ARY Vacmaster VP540 User manual

User’s Manual Model:
VP540 (110V)
Register your product and get support at www.VacMasterFresh.com
VP540

Congratulations on your purchase of the
VacMaster®VP540 Chamber Machine!
Thank you for purchasing the VacMaster®VP540 Chamber Machine. The
VP540 is designed as a commercial grade vacuum packaging system
and can be used for a wide variety of products. With the VP540 you can
extend food life, maintain food quality, reduce freezer burn and reduce
food waste and costs.
The VacMaster®VP540 is a chamber vacuum system, which offers two
distinct advantages over non-chamber, external bag type units. First, a
much higher level of vacuum can be achieved which means a longer shelf
life for foods that you package. Secondly, liquids and liquid-rich foods
can be effectively vacuum packaged. Food products like fresh meats,
sh, soups, stews, etc. are no longer a problem to vacuum package.
Marinated vegetables and meats are packaged quickly with ease, and no
mess.
The VP540 Chamber Machine uses commercial technology. Simply
place the pouch to be sealed inside the chamber and close the lid. This
activates the vacuum pump and the vacuum and sealing process begins!
First, the air is removed from the entire chamber and the vacuum pouch.
Once the preset vacuum level is achieved, the pouch is sealed. Upon
completion of the sealing cycle, the air ows back into the chamber and
the lid opens automatically.
Use the VP540 to:
• Vacuum package soups, stews and other liquid foods.
• Keep sh and game meat fresh longer and free of freezer burn.
• Store meat and sh scent-free.
• Take advantage of bulk buys. Simply portion and package.
• Perfect for marinating meat and vegetables.
• Vacuum package pre-made meals.
• Prevent oxidation and damage to rare coins, silverware and important
documents.
Read and follow all directions for usage and maintenance carefully
and you’ll benet from years of trouble-free and cost effective vacuum
packaging.
Call us at 800.821.7849 for questions regarding the machines or
vacuum pouches.

STOP!!
Read and complete the following to prevent any damage.
Oil must be added to the vacuum pump before using.
VacMaster®model VP540 uses an oil vacuum pump.
For shipping purposes there is no oil in the pump. Oil must be added.
Adding Oil to Vacuum Pump
Turn off and unplug machine to prevent electrocution.
1. Using the included ARY approved oil, ll the enclosed plastic oil bottle.
2. Locate the oil ll bolt on the top of the vacuum pump.
3. Remove oil ll bolt.
4. Watching site glass, insert end of oil bottle into hole.
5. Fill oil level between 1/2 to 3/4 of site glass.
Do not overll. Overll can cause damage to the vacuum pump.
6. Replace and tighten bolt to vacuum pump.
NOTE: Pump requires approximately 8 uid ounces of oil (approx. 1 cup).
Use only approved VacMaster® vacuum oil.
Side of Housing Cabinet Oil Fill Oil Site Glass

If you are part of the food processing or food service industry, there
is a good chance that you already know the advantages of vacuum
packaging. It has been used with success for many years as a safe and
cost effective method for extending shelf life and maintaining the quality
of food products. If vacuum packaging is new to your home or business,
you will soon wonder how you lived without it!
Whether you are a beginner or expert, there are certain basic guidelines
that should always be followed in order to package foods safe to eat.
Neglecting these basic guidelines can result in food spoilage, and in some
cases, illness or death.
Once you familiarize yourself with the VP540 and the procedures, you will
feel at ease using the VacMaster®Chamber Machine and enjoy a higher
quality of stored foods.
▪ Package only fresh foods. Do not package old or rancid foods. An
already bad product does not improve with vacuum packaging.
▪ Fresh foods (Meats, vegetables, cheeses, etc.) should be refrigerated
at 34˚F or below or frozen after vacuum packaging.
▪ Vacuum packaging removes a high percentage of air (which is 21%
oxygen). This slows the growth of most living microorganisms, which
degrade food, such as aerobic bacteria and molds. However, some
forms of bacteria such as clostridium botulinum (responsible for
botulism) are anaerobic and grow in the absence of oxygen.
▪ The foods susceptible to botulinum should be refrigerated for a short
term and frozen for long-term storage. Consume immediately after
heating.
▪ Vegetables such as cauliower, broccoli and cabbage will emit gasses
when vacuum sealed. To prepare these foods for vacuum packaging,
you must blanch them rst.
▪ All perishable foods must be refrigerated or frozen to prevent
spoilage.
▪ Vacuum packaging is not a substitute for heat canning.
Getting Started with Vacuum Packaging

With the VP540, you can easily package a wide variety of
sizes and shapes. You can also prep and store smaller
individual serving portions as well as bulk items.
• Keeps food fresh 3-5 times longer than conventional
storage bags.
• Several sizes available to meet your packaging needs.
• Terric for hundreds of applications in and out of the kitchen
• Safe for freezer, refrigeration, and microwave use. Cook in
bags can be boiled.
• Bag thickness available in standard 3mil or heavy duty 4mil.
• Bags are economically priced, giving you a better value.
The chamber of the VP540 can easily vacuum package the following
sizes of vacuum pouches:
Packaging Information

Safety Precautions
For your safety, follow these precautions when using your
VacMaster®VP540:
▪ Read Operator’s Guide carefully before using the machine for
the rst time.
▪ Do not use the VP540 on wet or hot surfaces, or near a heat source.
▪ Do not immerse machine or power cord in water or any other liquid.
▪ Plug VP540 into grounded power sources only.
Do not use extension cord.
▪ To disconnect, unplug directly from power source. Do not disconnect
by pulling cord.
▪ Do not operate machine with damaged power cord.
▪ Only use VacMaster®vacuum pouches and accessories.
▪ Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close supervision is necessary
when used by or near children.
▪ Only use VP540 for its intended use.

Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting
The VacMaster®VP540 has been designed with ease of use and low
maintenance in mind. Follow these few points for years of trouble-free
operation:
Cleaning
◦ UNPLUG your VP540 before cleaning.
◦ Regularly clean machine with damp cloth removing any food debris.
◦ Use only a mild soap or stainless steel cleaner.
◦ DO NOT use any acetone-based or abrasive cleaner on the lid or
other plastic parts. Parts will scratch and discolor.
◦ Wipe the seal bar with damp cloth only. NOTE: Seal bar is removable
for safe cleaning.
Maintenance
Periodically inspect the following items:
◦ Seal bar – inspect the brown Teon tape covering the seal wire. If the
tape becomes burnt or torn, replace.
◦ Lid gasket - make sure gasket and the top of the chamber remains
clean and free of debris.
Troubleshooting
Nothing happens when lid is closed:
1. Make sure power cord is rmly plugged into the electrical outlet.
2. Make sure the power switch is turned “ON”.
3. Make sure the power switch is not damaged in any way.
4. Plug in a different appliance to verify outlet is good.
Low vacuum (vacuum gauge not reading in the “green”):
1. Make sure the open end of the pouch is inside the chamber.
2. Conrm that the lid gasket and sealing area are clean and free of
debris.
3. Increase the vacuum cycle time.
Please read the Operator’s Guide carefully for a full
understanding of your appliance.
Call 800.821.7849 for questions and troubleshooting.

Oil Drain Bolt
Changing/Replacing Oil in Vacuum Pump
1. Run vacuum process a couple of times to “warm up” the oil.
2. Turn off machine and unplug to prevent electrocution.
3. Locate the drain & ll plugs on the side of the unit.
4. Locate drain bolt on underneath side of vacuum pump.
5. For access and ease of draining the oil, position machine so the drain
bolt is “clear” and the dirty oil can be captured.
6. Oil will ow immediately when bolt is removed. Place catch cup
underneath before removing drain bolt.
7. Capture oil from pump. When oil is completely drained, replace and
tighten bolt. (Dispose of old oil properly, according to your local and
state regulations.)
8. Follow the “Adding Oil to Vacuum Pump” instructions at beginning of
manual. Do not use machine until oil has been added.
Vacuum Pump Maintenance
The VP540 vacuum pump requires periodic oil changes. Required oil
change schedule:
◦ First oil change: after 25 hours of VP540 usage.
◦ Future oil changes: change oil after every 60 hours of machine usage.
Using pump site glass, check the oil level and color frequently.
◦ Oil must remain between 1/2 and 3/4 of site glass.
◦ With use, the pump oil will become cloudy, dark or even “milky”.
Once oil becomes discolored, change oil replacing with new VacMaster®
vacuum oil.

Features of VP540
*Filler Plate
*Lid Lock Feature: not to be used during the vacuuming cycle. Used to keep lid closed
when machine is not in use or while machine is in storage.
*Filler Plates: used to “take up space” in the vacuum chamber. Using the plates will result
in a faster vacuum time since there is less air to be removed from chamber. Can also be
used to keep product centered on the seal bar and preventing liquids from escaping.
Seal Bars
Power Switch
*Lid Lock
Control Panel
Silicone Bars

Operating Instructions
1. Select the Pouch
Select the proper size VacMaster®barrier vacuum pouch. Allow a minimum
of 1” to 2” of extra headspace at the top of the pouch to ensure a quality,
positive seal.
2. Plug in machine and switch power “ON”
The “WORKING” indicator light on the control panel will illuminate when the
power is on.
3. Adjust / Set Timing Controls
All adjustments must be made with lid in the OPEN position.
~ Vacuum Time: Press the “SET” button once and you will notice the
“VACUUM” indicator will light. Adjust the vacuum time “up” or “down” by
using the “+” or “-” buttons. For initial test set the vacuum time to 40
seconds. Adjust vacuum accordingly to achieve the vacuum required.
~ Gas Flush: This model does not offer the gas ush option, Press “SET”
button and leave at 0.0 seconds.
~ Sealing Time: Press the “SET” button until the “SEALING” indicator lights.
Adjust the sealing time “up” or “down” using the “+” or “-” buttons. For
initial test set the sealing time to 1.6 seconds. Adjust sealing time
accordingly to achieve a positive seal.
~ Cooling Time: Press the “SET” button until the “COOLING” indicator
lights. Adjust the cooling time “up” or “down” using the “+” or “-” buttons.
For initial test set the cooling time to 2.6 seconds.
~ Press “SET” until all setting lights are clear and the machine is ready to
work. “Ed” will appear on display.

4. Fill pouch and place in Chamber
◦ Remove or replace ller plate to accommodate the product to be vacuumed.
◦ Always use as many ller plates as possible. Lay the pouch at in the
chamber with the opening of the pouch across the seal bar.
◦ Pouch opening should extend across the seal bar by ½” to 1”. Make sure
the opening is at and wrinkle-free.
Note: the entire pouch must remain inside the chamber.
5. Close lid
Hold down rmly until vacuum engages.
6. Process
Closing the lid begins the vacuum cycle.
7. Remove pouch & inspect
Vacuum – check the quality of the vacuum by looking at the tightness of the
pouch and the product. If you notice “air pockets” increase the vacuum time
by a few seconds, test again. This may take up to 60 seconds depending on
pouch size and the volume of product being packaged.
Seal – Inspect the pouch seal.
Note: A positive seal will look “clear” upon inspection. If the seal is “spotty
or incomplete” increase the sealing time by 0.2 seconds.
If the seal is “white or milky” decrease seal time by 0.2 seconds.
Additional Controls:
Vacuum Gauge
Represents the vacuum level inside the chamber.
STOP Button
Stops the vacuum cycle and the pouch will be sealed immediately.
This feature can be used to eliminate or minimize product from escaping
the pouch during the vacuum cycle. It can also be used to control the
vacuum level when packaging softer, fragile items.
Vacuum Cycle
(counts down to zero)
Sealing Cycle
(counts down to zero)
Cooling Cycle
(counts down to zero)
Vacuum Devac
(air is let back into the chamber)
Lid will open automatically when cycle
is complete.
*Keep face and body clear of opening lid.*

Fig. 1
Name Quantity Part
Number
Assembly
Part Number
1 Hexagon Socket Cap Screw 2
2 Upper Platen for Lid 1
3 Chamber Lid 1 979501
4 Lid Gasket 1 979202
5 Top Bar 2 979505
6 Seal Pad 2 976598
7 Seal Wire 2 979109
8 Teflon Tape 4 979822
9 Seal Bar 2
10 Brass Contacts 6
11 Seal Bar Tension Blocks 6
12 Vacuum Chamber 1
13 Lower Platen for Lid 2
Seal Bar
Assembly
(979500)

Fig. 2
Name Quantity
Part
Number
Assembly
Part Number
1 Instrument Panel 1 979125 2 Vacuum Gauge 1
979126
3 Circuit Board 1
979127
4 Cover Plate 1 5 Cable Sheath 1 6 Housing Case 1 7 Lid Latch Assembly 1
979170
8 Power Switch Bracket 1
979137
9 Power Switch 1
979138
10 Rear Cover 1 11 Decal, Instrument Panel 1 979124
11

30
Fig. 3
Name Quantity Part
Number
Assembly
Part Number
1 Housing of Electric Box 1 2 Connecting Terminal 1 3 Intermediate Relay 1 979141 4 Control Transformer 1 979139 5 Cover for Electrical Box 1 6 Large Silicone Tube 1 979158 7 Circuit Board Port 1 8 Frame for Wire Holder 1 9 Piston 4 979380
10 Connecting Terminal 1 11 Small Silicone Tube 1 979156 12 Gas Shock 1 979356 13 Lid Hinge 2 979552 14 Lid Hinge Support 2 15 Screw and Nut 2 979357 16 Proximity Switch Seat 1 979354 17 Proximity Switch 1 979355 18 Pull Rod 1 19 Lid Hinge Pin 2 20 Small Silicone Tube 1 979156 21 Combined Solenoid Valve 1 979560 22 Sealing Transformer 1 979540 23 Inner Inlet Ring 1 24 Inlet Ring 1 25 Exhaust Tube 1 26 Through-Tube Connector 1 27 Vacuum Pump 1 979320 28 Bottom Plate 1 29 Wheel Casters 4 979395 30 Shoulder Bol
t
2 979358

Notes

ARY, Inc.
P. O. Box 412888
Kansas City, MO 64141
800.821.7849
All Rights reserved. GameMaster™, VacMaster®, VacStrip®, Total Freshness System™and Commercial Culinary Concepts are
trademarks or registered trademarks of ARY, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
Patent #5,239,808
www.VacMasterFresh.com
Limited Warranty
ARY, Inc. a distributor and manufacturer of vacuum packaging and other machines
(collectively, the “Goods”), extends to the purchaser of the Goods a Limited One Year
Warranty, from the receipt of the Goods, under terms and conditions set out herein.
All Goods sold by ARY, Inc. are warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship at the time of delivery to purchaser. Defective material may be returned
to ARY, Inc. after inspection by an agent of ARY, Inc. and upon receipt from ARY, Inc. of
shipping instructions specic to the defective Goods authorized by ARY, Inc. to be returned.
ARY, Inc. at its sole option, may either (i) replace or repair any defective materials and
workmanship (and return the Goods to purchaser without charge), (ii) refund the purchase
price, or (iii) grant a reasonable allowance with the foregoing procedure.
This warranty is subject to the following limitations:
i. ARY, Inc.’s responsibility and the purchaser’s exclusive remedy under this warranty is
limited to the repair or replacement of defects in material and workmanship, refund of the
purchase price, or grant of a reasonable allowance on account of such defects, all as set
forth above. ARY, Inc. is not responsible for any consequential damages resulting from the
breach of this or any other express or implied warranty with respect to the Goods.
ii. This express warranty is the only warranty applicable. It excludes all other express oral
or written warranties and all warranties implied by law with respect to the Goods, including
any warranties or merchantability or tness for a particular purpose.
iii. Every claim under this warranty shall be deemed waived by purchaser unless made in
writing within one (1) year of the receipt of the Goods to which such claim relates.
iv. This warranty, as to the Goods, is void (a) to repairs made by anyone other than ARY,
Inc. without prior authorization from ARY, Inc., (b) to performance of any system of which
ARY, Inc.’s Goods are a component part, (c) to deterioration by corrosion or any cause of
failure other than defect of material or workmanship, (d) to any components of the Goods,
including, without limitation, Teon tape, lid gaskets and seal wire, or (e) if any of the Goods
or parts thereof have been tampered with or altered by someone other than ARY, Inc., or
subjected to misuse, neglect, abuse, or misuse in application.
ARY, Inc.’s maximum liability hereunder, arising from any cause whatsoever, whether based
in contract, tort (including negligence), strict liability, or any other theory of law, shall not
exceed the purchase price. A suit based on any aforementioned cause of action must be
commenced within one year from the date said action accrues.