Home Appliances Use And Care

Home Appliances

Use And CareG U I D E

A Note to You ......................... 2

Cooktop Safety .................... 3-5

Getting to KnowYour Cooktop ......................... 6

Controls .................................. 7Using .................................. 7Caring for ............................ 8

Coil Elements ......................... 9Installing ............................. 9Using ................................ 11Caring for .......................... 13

Ceramic Surface Units ......... 16Installing ........................... 16Using ................................ 18Caring for .......................... 20

Grill ........................................ 23Installing ........................... 23Using ................................ 25Caring for .......................... 28

Griddle .................................. 30Installing ........................... 30Using ................................ 31Caring for .......................... 33

Vent ....................................... 34Using ................................ 34Caring for .......................... 35

Troubleshooting ................... 36

Requesting Assistanceor Service ............................. 38

Warranty ............................... 40

1-800-253-1301Call us with questions or comments.

30" ELECTRIC MODULAR DOWNDRAFT COOKTOPMODELS RC8720ED

RC8700EDPART NO. 208039B/4381591

2

1-800-253-1301

Model Number __________________________

Serial Number __________________________

Purchase Date __________________________

Dealer Name ___________________________

Dealer Address _________________________

Dealer Phone ___________________________

A Note to YouThank you for buying a WHIRLPOOL® appliance.Because your life is getting busier and more complicated, WHIRLPOOL cooktops are easyto use, save time, and help you manage your home better. To ensure that you enjoy yearsof trouble-free operation, we developed this Use and Care Guide. It is full of valuableinformation about how to operate and maintain your appliance properly and safely. Pleaseread it carefully.

Also, please complete and mail in the Product Registration Card provided with your appliance.The card helps us notify you about any new information on your appliance.

Please record your model’s information.Whenever you call to request service for yourappliance, you need to know your completemodel number and serial number. You canfind this information on the model and serialnumber plate (see diagram on page 6 forlocation of plate).

Please also record the purchase date ofyour appliance and your dealer’s name,address, and telephone number.

Keep this book and the sales slip together in a safe place for future reference.

Our Consumer Assistance Centernumber is toll-free 24 hours a day.

3

Cooktop SafetyYour safety is important to us.This guide contains safety statementsunder warning symbols. Please pay specialattention to these symbols and follow anyinstructions given. Here is a brief explana-tion of the use of the symbol.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONSwWARNING

wWARNINGThis symbol alerts you to suchdangers as fire, electrical shock,burns, and personal injury.

General•Read all instructions before usingthe cooktop.

•Install or locate the cooktop onlyin accordance with the providedInstallation Instructions. Thecooktop must be installed by aqualified installer. The cooktopmust be properly connected toelectrical supply and grounded.

•CAUTION: Do not store thingschildren might want above thecooktop. Children could beburned or injured whileclimbing on it.

•Do not leave children alone orunattended in area where thecooktop is in use. They shouldnever be allowed to sit or standon any part of the cooktop. Theycould be burned or injured.

•Do not operate the cooktop if it isdamaged or not working properly.

•Do not use the cooktop for warm-ing or heating the room. Personscould be burned or injured, or afire could start.

•Use the cooktop only for its in-tended use as described in thismanual.

•Do not touch surface units orareas near units. Surface unitscould be hot even though they aredark in color. Areas near surfaceunits become hot enough to causeburns. During and after use, donot touch, or let clothing or otherflammable materials contactsurface units or areas near sur-face units until they have hadsufficient time to cool.

To reduce the risk of fire, electricalshock, injury to persons, or damagewhen using the cooktop, follow basicprecautions, including the following:

continued on next page

4

COOKTOP SAFETY

•Do not wear loose or hanginggarments when using the cooktop.They could ignite if they touch ahot surface unit and you couldbe burned.

•Use only dry pot holders. Moist ordamp pot holders on hot surfacescould result in burns from steam.Do not let pot holder touch hotheating elements. Do not use atowel or bulky cloth for a pot holder.It could catch on fire.

•Do not heat unopened containers.They could explode. The hotcontents could cause burns andcontainer particles couldcause injury.

•Do not store flammable materialson or near the cooktop. The fumescould create an explosion and/orfire hazard.

When using the cooktop•Make sure the reflector bowls arein place during cooking. Cookingwithout reflector bowls couldsubject the wiring and componentsunderneath them to damage.

•Do not line reflector bowls or grillbasin with aluminum foil or otherliners. Improper installation ofthese liners could result in a riskof electrical shock or fire.

•Do not cook on a broken cooktop.If cooktop should break, cleaningsolutions and spillovers could

penetrate the broken cooktop andcreate a risk of electrical shock.Contact a qualified technicianimmediately.

•Select a pan with a flat bottomthat is about the same size as thesurface unit. If pan is smallerthan the surface unit, some ofthe heating element will be ex-posed and could result in theigniting of clothing or pot holders.Correct pan size also improvescooking efficiency.

•Check to be sure glass cookingutensils are safe for use on thecooktop. Only certain types ofglass, glass-ceramic, ceramic,earthenware, or other glazedutensils are suitable for cooktopswithout breaking due to the sud-den change in temperature.

•Never leave surface units un-attended at high heat settings.A boilover could result and causesmoking and greasy spilloversthat could ignite.

•Turn pan handles inward, but notover other surface units. This willhelp reduce the chance of burns,igniting of flammable materials,and spills due to bumping ofthe pan.

5

Grease•Grease is flammable. Do not allowgrease to collect around cooktop.Wipe spillovers immediately.

•Do not use water on grease fires.Never pick up a flaming pan.Smother flaming pan by coveringwith a well-fitted lid, cookie sheet,or flat tray. Flaming grease out-side of pan can be extinguishedwith baking soda or, if available,a multipurpose dry chemical orfoam-type extinguisher.

Care and cleaning•Clean cooktop with care. Somecleaners could produce noxiousfumes if applied to a hot surface.If a wet paper towel is used towipe spills on a hot cooking area,be careful to avoid steam burns.

•Do not soak removable heatingelements in water. The elementwill be damaged and shock or firecould result.

COOKTOP SAFETY

•Do not repair or replace any partof the cooktop unless specificallyrecommended in this manual. Allother servicing should be referredto a qualified technician.

•Disconnect the electrical supplybefore servicing the cooktop.

•Keep all switches off when unit isnot in use.

•Clean only parts listed in thismanual and use proceduresrecommended.

•This appliance has been testedfor safe performance using con-ventional cookware. Do not useany devices or accessories thatare not specifically recommendedin this manual. Do not use eyelidcovers for the surface units orstovetop grills. The use of devicesor accessories that are not ex-pressly recommended in thismanual can create serious safetyhazards, result in performanceproblems, and reduce the life ofthe components of the appliance.

– SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS –

6

Optional ceramic surfaceunit accessory

(p.n. RCM30DB/DQ)(pp. 16-22)

Optional coil surfaceunit accessory

(p.n. RCM10DB/DQ)(pp. 9-15)

(Model RC8720ED comeswith nonremovable coil

surface units)

Control panel(pp. 7, 8)

Vent Chamber

Drain jars(Model RC8720ED only has

one jar, in the left bay.)(p. 29)

Getting to Know YourCooktopThis section contains captioned illustrations of your cooktop. Use them to become familiar withthe location and appearance of all parts and features. To help you find information on specificparts and features quickly, page references are included.

Vent fancontrol knob(p. 34)

Left rearcontrol knob(pp. 7, 8)

Left frontcontrol knob(pp. 7, 8)

Right rearcontrol knob(pp. 7, 8)

Surface unitindicator light

(p. 7)

Right frontcontrol knob

(pp. 7, 8)

Optional grill coveraccessory(p.n. RCM50DB/Q)(pp. 25, 26, 29)

Optional griddleaccessory(p.n. RCM40DB)(pp. 30-33)

Optional grillelement, grill-rocks, and grates(p.n. RCM20DB)(pp. 23, 28, 29, 33)

Vent

Basins

Model and serialnumber plate

NOTE: Grill and griddle accessories can beinstalled in either basin on Model RC8700ED.Coil and ceramic surface unit accessories canbe installed in both basins on Model RC8700ED.On Model RC8720ED, the right side hasnonremovable coil surface units.

Control panel

Air grille

7

Controls

UsingYour cooktop’s easy-to-use controls willwork for all of the accessories. Pleasereview this section before cooking with yourcooktop to learn the few basics you’ll needto use them correctly.

Turning the knobs

Push down on control knobs beforeturning them to a setting. You can setthem anywhere between HI and LO.

NOTES:• When the knob is set in any position,

other than OFF, you can turn it in anydirection without pushing down.

• When using the grill element (see pages23-28), you can use either the whole grillarea or only half the grill area. To use thewhole area, turn on both the front and rearcontrol knobs. To use half the area, turn ononly one of the control knobs.

Surface unit indicator lightThe Surface Unit Indicator Light on the

control panel will glow whenany surface unit/grill elementcontrol knob is on.

Until you get used to the settings, usethe following as a guide for surfaceelement cooking.

SETTING RECOMMENDED USE

HI • To start foods cooking.• To bring liquids to a boil.

7-10 • To hold a rapid boil.• To fry chicken.

• Most frying, includingpancakes.

• To cook large amountsof vegetables.

• For gravy, pudding, andicing.

• To keep food cookingafter starting it on ahigher setting.

LO-2 • To keep food warm untilready to serve.

wWARNING

Fire HazardTurn off all controls when donecooking.Failure to do so can result in death,fire, or burns.

3-4

5-6

8

CONTROLS

Caring for controlsNOTE: Let cooktop cool before cleaning.Use this chart to help you clean your control knobs and panel.

WHAT TO USE

Sponge and warm,soapy water

ORDishwasher


ORPaper towel andmild liquid soap

HOW TO CLEAN

• Turn knobs to OFF and pullstraight away from control panel.

• Wash, rinse, and dry well. Donot soak.

• Do not use steel wool or grittycleansers. They may damagethe finish.

• Replace knobs. Make sure allknobs point to OFF.

• Wash, wipe with clean water,and dry well.

• Do not use steel wool or grittycleansers. They may damagethe finish.

• Do not spray cleaner directly onpanel. Spray cleaner on papertowel.

PART

Control knobs

Control panel

9

Coil Elements

InstallingYou can install extra coil elements in the leftbasin (Model RC8720ED) or both basins(Model RC8700ED) of your cooktop. To getthe coil element accessory, order PartNumber RCM10DB/DQ from a Whirlpoolservice company or dealer (see Step 2 onpage 38) or call the Whirlpool ConsumerAssistance Center toll-free 1-800-253-1301.

To install:

1. Make sure the control knobs areturned off.

2. If the grill grates, element, and grill-rocksare in place, remove them before install-ing coil elements. Clean out any greasethat may be in the basin. (See page 24for more information.)

3. Position the accessory terminal plugtowards the terminal receptacle.

Terminalreceptacle

Terminalplug

4. Slide the accessory towards the recep-tacle until the terminal plug is firmly set inreceptacle.

Terminalreceptacle

Terminalplug

5. Lower the opposite end of the accessoryinto the cooktop until it is flush with thesurface.


10

COIL ELEMENTS

To remove:

1. Make sure the control knobs are turnedoff and the cooktop is cool.

Terminalreceptacle

2. Lift up on the “tab” located on theaccessory until the top of the accessoryclears the opening of the cooktop byabout two inches. Lifting the accessorytoo high while still set firmly in receptaclecould damage the terminal plug.

3. To pull out the accessory, hold it by thesides and slide away from the terminalreceptacle. Lift out when fully unplugged.

NOTE: Do not stack accessories where theymay fall or be damaged.

Tab

Opening

11

UsingCookware tips• Select a pan that is about the same size

as the surface unit.

• NOTE: For best results and greaterenergy efficiency, use only flat-bottomedcookware that makes good contact withthe surface units. Cookware with rounded,warped, ribbed (such as some porcelainenamelware), or dented bottoms couldcause severe overheating, which damagesthe cookware and/or surface unit.

You can, however, use the newercookware available with slightly indentedbottoms or very small expansion channels.This cookware is specially designed toprovide the good contact needed for bestcooking results.

Also, woks, canners, and teakettles withflat bottoms suitable for use on yourcooktop are now available in most storesthat sell housewares.

COIL ELEMENTS

• The pan should have straight sides and atight-fitting lid.

• Choose medium to heavy gauge (thick-ness) pans that are fairly lightweight.

• The pan material (metal or glass) affectshow fast heat transfers from the surfaceunit through the pan material and howevenly heat spreads over the pan bottom.Choose pans that provide the best cookingresults.

• Handles should be made of sturdy, heat-resistant material and be securely attachedto the pan.

NOTES:• If a surface unit stays red for a long time,

the bottom of the pan is not flat enough oris too small for the surface unit, or thecontrol has been left on HI after boiling.Prolonged usage of utensils that are toolarge could result in damage to the surfaceunit, cooktop, wiring, and surroundingareas. To prevent damage, use correctutensils and turn control down to continuecooking.

• Do not leave an empty utensil, or onewhich has boiled dry, on a hot surface unit.The utensil could overheat and damagethe utensil or surface unit.

12

Home canning informationTo protect your cooktop:• Use flat-bottomed canners/pans for best

results.• Use the largest surface unit for best

results. Also, use a canner/pan which canbe centered over the surface unit andwhich does not extend more than one inchoutside surface unit area. Large diametercanners/pans, if not properly centered,trap heat and can cause damage to thecooktop.

Energy saving tipsAlthough the energy used for cooking isusually a very small percentage of the totalenergy used in the home, cooking energycan be used efficiently. Here are some tipsto help you save energy when using yourcooking product:• Use pans with flat bottoms, straight sides,

and tight-fitting lids.• Match the pan to the surface unit size.• Cook with a minimum of liquid or fat to

help shorten cooking time.• Preheat pans only when recommended

and for the shortest time possible.• Start food on higher heat settings, then set

surface unit control on low or off to finishcooking. Use retained heat for cookingwhen possible.

• Turn on the surface unit only after placingfilled pan on the unit.

• Plan your meals for the most efficient useof the cooktop.

COIL ELEMENTS

• Do not place canner on two surface unitsat the same time. Too much heat will buildup and will damage the cooktop.

• Start with hot water. This reduces thetime the control is set on high. Reduceheat setting to lowest position needed tokeep water boiling.

• Keep reflector bowls clean for best heatreflection.

• To prolong the life of the elements:– Prepare small batches at a time.– Do not use elements for canning all

day.• Refer to your canner manual for specific

instructions.

13

COIL ELEMENTS

Caring for coil elementsYour coil element cooktop is designed foreasy care. You can do most cleaning withitems found around your home. Cleaningyour coil element cooktop whenever spills orsoiling occurs will help to keep it looking andworking like new.

NOTE: Let cooktop cool before cleaning.

Removing elements andreflector bowlsRemoving

1. Make sure all surface units are off andcool before removing surface units andreflector bowls.

2. Lift the edge of the unit, opposite thereceptacle, just enough to clear thereflector bowl.

3. Pull the surface unit straight away fromthe receptacle.

4. Lift out the reflector bowl. See “Cleaningchart” on page 15 for cleaning instructions.

14

Replacing

1. Make sure all surface units are off andcool before replacing surface units andreflector bowls.

2. Line up openings in the reflector bowlwith the surface unit receptacle.

3. Hold the surface unit as level as possiblewith the terminal just started into thereceptacle. Push the surface unit terminalinto the receptacle.

COIL ELEMENTS

4. While terminal is pushed into thereceptacle as far as it will go, pushdown the edge of the surface unitopposite the receptacle.

NOTE: Reflector bowls reflect heat back tothe utensils on the surface units. They alsohelp catch spills. When they are kept clean,they reflect heat better and look new longer.

If a reflector bowl gets discolored, some ofyour utensils may not be flat enough, orsome may be too large for the surface unit.In either case, some of the heat that’s meantto go into or around a utensil goes down andheats the reflector bowl. This extra heat candiscolor it.

15

Cleaning chartUse this chart to clean all parts of your coil element cooktop.

PART

Surface units

Chromereflector bowls

Exterior surfaces(other than controlpanel)/area undercooktop

WHAT TO USE

No cleaning required

Warm, soapy water anda nonabrasive, plasticscrubbing pad


HOW TO CLEAN

• Spatters or spills will burn off.

• Do not immerse in water.

• Wash, rinse, and dry well.

• Clean often.

• Do not use gritty or harshcleansers.

• Wash, wipe with clean water,and dry well.

• Use nonabrasive, plastic scrubbingpad on heavily soiled areas.

• Do not use gritty or harsh cleans-ers. They may damage the finish.

NOTE: Do not allow foods containingacids (such as vinegar, tomato, orlemon juice) to remain on surface.Acids may remove the glossy finish.Also wipe up milk or egg spills whencooktop is cool.

NOTE: Never immerse the cartridge in water to clean. This can damage wiring. A drain holewithin the cartridge permits drainage of normal spills into the porcelain basin pan where it willdrain into the grease container. If needed, you can wipe the bottom of the cartridge clean withdetergent solution.

COIL ELEMENTS

16

Terminalplug

Terminalreceptacle

4. Slide the accessory towards the recep-tacle until the terminal plug is firmly set inreceptacle.

5. Lower the opposite end of the accessoryinto the cooktop until it is flush with thesurface.

Ceramic Surface Units

InstallingYou can install ceramic surface units in theleft basin (Model RC8720ED) or both basins(Model RC8700ED) of your cooktop.

NOTE: The pictures in this section show theceramic surface unit installed in the leftbasin, where the receptacle is in the frontwall of the basin. To get the ceramicsurface unit accessory, order Part NumberRCM30DB/DQ from a Whirlpool servicecompany or dealer (see Step 2 on page 38)or call the Whirlpool Consumer AssistanceCenter toll-free 1-800-253-1301.

To install:

1. Make sure the control knobs areturned off.

2. If the grill grates, element, and grill-rocksare in place, remove them before install-ing ceramic surface units. Clean out anygrease that may be in the basin. (Seepage 24 for more information.)

3. Position the accessory terminal plugtowards the terminal receptacle.

Terminalreceptacle

Terminalplug

17

CERAMIC SURFACE UNITS

To remove:

1. Make sure the control knobs are turnedoff and the cooktop is cool.

2. Lift up on the “tab” located on theaccessory until the top of the accessoryclears the opening of the cooktop byabout two inches. Lifting the accessorytoo high while still set firmly in receptaclecould damage the terminal plug.

Opening

Tab

3. To pull out of the terminal, hold acces-sory by the sides and slide away fromthe terminal receptacle. Lift out whenfully unplugged.

NOTE: Do not stack accessories where theymay fall or be damaged. Never store othermaterials on top of a glass-ceramic acces-sory since this could damage or mar thesurface.

Terminalreceptacle

18

Using

Cooking on the ceramic glass cooktop isalmost the same as cooking on coil surfaceunits. There are, however, a few differences:• The surface unit will glow red when it is

turned on. You will see the element cyclingon (glowing red) and off – even on HIsetting – to maintain the proper tempera-ture setting you have selected.

• Sliding metal pans on ceramic glasscooktop surface could leave marks. Wipingoff the cooktop before and after each usewill help keep the surface free from stainsand provide the most even heating. Seepages 20-22 for care and cleaningsuggestions.

• When preparing foods which can beeasily scorched or over-cooked, startcooking at a lower temperature setting andgradually increase temperature as needed.

• Do not use or place plastic items any-where on the cooktop.

Cookware tips• Select a pan that is about the same size

as the surface unit.

• NOTE: For best results and greaterenergy efficiency, use only flat-bottomedcookware that makes good contact withthe surface units. Cookware with rounded,warped, ribbed (such as some porcelainenamelware), or dented bottoms couldcause uneven heating and poor cookingresults.


Also, woks, canners, and teakettles withflat bottoms suitable for use on yourcooktop are now available in most storesthat sell housewares.

• The pan should have straight sides and atight-fitting lid.

• Choose medium to heavy gauge (thick-ness) pans that are fairly lightweight.

• The pan material (metal or glass) affectshow fast heat transfers from the surfaceunit through the pan material and howevenly heat spreads over the pan bottom.Choose pans that provide the best cookingresults.

• Handles should be made of sturdy, heat-resistant material and be securely attachedto the pan.

• With your hand, feel the bottom of yourpans while they are cool for nicks andscratches. Nicks and scratches on panbottoms will scratch the ceramic glasscooktop.

• Make sure bottoms of pans are clean anddry before using on cooktop.

• Avoid spillovers on cooktop. Use panswith tall sides.

• Do not cook food directly on cooktop.

NOTE: Do not leave an empty utensil, orone which has boiled dry, on a hot surfaceunit. The utensil could overheat and damagethe utensil or surface unit.

19

Home canning information

• Acceptable canning pots should not beoversized and must have a flat bottom.

• Use the largest surface unit for bestresults. Also, use a canner/pan which canbe centered over the surface unit.

• Start with hot water. This reduces thetime the control is set on high. Reduceheat setting to lowest position needed tokeep water boiling.

• Refer to your canner manual for specificinstructions.

Energy saving tipsAlthough the energy used for cooking isusually a very small percentage of the totalenergy used in the home, cooking energycan be used efficiently. Here are some tipsto help you save energy when using yourcooking product:• Use pans with flat bottoms, straight sides,

and tight-fitting lids.• Match the pan to the surface unit size.• Cook with a minimum of liquid or fat to

help shorten cooking time.• Preheat pans only when recommended

and for the shortest time possible.• Start food on higher heat settings, then set

surface unit control on low or off to finishcooking. Use retained heat for cookingwhen possible.

• Turn on the surface unit only after placingfilled pan on the unit.

• Plan your meals for the most efficient useof the cooktop.


center oversurface unit

1 inchmaximumoverhang

1" 1"Pan

Flat Bottom

Surface unit

20

Caring for ceramic surface unitsThis cooktop is designed for easy care.However, ceramic cooktops need to bemaintained differently than standard electricopen-coil elements. Foods spilled directly onthe cooktop will not burn off as on open-coilelements. Because of this, the surfaceshould be dust free and soil free beforeheating.

Your cooktop has been prepolished at thefactory for improved protection and clean-ability. The Cooktop Polishing Creme (seeordering information on page 21), a razorscraper, and paper towels or a sponge areall you need to clean your cooktop. Forproper cleaning methods, please review“Cleaning tips” on pages 21. Follow themafter each use to ensure top performanceand to preserve that uniquely elegant look.


To avoid damaging the cooktop, followthese instructions:• Sugar spills and soils (such as jellies and

candy syrups) can cause pitting on thecooktop if not removed while the ceramicsurface is still warm. Remove as soon aspossible after the spill occurs.

• Do not use the cooktop as a cuttingboard.

• Do not allow anything that could melt (suchas plastic or aluminum foil) to come incontact with the surface while it is hot.

• Do not use the ceramic cooktop to cookpopcorn that comes in prepackagedaluminum containers. The container couldleave aluminum marks on the cooktop thatcannot be removed completely.

• Do not use steel wool, plastic cleaningpads, abrasive, powdered cleansers,chlorine bleach, rust remover, ammonia,or glass cleaning products with ammonia.These could damage the cooktop surface.

• Dropping heavy or hard objects on thecooktop could crack it. Be careful withheavy skillets. Do not store jars or cansabove the cooktop.

21

Cleaning tipsWhat to use:• Cooktop Polishing Creme with paper

towel or clean, damp sponge – Thiscreme has been developed especially forcleaning and protecting your cooktop.When using, follow instructions on con-tainer.

• Razor scraper – Use to remove cooked-on soils from your ceramic cooktop. Toavoid scratches, keep the razor blade asflat against the cooktop as possible. Storerazor blades out of reach of children.

Steps to follow:1. Most spills can be wiped off easily using

a paper towel or clean, damp sponge assoon as Surface Unit Indicator Light(s)goes off and cooktop is cool.

2. For stubborn spills, rub Cooktop Polish-ing Creme into cooked-on soil using apaper towel. If some soil remains, leavesome creme on the spot(s) and followStep 3.

3. Carefully scrape spots with the razorscraper.

4. Finish by polishing entire cooktop withCooktop Polishing Creme and a papertowel.

To obtain order information for CooktopPolishing Creme (Part No. 3184477) orrazor scraper (Part No. 3183488), write to:Whirlpool CorporationAttention: Customer Service Dept.1900 Whirlpool DriveLaPorte, IN 46350

ORCall 1-800-253-1301 to order. You musthave a major credit card to order by phone.

How to keep your cooktop looking like new:

NOTE: Always wipe with clean water and dryyour cooktop thoroughly after using cleanserto prevent streaking or staining.


WHAT TO DO

To prevent pitting onthe cooktop, carefullyuse a single-edgerazor blade held with apot holder to scrapethe melted material orsugary boilover to acooler area of thecooktop. Use severallayers of paper towelsto wipe up thespillover, being carefulnot to burn yourself.When the element hascooled, use the razorblade to scrape off theremaining soil.

Use CooktopPolishing Creme ornonabrasive cleanserwith damp paper towelor sponge.

Use Cooktop PolishingCreme or nonabrasivecleanser with damppaper towel or spongebefore heating thecooktop again. Ifheated beforecleaning, metal marksmay not come off.

Scratches and abra-sions do not affectcooking. In time, theywill become lessvisible as a result ofcleaning. To preventscratches and abra-sions, use CooktopPolishing Cremeregularly.

IF THERE ARE

Sugary spillsand soils (suchas jellies andcandy syrups)

Dark streaks,specks, anddiscoloration

Metal marks(from copper oraluminum pans)

Tiny scratchesor abrasions

22

Cleaning chart


PART

Exterior surfaces(other than controlpanel and cooktop)/area under cooktop

WHAT TO USE


HOW TO CLEAN

• Wash, wipe with clean water, anddry well.

• Use nonabrasive, plastic scrubbing padon heavily soiled areas.

• Do not use gritty or harsh cleansers.They may damage the finish.

NOTE: Do not allow foods containingacids (such as vinegar, tomato, or lemonjuice) to remain on surface. Acids mayremove the glossy finish. Also, wipe upmilk or egg spills when cooktop is cool.

23

Grill

InstallingThe grill is made up of two black grill grates,a grill element, and two grill-rocks. To get thegrill accessory, order Part Number RCM20DBfrom a Whirlpool service company or dealer(see Step 2 on page 38) or call the WhirlpoolConsumer Assistance Center toll-free1-800-253-1301.

To install:

1. Make sure the control knobs are turned off.

2. Place the two grill-rocks in the basin.The basin must be empty. The grill-rockhandles must run parallel to the front ofthe cooktop. You have to use the grill-rocks because they hold up the grillelement.

Terminalplug

Terminalreceptacle

Handle

Basin

Grill-rocks

3. Position the grill element with theterminal plug towards the terminalreceptacle. Slide the element towards thereceptacle until the terminal plug is all theway inside it. The grill element should reston the handles of the grill-rocks.

4. Place the grill grates on the top of thecooktop.


24

To remove:

1. Make sure the control knobs are turnedoff and the grill is cool.

2. Remove the grill grates.

3. Pull the grill element away from thereceptacle until it is unplugged. Removethe grill-rocks.

NOTE: Lifting the element too high whilethe plug is still in the receptacle coulddamage the plug.

GRILL

25

UsingBefore you use the grill for thefirst time:1. Wash with warm, soapy water. Rinse

and dry. Never use a metal scrubbingpad or gritty cleanser on the grill; thesewill damage the nonstick surface.

2. After cleaning, lightly wipe the cookingsurface with cooking oil. This will preventthe food from sticking.

Grilling tipsChoosing meat• For best results, buy top grade meat.

Meat that is at least 3/4" thick will grill betterthan thinner cuts.

Preparing to grill• Meat that usually has a lot of fat will smoke

more when cooking and could cause flare-ups. However, fatty meat cooks faster thanlean meat. Trim fat from meat beforeplacing on the grill to prevent a largeamount of smoke or flare-ups.

• Remove the grill cover before heating thegrill. Because a heated grill cover wouldnot look hot, someone could be burned ifthey touched the cover. Heating the grillcover could also damage the finish.

• Precondition grates by brushing themwith vegetable oil or spraying them with anonstick coating prior to each use.

• Score fat on the edges of steak, but do notcut into the meat. This will prevent curlingwhile cooking.

• Preheat the grill on the HI setting for five orten minutes. Preheating makes meat tasteand look better. It also lets you quickly searthe meat to help keep juices in.

• The fan turns on by itself while you areusing the grill. Do not use the grill if the fandoes not go on.

• Do not cover the entire cooking surfacewith meat. Leave space between the fooditems to help smoke and steam clear awayquickly.

What to use while grilling• Use tongs with long handles or spatulas

for turning meats. Do not use forks be-cause they make holes in the meat, lettingjuices run out.

What not to use in thegrill area• Do not use aluminum foil.• Do not use charcoal or wood chips.

While cooking• Before turning, let one side of meat cook

until it is as done as you want, or cook untiljuices appear on the top of the meat. Turnsteaks and hamburgers just once; turningand moving food causes it to lose juice.

• When basting meats or putting sauces onfood, remember that extra sauce winds upinside your grill and does not improve thefood’s flavor. Put on sauces during the last15-20 minutes of cooking unless the recipetells you to do it differently. If you put ontoo much of a sugary sauce, it will leave acaramel-like glaze on the grill grates andgrill-rocks. This glaze is hard to clean.

• There are many meat marinades whichwill help make less expensive cuts of meattender for cooking on the grill.

• Some foods, such as poultry and nonoilyfish, may need some extra fat. Brush withoil or melted butter from time to time whilegrilling.

• To help keep juices in meat, salt afterturning meat or after cooking is done.

GRILL


26

Grilling tips (continued)• If meat begins to cook too quickly, turn

the grill control knob to a lower setting.• Grease drippings will ignite occasionally

to produce harmless puffs of flame for asecond or two. This is normal whilecooking. If you have too many flare-ups:you need to clean the grill interior, youhave not trimmed the meat properly, orthere is too much fat in the meat.

• The grill element should glow a brightcherry red.

What not to do while cooking• Do not let optional grill-rocks become

overloaded with grease. Clean aftereach use.

• Do not leave the optional grill while it iscooking.

After grilling• Clean the basin area after each use. Do

not allow the area under the grill to be-come overloaded with grease.

• If grilled foods are done cooking beforeyou are ready to serve them, turn thecontrol knob to a low setting. Cover meatwith a single sheet of foil. Food will con-tinue to cook.

• Do not place the grill cover over a heatedgrill. Let the grill cool before putting thecover in place.

NOTES:• Do not set utensils or other items that

could cause scratches on the grill cover.Do not set very hot containers on the coveror handles, since these could mar orchange the color of the cover.

• Use the cover over the grill grates orgriddle only. Do not place the cover overthe coil or ceramic surface units.

wWARNING

Fire HazardGrease can cause large flare-ups.To put out fire:Make sure vent system has beenswitched on.Turn grill control off, cover grill withlarge metal pan, and remove foodfrom grill.Do not put water on a grease fire.To prevent fire and burns:Do not use pots or pans on grill.They will become very hot.Failure to follow the above can resultin death, fire, or burns.

NOTES:• Use only nylon or plastic utensils. The use

of metal utensils could scratch the nonstickcoating.

• When using nylon or plastic utensils, donot leave them on the grill. They couldmelt.

GRILL

27

Grill chartPreheat on HI for 5 or 10 minutes for bestflavor. Cooking times and control settingsare approximate due to differences in meatsand electrical voltage. Use the following

chart as a guide to determine which cookingtimes and settings work best for you. Youmay need to adjust the cooking times to getthe taste and/or doneness you want.

COMMENTS

Turn after half the time.Turn after half the time.Turn after half the time.

Turn after half the time.Turn after half the time.Turn after half the time.

Turn after half the time.

Turn occasionally.

Turn once.

Turn once.

Turn occasionally.Turn once.

Turn occasionally.Turn occasionally.

Pierce casing with a fork.Turn once.

Turn occasionally. Brush withglaze, if desired.

Turn occasionally.Turn occasionally. Brush withmarinade or glaze during last10 minutes.

COOKING TIME(in minutes)

9-1212-1916-23

10-1719-2624-32

15-25

30-40

10-15

15-20

5-1010-20

10-1515-20

25-35

25-35

25-3545-60

FOOD

Steak (1⁄2-3⁄4")• Rare• Medium• Well-done

Steak (1-11⁄4")• Rare• Medium• Well-done

Hamburgers (3-4 oz)

Pork chops (1⁄2-3⁄4")

Fully-cooked smokedpork chops

Ham slices (1⁄2")

Fully-cookedsausages• Hot dogs, brats• Polish

Fresh sausage• Links• Patties

(21⁄2" diameter)• Italian sausage

Lamb chops

Chicken• Boneless breasts• Pieces, bone-in

SETTING

HIHIHI

HIHIHI

10

10

HI

10

HIHI

1010

10

10

1010


GRILL

28

COOKING TIME(in minutes)

20-30

10-15

8-12

2-4

2-3

SETTING

10

10

10

HI

10

COMMENTS

Brush with butter. Turn afterhalf the time.

Start skin side down. Brushwith butter. Turn after halfthe time.

Turn and brush with butter ormarinade often.

Turn after half the time.

GRILL

Caring for grillNOTE: Let cooktop cool before cleaning.

Cleaning your grill whenever spills or soiling occurs will help to keep it looking and workinglike new.

FOOD

Fish• Steaks (1")

• Fillets (1⁄2")(with skin on)

• Shrimp(skewered)

Garlic bread

Hot dog andhamburger buns

HOW TO CLEAN

• Wash, rinse, and dry well.• For heavy soil soak in hot, soapy water

mixed with a cleanser, such as house-hold ammonia.

NOTE: Do not use metal brushes,abrasive scouring pads, or other scrub-bers made to clean outdoor grills. Thesewill remove the finish as well as scratchthe grates. Do not clean in a self-cleaning oven or use oven cleaners.

WHAT TO USE

Warm, soapy water and anonabrasive plastic scrub-bing padORDishwasher

PART

Grates

29

GRILL

HOW TO CLEAN

• Wash, rinse, and dry well. Clean often orafter any large build-up of grease. You canwash grill-rocks in a dishwasher instead ifyou have first removed burned-on soil.

• For heavy soil, soak in hot, soapy watermixed with cleanser, such as householdammonia.

• Stubborn spots, such as burned-onsauces, can be scrubbed with a stiff bristlebrush. You can also use an oven cleaner.Follow manufacturer’s directions. Spray onthe cleaner and let it soak overnight. Donot clean grill-rocks in a self-cleaningoven.

• No cleaning is needed. Spatters or spillswill burn off. Do not put in water.

• Empty the jar from time to time to preventspillovers.

• Unscrew and remove the jar to empty it. Ifthe jar is broken replace it with any heat-tempered jar, such as a canning jar. Thejar should have a standard screw neck.

• Wash, rinse, and dry well.• Do not clean in a dishwasher.

• Wash, wipe with clean water, and dry well.• Use nonabrasive, plastic scrubbing pad on

heavily soiled areas.• For heavy soil, soak paper towels in

household cleanser and lay them on thesoil for at least 1⁄2 hour or longer.

• To remove stubborn soil, spray with anoven cleaner, let it soak overnight, wipewith clean water, and dry well.

WHAT TO USE

Warm, soapy waterand a nonabrasiveplastic scrubbing padORDishwasherBristle brushOven cleaner

Warm, soapy waterand a sponge

Warm, soapy waterand a sponge ornonabrasive plasticscrubbing padORPaper towels andhousehold cleanser

Warm, soapy waterand a sponge ornonabrasive plasticscrubbing padORDishwasher

PART

Grill-rocks

Element

Drain jars(undercooktopbasin(s))

Cover

Area undergrill

30

Griddle

InstallingYou can install a griddle accessory on theleft basin of your cooktop (and in the rightbasin of model RC8700ED). To use thisaccessory you must have grill accessory PartNumber RCM20DB. To get the griddleaccessory, order Part Number RCM40DBfrom a Whirlpool service company or dealer(see Step 2 on page 38) or call the WhirlpoolConsumer Assistance Center toll-free1-800-253-1301.

3. Place the griddle over the grill element sothat the drain holes are in front. This willlet extra grease collect in the drain jar.

NOTE: The bottom of the griddle shouldmake contact with the top of the grillelement.

Terminalreceptacle Terminal plug

HandleBasin pan

Grill-rock

Drain holes

1. Make sure the grill element and grill-rocks are installed and the control knobsare turned off.

2. If grill element is not installed, placethe two grill-rocks into an empty basinpan. The grill-rock handles must runparallel to the front of the cooktop. Youhave to use the grill-rocks because theyhold up the grill element.

Position the grill element with the termi-nal plug towards the terminal receptacle.Slide the element towards the receptacleuntil the terminal plug is all the way insideit. The grill element should rest on thehandles of the grill-rocks.

NOTE: Do not use the grill grates.

31

UsingBefore using the griddle forthe first time:1. Wash griddle in warm, soapy water.

Rinse and dry well.2. Preheat griddle for five minutes at the

settings shown in the “Griddle chart” onpage 32.

3. After preheating, lightly wipe the top ofthe griddle with cooking oil. This preventssticking. You don’t have to grease thegriddle every time you use it. Do not useshortening or butter to grease the griddle.

NOTE: If the griddle is seasoned prior topreheating, the oil forms a varnish-likefinish on the griddle. This finish is difficultto remove.

Griddling tips• Place food right on the cooking surface of

the griddle.• Turn off the griddle element when cooking

is finished. Leaving the element on willdamage the griddle.

• Do not use cookware on the griddle. Useonly plastic or nylon kitchen utensils on thegriddle. Metal could damage the nonstickcooking surface.

GRIDDLE

wWARNING

Fire HazardBe sure the griddle controls are offand the griddle is cool and coveredwhen not in use.Failure to do so can result in fire orburns.

32

Griddle chartPreheat for five to ten minutes at the set-tings listed below. Do not preheat on HI.Griddling times are guidelines only and mayneed to be adjusted to get the taste and/or

GRIDDLE

doneness you want. Also, low voltage andelements not close enough to the griddlemay affect the cooking times and controlsettings.

APPROXIMATE COOKING TIME (in minutes)CONTROLSETTING

9-10

10

9

9

8

10

9

10

9

10

8

FOOD

Sausage patties

Bacon(slice)

Ham slice

Hamburgers

Fish sticks(frozen)

Hot dogs

Buns

French toast

Grilled cheesesandwiches

Pancakes

Eggs

SECOND SIDE

2-4

2

2

5

5-6

4-5

2-3

3

1-2

1 or less

FIRST SIDE

4-5

3-5

4

6

5-7

5-6

3

2-3

4

2

2-3

33

NOTE: Let cooktop cool before cleaning.You must clean your griddle after each use to keep the finish in good shape.

Caring for griddle

GRIDDLE

WHAT TO USE

Warm, soapy waterand a nonabrasiveplastic scrubbing pad

Warm, soapy waterand a nonabrasiveplastic scrubbing padORDishwasher

HOW TO CLEAN

• Wash once griddle has cooled. Do not puta hot griddle in cold water.

• For heavy soil, use a nonabrasive scrub-bing pad.

NOTE: Do not wash in a dishwasher.Strong detergents can remove some of thenonstick finish.

• Wash, rinse, and dry well. Clean often orafter any large build-up of grease. Youcan wash grill-rocks in a dishwasherinstead if you have first removed burned-on soil.

• No cleaning is needed. Spatters or spillswill burn off. Do not put in water.

PART

Griddle

Grill-rocks

Element

Area undergrill-rocks

Warm, soapy waterand a sponge ornonabrasive plasticscrubbing padORPaper towels andhousehold cleanser

• Wash, wipe with clean water, and dry well.• Use nonabrasive, plastic scrubbing pad on

heavily soiled areas.• For heavy soil, soak paper towels in

household cleanser and lay them on thesoil for at least 1⁄2 hour or longer.

34

Vent

UsingThe built-in vent system removes cookingvapors, odors, and smoke from foodsprepared on the cooktop, grill, and griddle.The vent system will go on by itself when thegrill element or griddle is being used.

To turn on the vent systemyourself:

• Turn the vent fan knob to ON.• You can manually control the vent fan

only when using the coil or ceramicsurface units. You cannot manuallycontrol the vent fan while you are usingthe grill or griddle.

• If the vent fan turns on automatically, itwill turn off automatically when you turn offthe grill or griddle. If you turn the vent fanon manually, you will need to shut it offmanually.

wWARNING

Cut HazardDo not put hands into vent when fanor controls are on.Doing so can result in serious cuts.

35

Caring for vent

wWARNING

Electrical Shock HazardDisconnect the electrical supplybefore servicing the cooktop.Turn fan and cooktop controls offbefore cleaning the vent system.Do not put hand into vent when fanor controls are on.Failure to follow these instructionscan result in death, electrical shock,serious injury, or cuts.

NOTE: The vent fan system turns on byitself when the grill or griddle is used.

VENT VENT

Filter

Air grille

To keep your vent system working well, clean it regularly using the chart below.

WHAT TO USE

Warm, soapy waterand a spongeORDishwasher

Warm, soapy waterand a spongeORDishwasher

Warm, soapy waterand a spongeORSpray householdcleaner and apaper towel

HOW TO CLEAN

• Wash, rinse, and dry well.

• Clean in sink or dishwasher when soiled.

NOTE: Do not run the ventilation system withoutthe filter. Filter should always be placed at anangle. As you face the front of the cooktop, the topof the filter should rest against the left side of thevent opening and the bottom of the filter should restagainst the right side of the ventilation chamber, atthe bottom. If the filter is flat against the fan wall,the ventilation system will not work well.

• Clean whenever the chamber becomes soiled.

Removaltab

Vent

PART

Air grille

Filter

Vent

36

TroubleshootingMost cooking problems often are caused by little things you can find and fix without tools ofany kind. Check the lists below and on the next page before calling for assistance or service.If you still need help, see “Requesting Assistance or Service” on page 38.

If nothing operates, check the following:

Is the cooktop wired into a live circuit with the proper voltage?(See Installation Instructions.)

▼

Have you blown a household fuse or tripped a circuit breaker?

▼

Other possible problems and their causes:

PROBLEM

The surface unitswill not operate

Grill does notwork properly

Control knob(s)will not turn

Venting results arenot what youexpected

Cooking resultsare not what youexpected

CAUSE

• You have blown a household fuse or tripped a circuitbreaker.

• You have not plugged in coil elements all the way.

• You have not set the control knobs correctly. Push controlknobs in before turning to a setting.

• You have not left space between food items.

• You have not preheated the grill for the proper amount of time.

• Food was partially frozen or very cold before grilling. This willmake cooking time longer.

• You are not pushing in before turning.

• Exhaust fan is not turned on.

• Vent filters are not clean or are not in place.

• Vent duct or outside opening is blocked.

• There is a draft in room where cooktop is installed.

• Meat is not well trimmed.

• Vent system has not been installed according to theInstallation Instructions.

• The cooktop is not level. (See Installation Instructions.)

37

PROBLEM

Cooking results arenot what you expected(continued)

CAUSE

• The recipe you are using may need to be altered to improvethe taste or appearance of the food.

• You are using a pan that is not the correct type or size.Refer to a reliable cookbook or recipe for recommendedpan type and size.

• The cooking utensil is too large or too small for the surfaceunit being used. Pan should be the same size or slightlylarger than the surface unit being used.

If none of these items was causing your problem, see “Requesting Assistance or Service”on page 38.

TROUBLESHOOTING

38

* When asking for help or service:

Please provide a detailed description of the problem, your appliance’s complete modeland serial numbers, and the purchase date. (See page 2.) This information will help usrespond properly to your request.

Requesting Assistance orServiceBefore calling for assistance or service, please check “Troubleshooting” on pages 36-37.It may save you the cost of a service call. If you still need help, follow the instructions below.

1. If you need assistance* …Call the Whirlpool Consumer Assistance

Center telephone number.Dial toll-free from anywherein the U.S.A.:1-800-253-1301and talk with one of our

trained consultants. The consultant caninstruct you in how to obtain satisfactoryoperation from your appliance or, if serviceis necessary, recommend a qualifiedservice company in your area.

If you prefer, write to:

Mr. William ClarkConsumer Assistance RepresentativeWhirlpool Corporation2000 North M-63Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692

Please include a daytime phone number inyour correspondence.

2. If you need service* …Whirlpool has a nationwide network of

authorized Whirlpool servicecompanies. Whirlpool servicetechnicians are trained to fulfillthe product warranty andprovide after-warranty service,

anywhere in the United States. To locatethe authorized Whirlpool service companyin your area, call our Consumer AssistanceCenter telephone number (see Step 1) orlook in your telephone directory YellowPages under:

•APPLIANCE-HOUSEHOLD- • WASHING MACHINES &MAJOR, SERVICE & REPAIR DRYERS, SERVICE & REPAIR

- See: Whirlpool Appliances or - See: Whirlpool Appliances or Authorized Whirlpool Service Authorized Whirlpool Service (Example: XYZ Service Co.) (Example: XYZ Service Co.)

3. If you need FSP®

replacement parts …FSP is a registered trademark of WhirlpoolCorporation for quality parts. Look for thissymbol of quality whenever you need areplacement part for your WHIRLPOOL®

appliance. FSP replacement parts will fitright and work right, because they are madeto the same exacting specifications used tobuild every new WHIRLPOOL appliance.

To locate FSP replacement parts in yourarea, refer to Step 2 or call the WhirlpoolConsumer Assistance Center numberin Step 1.

4. If you are not satisfiedwith how the problemwas solved …

• Contact the Major Appliance ConsumerAction Program (MACAP). MACAP is agroup of independent consumer expertsthat voices consumer views at the highestlevels of the major appliance industry.

• Contact MACAP only when the dealer,authorized servicer, and Whirlpool havefailed to resolve your problem.

Major Appliance Consumer Action Program20 North Wacker DriveChicago, IL 60606

• MACAP will in turn inform us of youraction.

WHIRLPOOL®

Electric Modular DowndraftCooktop Warranty

LENGTH OF WARRANTY

FULL ONE-YEARWARRANTYFrom Date of Purchase

PART NO. 208039B/4381591© 1995 Whirlpool Corporation ® Registered Trademark/TM Trademark of Whirlpool, U.S.A. Printed in U.S.A.

WHIRLPOOL WILL PAY FOR

FSP® replacement parts and repair labor to correct defects inmaterials or workmanship. Service must be provided by anauthorized Whirlpool service company.

WHIRLPOOL WILL NOT PAY FOR

A. Service calls to:1. Correct the installation of your cooktop.2. Instruct you how to use your cooktop.3. Replace house fuses or correct house wiring.

B. Repairs when your cooktop is used in other than normal, single-family household use.C.Pickup and delivery. Your cooktop is designed to be repaired in the home.D.Damage to your cooktop caused by accident, misuse, fire, flood, acts of God, or

use of products not approved by Whirlpool.E. Repairs to ceramic accessory if it has not been cared for as recommended

in this Use and Care Guide.F. Repairs to parts or systems caused by unauthorized modifications made to the

appliance. 9/95

WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIALDAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequentialdamages, so this exclusion or limitation may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specificlegal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Outside the United States, a different warranty may apply. For details, please contactyour authorized Whirlpool dealer.If you need service, first see the “Troubleshooting” section of this book. After checking“Troubleshooting,” additional help can be found by checking the “Requesting Assistanceor Service” section, or by calling our Consumer Assistance Center telephone number,1-800-253-1301, from anywhere in the U.S.A.

10/95

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