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Cuisinart SS-21 Coffee Center 10 Cup Thermal Coffeemaker and Single Serve

Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-PRODUCT

Product Information

SS-21 SERIES Coffee Maker

The SS-21 SERIES Coffee Maker is a high-quality appliance designed to brew delicious coffee with convenience and safety in mind. Please read the instruction booklet carefully before using the product to ensure proper usage and enjoyment.

Specifications

  • Model: SS-21 SERIES
  • Power: 1200W
  • Capacity: 12 cups
  • Colour: Black
  • Dimensions: 10″ x 8″ x 12″

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Guidelines

Before operating the coffee maker, please adhere to the following safety precautions:

  1. Read all instructions carefully.
  2. Avoid touching hot surfaces; always use handles and knobs.
  3. Do not place the appliance on a wet or cold surface.
  4. Do not use cracked or damaged carafes.
  5. Avoid overfilling the water reservoir with only water.
  6. Use only recommended cleaning methods for the carafe, resting plate, and drip tray.
  7. Do not remove the base panel; seek authorized personnel for repairs.
  8. Avoid obstructing airflow beneath the coffeemaker.
  9. Operate the appliance in a suitable location, avoiding appliance garages or under wall cabinets.
  10. Only use capsules intended for this coffee maker; do not force ill-fitting capsules.

Special Cord Set Instructions

To prevent entanglement or tripping hazards, follow these guidelines for cord usage:

  • Use the provided short power cord to reduce risks.
  • If using an extension cord, ensure it meets the electrical rating requirements.
  • Avoid draping cords over countertops or tabletops where they can be pulled or tripped over.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can I use the coffee maker without water?

A: No, always ensure the water reservoir is filled with water before brewing to avoid damage to the appliance.

Q: How often should I clean the coffee maker?

A: Regularly clean the carafe, resting plate, and drip tray as per the cleaning instructions provided in the manual to maintain optimal performance.

Q: Can I use the coffee maker to brew tea?

A: This appliance is designed for brewing coffee only. Do not use it to brew tea or any other liquids.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be taken to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or injury to persons, including the following:

  1. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
  2. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles and knobs.
  3. To protect against electric shock, do not place the cord, plug, or base unit in water or other liquids.
  4. This appliance should not be used by or near children or individuals with certain disabilities.
  5. Unplug from the outlet when either the appliance or display clock is not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
  6. Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Return the appliance to the nearest Cuisinart Repair Center for examination, repair, and electrical or mechanical adjustment.
  7. The use of accessory attachments not recommended by Cuisinart may cause injuries.
  8. Do not use outdoors.
  9. Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
  10. Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
  11. Always fill the water reservoir first, then plug the cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, push the BREW/OFF button, then remove the plug from the wall outlet.
  12. Do not use this appliance for other than its intended use.
  13. Snap the lid securely onto the carafe before serving any beverages.
  14. Scalding may occur if the lid is removed during the brewing cycle.
  15. The glass carafe is designed for use with this appliance only. It must never be used on the range top.
  16. Do not set a hot carafe on a wet or cold surface.
  17. Do not use a cracked carafe or a carafe with a loose or weakened handle.
  18. Do not lift handle to open the lid of the coffeemaker while brewing is in progress.
  19. Do not overfill the water reservoir. Use ONLY WATER in this appliance! Do not put any other liquids or foods in the water reservoir except as instructed in the cleaning instructions in this guide.
  20. Do not clean the carafe, resting plate, or single-serve drip tray with harsh cleansers, steel wool pads, or other abrasive materials.
  21. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE BASE PANEL. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REPAIR SHOULD BE DONE ONLY BY AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL.
  22. Do not place cloth or otherwise restrict airflow beneath coffeemaker.
  23. Use only the Cuisinart® Gold-Tone Commercial-Style Filter or standard cone-shaped paper filter with this unit. Other gold-tone permanent filters may cause the Coffeemaker to overflow.
  24. Do not operate your appliance in an appliance garage or under a wall cabinet. When storing in an appliance garage, always unplug the unit from the electrical outlet. Not doing so could create a risk of fire, especially if the appliance touches the walls of the garage or the door touches the unit as it closes.
  25. Only use capsules intended for this appliance. If the capsule does not fit, do not force the capsule into the appliance.
  26. WARNING: To avoid the risk of injury, do not open the brew chamber during the brew process.
  27. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
  28. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
    SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
    FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY

WARNING: RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK

  • The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of fire or electric shock to persons.
    The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

SPECIAL CORD SET INSTRUCTIONS

A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the risks resulting from becoming entangled in or tripping over a longer cord.
Longer extension cords may be used if care is exercised.

SPECIAL CORD SET INSTRUCTIONS

  • A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the risks resulting from becoming entangled in or tripping over a longer cord.
  • Longer extension cords may be used if care is exercised.
  • If a long extension cord is used, the marked electrical rating of the extension cord must be at least as great as the electrical rating of the appliance, and the longer cord should be arranged so that it will not drape over the countertop or tabletop, where it can be pulled on by children or tripped over.

NOTICE
This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug will fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not modify the plug in any way.

OPERATING NOTICE

Clogging and backing up of water and/or coffee in the filter basket can occur under any or a combination of any of the following conditions: the use of too finely ground coffee; using two or more paper filters; using the gold-tone filter in conjunction with a paper filter; not properly cleaning coffee grounds from the gold-tone filter; or allowing coffee grounds to spill over the filter.
Caution: Never open the filter basket during the brewing cycle, even if no water is draining from the filter basket, because extremely hot water/coffee can spill out from the filter basket and cause injury. If water/coffee is not draining from the filter basket during the brewing cycle, unplug the unit and wait 10 minutes before opening and checking the filter basket.

WARNING
RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

  • WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
  • DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
  • NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
  • REPAIR SHOULD BE DONE BY AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY

UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Place the box on a large, sturdy, flat surface.
  2. Remove the instruction book and any other literature.
  3. Turn the box so that the back side of the coffeemaker is down, and slide the coffeemaker from the box.
  4. After the coffeemaker has been removed, place the box out of the way and lift off the packing material.
  5. Grasp the carafe by its handle, remove it from the resting plate, and remove the polybag.
  6. Remove the polybag covering the coffeemaker.
  7. Save all packing materials in case you have to ship the machine in the future.
    KEEP ALL PLASTIC BAGS AWAY FROM CHILDREN.

THE QUEST FOR THE PERFECT CUP OF COFFEE

ELEMENT 1: WATER
Hot beverages are made up primarily of water. If water doesn’t taste good from the tap, it won’t taste good in your drink. Cuisinart includes charcoal water filters in its water reservoirs to remove chlorine, bad tastes, and odors for the purest flavors every time you brew.

ELEMENT 2: COFFEE
The flavor of your beverage comes from the coffee, tea, cocoa — or whatever you’re brewing. To achieve the best taste, always use the best ingredients. Select fresh, high-quality beans or ground coffee, and only the best single-serve capsules.

ELEMENT 3: GRIND
The grind of coffee or the refinement of tea leaves is critical for proper flavor extraction. Pre-ground ingredients in top-quality single-serve capsules ensure excellent, flavorful results. When using beans or pre-ground coffee to brew into the carafe or use in the HomeBarista® Reusable Filter Cup, the grind is just as critical. If it’s too fine, over-extraction will result in bitterness and may clog the filter. If too coarse, maximum flavor is not extracted. We recommend a medium-fine grind.

ELEMENT 4: PROPORTION
Coffee that is too strong or too weak is always a disappointment. Follow the recommended portions of ground coffee in the instructions under Brewing Coffee for the drip side or under Brewing with a Reusable Filter Cup for the single-serve side. You can later adjust the amount to suit your taste.

10-CUP COFFEEMAKER FEATURES AND BENEFITS

  1. Coffeemaker Reservoir Cover
    Flips back for easy filling.
  2. Coffeemaker Water Reservoir (not shown)
    With water-level indicator window.
  3. Showerhead (not shown)
    Distributes water evenly over coffee, reducing temperature loss as water passes through grounds.
  4. Coffeemaker Control Panel
    See detailed illustration, page 7.
  5. Brew PauseTM
    Stops flow of coffee from basket when carafe is removed from the resting plate, so a cup can be poured mid-brew.
  6. Thermal Carafe
    An easy-pour, dripless, double-wall insulated, 10-cup thermal carafe with ergonomic handle that keeps coffee hot up to 4 hours.
  7. Charcoal Water Filter Holder
    Holds filter firmly in place.
  8. Charcoal Water Filter
    Eliminates chlorine, bad tastes, and odors from tap water.
  9. Resting Plate
    Scratch resistant with nonstick coating.
  10. Filter Basket (not shown)
    Holds a #4 paper filter or a permanent filter.
  11. Filter Basket Holder (not shown)
  12. Ready Tone (not shown)
    Signals the end of the brew cycle with five beeps.
  13. Power Loss Backup System (not shown)
    One-minute protection if a breaker trips, unit is unplugged, or power fails. Holds all programmed information, including time of day and AUTO ON time.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-1
  14. Brewer Handle
  15. Brew Head
  16. Brewing Chamber
    Holds Removable Capsule Holder or reusable filter cup.
  17. Display
    Displays brew size (4 oz, 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz, or 12 oz) when in POD mode and the ADD WATER indicator.
  18. Flip-Down Shelf
  19. Removable Drip-Tray Plate
  20. Removable Drip Tray
  21. Charcoal Water Filter Holder
  22. Charcoal Water Filter
  23. Reservoir Lid
  24. 42-Oz Removable Water Reservoir
  25. Removable Capsule Holder
  26. HomeBarista® Reusable Filter Cup
  27. Power Cord (not shown)
  28. Energy-Saving Mode (not shown) Unit lights will dim after 30 minutes of being idle. To reactivate, press any button.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-2

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CONTROL PANEL
10-CUP COFFEEMAKER CONTROLS
Detailed programming and use instructions are on pages 9–11.

  1. HR and MIN Buttons
    Use to set hours and minutes for time of day and AUTO ON times.
  2. Blue Backlit Display
    Displays time of day and AUTO ON times. NOTE: Backlit display can be turned on or off. Press and hold HR and MIN at the same time.
  3. BOLD Cup Setting with Indicator
    Use to select bolder coffee flavor strength.
  4. Ready TONE Button
    Press TONE to turn on/off for audible alert when brew cycle is complete.
  5. CLEAN Indicator
    Indicates time to clean coffeemaker to remove calcium buildup.
  6. OVER ICE Button
    Adjusts brew process to maximize coffee flavor ideal for making iced coffee.
  7. BREW/OFF Button
    Turns coffeemaker on and off for brewing. Activates and deactivates AUTO ON feature.
  8.  Function Knob
    • a. PROG
      Select to program AUTO ON time. Coffeemaker brew time can be programmed up to 24 hours in advance.
    • b. AUTO ON
      Select to automatically start brewing coffee at the time you’ve programmed.
    • c. CLOCK
      Select to set time of day.
    • d. BREW
      Select to begin brew cycle when BREW/OFF button is pressed.
  9. TONE Button
    Press to activate Carafe Brew mode.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-3
  10. POD Button
    Press once to activate single-serve side. Use to select desired size of single-serve brew (4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 oz).
  11. OVER ICE Button
    Adjusts the brew process to maximize coffee flavor ideal for iced coffee.
  12. Blue Backlit Display
    When in POD brew mode:
    • a. Will display the last brew size selected. To change the brew size, press the POD button continuously to scroll through size options.
    • b. The Add Water icon indicates the need to add water to the reservoir.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-4

CHARCOAL WATER FILTER
INSERTING THE WATER FILTER

  1. Remove the filter from the polybag and soak, fully immersed, in cold tap water for 15 minutes.
  2. Lift the water filter holder out of the water reservoir on the 10-cup coffeemaker side.
  3. Press down on the filter compartment and pull toward you to open.
  4. Place the filter into the holder and snap closed. Be careful: Improper placement can tear the filter skin.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-5
  5. Flush the filter by running cold tap water through the holes in the bottom of the compartment for 10 seconds.
  6. Allow the filter to drain completely.
  7. Slide the water filter holder back into the channel in the water reservoir, pushing down to the base of the unit.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-6
    NOTE: Repeat steps 1-7 above on the single-serve side.
    NOTE: We recommend changing the water filter every 60 days or after 60 uses, and more often if you have hard water.
    Replacement filters can be purchased in stores, by calling Cuisinart Consumer Service, or at www.cuisinart.com.

SETTING UP YOUR 10-CUP COFFEEMAKER

INITIAL CLEANING
Perform an initial cleaning before making your first beverage. Follow these instructions, without adding coffee.

  1. Insert charcoal water filter if you haven’t already. Instructions at left.
  2. Fill the water reservoir.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-7
  3. Make sure the carafe is in place.
  4. If you haven’t already, plug the power cord into an independent outlet.
  5. Turn the function knob to BREW.
  6. Press the BREW/OFF button and allow brew cycle to run.
  7. The one-time cleaning process is complete. Discard the hot water. Your coffeemaker is ready to use.

PROGRAMMING YOUR 10-CUP COFFEEMAKER

SETTING THE CLOCK

  • When the coffeemaker is plugged in, 12:00 will flash.
  • Turn the function knob to CLOCK
  • Press HR and MIN buttons to select the desired time. If 12:00 stops flashing, simply press and hold the HR or MIN button to return to flashing Time Set mode. Hold buttons down to scroll through the digits,
    or press and release to advance one digit at a time. When scrolling, the numbers will advance slowly and then speed up. When the number displayed approaches the desired time, press and release to advance one digit at a time. Be sure the PM indicator is on if a PM time is desired.
  • To finish setting the clock, turn the function knob to any other setting or simply wait until the numbers stop blinking.

SETTING THE AUTO ON TIME
When you turn the function knob to PROG, the previously selected AUTO ON time or the default time (12:00) will flash.

  1. Turn the function knob to PROG
    Use the HR and MIN buttons as above to program your start-brew time.
  2. Turn the function knob to AUTO ON
    Press the BREW/OFF button to activate the program. When you press BREW/OFF, the AUTO ON light will illuminate, indicating the AUTO ON function has been activated. LCD will display the current time.
  3. AUTO ON brew cycle begins
    The CARAFE button indicator light will come on, and the BREW/OFF button indicator light will flash slowly when the brew cycle begins at the time you have selected. When the brew cycle ends, CARAFE and BREW/OFF button indicator lights will turn off, and five beeps sound if TONE is on, indicating the coffeemaker is ready for the next brew.
    NOTE: To start brew time at the same time the next day, simply make sure the function knob is at AUTO ON, and press and release BREW/OFF once more. The AUTO ON light will turn on.

TURNING OFF THE READY TONE ALERT
Press the TONE button to turn OFF the audible alert when brew cycle is complete. To turn the TONE alert back on, simply press the TONE button again.

BREWING COFFEE
Follow instructions in Setting Up Your 10-Cup Coffeemaker on page 9.

  1. Insert the charcoal water filter
    Follow directions for the preparation and insertion of the filter on page 9.
  2. Fill the water reservoir
    Open the coffeemaker reservoir cover by lifting it up. Pour in the desired amount of water, using the water level indicator located at the side of the coffeemaker.
  3. Before brewing
    Make sure the thermal carafe is in position on the resting plate and the top cover is closed. Plug the cord into an electrical outlet.
  4. Set preferences
    a. Push the BOLD button if you would like a stronger brew. BOLD button indicator light will illuminate.
    NOTE: This feature can only be activated when brewing hot coffee in CARAFE mode.
    b. Activate OVER ICE function to prepare iced coffee. See page 11 for detailed instructions. NOTE: BOLD will be disabled when in OVER ICE mode.
  5. Add ground coffee
    Remove the filter basket by grasping the handle and lifting straight up. Insert a #4 paper filter or permanent filter. Be sure that a paper filter is completely open and fully inserted in the basket. It may help to fold and flatten the seams of a paper filter beforehand. Add 1 level scoop of ground coffee per cup. Adjust the amount according to taste.
    NOTE: The maximum capacity for ground coffee is 15 tablespoons for this coffeemaker. Exceeding this amount may cause overflow if the coffee is too finely ground.
    Replace the filter basket in the filter basket holder, and press firmly on the cover to be sure it closes securely.
    Note: When brewing iced coffee, add ice cubes directly into the carafe prior to brewing. Follow the recommended recipe below and adjust according to taste.
    • Brewed Coffee 10 Cups
    • Water 6 Cups (30 oz.)
    • Coffee 10 scoops (60 g)
    • Ice 25 cubes
  6. Brewing coffee
    Turn the function knob to BREW, and press the CARAFE button and BREW/OFF button; the CARAFE button indicator light will go on and the BREW/OFF button indicator light will flash slowly. Or set
    the AUTO ON function (above left) and the AUTO ON indicator will light.
  7. After brewing
    When the brewing cycle has been completed, coffee will continue to stream from the filter for several seconds.
    When streaming completely stops, five beeps will sound, and you can now enjoy your coffee.
    NOTE: Reservoir cover may be hot during and directly after brewing. Wait at least 10 minutes before opening.

BREWING OVER ICE
The OVER ICE feature adjusts the brew process to maximize coffee flavor ideal for making iced coffee. Either brew coffee directly over ice or add ice to coffee after it is brewed.

  1. Fill the water reservoir
    Open the coffeemaker reservoir cover by lifting it up. Pour in the desired amount of water, using the water level indicator located at the side of the coffeemaker.
  2. Add ice
    Fill the thermal carafe with ice. Make sure the thermal carafe is in position on the resting plate and the top cover is closed. NOTE: Adjust amount of ice based on personal preference. Adding too much ice could impact the overall flavor of the coffee.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-8
  3. Choose preferences
    Press CARAFE and OVER ICE. The LED indicator lights will illuminate, indicating the function is active.
    NOTE: BOLD will be inactive in OVER ICE brew mode.
  4. Brewing
    Follow steps 5 through 7 in Brewing Coffee on page 10 to complete OVER ICE brewing.
  5. After brewing
    The coffeemaker will automatically enter standby mode after brewing is complete.

BREW PAUSE™ FEATURE
This feature interrupts the flow of coffee from the basket to let you pour that first cup mid-brew. Because the flavor profile of coffee brewed at the start of a cycle differs from that brewed toward the end, be aware that using this feature will weaken the flavor strength of the finished pot.
NOTE: Removing carafe for more than 30 seconds may cause filter basket to overflow.

10-CUP COFFEEMAKER CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

  • Always turn unit off and remove the plug from the electrical outlet before cleaning.
  • Lift up the coffeemaker reservoir cover. Remove and discard the paper filter and ground coffee. The filter basket can be washed in warm, soapy water and rinsed thoroughly, or cleaned in the upper rack of the dishwasher. Dry all parts after use.
  • Do not put any water in the unit once the filter basket has been removed.
  • Wipe the area under the filter basket with a damp cloth.
  • Remove the carafe from the resting plate. Discard any remaining coffee. The carafe and lid can be washed in warm, soapy water and rinsed thoroughly, or placed in a dishwasher. The carafe and carafe lid should be placed on the upper rack only.
  • Do not use any scouring agents or harsh cleansers on any part of the coffeemaker.
  • Never immerse base unit in water or other liquids. To clean base, simply wipe with a clean, damp cloth and dry before storing. Fingerprints and other blemishes on the housing can be washed off with soap and water or a nonabrasive cleaning solution. Wipe resting plate with a clean, damp cloth. Never use rough, abrasive materials or cleansers to clean the heater plate. Do not dry the inside of the water reservoir with a cloth, as lint may remain.

DESCALING
Descaling refers to the removal of calcium deposits that form over time on the metal parts of the coffeemaker.

To Descale Your Coffeemaker
Depending on the mineral content of water in your area, calcium deposits (scale) may build up in your coffeemaker. Though scale is not toxic, it can affect performance. Descaling the coffeemaker when the indicator signals it is time to do so will help protect the heating element and other parts that come into contact with water.
For optimal performance, descale coffeemaker every three to six months. If calcium deposits build up faster, the CLEAN button indicator light will illuminate, indicating the coffeemaker should be descaled.
To clean:

  1. Remove the charcoal water filter from the holder. Fill the water reservoir to capacity with a mixture of 1⁄3 white vinegar and 2⁄3 water.
  2. Turn the function knob to BREW, and press and hold the CLEAN button. When the CLEAN LED indicator flashes, the coffeemaker is in CLEAN mode. Release the button.
  3. When the cycle is completed, five beeps will sound and the coffeemaker will enter standby mode.
  4. If the CLEAN indicator illuminates once more, repeat the cleaning procedure with a fresh solution of vinegar and water. NOTE: One cleaning cycle is usually sufficient.
  5. When the CLEAN indicator remains off, run one cycle with a full reservoir of fresh cold water to rinse the unit.
  6. Return the charcoal water filter to the holder inside the water reservoir and your coffeemaker is ready to brew!

MAINTENANCE

Any other servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative.

SETTING UP YOUR SINGLE-SERVE COFFEEMAKER INITIAL CLEANING
Perform an initial cleaning before making your first beverage. Follow these instructions, without inserting a capsule.

  1. Insert the charcoal water filter if you haven’t already. Instructions on page 9.
  2. Remove the water reservoir from the unit.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-9
  3. Fill the reservoir in the sink and put back on the unit.
  4. If you haven’t already, plug the power cord into an independent outlet.
  5. Open and close the brew head. Do not add a capsule.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-10
  6. Place a mug on the drip tray.
  7. Press the POD button and toggle through brew sizes to get to 10 oz cup. Press the BREW/OFF button. The indicator light will flash slowly, and the hot water will start to dispense momentarily.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-11
  8. The one-time cleaning process is complete. Discard the hot water. Your brewer is ready to use.

USING THE SINGLE-SERVE COFFEEMAKER

Follow instructions in Setting Up Your Single-Serve Coffeemaker above.

BREWING

  1. Remove water reservoir to fill.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-12
  2. Add water to the 42-oz water reservoir. Replace on the unit.
  3. Place a mug on the drip tray.
    NOTE: Adjust positioning of the mug depending on size and the selected brew amount. Shelf flips down to accommodate shorter mugs, and the drip tray can be removed to accommodate most travel mugs
  4. Select a capsule.
    NOTE: Do not remove the foil lid or puncture the capsule.
  5. Open the brew head and place a capsule in the brewing chamber. Make sure to press the capsule down completely in place. Close the brew head.
    CAUTION: There are two sharp needles in the brewing chamber that puncture the capsule, one above and one below. To avoid risk of injury, do not put your fingers in the capsule brewing chamber.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-13
  6. Press the POD button once to enter single-serve mode. The POD button indicator light will turn on and the LCD display will show the default brew size 8 oz or the previously used setting.
    NOTE: The ADD WATER indicator will appear on the LCD when the water level is below 10.5 oz and no brewing can be done. To activate the single-serve mode, simply fill the water reservoir and press the POD button to continue to brew as usual.
    a. OVER ICE
    For OVER ICE brewing, add ice to a mug or iced coffee cup of your choice. Press the OVER ICE button after choosing pod size and the OVER ICE indicator will illuminate.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-14
  7. To change the brew size, press the POD button continuously to scroll through size options until the desired cup size setting is displayed on the LCD display (4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 oz).Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-15
  8. Press the BREW/OFF button to begin the brewing process. The beverage will start to dispense momentarily.
    NOTE: To cancel brewing, simply press the BREW/OFF once again and the brewing process will be stopped.
    CAUTION: There is very hot water in the capsule chamber during the brewing process. To avoid risk of injury, do not lift the handle or open the capsule chamber during the brewing process.
  9. Once fully dispensed, all of the lights will go off and the LCD will display the current time. Lift the handle, then remove and dispose of the used capsule. Close the brew head.
    CAUTION: Capsule will be hot.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-16
  10. Enjoy your cup of coffee! Your brewer is ready to use again.
    NOTE: When Add Water appears in Clock Display, no brewing can be done. After you refill the reservoir, your unit is ready to brew.

BREWING WITH THE HOMEBARISTA® REUSABLE FILTER CUP
The single-serve coffeemaker can be used with a reusable coffee capsule, which allows you to use your own ground coffee.
Try the Cuisinart® HomeBarista® Reusable Filter Cup included with your brewer for your favorite coffee or tea.

  1. Fill the filter basket within the reusable capsule with ground coffee, making sure not to fill past the max indicator. Adjust the amount to your personal preference. Do not tamp the grounds. Make sure there are no grounds remaining on the upper rim of the filter basket. Close lid.
    NOTE: Max fill is 2.5 scoops or 15 grams.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-17
  2. Remove the capsule holder from the brewing chamber by pulling toward you.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-18
    • a. Drop the reusable coffee capsule into the brewing chamber. There is no need to snap it into place.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-19
    • b. Follow brewing instructions on pages 13–14 to begin brew cycle
      NOTE: To cancel brewing, simply press the BREW/OFF button once again and the brewing process will be stopped.
      CAUTION: There are two sharp needles in the brewing chamber that puncture the capsule, one above and one below. To avoid risk of injury, do not put your fingers in the brewing chamber.
  3. After brewing, raise the handle and remove the reusable coffee capsule. Use caution as the reusable coffee capsule will be hot.
  4. Replace the capsule holder, ensuring that the arrow on the capsule rim aligns with the arrow on the brewing chamber. Gently push the capsule holder to snap into place.
    NOTE: This coffeemaker is compatible with most reusable coffee capsules.

SINGLE-SERVE COFFEEMAKER CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

CLEANING EXTERNAL PARTS
We recommend regular cleaning of the coffeemaker’s external components.

  1. Never immerse the coffeemaker in water or other liquids. The housing and other external components may be cleaned with a soapy, damp, nonabrasive cloth.
  2. To remove the drip tray, simply lift it toward you, keeping it level at all times in order to prevent spills. The drip tray and drip-tray plate are dishwasher safe. Do not clean the drip tray with cleansers, steel wool pads, or other abrasive materials.

CLEANING THE CAPSULE HOLDER
CAUTION: There are sharp needles that puncture the capsule above and below.
To avoid risk of injury, do not put your fingers in the capsule brewing chamber.

  1. The capsule holder is top-shelf dishwasher safe (use a low-temperature cycle). To remove, lift the handle to open the brewing chamber. Grasp the top of the capsule holder and pull up.
  2. Cleaning the funnel
    To remove the funnel from the capsule holder, hold the funnel in your left hand, twist the bottom away from you slightly, and pull away from the capsule holder to remove. The funnel is top-rack dishwasher safe. NOTE: The funnel may be tight the first few times you remove it; this is normal and will loosen with continued use.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-20
  3. Cleaning the exit needle
    The exit needle is located on the inside bottom of the capsule holder assembly.
    Should a clog arise because of coffee grounds, it can be cleaned using a paper clip or similar tool. Remove the capsule holder from the unit, then remove the funnel from the capsule holder and insert the paper clip into the exit needle to loosen the clog and push it out.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-21
    Replace the funnel onto the capsule holder by lining up the tabs in the funnel with the notches on the capsule holder, and then twist toward you until the funnel locks into place. After cleaning, replace the capsule holder, being sure to align the arrow on the capsule holder rim with the arrow on the brewing chamber.
  4. Cleaning the piercing needle
    The piercing needle is located on the inside of the brewing chamber. Should a clog arise because of coffee grounds, it can be cleaned using a paper clip or similar tool. Insert the paper clip to loosen the clog and push it out.Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-22

CLEANING THE HOMEBARISTA® REUSABLE FILTER CUP
Simply dispose of coffee grounds, then hand-wash both the filter cup and filter, or clean on the top rack of a dishwasher.

CLEANING THE WATER RESERVOIR

  • It is normal over time for discoloration, spotting, or staining to appear in the water reservoir. Results will vary depending on the mineral content of the water used, but will not affect the operation of the brewer. However, be sure to clean the water reservoir regularly to minimize buildup.
  • Clean inside the water reservoir with a damp, lint-free cloth as necessary.
  • Descaling Your Single-Serve Brewer
  • Mineral content in water varies from place to place. Depending on the mineral content of the water in your area, calcium deposits or scale may build up in your coffeemaker. Though scale is nontoxic, it can hinder coffeemaker performance. Descaling your coffeemaker will help maintain the heating element and other parts that come in contact with water.
  • For optimal performance, descale your coffeemaker every three to six months. It is possible for calcium deposits to build up faster, making it necessary to descale more often. When POD and OVER ICE indicators flash upon pressing the POD button for single-serve use, this indicates the need to descale.
  • NOTE: Before descaling your coffeemaker, remember to remove the charcoal water filter from the water filter holder in the water reservoir.
  • To begin, you will need the following:
    • 13 oz of distilled white vinegar
    • 26 oz of water
    • 16 oz ceramic mug or container
    •  not use a paper cup)
    • Access to a sink

Step 1: First Vinegar Rinse

  1. Fill the water reservoir with 13 oz of white vinegar and 26 oz of water.
  2. Place the ceramic mug or container on the drip tray.
  3. Press and hold the POD and OVER ICE buttons for 2 seconds to start the descale function.
  4. Discard contents of the mug into the sink.
  5. Repeat until the ADD WATER indicator appears in the LCD screen.
  6. When descaling is complete, all LED lights will be off.
  7. Discard any remaining diluted vinegar into the sink.

Step 2: Fresh Water Rinse

  1. Repeat Step 1 three times, using fresh water in place of vinegar.
  2. This will clean the coffeemaker plumbing and remove any residual vinegar taste.

MAINTENANCE
Any other servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Cuisinart-SS-21-Coffee-Center-10-Cup-Thermal-Coffeemaker-and-Single-Serve-FIG-23

LIMITED THREE-YEAR WARRANTY

Limited Three-Year Warranty

  • This warranty is available to U.S. consumers only who purchase products directly from Cuisinart® or an authorized Cuisinart® reseller only. You are a consumer if you own a Cuisinart® Coffee Center® that was purchased at retail for personal, family, or household use.
  • Except as otherwise required under applicable law, this warranty is not available to retailers or other commercial purchasers or owners or consumers who purchase from unauthorized Cuisinart® resellers. We warrant that your Cuisinart® Coffee Center® will be free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal home use for 3 years from the date of original purchase.
  • We recommend that you visit our website, https://cuisinart.registria.com, for a fast, efficient way to complete your product registration. However, product registration does not eliminate the need for the consumer to maintain the original proof of purchase in order to obtain the warranty benefi ts. In the event that you do not have proof of purchase date, the purchase date for purposes of this warranty will be the date of manufacture.

CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS ONLY
California law provides that for In-Warranty Service, California residents have the option of returning a nonconforming product (A) to the store where it was purchased or (B) to another retail store that sells Cuisinart products of the same type. The retail store shall then, according to its preference, either repair the product, refer the consumer to an independent repair facility, replace the product, or refund the purchase price less the amount directly attributable to the consumer’s prior usage of the product. If neither of the above two options results in the appropriate relief to the consumer, the consumer may then take the product to an independent repair facility, if service or repair can be economically accomplished. Cuisinart and not the consumer will be responsible for the reasonable cost of such service, repair, replacement, or refund for nonconforming products under warranty. California residents may also, according to their preference, return nonconforming products directly to Cuisinart for repair or, if necessary, replacement by calling our Consumer Service Center toll-free at 1-800-726-0190. Cuisinart will be responsible for the cost of the repair, replacement, and shipping and handling for such nonconforming products under warranty.

HASSLE-FREE REPLACEMENT WARRANTY
Your ultimate satisfaction in Cuisinart products is our goal, so if your Cuisinart® Coffee Center® should fail within the generous warranty period, we will repair it or, if necessary, replace it at no cost to you. To obtain a return shipping label, visit us at https://www.cuisinart.com/customer-care/product-assistance/product-inquiry/. Or call our Consumer Service Center toll-free at 1-800-726-0190 to speak with a representative.
Your Cuisinart® Coffee Center® has been manufactured to the strictest specifi cations and has been designed for use only in 120-volt outlets and only with authorized accessories and replacement parts. This warranty expressly excludes any defects or damages caused by attempted use of this unit with a converter, as well as use with accessories, replacement parts, or repair service other than those authorized by Cuisinart. This warranty does not cover any damage caused by accident, misuse, shipment, or other than ordinary household use. This warranty excludes all incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of these damages, so these exclusions may not apply to you. You may also have other rights, which vary from state to state. Important: If the nonconforming product is to be serviced by someone other than Cuisinart’s Authorized Service Center, please remind the servicer to call our Consumer Service Center at 1-800-726-0190 to ensure that the problem is properly diagnosed, the product is serviced with the correct parts, and the product is still under warranty.

©2023 Cuisinart Glendale, AZ 85307 Printed in China

23CE088049

F IB-18054-ESP

Documents / Resources

Cuisinart SS-21 Coffee Center 10 Cup Thermal Coffeemaker and Single Serve [pdf] Instruction Manual
SS-21 Coffee Center 10 Cup Thermal Coffeemaker and Single Serve, SS-21, Coffee Center 10 Cup Thermal Coffeemaker and Single Serve, Thermal Coffeemaker and Single Serve, Coffeemaker and Single Serve, Single Serve

References

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