Cuisinart Brew Central DCC-1200BKSP1 Manual

The Cuisinart Brew Central DCC-1200BKSP1 is a 12-cup programmable coffeemaker with a stainless steel finish. It features a 24-hour programmability, auto shut-off, a charcoal water filter, a brew pause function, and a self-cleaning cycle. The unit includes a glass carafe, a permanent coffee filter, and a measuring scoop. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Brewing Coffee 7. Cleaning & Maintenance 8. Regulatory Information 9. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-Cup Glass Carafe, Charcoal Water Filter, Permanent Filter, Control Panel with LCD Display, Power Base with Cord Storage.

FeatureDescription
Programmable TimerSet brew time up to 24 hours in advance
Auto Shut-OffAutomatically turns off after brewing (0-4 hours selectable)
Brew PausePause brewing to pour a cup before cycle completes
Charcoal Water FilterRemoves chlorine and impurities for better tasting coffee
Self-Clean FunctionIndicates when to run cleaning cycle
LCD DisplayShows time, program status, and alerts
Permanent FilterEliminates need for paper filters
1-4 Cup SettingOptimizes brewing for smaller amounts
Audible SignalBeeps when brewing is complete
Cord StorageWrap excess cord inside base

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a clean, dry, level, and heat-resistant surface away from edges.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and stickers from the carafe, filter basket, and unit.
  2. Wash the carafe, permanent filter, and charcoal water filter holder with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  3. Insert the charcoal water filter into the holder and soak it in cold water for 5 minutes. Rinse under cold water for 1 minute.
  4. Place the filter holder into the water reservoir at the back of the unit.
  5. Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC electrical outlet.

WARNING! Do not immerse the base, cord, or plug in water or other liquids. Ensure the surface is stable to prevent tipping.

First-Time Setup

Power on the coffeemaker; the LCD will illuminate.

  1. Set the Clock: Press and hold the HOUR and MIN buttons to set the current time. The clock is in 12-hour format with AM/PM indicator.
  2. Prime the Filter: For first use, run a brewing cycle with only water (no coffee) to prime the charcoal filter and remove any residues. Use the 1-4 cup setting.
  3. Set Auto Shut-Off: Press the AUTO OFF button to cycle through shut-off delay options (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 hours). "0" means the unit will shut off immediately after brewing.
  4. Test Brew: Add ground coffee to the permanent filter and water to the reservoir. Press BREW to start a test cycle.

CAUTION! The heating plate and carafe will become hot during use. Handle with care using the handle.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER button, PROGRAM button, HOUR and MIN buttons, AUTO OFF button, BREW button.

LCD Display: Shows time of day, programmed brew time, "POWER ON" indicator, "ADD WATER" alert, "CLEAN" indicator.

Programming: Press PROGRAM, then use HOUR/MIN to set desired brew time. Press PROGRAM again to confirm. The "Program" light will illuminate when set.

Brewing: Press BREW to start immediate brewing. For 1-4 cups, press and hold BREW for 3 seconds until the light flashes.

Auto Shut-Off: Press AUTO OFF to cycle through delay settings (0, 1, 2, 3, 4). The display will show the selected number.

Brewing Coffee

Supports ground coffee; do not use whole beans or instant coffee.

  1. Fill the water reservoir using the carafe's measurement markings. Do not exceed the 12-cup line.
  2. Place the permanent filter into the filter basket. Add ground coffee (1 scoop per cup, or adjust to taste).
  3. Place the empty carafe on the warming plate, ensuring it is centered under the drip stop.
  4. For immediate brew: Press BREW. The "Power On" light will illuminate and brewing begins.
  5. For programmed brew: Set the program time as described. The unit will automatically start at the set time.
  6. Brew Pause: During brewing, you can briefly remove the carafe to pour a cup. Replace within 30 seconds to continue the cycle.
  7. When brewing is complete, an audible signal will sound. The auto shut-off timer begins.

WARNING! Never place the carafe on the warming plate without the lid. Do not use a cracked or damaged carafe.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Unplug the unit and allow to cool completely before cleaning.

Daily: Wash carafe, lid, and permanent filter with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry.

Descaling & Self-Clean: When the "CLEAN" light illuminates (approximately every 60 brew cycles), run a cleaning cycle:

  1. Fill reservoir with a mixture of 1/3 white vinegar and 2/3 water up to the 12-cup line.
  2. Place an empty carafe on the warming plate.
  3. Press and hold both the BREW and PROGRAM buttons for 3 seconds. The "Clean" light will flash.
  4. Press BREW to start the cleaning cycle. It will run for about 30 minutes.
  5. When complete, discard the vinegar solution. Run two cycles with clean water only to rinse.

Charcoal Filter: Replace the filter every 60 brew cycles or every 2 months for optimal performance.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or immerse the base in water. Never clean with the unit plugged in.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Cuisinart. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact 1-800-726-0190. This appliance is for household use only. Any servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit does not turn onNo powerEnsure plug is firmly in outlet; check circuit breaker.
Water does not brewClogged filter/reservoirClean permanent filter; ensure water reservoir is filled; check for mineral buildup.
Coffee tastes badOld filter/coffeeReplace charcoal water filter; use fresh, cold water and freshly ground coffee.
"Clean" light is onMaintenance requiredPerform descaling/self-clean cycle as described.
Program not workingClock not setSet the correct time of day; ensure "Program" light is on after setting.
LeakingMisaligned carafe/filterEnsure carafe is centered; check that filter basket is properly seated and clean.
No hot coffeeHeating elementAllow unit to complete brew cycle; if still cold, contact customer service.

Reset: Unplug the unit for 2 minutes, then plug back in to reset the microprocessor.

Service: 1-800-726-0190; www.cuisinart.com

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