You’re probably reading this article because you’re interested in troubleshooting FoodSaver vacuum sealers.
That’s good because that’s what we’re going to be talking about.
Caring and maintaining your vacuum sealer is an important part of owning a sealing unit. Versatile and reliable, vacuum sealers are valuable kitchen appliances that can preserve almost any type of meat, veggie, or fruit.
Food items that are vacuum-sealed generally last 5x longer than normal. Not only that, but a good vacuum sealer can prevent freezer burn, dehydration, and bacterial growth, saving you money and time.
However, without proper care and maintenance, any high-end vacuum sealer can malfunction. Instead of calling FoodSaver’s customer service every time a problem arises, read these easy FoodSaver troubleshooting solutions to fix your vacuum sealer.
In this article, we’ll be reviewing quick and simple ways to fix your FoodSaver vacuum sealer.
Is your FoodSaver not vacuuming? Is your LED indicator light not turning off? Will the accessory hose latch onto the vacuum canister, but not a masonry jar?
We’ll be analyzing every problem for a quick and simple FoodSaver troubleshooting.
How To Fix Your Vacuum Sealer: Steps By Steps
Suction Malfunctions
FoodSaver excels at making vacuum sealers with powerful suctions. This is important for avoiding wrinkles and holes in your pouches and bags.
It also sucks out every drop of moisture and space of air, allowing fresher foods and longer-lasting results. Sometimes suction malfunctions arise, which leads to freezer-burned meals and bacterial growth. Sometimes the vacuum doesn’t even activate.
Let’s look at what we can do to fix your vacuum sealer’s suction.
- Problem: The FoodSaver vacuum sealer’s vacuum suction has either weakened or won’t work.
- FoodSaver Troubleshooting Solutions:
1. Is The Lid Fully Closed?
Make sure that the latch is fully closed and clear of debris. If dirt or debris is present then clean it with a damp cloth and close the latch until it clicks.
2. Are The Gaskets Inserted Properly?
Open the lid and check that the gaskets are in place and are clear of debris. If dirt or debris is present then remove the gaskets and clean them. You can reinsert them, but wait for 10 to 20 seconds for expansion if compressed.
3. Is The Accessory Hose Still Attached?
Be sure to detach the accessory hose before starting your vacuum sealer.
If you are using the accessory hose to vacuum seal: Open the bottom panel of the hose and check that the vacuum tubes are still connected. Check that the lid is closed and the LED indicator light is not flashing.
Sealing Malfunctions
People buy vacuum sealers with the sole purpose of sealing and preserving their foods. So, when the “sealing” part of the vacuum sealing process malfunctions, it can be pretty frustrating.
Reliable seals guarantee that air can’t slip-in after vacuuming. It keeps food from becoming dehydrated, freezer-burned, or spoiled.
It also keeps your food fresh while preventing spillage and frustrating messes. A reliable seal makes an exceptional vacuum sealer.
- Problem: The vacuum sealer doesn’t seal well or at all. Sometimes there are wrinkles in the seal that lets in air.
- FoodSaver Troubleshooting Solutions:
1. Is The Vacuum Bag Or Pouch Correctly?
First, try rotating the bag at a 90-degree angle. If the pouch or bag has ridges or textured, the lines should run perpendicular to the strip with the smooth end facing upwards. You can then try to reseal the pouch or bag in a moist setting.
To avoid wrinkles: When you are inserting it, stretch the material until it’s flat. Then curl the rim downward so it slips into the vacuum channel. This should effectively seal the bag or pouch.
2. Did You Overfill The Bag Or Pouch?
There should be three inches (7.62 cm) of extra space between the sealer and food content. If it contains liquid, you can freeze the bag before vacuuming. Slip it in the freezer overnight or for a few hours if you’re in a hurry.
Some vacuum sealers can’t seal liquid-based foods. This can cause malfunctions that the manufacturer’s warranty might not cover. If liquid gets into the pump, you may need to pay repair fees. Check the customer reviews and product overview to determine if your vacuum sealer can seal liquid-based foods.
3. Does The Seal Bar Need To Be Cleaned Or Replaced?
Check the seal bar and gasket for debris. If present, you can clean them with a damp cloth and then reinsert them into the vacuum sealer. Make sure that the seal is not damp during the sealing process. If it is, then pull out the profile, dry it with a cloth, and then reinsert it into the unit.
No Power
Sometimes your vacuum sealer refuses to activate. This is a problem for an obvious reason, but it might have not-so-obvious solutions.
Hopefully, fixing your FoodSaver vacuum sealer won’t cost you any extra money or time. Just in case, let’s look at a few common glitches that might cause your sealing unit to stop working.
- Problem: My vacuum sealer won’t turn on.
- FoodSaver Troubleshooting Solutions:
1. Does The Outlet Work?
Check the outlet before trying anything else. Unplug and then re-plug the cord. If nothing happens, try plugging a different appliance into that outlet. If the other appliance works, then you should try something else. But if the other appliance doesn’t work, then you should try a different outlet.
2. Check The Cord
Firmly attach the cord to the vacuum sealer. You should check the cord for loose wires or gnaw marks made by pets or mice. You may need to purchase a new cord. In the long run, this would be a cheaper and easier option than buying a whole new vacuum sealer or going without.
3. If It Is Battery Powered, Is The Battery Charged?
Many portable vacuum sealers contain batteries. The LED indicator light should light up when the vacuum sealer is charging. If it doesn’t turn on, then it might not be charging. Try jiggling the battery or vacuum sealer until the LED light turns on. If you try this and it still doesn’t work, you might want to consider purchasing a new battery for your vacuum sealer.
Other Issues
No matter how durable and handy they are, FoodSaver vacuum sealers are still simple kitchen appliances. That means they break down, experience malfunctions, and can be down-right frustrating.
Not all problems can lump into suction, sealing, and power failures. In this section, we’ll look at what else can happen and their possible solutions to fix your vacuum sealer.
- Problem: LED “Tray-Full” light won’t turn off.
- FoodSaver Troubleshooting Solution: Dampness along the sensor causes this. First, find a hairdryer or blow dryer and remove the tray inserts. Then blow air along with the sensor and upper area of the tray until it’s dry.
- Problem: Bag Melts
- FoodSaver Troubleshooting Solution: The vacuum sealer may have become too hot for use. Some FoodSaver vacuum sealers can sustain high-usage, while others can’t. Be sure to check the product overview and customer reviews to determine which are best for continuous, repetitive seals. Otherwise, we recommend a 20-30 second cool-down period between sets or sealing processes.
- Problem: Accessory hose won’t latch
- FoodSaver Troubleshooting Solution: Make sure that the vacuum pouch, bag, or canister is the FoodSaver brand. If it’s not, then make sure the vacuum sealer can support non-FoodSaver brand materials. The jar or canister should be unbent and clear of dirt and debris. When sealing jars, you might need to remove the outer ring and just use the flat top.
Customer Service
If your problems persist, call FoodSaver’s customer service at 1-877-777-8042 (U.S).
FoodSaver Troubleshooting Conclusion
FoodSaver vacuum sealers are kitchen appliances and every appliance may experience malfunctions. That doesn’t mean that FoodSaver vacuum sealers are less durable or reliable than other vacuum sealing units.
In fact, FoodSaver appliances tend to receive quite a few positive customer reviews. These vacuum sealers rarely malfunction and tend to focus on easily fixable sensory issues. But, most FoodSaver vacuum sealers come with a 1 or 5-year warranty.
Overall, FoodSaver vacuum sealers contain unique, sturdy, and attractive designs that can provide you years of reliable vacuum sealing.
If you decide to purchase a FoodSaver sealing unit, please tell us about how it works. Did you experience malfunctions or problems?
How did these FoodSaver Troubleshooting solutions help to fix your vacuum sealer? Did the FoodSaver not vacuum like it’s supposed to?
About the Author
Since always, I am passionate about food; I enjoy writing and want to share my passion and offer quality articles to my readers. On Homekitchenland, I like to research, review, and compare kitchen appliances, write product reviews, and develop recipes.
145 Comments
If both of the switches on the side of the unit don’t engage when the lid is pressed down, the seal bar won’t activate. I found this to be an issue if you are on an uneven surface or one of the rubber plugs on the bottom are missing. It might be a good idea to eliminate one of the switches and put the switch in the center of the lid. That way the current will flow into the sealing unit even if both side are slightly uneven.
That’s a good point. A single switch would be easier to use. I think that the switches on both sides of the sealer help to provide more even and level seals. This, in turn, creates smooth, even seals and even fluid distribution during marinades. This can even help prevent accidental splits in the seals. It may take a couple of practice seals, but you’ll get the hang of it.
Hi Heloise,
Could you help me figure out the problem I am having with the “accessory” hose adapter valve? Kim
I have a V4420, having a hose on the left side of the machine, it comes out to seal jars and bags. my problem is, it no longer sucks, I was canning some flour, sugar, corn meal and other dry products and it has sucked this up into the hose and most likely the hose real. How can I clean all this out, I am not afraid to take it apart to clean it, just worried about all the springs and such flying around the room that I will never find again.
Let me know please
Did you ever get this fixed? We’re having the same issue.
My seal button doesn’t work. I previously had a food saver that stopped working after a short time. I had purchased a lot of storage bags, so purchased another machine. I have had it for 2 years but probably only used it 4-5 times because I get frustrated. Today I was able to seal 4 bags, now it won’t work again. I cleaned out the tray but don’t know what else to do.
If it’s capable of vacuuming sealing jars, make sure that the lever or attachment hose is either disconnected or pulled down.
Remember not to overfill your bags. The seal might not work if the bag’s profile is soaked, so try to avoid liquid-based products until you perfect the sealing process. Try to freeze your food for 30 minutes to an hour before sealing. You can also try a different power outlet.
If none of these work, try to clean the seal profile. Most FoodSaver units have a drawer on the bottom of the unit. You’ll see a rubber pad that runs across the unit. This is the seal profile. Try to wipe it with a damp cloth. You may need to replace the profile.
I have a 2 in 1 and use the zipper bags often, however, today the accessory feature does not seal the zipper bags, full or empty, nor will it seal a canister?
a. The accessory feature should be used to seal both zipper bags and canisters. Are you using it with the retractable handheld sealer? Make sure that you’re using the recommended zipper bags so that the handheld sealer latches on securely. You’ll want to hold the handheld sealer in an upright position. You can also check that the gaskets are clean and are in good condition.
Just got my FS2000. Was initially VERY disappointed. The bags would collapse painfully slowly and would never reach sufficient vacuum to trigger the seal operation. I read the manual and all available tips, forums and videos I could find….no help. I then had a light bulb moment. When I unpacked the unit, I installed the accessory vacuum tube because that’s how I used my previous (more expensive) FoodSaver that the FS2000 was replacing. It would operate normally with the tube installed or not…not so with the FS2000. I pulled the accessory tube and BAM! everything works. In none of the troubleshooting tips was there any mention that the tube should ONLY be inserted when using an external accessory. It may seem obvious now but the previous unit didn’t care.
That’s a really good point! Some vacuum sealers have somewhat weak suctions. So, attaching a vacuum tube could cause more harm than good. Do you use the tube to vacuum seal jars?
1. Is The Vacuum Bag Or Pouch Correctly?
Huh?
Consult the user manual to determine which bag or canister your vacuum sealer needs
What’s the fuse reference and we’re I can buy it?
I cannot find out why my seal type, dry or moist, lights blink at the same time. I have looked through out and see no reason. Tray is empty dried it out. Still both lights blinking.
Which vacuum sealer do you have? When do the lights flash? You may need to clean the profile bar. Make sure that you give the sealer at least 20 seconds to cool down between seals. These lights may be warning you that the food sealer is overheating.
I have the same problem plug it in and the lights blink at the same time the bar will not go down to the seal position..
Both lights blinking. Moist and dry.
Won’t work.
Did you find a solution? Having same problem.
That did not help me. I’ve turned it on and off. Unplugged it. Still the lights are blinking.
I am having the same problem as several others. My machine is clean and well maintained. No stickiness or moisture. No damage to cord. Tried several different electrical outlets. I sealed one bag, then the machine failed to do another bag. It suddenly stopped working. The two small setting lights blink Very faintly, barely visible, but the bar will not click down into seal position. The seal or vacuum&seal lights will not light. I have model V3240 and have had it several years (probably since about 2015/16. It has always been carefully maintained with no problem until today. I use it frequently..
Has anyone found a solution to this or do I need to buy a new one? Obviously, it is out of warranty.
I have an FM5400 Series foodSaver. Both the Moist and Dry lights flash simultaneously as soon as it is plugged in. No overheating and not used for a few months. Is there no explanation or fix for this?
Fixed the blinking light issue on mine by bending out the 3 metal electrical tabs where the drip tray connects inside. They were not making good contact with drip tray after cleaning. Unplug machine first. It did not matter how dry the tray was as stated in above comments. Bent tabs out slightly and good to go. Hope this helps. Model FM5380.
THIS WORKED SO FAST THANK YOU
Have you found out why both indicator lights flash? I am having the same problem😞
Mine did this and it was because too much liquid got into the overflow. I took the overflow out, emptied it, but then had to super dry off the inside where the contacts are. Once I got it dry enough, when I put the overflow tray back in, it worked.
Cleaned out the overflow tray which was actually dry but took it out, wiped it out anyway. Still blinking both dry and moist lights. Unplugged, plugged back in. So frustrating. I was using it, no issues, then out of the blue this. If anyone has any suggestions let me know.
Insure that when you cleaned the gaskets and drip tray that you haven’t pushed some crud onto the screws or metal contacts. Make sure the contacts and the three drip tray screws are all clean and dry. Hope that helps you.
I have a Food Saver (Model V1205) which I have not used for a while. The outside of the sealer (black plastic) is very sticky to the touch. Is there a way to clean this? What has caused this? The sealer has not been used that much and is like new. Please advise. Thank you.
I have a V1205 and it has worked just fine since I purchased in 2015 [it was brand new…never used then. still wrapped and packed in the box\] But now I’m having trouble vacuuming mason jars…both large mouth and regular. On here trying to find out why.
I need the same help. Sticky black plastic .
I have series V3400. The upper seal bar appears to be stuck in the down position. The unit does not function or even turn on and I can’t open for cleaning. Any ideas?
I know yours is an old post, but did you ever figure this out? Did you ever find any disassembly guides? Thanks.
I have a FoodSaver V3460. It has gotten to the point that it will not complete the vacuum process. It does pull a nice vacuum but the the “Vacuum Progress” light will not turn on & the machine will just continue to run until I push the “Stop/Seal” button. It then seals the pouch nicely & retains the vacuum. I have cleaned the gaskets by wiping them with a damp cloth but this hasn’t helped. What could be wrong? Do I need a new gasket even though this one appears to be fine?
I was having the exact same problem.
My solution;
1. Remove the two black vacuum seals from the unit.
2. Soak the seals in a bowl of water, massaging the seals under water to get them to take on water (they are a sponge like material).
3. Remove from water and wrap in a paper towel and squeeze lightly to remove excess water.
4. Put the seals back in the unit, make sure they are properly seated in the track.
5. Resume use of your vacuum seal unit.
I was able to seal over twenty bags and it worked faster than ever. It’s like licking your lips before you whistle, the moisture helps make for a better seal. I will also be removing my seals from the tracks when I’m finished and store them loose inside the unit where the bag roll normally goes. That way the seals are not stored in the compressed state and can expand and relax to their original size. Hope this helps!
Thank you this fixed the problem with my machine!!
Thank you!!! That fixed the problem with my Food Saver V3840. Blue progression lights were not working and soaking the foam bottom seal in water and reinserting it into the machine made the difference. Now my Food Saver is working like new.
Hi Eva,
I’m glad that the problem is fixed now 🙂
Thank you. This solved the problem with my V2450. When I pressed the vacuum/seal button, it would vacuum, but not seal. I had to manually press the seal button. This worked, but it lost a little of the vacuum. I followed your instructions, and it is working like new again!
I have a model #V3840 Food Saver (for a number of years) and a few months back the progression blue lights stop working and I had to manually push the seal button after suction, where as before, the shutoff occurred automatically after suction. Soaking the foam vacuum seal (on the bottom) in water for a few minutes and drying off any excess water, my Food Saver now works like new again!!! I called Food Saver a few months prior explaining my issue and they told me no way to fix this particular model and I had to purchase another one. Thank you Jack Duncan for sharing your post!!! 🙂
Hi Jack, when I put the latch down on my FoodSaver the light does not come on….it runs and vacuums the bag but will not shut off. When I unlatch it or push button to stop the air goes back into the bag ; it does not seal. I removed the gaskets as you said but that didn’t help. Any ideas? FoodSaver is NO help whatsoever and I’ve made numerous calls. Not sure anyone works at FS with any knowledge of their product.
Thanks this worked great for my 5 salmon fillets. Water on seals! The answer was so simple. We put a duct tape warning inside for next time to remember!
I am having the same problem and yet to try your fix.
The difference I am having is that I changed out seals for new ones and am still in the same predicament. Also while the ‘vacuum & seal’ button operates the vacuum function the light is also not working. Not sure if it does not illuminate because one half of the button is not working correctly.
Thanks for the tip.
I will report my findings
I have the same problem on my game safer big game food safer I tried everything the said I should check I’m frustated I bought a food sealer from a nother brand and I’m so happy with it The game safer I have is only a year old so I never will by a nother one hope you have more luck with yours
I havev a V3820 and having problems getting it to vacuum. The bag seal works and the gasket surfaces are all spotless. The vacuum process starts but does not continue. It does work erratically. It is 2 years old and has been used sporadically. Hope you can help.
if it’s only 2 years old it should still be under warranty…which I think is 3 years. call FoodSaver to verify & they should tell you to return the product.
I am experiencing the same issue as Jim. Upper seal arm is not releasing and the unit will not unlock. V3460
My V2830 has suction however it does not stop and seal or turn off when using a canister. First light comes on and second light does not. Have to manually turn off or hit seal to stop suction. Can this be fixed?
MY FOOD SAVER MOISTURE LIGHT, AND DRY LIGHT ARE BOTH BLINKING AND WILL NOT SEAL OR CLOSE. THEY WILL NOT QUIT BLINKING EVEN AFTER CLEANING, AND UNPLUGGING.
Having trouble with the V825 that I just got. When trying to seal the first side of custom-cut bag (according to directions, I should have it set to Vacuum and Seal), seal function won’t engage. Motor comes on like it’s trying to vacuum before sealing, but eventually cuts off and seal doesn’t ever engage. What can I do to make it seal the first side of the bag?
V3835 several years old and no problems previous. Vacuum works fine, but now the mechanical part that raises and lowers the heat/seal bar continues to raise and lower (never stops) as soon as the power on button is pushed. Occasionally it will stop and we can get one bag sealed and then the bar begins raising and lowering again non-stop. Problem and repair?
Thank you very much!
I’m having the same problem
Did u ever figure out?
I have a v3825 unit. can the gaskets be removed?.It feels like they will tear.I’am having a vacuum problem.
I have a V3840 unit and it all lights up but when you try to seal a bag nothing happens. All the seals have been cleaned. Any ideas what I can try next?
Norman
I have a V3485 and it will not open for cleaning. When you press the 2 green blocks on the edges, they unlatch, but the unit will not open . Any idea what is wrong?
I recently replaced the seals on my V3230. The door does not shut all the way. The seal is too thick. I have to apply some downward pressure to the door before the latch will catch and lock it down. Then when I press the Vacuum and Seal button it pulls really hard and quickly pulls all the air out, then I can hear a switch, and it releases some air and just keeps vacuuming until I either stop it or push the Seal button.
When mine stops auto-sealing, I remove the foamy gasket and insert 1/8 inch cloth wound elastic string into the slot and replace the gasket. This gives the gasket enough “lift” to allow proper pressure to trigger the seal mechanism. I’m on my 3rd foodsaver and every one of them had the same problem. Do this asap after the thing stops auto-sealing or you’ll end up with a burnt out unit.
There is a black tape where you slide the bag into the sealer. It has come loose and it makes it almost impossible to slide in the bag. Hence, the unit does not work. This is the 2nd. unit I have purchased with this problem. I called Foodsaver & they said to buy a new unit, they don’t make the replacement tape. Any suggestions?
I have the food saver professional II and was making bags from the roll the first 2 were fine on the third after I hit the manual seal button the 3 green progress lights started blinking and wouldn’t stop. I unplugged the unit for 30 mins when I plug it back in the 3 green lights are still flashing thats all it does. I tried pushing the black bag senor button trying to get the machine to reset itself with no results. Is there anyway to fix this problem?
I have a 2000 food saver. Assessory port on the left. The canning jar attachment bhose will not go all the way down thus preventing me from using canning jars. Can you help me?
model number V4925 with accessory vacuum
started to function, but then stopped suctioning totally.
it is as if the hose is no longer attached.
when i turn it off it makes a popping noise inside.
I have a FoodSaver V4440 that my daughter bought for me 2 Christmases ago. I used it a little when I first got it. The following year I used it more after harvesting the garden and that’s when I ran into problems with it turning on. You can stand there and push the on button constantly and it won’t work. I get frustrated and hit the on button with my fist and voila! It turned on! So I did my veggies and just unplugged it to turn it off. Next time I went to use it, it wouldn’t turn on again! I can’t figure out how to get it apart to see what the problem is, what can I do?? Any suggestions besides throwing it out and getting another one? I really like this unit if it would work properly!
Thank yoy!!
Sounds like you may have cracked some component in your vacuum button (which sometimes, hey, does make it turn on!). In order to fix that, you’d need to access the button (in the inside of th machine) and see if smashing it down the other day made any cracks in the plastic. If there are cracks, these will be pretty much impossible to fix, though there may be some workarounds, depending on how clever you are. But until you take the machine apart and access that button from the inside, you won’t know. Good luck!
Food Saver Model V3250 pulls a great vacuum but doesn’t seal the bag fully.
I used on older model Foodsaver for years with no problems. It finally died and I had a couple boxes of Seal a Meal rolls left over. I just bought a brand new Foodsaver V3230. It works every time with the Food Saver brand rolls that came with the unit, but despite trying all my old “tricks” (like moistening the gaskets, spreading the bag flat, etc) I can’t get the Seal a Meal bags to vacuum. Again, the unit works every time with the brand name rolls/bags, but I get no suction at all from the bags made from the Seal a Meal rolls. As far as I can tell, the Seal a Meal rolls make bags with a good seal. I follow the same process for both types. Anyone have any ideas?
Apparently I can’t spell my own name. Its Derek (but you probably already guessed that!)
I would like to know if you can give me any advice please?
The Compact 11 – Vac550/Vac360. The start light does not come on, and it does not seal, using the correct bag (I have3rolls of them). Can it be fixed? Yes or No. Thank you.
I’ve had my FoodSaver for several years now, and it just stopped sealing properly. The drip trays are clean, something I stay on top of. The gaskets were a little dirty, but that was easy to clean up. It vacuums just fine, however, after the cycle ends, it burns (not seals) about a quarter inch on each side, with the space in the middle staying wide open. When I say burn, I mean burns right through the plastic, so there’s now a 1/4 inch slot on both sides. If it matters, I’m using actual FoodSaver bags with it.
Does it sound like it’s finally bought the farm, or is there something else I can do?
To be fair, I’ve gotten a ridiculously large amount of use out of it over the years, and have been very very happy with it. I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another one, if necessary.
My seal button does not work. If I use pre-made bags, they will seal at the end of the vacuum cycle as normal, but I cannot stop the cycle early using the seal button (thus cannot store more delicate items, like bread) and I cannot make my own bags – and I have a three-pack of the rolls I recently bought!
Have had the food saver V2490 for years. Keep in the a drawer in the kitchen, now the exterior is very sticky. I tried cleaning it with warm water and dawn and it didn’t help. Has anyone else every had this problem and know of a solution?
I have exactly the same problem. All black parts are very sticky, seems like the plastic is covered by a glue like substance
Help. My foodsaver wants to seal the end before it sucks out the air. Any ideas.
Linda Warner, My food Saver Vac 5500 has the same problem: It Seals bags way before the vauum process has completed. I’m also looking for a solution.
My V5860 red close lid light will not shut off. Any Ideas ? I unplugged it and still stays on.
I am trying to seal up some ham. The moisture in the ham is pulled out and it won’t seal. It will seal an empty bag though. What do I need to do.
I have a V3485. It has been such a great tool in the kitchen. Recently it was used to seal away quite a large amount of food. During the process, it did over heat as expected. Time was given to cool down and get cleaned. On the last few bags, it did overheat again. When I tried to release the top (with the green buttons), it would release the bottom. Its been almost two days and still won’t release. the top does lift up about a 1/4″ but will not release the bottom. Almost like the tray was not replaced properly and is locked. Any solutions?
Like several of the others, my seal bar is loose and has locked my unit. I use my Food Saver a lot, and this is the third one with the exact same problem. I pitched the other two, but took this one apart. I can now open it properly, but the seal bar is still loose and falls down when I close it. The power on light stays on as long as it’s unlatched. As soon as I latch it, the power goes off and I still haven’t figured out why the seal bar is dropping when I close the unit. I can’t seem to get to that part of the machine to look at it. There appears to be a sensor that is turning off the unit. I think I’ll be looking for another brand. Each of these has lasted about a year and a half and it’s getting rather expensive to continue to replace them.
THREE lights are on, no vacuum at all, will NOT run, outlet works, SPEED, FOOD & CANCEL lights stay on. NO CLUE what needs to be done.
I am having the same problem. Did you get yours fixed? What was wrong with it?
I just received a 5200 for Christmas. It is sealing but does not appear to be vacuuming airtight. It does not vacuum all the air. What could be wrong?
hi i accidentaly plug in into 220v without any adoptor, now it wont seal the bag nor suck but the power botton on still have a light… What seems to be the damaged and how to fix it? Thanks
Model V201. My unit does not heat up. There is no power light. The outlet works. Is this the end of my sealer?
Hi
I foodsaver model v4925 has electrical problem
I want to open down cover how open down cove after removing scroow please guide me
Thanks
I have had my food saver for about 10 years. It still works, only the vacuum doesn’t turn off. It is probably a bad sensor. Can anyone tell me how to check and/or fix this issue?
I own a total of 3 Foodsaver brand vacuum systems now… It would fail and I’d buy another one.. then that one would fail… I’d buy another one. Now all three have given me problems and I can’t use any of them. That’s a lot of money out of my pocket.
I’ve tried everything I can to repair them to now about to give up. Each time one would act up, I’d talk to “FoodSaver” people on the telephone and they won’t help me since the warranty period on each unit was expired.
For the price of these things, you’d think the warranty would be much better that what it is. They offer no real solutions and I’m about ready to pitch all of these things and buy another brand. I expect more from a company that advertises top quality but delivers up inferior products and does little to stand behind their products. Just my 2 cents. Good Luck with yours.
Hallo – habe einen V475 – bisher einwandfrei.
Nun möchte ich versiegeln – das Gerät schaltet sich ein – der Motor brummt – aber die Versiegelung findet nicht statt. Die Dichtung habe ich schon gereinigt.
Vakuumierung funktioniert auch nicht. Hat jemand eine Lösung ?
Foodsaver Produkte sind Schrott, garbage. Man braucht nur die Kommentare hier lesen und dann wissen Sie, was man am Besten damit macht, in den Muelleimer damit.
The last time I tried to use my Food Saver V2240, it pulled all the air out but wouldn’t cut off and heat seal. I have opened a new roll of bags, made sure the bag was big enough and cleaned the gasket but still have the problem. Anything else I can try?
I purchased a V2244 and the machine will not vacuum completely unless I put my finger over the accessory port. The gray ring around the accessory port is cracked. Any suggestions?
Hey y’all, I just packed the crack with kitchen/bath sealant using a tooth pick and an xacto knife to open the crack being careful not to foul the valve with sealant. Seal something while the sealant is wet to suck some sealant into the crack. If this does not hold up, I’ll open the cover; remove the valve if necessary, replace with inline 1/4″ drinking water hose valve or just plug/cap the hose when not using the accessory port.
I have 3 Foodsavers now… One I bought new, the others I bought used. This is due to them always failing… Well, my daughter received one recently as a gift (new) and loaned it to me… I have used it for about 2 weeks.. and it’s worked flawlessly. A few times I noticed it wasn’t lit up as usual. I unplugged it and plugged it back in and after a couple tries it came on… NOW, the lights blink on briefly when I plug it in but quickly go out again. I repeat the process and I get the same results.
I am getting real tired of Foodsaver’s defective products. I also went out and bought more bags, jar sealer attachments and cannisters…and now, it doesn’t work.
What is going on with Foodsaver? I am not going to spend another penny on these things unless I can get some action on this machine. This model is a V-3250. I’ve tried a few ideas but no progress.
My foodsaver has a 5 year warranty, and after less than two years the outside lever has broken off at the screw. Gluing it didn’t help; it broke the next time I tried to use it. Foodsaver says they won’t repair it because it “might” have been my fault for pushing it too hard. Anything I can do about this missing handle? They don’t seem to have replacement parts, and it seems a shame to throw an otherwise perfectly functioning machine in the trash.
My Foodsaver V3825 got stuck in the seal position when prepping a bag, so I turned it off. However, after extracting the bag with difficulty, I can’t get it to release the seal bar. I have tried Cancel, power off/on, etc. Any ideas?
I have the same problem as Cheryl. My V2450 vacuums really well, but the vacuum won’t cut off and automatically seal. What’s the problem?
I have the same problem with my v3480 as Cheryl n Candy has. Does no one on here reply to any of these comments? I have done all I can do no nothing works GGGGUUUURRRRR!!!!!!!!
My foodsaver I use it to seal chicken legs for my dog food it will seal about five legs then the red light will flash then I have to wait for at least 5 min. before it will work and then it will only do two legs at a time. there must be a hi temp shut off, but when it was new it would do 10 or 12 legs at a time is there a way to make it stay on longer I watch the temp very closely. Some time it takes me an hr to get all of the legs sealed. Or is there one that is more industrial that will take the extra work?
My FoodSaver GAMESAVER BIG GAME GM710 WILL NOT TURN ON RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX. Is there anything I can do . Plug in other appliances in the outlet and they work fine. Just got it today brand new.
I have modelV2244. I have only used it about ten times, total. My issue is it just won’t seal the bag on one area right in the middle of the bag. I’m so frustrated with the damn thing. I feel like throwing it away. I sure hope someone can help this ol’ woman out. Thx!
My food saver wont seal the bag it doesn’t get hot enough like everyone else I want to throw it in the trash . I hey so mad I want to get my hammer and beat it and then throw it away and be done with it anyone know how to fix this junk
I have the same problem. Air is vacuumed out, but won’t stop vacuuming to go to the sealing step.
I have foodsaver fm 5200 the accessories adapter wont vaccum zipper bags I cleaned parts and it still works for sealing the standard bags it acts like its going to work starts and runs but doesn’t vacuum bags
I have a FoodSaver V3245 and the arm will not come down far enough to meet the sealing strip that activates the sealing mechanism.
My unit V2460 was not sealing. My unit is pretty old, but when you need it, you need it! I cleaned it and did all that it ask, still no seal. I then took the foam sealing rings out and soaked them in water, just a few seconds, dried them and then put them back in. That did the trick. Works as good a new. Thank you for your post.
My husband say this appliance is not worth it. We fight all the time trying to get it to seal.
I have a FoodSaver V3835. It has gotten to the point that it will not complete the vacuum process. It does pull a nice vacuum but the the “Vacuum Progress” The last blue light will not turn on & the machine will just continue to run until I push the “Stop/Seal” button. It then seals the pouch & does not retain the complete vacuum. I have cleaned the gaskets by wiping them with a damp cloth but this hasn’t helped. What could be wrong? Do I need a new gasket even though this one appears to be fine?
I would say that wiping with a damp cloth was not enough. Completely cover the seal with water, like washing clothes, then take out and dry with a towel and put it back in. The sponge seal gets depressed over time and needs to fluff back up. Try it.
my Oster food saver when tried to vacuum seal food but after switch on vacuum vacuum program run too long but dose not switch on seal process
you are requested to reply the solution
I have foodsaver model V4880. Turned it on to use it and the power lights come on but it will not seal or do anything. When I try the the accessory hose I hear a clicking sound when I press the button but nothing happens. Any suggestions?
Just replaced the heating wire, and it doesn’t heat up. The old one didn’t either. Help!
While I was using my FM3620 I hear a light “pop” sound and now it doesn’t turn on. No power light when I plug it in,
I have model v2040 I have a broken button that locks the lid
I have a Foodsaver FM5200 had for 2 +/- years, always worked fine. Now it runs the vacuum pump 2-3 seconds and seals. Does not complete the vacuum process. cleaned seals, checked everything I can think of. have 80lbs of chicken breasts to freeze.
have a v3880 was working fine then it melted top of bag now cannot open unit please help
I have had my Compact II for several years which got me through Katrina and many other uses over the years. Now after the Putnam County, Tennessee March 3rd lethal tornados and the COVID-19 plague, I have needed this unit again but it never glows red or attempts to seal despite that it vacuums well and has clean seals. This is similar to numerous requests from other but no one seems to have any answers or effort to answer these requests. Does this indicate anything about this FoodSaver company and it’s designs?
Hi I have a FM 2100-000 Power switch comes on with locking front but that’s it. I tested the circuit board fuse and micro switch for closing door their both good any ideas.
Sure looks like Foodsaver SUCKS!!!
I have a 3230 model food saver…it has been a great machine for 5 years or so….but my locking handle broke off and I’m in desperate need of a fix. I really don’t won’t to trash it because it still has a lot of life. Could someone please tell me if I can get it replaced or some sort of a fix. Thanks
I am having the same problem. Did you get yours fixed? What was wrong with it?
I have the Foodsaver Professional II. It worked for the last 3 bags I sealed. When I tried the 4th the second, third and fourth green lights ( left to right) started blinking. I can’t get any buttons to work since this happened. The seals are clean as well as the drip tray. How can I fix this problem? Unplugging it overnight and plugging it back on did not fix the problem. Nothing happens when I press the on off button. Please respond, frustrated. I’ve noticed that 2 others have had the same problem with this model but did not find an answer.
This is NOT a duplicate comment. Please address. I sealed 3 bags last evening, worked fine. When I tried the 4th, the second, third and fourth green light (Left to right) started blinking at the same time. From this point on, nothing works, not even the on off button. The same problem was evident after letting it sit over night unplugged. What is wrong and how can I get this fixed. I spent about 3 hours holding on the phone today with no help. A response is appreciated ASAP. Thank you.
I have a vs 1100 and it works well on quart size bags but the vacuum doesn’t work with the 1 pint bags. Any suggestions?
My food saver works great but it won’t seal and turn off. If you manually seal it allows air back in. Any suggestions?
I have a compact mini foodsaver that wont heat seal anything, the suction is perfect but it wont stop running and seal the bag.
My 4880 just stopped working. No power. After troubleshooting, I found that the internal fuse was blown. I unsoldered the blown fuse and replaced it with a similar 3A 250V fuse. Immediately blown when the unit was plugged in. I’ve checked the cord from continuity from the plug end up to the board and that does not appear to be the problem. Any suggestion on where I should go next?
I have a Game Saver Turbo Plus that I purchased in 2009, never used until I recently removed from box. It does not work and a gentleman took the back off and tried fixing it but he now needs a diagram of where all the hoses connect to that is under the mother board. Can someone please help me?
I have a foodsaver model V2460 that needs a small rubber seal/valve in the pump motor. I’m not talking about the foam seals on the lid. I’d like to get the new rubber seal/valve itself or the pump/motor assembly. Do you know anyone or a repair shop that repairs Foodsaver units? Thanks!
LOOKING FOR HOSE 176873000000 CAN YOU HELP
TKANKS
Don’t but a Foodsaver sealer they are garbage. My died and when I took it apart to try and fix it I found out why it died, they make the vacuum pump pistons out of plastic. Then when it breaks you find out from Foodsaver that they don’t sell those parts instead they try to give you a 15% discount on a new machine. Right, like I want to buy more cheaply made garbage that isn’t serviced by the company. No way. I’ll buy a different brand now, Foodsaver is crap.
My Food Saver 3825 will not release on the right side facing the machine. Therefore I can not empty the track out. I saw others with the same comment. If you would post answers to others comments it would save you time and customers frustrations. ALSO, Covid-19 is about over; hope you can hire someone to answer your phones or do it from home, hint, hint.
I have a v3835, it barely pulls the air out of bags or jar lid sealer, the gaskets look good, and I don’t think the gaskets would have any affect of the accessory vacuum hose for the jar lid sealers, anyone have any suggestions?
I have an older V3820. Won’t vacuum out air. Looks like it could be the upper seal, which is not removable. Any solution?
The small suction hose under inside of sealer is cracked. Can it be replaced:?
Thank you! This worked for me too! Who would think that dry gaskets were three problem.
We bought our FoodSaver in 2/21. 9/2/21 it will not turn on. It is a 4400 Model. We checked the cord, the outlet, every thing in order. I cannot find how to open the overflow tray to clean it. Help!
my V3240 closed to seal and locked….I can’t open it
I picked up a used FM5200… the lower seal bar works fine to seal new bags as they come off the roll and the upper seal bar works okay when you press “Seal” to seal a bag. The vacuum seems to suck all the air out but once it’s sucked the air out, it doesn’t go into the seal mode. It will keep running and eventually the vacuum will stop and the red seal light will blink. Not sure why. The tray has been removed and is clean/dry and back in place. The seals appear to be clean with no debris. It didn’t come with the Manual so I looked at the pdf users guide. Not sure what the problem is.
I have a fm2000 and does not even seal anything. Tried even an empty bag from food saver. This product is junk
We have a foodsaver V5860. The power button light comes on but when we try to dispense bag material nothing happens it does not always work. It is like the is a limit switch is not working properly.
VS2100 food saver for a Christmas present. Tried it out tonight and no vacuum.
Tried without bag. No vacuum.
Tried attachment hose. No vacuum
Called supper. No answer Hummmm
Something sucks here but it’s not the food saver
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i have a food saver v3230 ,when vacuuming it will go to the seal process.it will vacuum well but wont switch to seal
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