Sabbath Mode Update and Summary of Recent Alerts

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Today, many appliances are designed and manufactured with a “Sabbath Mode.” The following clarifies how that mode is helpful to the kosher consumer.

The primary function of the Star-K-certified Sabbath Mode is to override features of modern ovens and refrigerators that conflict with the needs of a kosher home, including:

  • Auto shutoff, which shuts off the oven after 12 or 24 hours to conserve energy and/or prevent fires.
  • Lights and signals that go on or off when one opens and closes the door.

If these features are not overridden, serious halachic issues will arise on Yom Tov and Shabbos.

Once these features are overridden, the appliance basically reverts to “old fashioned” mode. For a detailed listing of those manufacturers, appliances and model numbers certified with the Sabbath Mode options, see www.star-k.org/appliances.

For a detailed explanation of the exact operations that are halachically permitted, consult your rov or click “View Sabbath Info” for each model on the website.

The Star-K recently issued several alerts based on a review of various appliance manufacturers. The following is a summary of these alerts:

BOSCH

Note the following about the Bosch built-in double ovens model numbers HBLP651LUC, HBLP651RUC, and HBLP651UC. There is a problem with the Sabbath Mode in the lower oven only. The upper oven works correctly in Sabbath Mode. Consumers are advised not to open or close the lower oven door on Shabbos or Yom Tov.

Note the following about the Bosch slide-in gas ranges, model numbers HGI8054UC and HGIP054UC. The oven’s heating source shuts off immediately when the door is opened and re-ignites when it is closed, even when the oven is in Sabbath Mode. Consumers are advised not to open or close the oven door on Shabbos or Yom Tov unless addressed as per below.

If Bosch has not fixed your oven, consumers are advised to get a ShabboSwitch, available at your local bookstore or online. Any method of keeping the plunger switch on the frame of the oven depressed will work. If using tape, make sure it can withstand the heat of the oven. (Duct tape may not work.)

Note that you still need to put your oven into Sabbath Mode before Shabbos or Yom Tov, even if you have installed a ShabboSwitch.

If you own one of the above models, email [email protected] or call Bosch customer service at 800.944.2904. Provide your name, phone number and email address so that the company can coordinate service. Bosch will schedule a service appointment to repair the affected models free of charge. Updates will be posted on the Star-K website.

All other Bosch models have been reviewed and are compliant.

LG

For all LG Star-K certified ovens, closing the door turns the oven on immediately. Cconsider these ranges, both gas and electric, de-certified until further notice. In order to avoid this issue, install an oven ShabboSwitch. Any method of keeping the plunger switch on the frame of the oven depressed will work. If using tape, make sure it can withstand the heat of the oven. (Duct tape may not work.)

Note that you still need to put your oven into Sabbath Mode before Shabbos or Yom Tov, even if you have installed a ShabboSwitch.

The Star-K is working with the manufacturer to correct the problem.

SAMSUNG

Some Star-K certified Samsung ranges may have a Sabbath Mode that does not work properly. If you own a Star-K certified Samsung range, see www.star-k.org/samsung.

Note that you still need to put your oven into Sabbath Mode before Shabbos or Yom Tov, even if you have installed a ShabboSwitch.

If you own one of these ovens and wish to receive appliance updates, send an email to [email protected], or call 410.484.4110.

{Matzav.com}


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