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 steels 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 product like these stainless steel cleaner and polish offerings such as what
Weiman, 3M 14 oz, Magic and Therapy products. Use of “hard water” with minerals like iron in it must be dealt with immediately (wipe
dry) or the surface may tend to rust Treating the water to soften it is suggested.
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 (similar to 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. It is always good to rub 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 has begun, clean thoroughly and start to apply
stainless steel cleaners in 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.
Gasket Maintenance
Gaskets require regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew build up and also 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. Do not run the unit long after noticing
the gasket is torn or not sealing – immediately schedule replacing 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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