Radarange Microwave Oven Use and Care Manual

We suggest you read the complete USE and CARE manual carefully.

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The Radarange is a new kitchen appliance and you should be fully acquainted with its operation. In this way you will get the full benefit from all of its new features in your everyday meal planning and preparation. Pay particular attention to the Warning section pages 3-4 and the Safety Features on page 7.
Packed with the Radarange is a new Cooking Guide. It contains 600 recipes and many suggestions and hints that will help you take full advantage of the miracle of cooking with microwave oven.

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Warning

These precautions should be read to avoid any possible exposure to microwave radiation or electrical shock.

The Amana Radarange microwave oven is designed to give you long, safe and peak performance. However, as with all electrical appliances, there are some things that you must follow to avoid potential personal hazards and give you the performance you expect.

1. Visual check after uncrating.

After the oven is uncrated all packing material must be removed from the oven cavity.

Inspect the oven for any damage, such as misaligned door, damaged gasketing around the door, dents or holes in the screen in the door or dents inside the oven cavity.

Any dents or breakage should be reported to your Amana Dealer immediately and the delivering carrier.

Your Amana Dealer will tell you if the unit will operate correctly.

2. Electrical Grounding Instructions. This appliance is equipped with a three-prong (grounding) plug for your protection against possible shock hazards. Where a two-prong wall receptacle is encountered, it is the personal responsibility and obligation of the customer to contact a qualified electrician and have it replaced with a properly grounded three-prong wall receptacle in accordance with the National Electrical Code (See figure 1).

Where a two-prong adaptor is required temporarily it is the personal responsibility and obligation of the customer to contact a qualified electrician and have the adaptor properly grounded and polarized.

Figure 1

Do not under any circumstances cut or remove the round grounding prong from this plug.

The unit must be grounded at all times. If you move the oven from area to area, the receptacle you use must be fully grounded.

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3. You can check the operation of the electric lock and interlock switch systems.

The Radarange oven Model RR-4 contains a solenoid operated electric lock that engages when the unit is operating, and disengages when the unit is turned off. In addition, hidden back-up interlocks are activated by motion of the door as it is opened. Here is how you may check the operation of the electric lock and interlocks:

First, when the oven is in operation, the electric lock is engaged.

Second, press the RED stop button. The oven will shut off immediately. The cooking light on the control panel will go off; the sound of the cooking fan will cease. The electric lock is now disengaged and the door should open feely. If the unit shuts off by other means (such as the timer running out), the plug being disconnected, or if slight door motion opens a back-up interlock switch, the electric lock is also disengaged.

Third, to check the operation of the back-up safety switch (interlock switch), you must have an operative oven light. If the oven light is working, press the WHITE light button to turn light OFF. Open door fully. The light should come ON when door is opened. If the oven light does not come on, the back-up safety switch is inoperative.

If under any of the preceding conditions the oven does not operate properly, do not use the unit. Call your Amana dealer or authorized service man.

4. Never attempt to operate the oven with the door open.

5. Do not operate the oven with objects closed in the door. To do so would allow microwave energy to escape.

6. Do not operate the oven when the door gasket or door seal is damaged.

To do so would allow microwave energy to escape. The gaskets must be replaced with a special type from your Amana Dealer. Do not substitute other materials or gaskets.

7. Do not allow anyone to service the oven except an Authorized Amana Servicer. This will void the warranty and might cause the unit to operate improperly.

8. Do not remove the outer case, door, or control panel at anytime, so that you are not exposed to dangerous high voltages.

Be sure to read completely the operating instructions which follow.

Your Amana Radarange Microwave Oven is covered by the warranty on page 12

MICROWAVE OVEN MADE ONLY by Amana.

Model RR-4

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About your new

MICROWAVE / OVEN

Safety Features

Your Radarange Oven has a Stop-switch. When it is pushed, the unit stops cooking instantly. To resume cooking, the Start-Switch must be pushed. When the unit is operating, the electric lock is engaged and the door cannot be opened.

Your unit has two safety features which keep the microwaves inside the oven. First is the primary door seal that keeps microwaves from passing around the door.

Second, the door gasket is made from a special vinyl with large amounts of carbon black. If any microwaves should pass by the door seal, this gasket has the ability to absorb them.

In addition to stop-start or latch switches, all models have back-up interlock switches that operate from door motion. These switches are located internally behind the door hinge arms.

Warranty. Also included with the packet that comes with the unit is a Warranty Registration punched card.

This must be filled out and returned to Amana Refrigeration, Inc., Amana, Iowa. Federal regulations require that all manufacturers of microwave ovens have a permanent record of the owners of each unit.

The return of the registration card also puts your warranty into effect.

Warning pages. In the front ot the new Amana Radarange Cooking Guide are yellow pages which you should read thoroughly. These same pages are also found as part of the Use and Care booklet for the model you purchased.

New Cooking Guide

There are about 600 recipes in the new Cooking Guide covering a wide variety of foods.

Of equal importance, the Cooking Guide is designed so that you will be able to follow, step-by-step, the actual use of the Radarange Oven using a "do-it-yourself" demonstration.

If you follow these steps you will be using the Radarange Oven almost immediately for most of your food preparation.

We have also included "First Day Menu" suggestions to allow you to have your family eating their first foods from the Radarange Oven the very first day you have the unit in your home.

For the first few days that you have the unit in your home, we suggest that you keep a cup or glass of water in the unit when it is not in use.

This will help protect the oven if it should accidentally be turned on, or curiosity of the family, might run the oven without a "load" in it.

It is possible to damage the Magnetron tube if the unit is operated without anything in it.

Some things not to do. Be sure to read the sections about the types of cooking utensils you should and should not use. It is important that you do not use any cookware of any kind that is made from metal or has a metal content.

The Radarange Oven will be one of your most prized kitchen appliances and will help you prepare faster, more nutritious meals for your family.

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Simple, easy to operate controls

5 minute Timer
Stop Switch
Interior Light
Switch Start
30 minute Timer

The operation of the Radarange is very simple. All you do is select the time you desire on one of the two timers and push the start switch. Pushing the start switch automatically engages the electric door lock.

The timer will revolve clockwise until the time is up and then shut off the unit. While the unit is in operation, a light will be on behind the timer you are using.

Two Timer Controls

The top control will allow cooking times up to 5 minutes.

The bottom control will allow cooking times up to 30 minutes.

To set either Timer Control turn the control in either direction to the time you want.

Each control is numbered clockwise.

5 minute Timer Control

The timer is numbered clockwise from 0 to 5. Each mark between the numbers represents 15 seconds.

Turn the control to the time you desire. Then push the "start" switch.

The red timer indicator will revolve clockwise from the time you have set to zero. The unit will then turn off.

To set for 5 minutes, move the timer counter clockwise slightly past zero.

30 minute Timer Control

The timer is numbered clockwise from 0 to 30. Each mark is one minute. Turn the control to the time you desire, then push the "start" switch.

The red timer indicator will revolve clockwise from the time you have set to zero. The unit will then turn off.

To set for 30 minutes, move the timer clockwise slightly past zero.

Electric Lock

The electric lock is automatically engaged when the start switch is pushed. When the stop switch is pushed or time runs out, the unit shuts off instantly. The electric lock disengages and the door may be opened freely.

Start switch

Push the start switch after you have set either one of the timer controls. The start swich will not operate the unit unless one of the timer controls has been set.

Interior light switch turns the light on and off inside the unit.

Stop switch instantly stops the unit from operating.

To check food while unit is operating.

If at anytime during the cooking cycle you wish to stir, or check food, merely push the stop button. The electric lock will disengage and the unit will shut off.

To resume cooking, close the door and push the start switch. You do not have to reset the timer. The unit automatically resumes time from the point it stopped when you pushed the "stop" switch.

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Things not to do

Do not operate the unit when it is empty. When there is no food to absorb it, microwave energy can damage the Magnetron tube seriously-

Do not use metal cookware of any kind in the unit. It is possible to damage the Magnetron tube.

Do not operate unit when door gasket or door seal is damaged. To do so would allow microwave energy to escape. The gaskets must be replaced with a special type from your Amana Dealer. Do not substitute other materials or gaskets.

Do not allow anyone to service unit except an Authorized Servicer. This will void the warranty.

Do not build the unit in with the sides, top or bottom air flow restricted. The Magnetron must have sufficient air flow around it. Your Amana Dealer has an accessory built-in kit you may purchase.

Do not put TV dinners on aluminum tray into the unit. Remove the frozen food and place it on a glass, plastic or paper plate.

Do not use a meat thermometer to check food when unit is operating.

Meat thermometers contain metal and may cause "arcing" and malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

Do not wrap food in aluminum foil when cooking in the Radarange Oven.

Do not rest food or cookware on the door. It can mis align the door and destroy the positive seal.

Do not cook eggs in the shell. Do not cook eggs with an unbroken yolk.

It may result in a pressure build up and eruption. Pierce the yolk with a fork before cooking.

Do not bake potatoes, tomatoes, or apples unless the skin has been pierced. You should be sure that all foods with an outer skin or membrane are pierced to allow steam to escape during cooking.

Do not cook vegetables in a plastic bag (or air tight container) unless the bag has been pierced. This allows steam to escape during cooking.

Do not cook in a container with a restricted opening such as a pop bottle, or salad oil bottle.

Do not pop popcorn in the Radarange Oven

SAFETY FEATURES:

The Radarange oven does not emit X-ray radiation and conforms to all safety requirements or standards of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.

You can not operate the unit with the door open.

When you release the electric lock, the unit shuts off before the door can be opened. In effect, the microwaves are extinguished as quickly as a light bulb is controlled by a light switch.

Also, there are interlock or saftey switches that back up the Electric Lock system. Anyone of three switches stops the unit from operating when the Lock is disengaged and the door opened.

Be sure to read Things not to do\x9D section on this page. You will find that these hints and suggestions will make food preparation even easier.

Glass tray must be in place.

The glass oven broiler tray must be in place when operating the unit. This allows the microwaves to be reflected up into the bottom of food that is being cooked. The tray is a special type of glass and, if it is accidentally broken, it must be replaced with the same type of glass from your Amana Dealer.

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Dishes you may use

Heat-proof glass utensils such as those pictured at right may be used. Check dishes with decorations to see that they contain no metal.

Ceramic utensils such as Corning Ware ® may be used.

Plastic containers may be used. Hot foods may distort the container of some types of plastic. Oily or greasy foods may remove glaze on some plastics.

China dishes without metal trim may be used.

Paper products, such as paper plates, toweling to cover foods that might splatter, or used to absorb grease, may be used in the oven.

EXCEPTIONS: Do not use any glass cookware that has metal attachments.

Do not use Corning Ware Centura® dinnerware.

Do not use the cups from the Corella Living Ware®. Other pieces from this pattern may be used.

If in doubt, use this dish test:

If you are questioning the type of dishes you have, this simple dish test will help you determine whether to use them in the Radarange Oven.

1. Place a cup filled with water in the particular dish to be tested.

2. Place them in Radarange Oven.

3. Set timer for 1 1/4 (one and one-quarter) minutes.

Test results: If the water is very warm and the dish cool, you may use the dish. If dish is slightly warm around the edges use it for short term cooking. If water is cool and the dish hot do not use dish.

Cooking Bags, Pouch Packs and Plastic Wraps

Cooking bags. Be sure to use a string tie instead of the small metal tie which is packed with cooking bags. Pierce a hole in the bag for steam to escape or it may expand and burst.

You will notice a great deal of moisture collecting in the bag. This moisture may slow cooking somewhat. Remove excess using a spoon or baster to remove moisture.

Pouch packs that you fill and seal at home may be used. Pierce bag before heating for steam escape, or it may expand and burst.

Plastic wraps. Use to cover foods you are reheating. Some wraps, because of the type of plastic, will become sticky and difficult to remove after being heated. Some may shrink around the dish or food. Use plastic wrap for short time reheating only. Be sure to pierce plastic wrap.

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Cookware you do not use

Do not use metal pans, metal handles on ceramic dishes or metal trim cannot be used in the oven.

Do not use Corning Ware Centura®

Do not use Corelle Living Ware cups.

Do not use cooking wrap with metal foil ends.

Do not use foil pans for entrees or pot pies.

Do not use aluminum foil except in turkey roasting; small strips may be used on wing tips and leg bones only.

The use of cooking utensils or ceramic ware containing metal, or other metal products in the Radarange Oven will shorten the life of the Magnetron tube or damage the tube.

Use of metal can shorten the life of the Magnetron tube.

Fast cooking in the Radarange Oven is accomplished because the microwave energy is able to penetrate the food from all sides. Top. Bottom. Sides.

If metal is used in the Radarange it will reflect the microwaves and does not allow the the area not exposed to the microwaves to cook to the desired doneness.

This means that the results will not be what you anticipate.

The use of metal cookware, or any type of glassware, ceramic or earthenware that has metal trim, parts or certain metal particles will shorten the life of the Magnetron tube.

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Take care of your microwave oven

Model RR-4

Cleaning the unit

There is little to do to keep the Radarange in tip-top condition. The inside of the unit is made of stainless steel. If it should become splattered, all you do is wipe it with a paper towel or clean with a mild detergent in warm water and a soft sponge or cloth.

To clean glass tray lift up the tray and remove. Wash in warm water and detergent. Replace with rough side down.

Never pour water into the bottom of the unit.

Do not use an abrasive to clean the inside. It might damage the stainless steel.

Keep the filter clean.

The filter keeps the power source dust and lint free. It should be cleaned periodically. See Maintenance Tips on next page for instructions on removal and cleaning of filter.

Do not operate unit when empty. Whenever you operate the unit be sure that you have food in it. Otherwise, you might damage the Magnetron.

Do not rest food or cookware on door. The door is not designed to hold the weight of foods as you put them in or remove them from the unit. Additional weight might cause the door to become mis-aligned and result in improper operation.

Do not remove outer case at any time. The outer case and control panel should not be removed at any time, except by an Authorized Serviceman. If it is removed by another person, the warranty is voided.

Be sure to return the Warranty Card. Your Radarange will not be registered in your name unless the warranty card included with this unit is returned to Amana Refrigeration, Inc., Amana, Iowa 52203.

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Maintenance Tips

How to change the light behind the controls of Model RR-4

Remove the control knobs by pulling the knob straight away from the unit. Remove the dial with the times printed on it. Unscrew the bulb. When replacing the lamp use a 6 watt 6S6 bulb. Reverse the procedure when replacing control knob on shaft.

How to change the oven light inside in Model RR-4

Always unplug the unit from the power source before you change the oven light.

The light bulb for the inside of the unit can be changed only from the back. On the upper right hand side of the back unit is a metal plate with two phillips head screws. The light bulb is located behind this plate. Loosen the right screw. Remove the left screw. This allows the plate to swing down. Unscrew the bulb. When replacing the lamp use a 25 watt T6 1/2 bulb. Reverse procedure when putting cover plate in position.

Cleaning the discharge air vents There will be a slight build up of cooking vapors in the discharge vent. These should be cleaned occasionally. To make the air vent more accessible, remove the panel in the same way that you do to replace the light bulb in the One Timer Control model. Do not attempt to remove the front of the Two Timer Control models, it is an integral part of the unit. Clean the air vent with damp cloth.

How to clean the air filter on Model RR-4

The air filter is located on the bottom of the unit. It keeps dirt, dust and lint from being circulated around the electronic components inside the unit. Lay the unit on its back carefully. Remove the spring clips that hold the filter in place by pulling straight out from bottom of unit. Wash the filter in warm water and mild detergent or vacuum with sweeper. Replace. Be sure spring clips are firmly in position. It is recommended that you clean the filter every three months under normal conditions.

How to clean the splatter shield inside unit.

The Splatter Shield keeps the top of the unit and stirrer (a fanlike blade reflects the microwaves inside the unit) from getting dirty. Normally, a damp cloth will remove any splatter from the shield. However, if you want to clean it more thoroughly, remove the splatter shield. On the Two Timer Control models remove the phillips screws at the front of the unit. Pull the shield towards front of the unit. When replacing be sure it fits snugly in clips at the back of the unit before replacing the screws.

Allow air flow around the unit Free air flow from the front and the back of unit is a must. The air flows around the electronic components. At least one inch must be left between the air discharge on the back of the unit and a back wall. If air flow is restricted the unit will not operate properly and life of electrical parts is shortened.

Electrical

The Radarange is designed to operate on 115 volt, 60 cycle current. It should be plugged into a circuit that does not have any other appliances or lights on it.

The unit must be grounded. The plug on the unit is the three-pronged type. The third prong on the plug is the ground. When the unit is installed we suggest that you contact an electrician or qualified serviceman to make sure that your receptacle is actually grounded.

If you move the unit from area to area, be sure that receptacle you use is fully grounded.

Before you call the serviceman If the unit should become inoperative, we suggest that you check the following:

1. Does the light in the unit operate.

2. Does the Timer Control move.

3. Is the unit plugged securely into the outlet.

4. Are the fuse(s) blown.

Then, if the unit still does not operate call your Authorized Serviceman. Do not attempt to make any adjustments or repairs yourself.

If light behind the Timer Control flickers on and off, we suggest you check the filter. It may need cleaning.