Looking After Your Lava Vacuum Packing Machine
Lava vacuum sealer machines require minimal maintenance. However you should keep the machine as clean as possible as this will prolong its life. Always unplug and switch off the machine before cleaning. Wipe the machine down with a damp cloth making certain that the area around the seals, top and bottom is scrupulously clean. If the seals have become wet or are otherwise contaminated, then you should remove them by gently pulling them out, being careful not to damage them. You can wipe the seals clean and leave them on some kitchen roll to dry overnight if necessary.

In order to create the vacuum, the area around the vacuum bag needs to be sealed when it is clamped under the lid of the machine. This is achieved by using foam rubber sealing strips on the bottom of the machine and on the lid. When they are new they make a perfect seal, but after a year or two of use, the seal becomes less effective as the foam rubber hardens with age. Eventually the seals are no longer airtight and the machine can no longer create a vacuum. You may need to replace the seals on your machine after 12-48 months depending on how much you use the machine and what it is that you pack.

You should also check the liquid trap to make sure that no liquid has found its way in. On Lava models V100, V200, V300, and V333 you can remove the clear plastic liquid trap and wash it under the tap before drying it thoroughly with kitchen roll. When you replace the liquid trap, make sure that you re-fit it properly by pressing it firmly into place. There is a rubber washer which fits around the underside of the lid – this is essential to ensure a proper vacuum seal. Note that whilst the lid may initially appear square it is in fact rectangular in shape and will only fit on properly one way round.

In order to heat seal the bag without sticking to it, the heating element needs to be covered by a non-stick strip which is usually made of Teflon. This will usually last for at least a couple of years but may need replacing after that time.
Your Lava vacuum sealer machine should give several years of service provided that you keep it well maintained and most importantly prevent liquid from filling the liquid trap and then finding its way into the motor.