This guide gives the operating, cleaning and troubleshooting steps for Nemco 9100A drop-in induction warmers, 6100A/6102A round warmers, 6301 heat shelves, 6150/6151 strip heaters, 7000A waffle bakers and the 56500 Easy Chopper 2, from Nemco's own manuals.
Key takeaways
- Always have a qualified, licensed installer handle electrical connections and mounting to local code.
- Wet operation with 2-1/3 cups of water is required for round warmers; never run them dry.
- Preheat heat shelves for 30 minutes at setting 10 and waffle bakers for about 15 minutes before use.
- Clean glass cooktops with a damp cloth only—never use abrasives or sharp objects.
- For service, contact Nemco's authorized network; do not attempt repairs yourself.
Which Nemco manual covers your unit
This guide covers the Nemco equipment whose operating manuals we have: the 9100A Touch Series drop-in induction warmers and ranges, the 6100A and 6102A round warmers, the 6301 heat shelf series, the 6150 and 6151 strip heaters, the 7000A waffle baker series and the 56500 Easy Chopper 2.
We also list many other Nemco machines, such as slicers, fry cutters, hot dog equipment and dispensers; each comes with its own manual, and Norpex can send you the right one. Keep the manual for your exact model with the unit.
Installation and electrical setup
All electrical connections must be made by a qualified, licensed electrician according to local code. For the 9100A drop-in warmers, the glass surface must be mounted flush with the countertop; the exposed edge is fragile and can chip. Seal around the unit with silicone caulking to prevent liquid penetration. If flush mounting is not possible, use the optional stainless steel trim ring. Maintain 4 inches of clearance from all vent openings, and ensure adequate airflow for intake and exhaust if the unit is installed in a closed cabinet.
The 6100A and 6102A round warmers simply require a grounded outlet of the correct voltage; place the warmer on a flat, stable, non-combustible surface. The 6301 heat shelf also plugs into a grounded outlet and must sit on a non-combustible surface.
For the 6150 and 6151 strip heaters, installation clearances are critical: 9 inches minimum between the end of the unit and any wall, 12 inches minimum between the side and any wall, 16 inches minimum between the bottom and the counter, and 1 7/8 inches minimum between the top and any overhead surface. Use only copper wire suitable for 90°C (194°F). The strip heaters must be hardwired by a licensed electrician; models with “-CP” include a cord and plug.
The 7000A waffle baker plugs into a grounded outlet and should be placed on a flat surface away from flammable materials. The Easy Chopper 2 requires no electrical connection; simply place it on a firm work surface.
Daily operation and controls
For the 9100A warmers, plug in the unit; the display shows a red dot. Press the power on/off button, then place an induction-compatible pan on the cooktop. Press the Power Up button to start at level 5. Warming units (9100A, 9100A-1) adjust from 1 to 7; approximate holding temperatures are 95°F at setting 1, 105°F at 2, 122°F at 3, 140°F at 4, 160°F at 5, 180°F at 6, and 195°F at 7. Cooking units (9110A, 9110A-1, 9111A-1) adjust from 1 to 9; use settings 8–9 for stir-frying or boiling, 5–9 for pan frying, 3–5 for sautéing, and 2 for holding.
The 6100A/6102A round warmers require wet operation: pour exactly 2-1/3 cups of water into the well before each use. Preheat by covering the well with an empty food container and setting the heat control to maximum. Then place the stainless steel inset of food into the well and cover with the lid. Monitor food temperatures closely; the manual recommends holding food above 140°F (60°C). Check the water level periodically and add hot water as needed.
The 6301 heat shelf must be preheated for 30 minutes with the control knob set to 10. Always place food in an appropriate container or tray on the shelf—never directly on the surface. Adjust the thermostat to maintain safe holding temperatures. The 6150 strip heaters have a toggle switch and the 6151 models a thermostat.
The 7000A waffle baker is factory-set to 385°F for 3 minutes and 30 seconds. To change the time, press and hold the minute button until the colon disappears, then use the minute and second buttons to adjust. To change the temperature, press and hold the start/stop button until the colon disappears, then adjust. Preheat takes approximately 15 minutes; the display will show “LO” until the set temperature is reached, then the timer appears. Pour batter onto the lower grid, close, and the timer counts down; an alarm sounds for 10 seconds when done.
For the Easy Chopper 2, lift the handle, place prepared produce on the blades, and bring the push block down with a strong, quick thrust. Always use the correct push block for the blade set: the 1/4” push block for 1/4” and 1/2” cuts, and the 3/8” push block for 3/8” and 1” cuts.
Cleaning and routine care
Proper cleaning after each use extends the life of all Nemco equipment. For the 9100A induction warmers, once the glass cooktop has cooled, wipe it with a damp cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Never use sharp objects or abrasives; scratches can weaken the glass and cause breakage.
The 6100A/6102A round warmers must be unplugged and allowed to cool. Carefully empty the hot water, then wipe the well interior with a clean, damp cloth. Do not immerse the unit in water or use a water jet. If soap or chemical cleaners are used, rinse thoroughly with clear water. To remove scale, use a solution of 1 teaspoon white vinegar to 1 cup of water; let it stand, rinse, and repeat if necessary. Use nylon pads only—never steel wool.
The 6301 heat shelf should be unplugged and cooled, then wiped with a damp cloth or stainless steel cleaner. Do not immerse. The 6150/6151 strip heaters must be turned off before cleaning; wipe the housing and reflectors with a damp sponge and mild soap solution. Avoid splashing water into the unit.
The 7000A waffle baker should be unplugged and cooled, then wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge and hot detergent water, rinsed with a damp cloth, and dried. Frequent use of vegetable oil or non-stick agents on the grids contributes to carbon build-up, which insulates and increases preheat and cooking time. Keep grids clean. The video “Hot Hold® - Cleaning and Maintenance” demonstrates cleaning techniques for hot holding equipment.
For the Easy Chopper 2, disassemble the pusher assembly, bumpers, and blade holder from the guide rods. Wash all parts thoroughly. The push block can be removed by unscrewing the thumbscrews. The blade holder can be further disassembled by removing the screws and blade holder plate, then gently tapping out the blades and spacers. Reassemble in reverse order. Lubricate the guide rods only with mineral oil, food grade grease, or paraffin; never use cooking oil, which becomes sticky.
Troubleshooting common issues
The Nemco manuals include troubleshooting tables for many models. For the 9100A induction units, a flashing “U” means no pan or a non-induction pan is on the cooktop; place a compatible pan on the target. Error code 1 indicates over current—check for water, moisture, or damaged parts, unplug and replug. Code 2 is over voltage, code 3 under voltage; verify outlet voltage. Code 4 means the main heat sink is over temperature; ensure fans are working and airflow is unrestricted. Code 6 indicates the pan is overheated; make sure the pan is not empty and allow the unit to cool.
For the 6100A/6102A round warmers, if the unit won't heat, check that it is plugged in, the thermostat is turned to the desired setting, and the well has the correct amount of water. If product is too cold or too hot, adjust the thermostat accordingly. If the unit blows a fuse or circuit breaker, check for an overloaded circuit.
The 6301 heat shelf and 6150/6151 strip heaters share similar checks: verify power, thermostat setting, and circuit load. For the 7000A waffle baker, if waffles stick or cooking times increase, inspect the grids for excessive carbon build-up and clean them.
Service and support
Repairs go through Nemco's authorized service network. Do not attempt to repair a warmer, heat shelf, waffle baker or chopper yourself, and have a damaged power cord replaced by an authorized service agent.
Videos from the maker
Common questions
What is the correct water level for the 6100A/6102A round warmers?
- Pour exactly 2-1/3 cups of water into the well before each use. Never operate the warmer without water.
How do I season the grids on a new 7000A waffle baker?
- Coat the clean grids with a non-stick agent, let them dry for at least 30 minutes, then turn the baker on for at least 30 minutes. Non-stick grids do not require seasoning.
Can I use any pan on the 9100A induction warmer?
- No, only induction-compatible cookware works. The pan must be magnetic; if a magnet sticks to the bottom, it should work. The minimum bottom diameter is 4.75 inches, and the bottom must be flat within about 1/8 inch.
What should I do if my strip heater blows a circuit breaker?
- Check that the circuit is not overloaded. Ensure the unit is wired to a dedicated circuit of the correct voltage by a licensed electrician.
How do I clean the Easy Chopper 2 without damaging the blades?
- Disassemble the pusher, bumpers, and blade holder. Wash all parts thoroughly. Lubricate the guide rods with mineral oil, food grade grease, or paraffin—never cooking oil. Reassemble carefully.