A go-to-guide for when your vacuum sealer is not sealing!!

In this fast-paced world that we live in, processed food has become the new normal for many families.  However, for us rare individuals who prefer home-cooked meals, pre-preparation of food can be a requirement.  

In these cases, sealing food has been of great help in safe and easy food storageVacuum sealed foods are proven to maintain their freshness five times longer compared to those stored in regular bags.  

A home food sealer has one principal purpose, removing air from the bag, so when your vacuum sealer is not sealing we know it is very frustrating.  But, is it necessary to ring the call center or a service provider every time this happens? 

To save you time and to reduce your frustration, we have come up with a checklist to know why your vacuum sealer is not sealing. So, let’s get started!

A  New Vacuum Sealer Is Not Sealing

Is The Power Outlet Working?

This seems like a no-brainer, but check the power outlet your appliance is plugged into is in good working condition.  You can easily test it with other appliances to make sure it works.

If the problem persists and your new vacuum sealer still does not switch on, there may be some fault in its inner workings.  In this case, contact the service provider as you do not want to lose your warranty.

Vacuum Sealer Is Not Sealing When The Bag Is Too Full 

The vacuum sealer will not seal when the bag has no space left to insert into the machine.  This means you have overfilled the bag or it contains liquid.  As recommended by many of the top brands, it is necessary to leave a gap of 3-4 inches for appropriate vacuum sealing

Most modern, home kitchen vacuum sealers will not seal liquids.  You need a specialized chamber sealer for this.  The easy way around a vacuum sealer not sealing liquids is to freeze it overnight and vacuum-seal it after.

 

Is The Bag Compatible With Your Vacuum Sealer

Some modern vacuum sealers will only work with specific types or brands of bags or bags of a particular size.  It is vital to know these details when buying a home food vacuum sealer.

Check the product description or the instruction manual that comes with the machine if your vacuum sealer is not sealing.

why isnt my vacuum sealer working

My Vacuum Sealer Is Not Sealing With No Light Turning On

Is The Lid Closed Properly

So, your vacuum sealer has been working fine in the past but now the light doesn’t even come on when you plug it in?  Check that the lid is closed completely, as a vacuum sealer will not seal if the lid is open.  Ensure there is no dirt and debris between the lid and the machine body and clean it if dirty.  

If this doesn’t solve the problem, try pressing the lid down to make a clean contact.  However, use gentle pressure to avoid damaging the appliance.

Vacuum Sealer Is Not Sealing When Gasket Is Not Clean

If the lid closure is intact, check the gasket to make sure it is clean.  Dirt over the gasket will interfere with this kitchen appliance.  Remove and clean the gasket if it is removable, or clean with a wet cloth for non-removable ones. Ensure the gasket is completely dry before putting it back. 

The gasket will only last for around a year, so if your vacuum sealer is not sealing after 12 months, get it replaced. It is good maintenance and will prolong the life of your machine. Make sure you insert the gasket correctly to ensure proper sealing of your vacuum sealing machine.

A Light Is Flashing And My Vacuum Sealer Is Not Sealing

 

Check If It Has Overheated 

Your home preserving sealing machine may have a light that flashes when the unit overheats.  So, if the vacuum sealer is not sealing or if the bag melts when you put it in, there is a possibility that your vacuum sealer could be overheating.

To avoid this, keep a 20-second gap between each usage to allow the unit to cool down. Try not to use your machine for a prolonged duration as most are not designed for continuous use.

However, there are some great specific options if you are looking for a vacuum sealer for big batches or constant running.  If it continues to overheat, shut the machine down for 20 – 30 minutes until it cools down completely.

Vacuum Sealer Is Not Sealing When The Drip Tray is Full 

If the drip tray is full, usually a red light flashes, and the vacuum sealer will not seal.  The drip tray sits under the unit and collects any moisture. 

When the tray is full, you need to remove, clean, dry completely, and re-insert the tray.  Make sure it is completely dry because moisture near the sensor will not let the vacuum sealer function. You can use a hairdryer for quick drying or leave it overnight for use the next day.

fix common issues with vacuum sealer machine

Air Has Entered The Bag

Gaps Or Wrinkles In Used Bags 

Check used bags thoroughly for any gaps, holes, or large wrinkles before using again. Even a small hole in a bag can lead to the vacuum sealer not sealing properly. 

To avoid wrinkles, flatten the top of the bag that is to be inserted into the machine before use.  Place used bags between heavy books for storage to remove wrinkles.  Bags that have gaps or holes need to be thrown out.

Sharp Objects In The Bag

A sharp object within the bag could puncture a hole during the sealing process.  In this case, use another bag and place cushioning over the sharp edge with a food-grade padding.  

Food Has Spoiled

If your vacuum sealer is not sealing properly, food will ferment or a natural release of gases could occur.  In this case, the air has re-entered the bag and the food will spoil.  The sad thing here is that food must be discarded.

If this happens continuously, we suggest you contact the service provider. There may be a fault with your process or the vacuum sealer is not sealing properly.

vacuum sealer is not sealing

Our Conclusion

There are various reasons why your vacuum sealer is not sealing.  Our experts have researched the most common reasons and come up with some easy solutions that you might have missed.  We suggest ensuring your vacuum sealer is compatible with liquids if this is important to you. Failing to do this may mean you lose the warranty which will further add to your expenses. 

We have found a great vacuum sealer that vacuum seals dry as well as moist food products. 

Remember, if your vacuum sealer is not sealing after trying our easy fixes, make that dreaded call to the customer center!

Read more of our expert tips and home preserving equipment advice