Why does my contact grill sizzle loudly when I add cheese or sauce?

A loud sizzle is usually caused by moisture, butter, cheese or sauce touching the hot plates. That can be normal in small amounts, but splattering or repeated popping should be checked carefully. Stop using the grill if hot liquid reaches the housing, if the sound becomes harsh and irregular, or if the grill seems to spit grease unexpectedly. If the issue continues, contact the retailer or store where it was purchased.

Check the amount of moisture and filling

1. Unplug the grill and allow it to cool before inspecting the plates.
2. Use slightly less sauce, or place wetter ingredients further inside the sandwich.
3. Pat ingredients dry where practical, especially tomatoes, vegetables and marinated fillings.

If the noise drops with drier fillings, excess moisture was the most likely cause.

Make sure the grill is clean

1. Remove crumbs and residue from the plates once cool.
2. Check the grease collector, if fitted, for overflow.
3. Wipe away spilled sauce from around the edges and hinge area.

Repeated sizzling from residue can mean old oil is burning on the plates, not the new food itself.

Stop using the grill if you notice

• splattering that reaches the outer housing
• burning smells that appear with the noise
• any sign of damaged non-stick coating or electrical parts

Dryer fillings, moderate portion sizes and regular cleaning usually help. If the noise still seems abnormal, the retailer can explain the available next steps.