and "hours" buttons while the selector switch is in the "off" position. The programmed time is stored in memory. If no specific time is set, it defaults to 1 hour.
- Brewing Process:
- Ensure water container is empty and carafe lid is properly positioned (see figure 3).
- Place carafe directly underneath the brewing spout (see figure 4).
- Open hinged lid (see figure 5).
- Pour desired quantity of water using the glass carafe (see figure 6).
- Insert a paper filter (KRUPS size 4) into the filter holder (see figure 7).
- Add ground coffee (one level KRUPS measuring scoop per cup is suggested, adjustable to taste) (see figure 8).
- Close hinged lid, ensuring filter holder is secure.
- For Model #398: Select flavor (1-3 cups or 4-max) and press ON/OFF switch (see figure 10).
- For Model #458: Turn selector switch to "on" position (see figure 11).
- For "Wake-Up" coffee (Model #458): Set "prog." time (see figure 12), then turn selector switch to "auto." (see figure 13).
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning:
- Always unplug before cleaning.
- Remove and clean the filter holder, carafe, and carafe lid in hot water with mild liquid soap. These parts are also dishwasher-safe (upper level).
- Never use scouring agents.
- Never immerse the appliance base in water or any other liquid. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth.
- Do not use a cloth to clean the inside of the water chamber; rinse periodically with cold water instead.
- Filter Replacement:
- To insert or change the "Crystal Clear" filter: Lift out the grey filter cartridge (a) (see figure 14). Open the bottom hinged portion by twisting to the left (see figure 15). Remove old filter, drop in new filter (see figure 16), and replace cartridge (see figure 17).
- Replacement filters can be purchased by contacting the KRUPS Consumer Service Department.
- Decalcifying:
- The coffeemaker will periodically require cleaning with a decalcifying agent due to calcium (limestone) in drinking water.
- The frequency of decalcifying depends on water hardness and usage.
- The filtration indicator (d, j) also serves as a reminder for decalcification.
- Refer to the "Decalcifying" section for specific instructions.
- Servicing: Any servicing other than cleaning and user maintenance should be performed by an authorized KRUPS Service Center. No user-serviceable parts inside the base.
Safety Precautions:
- Read all instructions before use.
- Do not touch hot surfaces; use handles/knobs.
- Do not immerse cord, plugs, or appliance in water/liquid.
- Close supervision is necessary when used by/near children.
- Unplug when not in use, before cleaning, and allow to cool.
- Do not operate with damaged cord/plug or after malfunction/damage; return to authorized service facility.
- Use only accessories evaluated for this appliance.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not let cord hang over table/counter edge or touch hot surfaces.
- Do not place on/near hot gas/electric burner or in heated oven.
- To disconnect, turn switch to "OFF", then remove plug.
- Do not use for other than intended use.
- Snap lid securely onto glass carafe before serving.
- Do not remove glass carafe from heating plate while water is dripping from spout.
- Carafe is for use with these appliances only; never use on a range top.
- Do not set a hot carafe on a wet or cold surface.
- Do not use a cracked carafe or one with a loose/weakened handle.
- Do not clean carafe with cleansers, steel wool pads, or abrasive material.
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