Do you have a problem with your FoodSaver vacuum sealing system? If so, you may be able to troubleshoot and treat the issue simply by referring to the information provided below.

We understand it can be frustrating when something goes wrong with a trusted kitchen gadget, particularly when you rely on it every day to keep your food fresh. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most common issues our customers have with their FoodSaver vacuum sealer, and provided useful advice on how to solve each problem — so you can get back to sealing in the freshness of your favourite food quickly and without hassle.

If the information below doesn’t help you with your query, you may be able to find the advice you need on our other product FAQ pages, which can be accessed on the left.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to speak to someone about the issue, click here to visit our contact us page.

To troubleshoot sealing issues, start by closing the lid of the device without a bag or roll in it. Switch on the appliance, and let it run through its complete cycle. Once it’s finished, carefully touch the sealing bar. If it’s cool, there may be something wrong with the sealing bar. Please contact our customer service team in this instance.

If the sealing bar heats up, the problem is likely with one of the two gaskets. Check both of these (instructions on how to identify the gaskets can be found in the manual) for any cracks, dents or food particles. It’s a good idea to remove the lower gasket and give it a good clean. However, if the problem is with the upper gasket, you will need to contact our customer service team.

This is normal. The clips are only meant to aid in the vacuum process. Once the appliance has started, the clips will automatically unlock.

Check power cord to see if it is firmly plugged into electrical outlet. Examine power cord for any damages. See if electrical outlet is operative by plugging in another appliance. If your appliance has a mode switch, make sure it is set to the correct mode. Refer to your QuickStart card for instructions. Make sure bag is placed correctly inside vacuum channel. Wait 20 minutes to allow appliance to cool off, and then try using it again. Note: The appliance will shut off automatically if it becomes too hot. To keep your appliance from overheating: Wait at least 20 seconds for appliance to cool down before you begin vacuum packaging another item. Keep lid open before vacuum packaging.

First, close the lid of the unit without placing a bag in it. Start the appliance and let it go through its cycle. When the unit stops, gently touch the seal bar. Is it hot/warm? If the seal bar is not hot or it is too hot (and the bags have melted), then there may be something wrong with the sealing bar. Are you trying to vacuum package items that are not moist? If so, test the bag by placing a spoon in a bag and place the end of the bag into the vacuum channel, close the lid and press the ON button. Lock the side clips or press down on the lid and allow the unit to go through the entire cycle. If the bag seals, then now you are able to vacuum/seal bags. (If the bag seals, you are now able to vacuum/seal bags.) Are you trying to seal moist items, such as unfrozen meats or fish? Try placing the meat or fish in a bag, then taking a paper towel and folding it in half twice. Place the folded paper towel into the bag so it is between the item and where the bag will be sealed. Place the open end of the bag into the vacuum channel, close the lid and start the vacuum/seal process. The paper towel traps excess liquids and won't affect the flavour of the food item. If the unit seals properly, then you should be able to vacuum/seal bags. You can also slightly pre-freeze meat or fish for 15-30 minutes in order to eliminate some of the juices. While examining your appliance, check the lower gasket for any cracks, dents or food particles. Please clean the gasket by wiping it with a cloth.

To keep your FoodSaver® vacuuming properly, we recommend that you replace the gaskets every year.

This depends on whether the problem is with the lower or upper gasket. The lower gasket can be found on the inside centre base of the appliance, near the vacuum channel. The upper gasket can be found on the underside of the lid, behind the rubber seal.

Once you have determined which gasket is causing the issue, there are two things you should do. If it’s the lower gasket, remove it and give it a good clean, before reinserting back in place. If the problem is with the upper gasket, please contact our customer service team who will advise you on the best course of action. You can do so by calling 0800 525 089 or sending an email to enquirieseurope@jardencs.com.