Vitamix Eco 5 Food Cycler House Hold Food Waste Instruction Manual

Vitamix Eco 5 Food Cycler House Hold Food Waste

FOODCYCLER® ECO 5™

Specifications

• Voltage: 120 V
• Height: 13.8 inches / 35,1 cm
• Weight: 29 lbs / 13,2 kg
• Frequency: 60 Hz
• Depth: 10.9 inches / 27,7 cm
• Processing Time: ~ 4 – 9 hours
• Power (max.): 500 Watts
• Width: 13.5 inches / 34,3 cm
• Capacity: ~ 21 cups / 5 L

U.S. Patent: vitamix.com/patents

VITA-MIX® CORPORATION
8615 Usher Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44138 U.S.A. Tel (International): 1.440.235.0214
Technical Support: 1.800.886.5235
Email: commercialts@vitamix.com

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

WARNING

| Carefully read all instructions before operating the appliance for the first time. Save these instructions for future reference.

ALWAYS use grounded outlets.

NEVER remove the ground.

NEVER use an adapter.

NEVER use an extension cord.

NEVER plug the appliance into a timer or an outlet controlled by a switch.

|

| ALWAYS turn off AND unplug the appliance when not in use and before assembling, disassembling, moving, cleaning, and storing.

NEVER put the power cord, power plug, or base in water or oth- er liquid or pour any liquids over the unit to clean.

If the appliance becomes submerged, unplug immediately.

Failure to follow instructions can cause death or electrical shock.

This product is intended for HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY and is not intended to be used for commercial purposes.

1. THE FAILURE TO FOLLOW ANY OF THE IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS AND IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR SAFE USE IS A MISUSE OF YOUR VITA-MIX APPLIANCE THAT CAN VOID YOUR WARRANTY AND CREATE THE RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY.
2. The instructions appearing in this manual cannot cover every possible condition and situation that may occur. Common sense and caution must be practiced when operating and maintaining any appliance.
3. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety and if they understand the hazards involved.
4. NEVER let children use or play with the appliance. Keep the cord out of reach from children.
5. Remove and discard packaging materials, the power plug cover, and pro-motional labels before using the appliance for the first time.
6. Always ensure the appliance is completely and properly assembled before operation including the unwinding of the power cord fully before use.
7. NEVER unplug the appliance by pulling on the cord. To unplug the appli-ance, grasp the power plug and pull from the outlet.
8. BLADES ARE SHARP. NEVER come in contact with the blades.
9. NEVER block any vents or place any objects on top of the lid during operation. Ensure there is adequate space surrounding the appliance for proper ventilation. The FoodCycler Eco 5 operates best between 680F -82.40F (200C – 280C).
10. NEVER place the appliance on or near a hot gas or electric burner, in an oven, next to heaters, or where it could touch any other source of heat.
11. NEVER allow the power cord to hang over the edge of a table or counter, touch hot surfaces, or become knotted.
12. This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other) to reduce the risk of electric shock. This plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. NEVER modify the plug in any way.
13. If the FoodCycler Eco 5 will not operate, unplug the appliance, and reset the GFCI. If the circuit breaker continues to trip, unplug the appliance from
14. NEVER use attachments other than those provided with the appliance or offered separately from Vitamix. The use of attachments not sold or recommended by Vitamix may cause fire, electric shock or injury.
15. Alteration or modification of any part of the appliance, including the use of any part or parts that are not genuine authorized Vitamix parts, may cause fire, electric shock, or injury and will void your warranty.
16. The bucket has a thin, indented fill line located on the inside wall of the bucket. NEVER add food waste above this line or pack down food waste to keep it beneath the fill line. Overloading the bucket can cause the appliance to jam.
17. NEVER open the lid or remove the bucket from the appliance during oper-ation. Ensure the appliance has completed the cycle and the is unplugged before removing the bucket.
18. NEVER put hands inside the FoodCycler Eco 5 unless it has completely finished a cycle and is turned off and unplugged. If adjustment of the bucket contents is necessary, turn off and unplug the unit. Remove the bucket from the base and adjust contents as necessary.
19. NEVER touch hot surfaces; always use the product handles. Allow the FoodCycler Eco 5 components to cool approximately 35 minutes after the cycle has completed before opening the lid.
20. Remove the bucket prior to adding food waste to ensure it goes into the bucket and not into the main body causing damage to the motor and other internal components.
21. NEVER add food waste directly into the FoodCycler Eco 5 without the bucket installed.
22. NEVER leave any foreign object, such as spoons, forks, or knives, in the bucket as this will damage the blades and other components when start-ing the appliance and may cause injury.
23. NEVER use the appliance for anything other than its intended use.
24. NEVER store or use outdoors exposed to the elements, in direct sunlight or subject to below freezing temperatures.
25. NEVER attempt to defeat any safety interlock mechanisms, dismantle, reconfigure, alter, or adapt the FoodCycler Eco 5 in any way.
26. NEVER add oil, flammable materials or compounds, or water to the Food-Cycler Eco 5.
27. NEVER place items larger than the palm of your hand inside the bucket. Larger items should be cut down into smaller pieces to be processed more easily.
28. NEVER process large bones (such as pork or beef bones), candy, gum, or nuts. These materials may cause serious damage to the bucket and/or cause a motor overload.
29. NEVER consume or ingest plant food or any food waste that has been placed into the bucket.
30. NEVER use carbon pellets, powders, or other form of carbon or charcoal not expressly authorized or sold by Vitamix with this product as it may cause damage. Replacement carbon pellets are available through Vitamix Customer Service at 1.800.848.2649 (International 1.440.235.4840) or email service@vitamix.com.
31. Regularly inspect the power cord, power plug, and the appliance for any damage. NEVER operate if damaged in any way or after the appliance malfunctions. Immediately cease use of the appliance and visit Vitamix.com or call VitaMix Technical Support at 1.800.848.2649 (Inter-national 1.440.235.4840) or email service@vitamix.com for examination, repair, or adjustment.
32. Any repair, servicing, or replacement of parts must be performed by Vita-mix or a Vitamix authorized service representative.
33. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

PARTS AND FEATURES

Unpack and inspect all parts prior to first use. If any damage is found, contact Vitamix Customer Service.

NEVER immerse the power cord, power plug, or base in water or any other liquid.

1. Main body
2. Bucket
   • Designed to fully grind and process food waste
   • Features a lid to contain off-putting smells while collecting food scraps on a counter top
3. Bucket lid
4. Main body lid
   • Contains a removable mesh filter for cleaning
   • Requires removal of the bucket lid so the main body lid can close; the unit will not operate with the bucket lid
5. Refillable carbon filter cartridge
   • Wicks away odors during processing
   • Uses Vitamix replacement carbon pellets
6. Power cord
7. Foodilizer tablet
   • Sold separately by Vitamix
   • Contains beneficial bacteria that dissolves with the recycled food compound

BEFORE FIRST USE

1. Move the main body lid latch to the unlocked position and open the lid.
2. Remove the carbon refill packet, paper insert, cardboard, stickers, and power cord from the bucket.
3. Remove the carbon filter cartridge from the main body.
4. Open the carbon filter cartridge by twisting the lid counter-clock-wise.
5. Cut open the carbon packet with scissors following the dotted cut line mark.
6. While over a sink or towel, empty the contents of the carbon packet into the carbon filter cartridge.
7. Align the notches on the cartridge with the arrows on the lid and twist the lid clockwise to lock it in place.
8. Insert the carbon filter cartridge into the main body.
9. Close the main body lid and place the lid latch in the locked position.
10. Attach the power cord to the back of the appliance.

TRANSFORM YOUR TRASH

The FoodCycler Eco 5 can process most types of kitchen waste. For best results, use a variety of food scraps.

USE

WARNING
BLADES ARE EXTREMELY SHARP
NEVER manually clean and come in contact with the blades.
NEVER open the lid or remove the bucket from the appliance during operation. Ensure the appliance has completed the cycle and the is unplugged before removing the bucket.
NEVER put hands inside the FoodCycler Eco 5 unless it has completely finished a cycle and is turned off and unplugged. If adjust-ment of the bucket contents is necessary, turn off and unplug the unit. Remove the bucket from the base and adjust contents as necessary.
NEVER touch hot surfaces; always use the product handles. Allow the FoodCycler Eco 5 components to cool approximately 35 min-utes after the cycle has completed before opening the lid as the bucket and bucket handle could get hot.

1. Open the main body lid and remove the bucket. Removing the bucket prior to adding food waste ensures it goes into the bucket and not into the main body causing damage to the motor and other internal components.

2. Add food waste to the bucket to the thin, indented fill line located on the inside wall of the bucket. The unit will run more efficiently if the bucket is filled up to the fill line rather than running the unit half-full.
   NEVER add food waste above this line or pack down food waste to keep it beneath the fill line. Overloading the bucket can cause the appliance to jam.
   NOTE: If the appliance or bucket is damaged from contact with materials that should not be processed, the associated warranties will be considered void, as the inclusion of these materials goes beyond the intended use of the product.

3. When the bucket is filled up to the fill line and ready to process, insert the bucket into the main body. You may need to twist the bucket slightly until it seats correctly.

4. Close the main body lid and place the lid latch to the locked position.
   NEVER block any vents or place any objects on top of the lid during operation. Ensure there is adequate space surrounding the appliance for proper ventilation.

5. Plug the appliance into a power outlet and the On/Off button will flash on and off once indicating it has entered STANDBY mode. In STANDBY mode, no LED lights will be illuminated.

6. Press the On/Off button once to start the cycle. Once the cycle has begun, the LED ring around the On/Off button will illuminate blue, indicating which phase the cycle is on. The cycle will last approximately 4 to 9 hours, depending on the amount of waste and the moisture content of the food being processed.

7. Unplug the appliance from the power outlet once the cycle is complete and the unit beeps once and turns off.
   Allow the FoodCycler Eco 5 components to cool approximately 35 minutes after the cycle has completed before opening the lid. NEVER touch hot surfaces; always use the product handles.

NOTES

• To add more waste while the unit is running, the cycle may be paused by simply opening the lid and the On/Off button will flash. Once the lid is closed and locked, the cycle will resume.
• Adding food waste after Phase 3 will affect the quality of the recycled food compound.
• If a jam occurs, the unit will stop pro-cessing and switch to self-protection mode (motor overload code). The items causing the jam must be removed from the bucket prior to restarting the cycle.
• Reset the cycle by pressing and holding the On/Off button for 3 seconds.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

WARNING
BLADES ARE EXTREMELY SHARP
NEVER come in contact with the blades.
NEVER use household cleaners to clean the unit.
NEVER put the power cord, power plug, or base in water or other liquid or pour any liquids over the appliance to clean. ALWAYS turn off and unplug the appliance when not in use and before assembling, disassembling, moving, cleaning, and storing Follow all the Important Safeguards on page 2 when cleaning the FoodCycler Eco 5.

To keep the appliance clean

1. Use a wrung-out cloth damp with mild soap and water only, wipe down the outside surface of the unit.
2. Wipe around the bucket compartment of the unit.
3. Remove any remaining moisture with a clean, dry towel or cloth.

To keep the bucket clean

1. Wipe off the outside of the bucket.
   The interior of the bucket self-cleans; some residue is normal.

2. Turn the bucket lid top handle counterclockwise while holding the lid base, remove the lid top, and extract the carbon mesh filter.

3. Rinse the carbon mesh filter with water and allow to dry.

4. Reinstall the carbon mesh filter into the lid base, place the lid top in position on the lid base, and twist the bucket lid handle clockwise to tighten.

To clean the main body lid mesh filter

1. Move the main body lid latch to the unlocked position and open the lid.
2. Remove the lid grill from the retaining pin.
3. If the lid grill is dirty, clean it with wrung-out cloth damp with mild soap and water only.
4. Remove the mesh filter located behind the lid grill.
5. Rinse the lid filter with water, allow to dry, and reinstall.
6. Reinstall the lid grill onto the retaining pin and press into place. The lid grill is properly seated if it remains in place when the unit lid is closed.
   *Cleaning every 3-4 months is recommended.

Contact Vitamix Customer Service to order replacement parts:

• Carbon Filter Pellets
• Bucket and Lid
• Foodilizer Tablets

To replace the carbon filter pellets:

1. Replace the carbon filter pellets when the Carbon Filter Replace-ment Indicator is showing.

2. Move the main body lid latch to the unlocked position and open the lid.

3. Remove the carbon filter car- tridge from the main body.

4. Open the carbon filter cartridge by twisting the lid counter-clock-wise.

5. Remove the old carbon pellets from the cartridge and dispose of used carbon pellets according to local regulations. Carbon pellets are safe to handle and entirely biodegradable.
   NOTE : DO NOT add the carbon pellets to the bucket for recycling.

6. Cut open the carbon packet with scissors following the dotted cut line mark.

7. While over a sink or towel, empty the contents of the carbon packet into the carbon filter cartridge.

8. Align the notches on the cartridge with the arrows on the lid and twist the lid clockwise to lock it in place.

9. Insert the carbon filter cartridge into the main body.

10. Close the main body lid and place the lid latch in the locked position.

11. Press and hold the filter change Indicator for 3 seconds or until the unit beeps to reset the carbon filter replacement reminder.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Where should I store the unit?
   The FoodCycler Eco 5 can be used in any indoor area with a power outlet and sufficient space (including basements and heated garages).
   Ensure the unit is sitting on a flat, dry surface with temperatures between 680F – 82.40F (200C – 280C).
   NEVER place the appliance on or near a hot gas or electric burner, in an oven, next to heaters, or where it could touch any other source of heat.
   NEVER store or use outdoors exposed to the elements, in direct sunlight or subject to below freezing temperatures.

2. What can I process in the FoodCycler Eco 5?
   To ensure optimal food waste breakdown, add multiple different types of food waste to every cycle, with heavier, moisture-rich foods interspersed with lighter, dryer foods. For a complete list of what can and cannot be processed, refer to page 6. Processing overly moist foods may result in moist by-prod- uct; run another cycle to dry.

3. Can I store unprocessed food waste in the unit?
   It is not recommended to leave unprocessed food waste in the unit for long periods of time. The carbon filters are designed to wick away odors during processing. Leaving decomposing organic matter enclosed in the unit will generate odors, methane gas, and may attract fruit flies and/or other pests.

4. What can I do with the by-product?
   The by-product can be used as plant food at a ratio of 1 part plant food to 10 parts soil. For cycles with an abundance of animal protein (meat, dairy, etc.), it is rec-ommended the ratio be increased to 1:15. Wait a minimum of one week (four weeks for best results) following soil application before planting seeds or transplant-ing plants to the newly mixed soil. The healthier the food waste, the healthier your garden. Foods high in fat, oil, sodium, or sugar may not produce optimal results.
   DO NOT add the plant food directly to the soil surface. This will not feed the soil sufficiently and will absorb moisture leading to mold and/or attract unwanted pests to the yard or garden.
   Plant food can also be placed in a green bin or garbage can (check local regulations) as this is still preferable to discarding unprocessed food waste, as it will take up less space in landfills and reduce refuse transportation emissions.

5. How do I extend the life of my filters?
   The Carbon Filter Replacement Indicator assists with replacing filters every 3 to 6 months (depending on use) or approximately 500 cycle hours (whichever comes first). The Carbon Filter Replacement Indicator is a recommendation, however, the best indicator of necessary filter replacement is the presence of odors. The filter life depends on the quality and quantity of appliance use.
   Running a cycle with only citrus rinds (lemons, oranges, etc.) will help mitigate filter odors.
   Turning off and unplugging the appliance when not in use will extend filter life. Leaving the unit in Active mode (On/Off button illuminated) will reduce filter life.
   Including coffee grounds regularly can help mitigate odors and keep the bucket clean.

6. How do I keep the bucket clean?
   The bucket is designed to self-clean with every cycle. It is normal to have residue in the base and sides of the bucket after some cycles. Simply empty the contents of the finished cycle, ensuring the internal grinding arm can fully rotate, and fill the bucket for the next cycle. If a jam occurs and the internal grinding arm is unable to rotate, remove the contents and add boiling water and mild soap inside the bucket and let soak overnight to loosen the blockage.

7. I’m hearing clunking/squeaking sounds during the cycle. Is this normal?
   Noises during the cycle are perfectly normal. While the majority of cycles are quiet, particularly dense, fibrous, or moisture-rich food waste in a cycle can cause the bucket to make sounds as it processes food waste.
   NEVER leave any foreign object, such as spoons, forks, or knives, in the bucket as this will damage the blades and other components when starting the appliance and may cause injury.

8. What happens if the unit is unplugged or a circuit is tripped during the cycle?
   The FoodCycler Eco 5 is designed to restart where it was operating prior to the power loss (including after unplugging the power cord or a tripped circuit).
   If 1-2 hours have passed since the power loss, reset the cycle by turning the unit off (by pressing and holding the On/Off button for 3 seconds) and pressing the On/Off button again to start a new cycle.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If the FoodCycler Eco 5 displays any other error than the ones described here, contact Vitamix Customer Support immediately for assistance. Any repair, servicing, or replacement of parts must be performed by Vitamix or a Vitamix authorized service representative. Tampering with the unit by unauthorized personnel will void the product warranty.

Abnormal Air Temperature
The appliance has detected abnormal external air temperature and will not proceed until the warning indicator is cleared.
NEVER block any vents or place any objects on top of the lid during operation. Ensure there is adequate space surrounding the appliance for proper ventilation. The FoodCycler Eco 5 operates best between 680F – 82.40F (200C – 280C).

1. Move the appliance to a warmer or colder room.
2. Open and close the appliance main body lid.
3. Press the On/Off button once.

Note: If the warning indicator persists, contact Vitamix Customer Support immediately for assistance.

Motor Overload
The appliance has detected a motor overload and will not proceed until the blockage and warning indicator are cleared.
NEVER add food waste above this line or pack down food waste to keep it beneath the fill line. Overloading the bucket can cause the appliance to jam.

1. Open the appliance lid.

2. Remove the bucket from the appliance.
   Carefully remove the obstruction from the bucket grinding teeth.

   • NEVER attempt to remove the obstruction with the bucket installed in the appliance.
   • NEVER put your hands in the bucket when it is engaged (gears turning).
   • BLADES ARE SHARP. NEVER come in contact with the blades.

3. Once the obstruction is removed, install the bucket back into the appliance.

4. Close the main body lid.

5. Press the On/Off button.

Note: If the warning indicator persists, contact Vitamix Customer Support immediately for assistance.

WARRANTY AND SERVICE

3-YEAR FULL WARRANTY

1. PRODUCT REGISTRATION
   Vita-Mix Corporation (“Vitamix”) strongly encourages you to register your purchase by calling our Customer Service Department at 1.800.848.2649 or 1.440.235.4840. Failure to register your product purchase will not diminish your warranty rights; however, registering your purchase will allow Vitamix to better serve you with any of your customer service needs.

2. WHO CAN SEEK WARRANTY COVERAGE?
   This Warranty is extended by Vitamix to the owner of this Food Recycler for personal household use only. This Warranty does not apply to products used for commercial, rental or re-sale purposes.

3. WHAT IS COVERED?
   Vitamix warrants to the registered owner that if this “Food Recycler” ( “Food Recycler” consists of a motor base, bucket, and lid purchased together) fails within 3 years from the earlier of the date of purchase due or date of delivery as permitted by law due to a defect in material or workmanship or as a result of normal wear and tear from ordinary household use, Vitamix will, within 30 days of receipt of the returned Food Recycler or component(s) of the Food Recycler, repair the failed Food Recycler or component part of the Food Recycler free of charge. If, in Vitamix’s sole discretion, the failed Food Recycler or component part of the Food Recycler cannot be repaired, Vitamix will elect to either (A) replace the Food Recycler free of charge or (B) refund the full purchase price to the owner, unless Food Recycler receives prior written notice of the owner’s preference.

4. WHAT IS NOT COVERED?
   This Warranty does not apply to Food Recyclers used commercially or in non- household applications. This Warranty does not cover cosmetic changes that do not affect performance, such as dis-coloration or the effects of the use of abrasives or cleaners or food build up. The Warranty does not cover worn or chipped coating on the inner wall or floor of the bucket. This Warranty is only valid if the Food Recycler is used and maintained in accordance with the instructions, warnings and safeguards contained in the owner’s manual.
   Filters: This Warranty does not cover the filters which are wear-items and should be replaced regularly in order to prevent odor (as provided in the owners’ manual).
   Vitamix will not be responsible for the cost of any unauthorized warranty repairs.
   REPAIR, REPLACEMENT OR REFUND OF THE PURCHASE PRICE ARE THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES OF PURCHASER AND THE SOLE LIABILITY OF VITAMIX UNDER THIS WARRANTY. NO EMPLOYEE OR REPRESENTATIVE OF VITAMIX IS AUTHORIZED TO MAKE ANY ADDITIONAL WARRANTY OR ANY MODIFICATION TO THIS WARRANTY WHICH MAY BE BINDING UPON VITAMIX. ACCORDINGLY, PURCHASER SHOULD NOT RELY UPON ANY ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS MADE BY ANY EMPLOYEE OR REPRESENTATIVE OF VITAMIX. IN NO EVENT, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, INDEMNITY, WARRANTY, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE, SHALL VITAMIX BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSE-QUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOSS OF PROFIT OR REVENUE.
   Some states do not allow limits on warranties. In such states, the above limitations may not apply to you. Outside the U.S.A. and Canada, other warranties may apply.

5. WHAT VOIDS THIS WARRANTY?
   Abuse, misuse, negligent use, alteration of the Food Recycler, exposure to abnormal or extreme conditions, or failure to follow the operating instructions in this manual will void this Warranty.
   The Warranty is also void if repairs to the Food Recycler or any component part of the Food Recycler are performed by someone other than either Vitamix or an authorized Vitamix Service Provider or if any component part of a Food Recycler subject to this Warranty is used in combination with a motor base or container that is not expressly authorized by Vitamix.

6. HOW TO OBTAIN RETURN AUTHORIZATION UNDER THIS WARRANTY?
   In the event that you need service or repair, please call Vitamix Customer Service at 1.800.848.2649 or 1.440.235.4840. You will be asked to provide a date of purchase and proof of purchase for your Food Recycler. For Food Recyclers subject to this Warranty you may be provided with a return authorization number, up-to-date shipping instructions and a pre-paid return pick up label. Vitamix may choose, at our discretion, to send replacement components that do not require installation by Vitamix. Vitamix will pay standard shipping costs on the return of a Food Recycler for warranty service or for replacement parts for warranty service. Vitamix will pay for repair and for return shipment of the Food Recycler to you after the warranty repair or replacement. Purchaser is responsible for the costs of special shipping requests.
   You will be deemed to have accepted the returned product “as is” upon delivery unless you notify Vitamix of any problem, including shipment damage, within 48 hours of delivery.
   Within the U.S.A. and Canada, this Warranty is honored directly through the Vita-Mix Corporation.

Unit Stated es
V Cita-Mix orporation 8615 Usher Road Cleveland, Ohio 44138-2199 1-800-848-2649 service@vitamix.com

Canada
V Cita-Mix orporation
200-1701 Shepherd Street East Windsor, Ontario N8Y 4Y5
1-800-848-2649
service@vitamix.com

©2023 Vita-Mix® Corporation. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means or stored in a database or retrieval system without the written permission of the Vita-Mix® Corporation.
141026_ENG_Rev F_MULTI_A 10/23

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