Cuisinart PRC-12C Series Manual

The Cuisinart PRC-12C Series is a 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker featuring a 24-hour programmability, auto shut-off, brew pause, charcoal water filter, and a stainless steel thermal carafe. It is designed for optimal coffee brewing with precise temperature control and a showerhead brewing system. 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. Cleaning & Maintenance 7. Programming & Operation 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stainless Steel Thermal Carafe, Charcoal Water Filter, Programmable Clock/Timer, Brew Pause, Auto Shut-Off, Power On/Off Switch.

FeatureDescription
Thermal CarafeStainless steel, vacuum-insulated to keep coffee hot for hours
Programmable Timer24-hour advance programming for automatic brewing
Auto Shut-OffAutomatically turns off after brewing is complete
Brew PauseAllows you to pour a cup before brewing finishes
Charcoal Water FilterRemoves impurities for better tasting coffee
Showerhead BrewingEvenly saturates coffee grounds for optimal extraction
Power SwitchMain power control for the coffeemaker
Clock DisplayDigital display showing time and programming status
Water WindowIndicates water level in the reservoir
Filter BasketHolds #4 cone paper filters or permanent filter

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a clean, dry, stable surface away from heat sources.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and stickers.
  2. Wash the carafe, lid, and filter basket with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  3. Insert the charcoal water filter into the reservoir (soak filter first per instructions).
  4. Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Do not immerse the coffeemaker base, cord, or plug in water or other liquids. Ensure the power outlet is easily accessible.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, perform a cleaning cycle to remove any manufacturing residues.

  1. Fill the water reservoir to the 12-cup mark with fresh, cold water.
  2. Place a paper filter in the filter basket (no coffee grounds).
  3. Place the empty carafe on the warming plate.
  4. Turn the power switch to ON. The display will light up.
  5. Press the BREW button to start the cycle. Discard the water after the cycle is complete.
  6. Set the clock by pressing and holding the HOUR and MINUTE buttons.

CAUTION! The carafe and brewed coffee will be hot. Handle with care using the handle.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel Controls: POWER ON/OFF Switch, BREW Button, PROGRAM Button, HOUR Button, MINUTE Button.

Display Indicators: Clock Time, PROGRAM ON Light, AUTO OFF Light.

Programming: Press PROGRAM, then use HOUR/MINUTE to set brew time. Press PROGRAM again to confirm. Auto Shut-Off: Activated after brewing completes (can be manually overridden). Brew Pause: Press the carafe against the stop pad to pause brewing and pour a cup.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and coffee flavor.

  1. Daily: Empty and rinse the carafe and filter basket. Wipe the warming plate with a damp cloth.
  2. Weekly: Descale the coffeemaker using a vinegar solution or commercial descaling agent (follow instructions in manual).
  3. Monthly: Replace the charcoal water filter (soak new filter for 15 minutes first).
  4. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Tip: Always unplug the coffeemaker and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.

Programming & Operation

For automatic brewing at a set time.

  1. Set Clock: Press and hold HOUR, then MINUTE to set the current time.
  2. Set Program Time: Press PROGRAM. Use HOUR/MINUTE to set the desired brew time. Press PROGRAM again to lock it in. The PROGRAM light will illuminate.
  3. Prepare the Night Before: Add water to the reservoir, insert a filter and coffee grounds into the basket. Ensure the carafe is correctly positioned and the power is ON.
  4. Brewing: The coffeemaker will automatically start at the programmed time.
  5. Manual Brew: At any time, with the power ON, simply press the BREW button.

WARNING! Do not leave the coffeemaker unattended during the initial setup cycles. The heating plate and carafe become very hot.

Safety Features

Auto Shut-Off: Turns the unit off after brewing is complete. Brew Pause: Allows safe removal of the carafe mid-cycle to pour a cup. Overheat Protection: Built-in thermal fuse to prevent damage. Carafe Safety Lock: Ensures carafe is properly seated for brewing.

Care & Storage

Unplug and allow to cool completely before storage. Store in a dry place. Do not wrap the cord tightly around the base.

CAUTION! Never store the coffeemaker while it is hot or with water in the reservoir. This can promote mildew and damage.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Cuisinart. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact customer service at 1-800-726-0190.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Coffeemaker won't turn onPower source/switchEnsure unit is plugged in; check outlet; ensure power switch is ON.
Water does not flowClogged filter/water pathCheck and clean the showerhead; ensure filter basket is not overfilled with grounds.
Program not workingClock not set/program errorSet the correct current time first; reprogram the brew time.
Coffee is not hot enoughPre-heat/CarafePre-heat carafe with hot water; ensure carafe lid is securely closed.
Leaking waterMisaligned carafe/overfillEnsure carafe is properly seated under the basket; do not exceed 12-cup water line.

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

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

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