Electric Meat Slicer Troubleshooting
Electric meat slicers make food preparation fast and efficient. These units are important, so keeping them in good working order is essential. If there’s a problem with your unit, this electric meat slicer troubleshooting guide will help you identify the cause and implement a solution so you can resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Slicer Not Turning On
- Power cord is unplugged - Make sure the power cord is plugged into the outlet; if it isn’t, plug in the cord. If your meat slicer won’t turn on, checking the power cord before beginning the troubleshooting process can save a lot of time and frustration.
- Knife cover is off or improperly installed - Make sure the knife cover is installed properly. If it’s loose, push it down until it fits securely on the unit.
- Overload reset button is tripped - Reset the slicer by lifting up the unit and pushing the button on the bottom of the slicer.
- Carriage is out of its home position - Pull the carriage forward until it’s in the proper position.
Slicer Making Bad Cuts / Not Cutting Properly
- Knife blade is dull - Sharpen the blade by following the instructions in the owner’s manual.
- Knife gauge plate is too wide - Call an authorized technician to remedy the issue.
- Knife is chipped or too small - Contact an authorized technician to resolve the issue.
- Food residue on blade - Clean the blade. For more information on cleaning your unit, see our guide on how to clean a meat slicer.
- Slicer needs to be lubricated - If your slicer is making ragged or poor cuts, lubricating the slicer will aid in making more precise cuts. Refer to our article on lubricating an electric meat slicer for more detailed instructions.
Slicer Not Spinning
- Blade is dirty - Clean the blade with a soft sponge and warm, soapy water. Be sure to rinse and dry the blade thoroughly before reinstalling it in the slicer.
- Blade isn’t lubricated - Apply food grade lubricant to the sharpener, shaft and sliding rod. If necessary, refer to our article on how to lubricate a meat slicer.
Slicer Not Cutting
- Blade is dull - Follow the instructions in the user’s manual for sharpening the slicer blade.
- Blade is dirty - Carefully remove the blade and then clean it with a sponge or clean cloth and a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Rinse and dry thoroughly before returning it to the unit.
Slicer Won’t Slide
- Slicer is dirty - Since food residues can impede the slider’s movement, clean the food tray guides with a sponge or cloth, warm water and mild detergent. Refer to our electric meat slicer cleaning guide for more information.
- Slicer needs lubrication - Apply mineral oil to the slide shaft. For more specific directions, see our guide on lubricating an electric meat slicer.
Slicer Is Making Noise
- Gears are faulty - Schedule an appointment with a licensed technician to address the issue.
- Motor is overworked - Stop using the unit and clean the motor. Refer to your unit’s manual for specific instructions.
- Unit is unsteady - If the slicer is sitting on an uneven surface, move it to a flat surface. If missing or damaged feet are causing the unit to rock while operating, replace the feet.
Excessive Pressure Required For Slicing
- Blade is dirty - Clean the blade with warm, soapy water and a clean cloth or soft sponge. Rinse and dry before reinstalling in the unit.
- Blade is loose - Use a screwdriver to tighten the retaining screw.
- Thickness guide is dirty - Remove the thickness guide and wash it with warm, soapy water and either a clean cloth or soft sponge. Be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly before reinstalling.
- Cut thinner slices - Since thicker slices are more difficult for the slicer to make, adjusting the thickness knob to cut thinner slices allows the unit to carve through meats with less pressure applied by the operator.
If this guide was helpful, take a look at our article on using a meat slicer safely, as well as our meat slicer cleaning and meat slicer lubrication guides. For more information on food preparation equipment, our Resource Center has a large library of detailed articles and videos.