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How To & FAQs

Unlock an exclusive collection of in-depth how-to guides, offering insider tips and tricks for exceptional food preservation. Get ready to tackle any challenge with our extensive FAQs section, providing tailored solutions to common queries.

Does the USV20 have an accessory port?

Yes! The USV20 has an accessory port that allows you to vacuum seal external canisters and jars. To use this function, press and hold the 'AUTO VAC & SEAL' button for 2 full seconds.

Can you seal mason jars with the USV20?

Yes! You can seal mason jars that fit in the USV20 chamber, or by using external accessories. How to Vacuum Seal Mason Jars in the USV20 Chamber.

Can I use FoodSaver or other brand bags in the USV20 chamber vacuum sealer?

Yes, you can use any brand regular vacuum sealer bag in the USV20. However, we recommend using chamber vacuum pouches, as they are much more cost effective than embossed/textured vacuum sealer bags.

What is the largest bag size that will fit in the USV20?

The largest bag size that fits in the USV20 is 11"x10". Avid Armor designed this size of chamber pouch to perfectly fit in the USV20 chamber. This envelope style pouch has an opening on the long 11" side, making it effortless to load food.

Is there a "wrong way" to place a bag in the USV20?

Believe it or not, yes, there is! It is important to ensure your bag is not getting pinched off in any way or it can inflate with too much air, which leads to not achieving a tight vacuum.

Can you vacuum seal Mylar bags with the USV20?

You can vacuum seal a mylar bag by adjusting the seal time setting between 7-9. We recommend using Avid Armor mylar vacuum pouches. If you choose to use another brand, make sure the bags are 7 mil or less to ensure a positive seal.

How do I vacuum seal liquids in the USV20 chamber sealer?

One of the key benefits of a chamber vacuum sealer is being able to seal liquids with ease. The USV20 is made to create a maximum level of vacuum when sealing all types of food, but also excels at effectively vacuum sealing any liquid.

How does the marinating function work on the USV20?

The marinating feature is a function in which the vacuum sealer will go under a period of vacuum for a 60 second cycle without a seal. We suggest putting your item and marinade in a shallow container or a chamber pouch.

How do I vacuum seal delicate or soft items in the USV20 chamber sealer?

Vacuum Sealing delicate items can be more challenging in the USV20 than when using a traditional sealer because it does have to pull a partial vacuum in order to make a heat seal on the bag.

How do I vacuum seal dry goods in the USV20 chamber sealer?

When vacuum sealing dry goods such as flour, spices, freeze dried food, etc., it is important to only fill up your chamber pouch 50% or less. When using mason jars or canisters, ensure there is a minimum of 2" of headspace.

Why do my bags "puff up" in the USV20?

Bags will "puff up" or inflate in the USV20 because the atmospheric pressure is less in the chamber outside of the bag, then it is within the bag. Some bag inflation is typical in chamber vacuum sealers.

How do I vacuum seal larger items externally with the USV20 chamber sealer?

If an item is too large to fit inside the chamber of the USV20, an embossed/textured vacuum sealer bag can be used to vacuum seal the item on the outside of the chamber. When doing so, the USV20 will essentially act like a suction sealer.

What is the warranty of the USV20?

The USV20 comes with a standard 1 year warranty. Avid Armor takes pride in the quality of our products and guarantees that our sealers will be free from defects in material and workmanship for one year following the purchase date.

Where is the USV20 manufactured?

Our sealers are designed, tested, and serviced in the USA, but they are manufactured in China. Please know we do stand behind our products in terms of function, quality, and customer satisfaction.

What comes included with the USV20 chamber sealer?

The USV20 comes with an accessory hose for external canisters (canisters not included) and (10) 11"x10" BPA-Free Avid Armor chamber pouch samples.

What are the differences between the Ultra Series chamber sealers?

In this video, we'll show you all the similarities and differences between our three Ultra Series Chamber Vacuum Sealers models - USV20, USVX, USV32.

How does the USV20 compare to other Avid Armor chamber vacuum sealers?

There are so many chamber vacuum sealers on the market, it can be a difficult decision choosing which one is right for you! Let us help you decide with more in-depth information regarding each model. The USV20 Chamber Sealer is small, but mighty!

How do I operate my new USV20?

The USV20 is a small, but mighty kitchen companion. It's compact design allows it to sit neatly on your countertop, but don't underestimate the amount of things you can vacuum seal in no time! Follow the instructions to get started with your USV20.

Is there a copy of the USV20 user manual available for download?

Yes! For a downloadable USV20 user manual, click here.

How can I get an extended warranty for my USV20?

Help us, help you! We'd love to offer you an extended 2-year warranty on your sealer just for helping us out! Write an honest product review for your sealer on the site it was purchased, including in-use photos and register it on our website.

Does the USV20 require vacuum pump oil for maintenance?

No! The USV20 has a dry piston pump, so no vacuum pump oil is needed for maintenance.

Are replacement parts available for the USV20?

Yes! Avid Armor offers replacement seal pads, seal bars, and lid gaskets for the USV20.

How do I replace the seal pad on my USV20?

If the seal pad has become distorted or worn, it may need to be replaced. Follow the how to instructions to do so and get your USV20 back up and running.

How do I replace the seal bar on my USV20?

If the seal bar has developed wrinkles or hot spots on the teflon tape, it will need to be replaced. Follow the how to instructions listed below.

How do I replace the lid gasket on my USV20?

If your lid gasket has become worn, compressed or distorted, it will need to be replaced to ensure your sealer can pull a vacuum. Follow the how to instructions listed below.