How Do You Change The Wire On A Cheese Slicer?

A cheese slicer is a kitchen utensil used to slice cheese into even slices. It’s made up of a blade, the frame handle, and the wire. The wire held taunts between the arms of the handle. The frame holds the cheese in place while slicing. The handle makes it easy to manipulate the slicer when cutting cheese.

The wires of the cheese slicer cut the cheese from soft to hard cleanly and precisely in a few minutes. The wires become dull eventually, and you need to replace them for further use.

Types Of Cheese Slicers

Cheese slicers have different types which slice cheese in uniform, thin slices. You can also slice cheese with a knife, mandoline, or cutter. But cheese slices will be cut ideally compared to all. The main types of slicers are the following.

  1. Cheese plane: It slices the hard cheese. With a flat metal base with a handle, there is a hole through which thin cheese slices can slice out.
     (Cheese plane)
    Cheese plane
  2. Rolling cheese slicer: It is T-shaped, similar to the vegetable cutter. Roller and wire are their parts. It is best for semi-soft cheese.
    (Rolling cheese slicer)
    Rolling cheese slicer
  3. Wire cheese slicer consists of board, wire, and handle. It cut the cheese manually with the attached wire.
     (Wire cheese slicer)
    Wire cheese slicer

Why Change The Wire On A Cheese Slicer?

Wires of cheese slicers often become dull over time and must be changed frequently for optimal performance. If you’ve noticed that your cheese slicer is not producing even slices anymore, changing the wire is one of the easiest ways to fix it. You can easily change the wire on your cheese slicer by removing the old wire and fixing the new one with the help of tools. 

  1. Not Sharp Enough: The wires of cheese slicers will not be sharp enough after a few uses. Changing the wire of the slicer is just like replacing the blades of a knife. You can continue using it without further sharpening as long as you change the wire. The wires of cheese slicers have to be changed after every 5 or 6 slices.
  2. Too Old: If you have a cheese slicer and the wire is still functional but too old to cut a slice, it is time to replace it.
  3. Avoiding Buying a New Slicer: Most people do not know how to change the wires of the cheese slicer; they buy a new cutting board. There is no need to purchase a new board; instead, you can change the wire and avoid unnecessary expenses. You can easily replace wires on your own.

Usually, the cutting boards are made of marble with stainless steel wire. The wire works for years and sometimes with a lifetime warranty. Many slicers have pair of extra wires with the model.

How To Change Wire On A Cheese Slicer?

Choosing The Right Replacement Wire

Before starting the process, choosing the correct replacement wire for your cheese slicer is essential. Consider the following factors:

  • Slicer compatibility: Ensure the wire matches your cheese slicer model.
  • Wire material: Stainless steel wires are a popular choice due to their durability and resistance to corrosion.
  • Wire thickness: Choose a wire thickness suitable for the types of cheese you typically slice.

Gathering The Necessary Tools

To change the wire on your cheese slicer, you will need the following tools:

  • Replacement wire
  • Screwdriver (flathead or Philips, depending on your slicer)
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Scissors or wire cutters (optional)

Removing The Old Wire

Removing The Old Wire
Removing The Old Wire

Follow these steps to remove the old wire from your cheese slicer:

Loosen the tension
Loosen the tension

Step 1: Loosen the tension: Locate the tension adjustment screw on your cheese slicer. Using the appropriate screwdriver, turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen the tension on the wire.

Unhook the wire
Unhook the wire

Step2: Unhook the wire: Carefully unhook the wire from both ends using needle-nose pliers.

Remove the wire
Remove the wire

Step 3: Remove the wire: Gently slide the wire out of the cheese slicer.

Installing The New Wire

Installing The New Wire
Installing The New Wire

Once the old wire is removed, follow these steps to install the new wire:

Step 1: Thread the wire: Carefully thread the new wire through the designated grooves in the cheese slicer’s arms.

Hook the wire
Hook the wire

Step 2: Hook the wire: Hitch the wire onto both ends of the slicer using needle-nose pliers.

Step 3: Trim excess wire: If the wire is too long, use scissors or wire cutters to trim the excess length, leaving enough to attach the wire to the slicer securely.

Adjusting The Tension And Testing

Adjusting The Tension And Testing
Adjusting The Tension

After installing the new wire, follow these steps to adjust the tension and test your cheese slicer:

Step 1: Adjust the tension: Using the screwdriver, turn the tension adjustment screw clockwise until the wire is taut and securely in place.

Step 2:Test the slicer: Gently press down on the wire to ensure it is tight and stable. Slice a piece of cheese to confirm the slicer is functioning properly.

Can You Replace The Wire On A Cheese Slicer?

Can You Replace The Wire On A Cheese Slicer
Replace The Wire On A Cheese Slicer

Yes, it is possible to replace the wire on a cheese slicer. The process varies slightly depending on the type of cheese slicer you have. For most manual cheese slicers, simple tools can replace the wire.

What Kind Of Wire Is Used On A Cheese Cutter?

What Kind Of Wire Is Used On A Cheese Cutter
A stainless steel wire

Typically, a stainless steel wire is used when making a cheese slicer. The wire should have small teeth that provide the necessary grip to cut through cheese while being flexible enough to make smooth slicing motions with the blade. The length of the wire used will depend on the size and shape of the cheese cutter, but it is typically between 12-22 inches.

When To Replace The Wires On A Cheese Slicer?

It is important to regularly inspect the wires on your cheese slicer and replace them if they become worn or frayed. This is especially true when using hard cheeses, as they can cause excessive wear and tear on the wire. If you notice any signs of wear, such as thinning, breakage, or fraying, it’s best to replace the wire as soon as possible. Additionally, it’s recommended that you replace the wires at least once a year for safety and optimum performance.

How Do Cheese Slicers Work?

How Do Cheese Slicers Work
Using A Wire Cheese Slicer

A cheese slicer is a device used to cut cheese slices into uniform pieces. It typically comprises a sharp blade mounted on a holder and connected to an adjustable wire. The wire adjustment determines how thick or thin the slices will be. Changing the wire in a cheese slicer is usually done for two reasons: to adjust the thickness of the slices or to replace a worn wire.

Cheese Board Wire Replacement Video

Precautions And Safety Maintenance of Cheese Slicer Wire

  • Before changing wires, check and make sure it is in good condition.
  • Make sure that the wire is located between the two metal pieces.
  • If the wire is too old, it will be difficult to remove with screws. It would be best if you had a pair of pliers to get help.

How Do You Replace The Wire On A Kitchenaid Cheese Slicer?

Locate the screwdriver blade
Locate the screwdriver blade

Step 1: Locate the screwdriver blade on the cheese slicer, usually found at the bottom of the handle.

Unscrew the thumb wheel
Unscrew the thumb wheel

Step 2: Unscrew the thumb wheel counterclockwise to loosen and remove it.

Replace the old wire
Replace the old wire

Step 3: Replace the old wire with a new one, ensuring it is tight and secure.

After replacing the wire
Replace the thumb wheel by screwing

Step 4: After replacing the wire, replace the thumb wheel by screwing it clockwise until it is tightly secured in place.

Step 5: Test your new cheese slicer on different cheeses to ensure it works properly.

How To Change The Wire On The White Marble Cheese Slicer?

Step 1: Start by unplugging the cheese slicer from any power source.

Unscrew the two screws
Unscrew the two screws

Step 2: Unscrew the two screws on either side of the wire cover plate with a Phillips head screwdriver and carefully remove them.

Pull out the old wire slowly
Pull out the old wire slowly

Step 3: Pull out the old wire slowly, being careful not to damage it as you will be reusing it.

Throw the new wire
Throw the new wire through the two holes

Step 4: Throw the new wire through the two holes in the side plates, starting at one end and pulling it out of the other.

Step 5:  Once you have pulled the wire to its full length, use a pair of pliers to crimp a loop at each end to hold it in place.

Step 6: Secure the wire cover plate over the sides of the cheese slicer and re-screw it into place.

Step 7: Plug in the cheese slicer and test it to ensure the wire is secure and has been fitted correctly. Make sure to unplug it again once you’re done testing it.

Tips For Maintaining Cheese Slicer

  • Inspect your cheese slicer regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires or missing screws.
  • Ensure that the wire is well-tensioned when slicing cheese; if it is too loose or tight, it will affect the quality of the slices.
  • When replacing the wire, use a new one that is the same size and shape as the original.
  • Make sure to cut the new wire to the right length; it should be long enough to reach all of the cheese but not so long that it gets caught in other parts of the slicer.
  • Securely attach the ends of the wire to the frame of the slicer.
  •  When tightening the screws, ensure not to overtighten them; this can damage the cheese slicer and the wire.
  • After replacing a wire, please test it out on a few slices of cheese before using it regularly. This will ensure the cheese slices are even and the wire is securely in place.
  • Be sure to clean the slicer after replacing a wire; this will help keep it functioning properly for longer.
  • Inspect the new wire regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or bending. If any of these signs are present, replace the wire immediately.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

The Wire Keeps Slipping Out of Place

If the wire keeps slipping out of place, ensure you have properly threaded it through the designated grooves in the slicer’s arms. Double-check the tension by adjusting the tension screw and testing the slicer.

The Wire Snaps During Use

A wire that snaps during use may indicate a tension issue or a faulty wire. First, inspect the wire for signs of damage or corrosion. If you find any issues, replace the wire. Next, ensure the tension is properly adjusted by turning the screw clockwise until the wire is taut.

The Cheese Slicer Is Not Cutting Evenly

Uneven slicing could be caused by an improperly installed wire or incorrect tension. Recheck the wire installation and tension adjustment as outlined in the previous sections. Additionally, ensure that you are applying even pressure when using the slicer.

How Do You Clean A Cheese Slicer Wire?

Step 1: Unplug the cheese slicer from its power source and remove any food debris from the wire.

Step 2: Use a clean cloth or paper towel dampened with warm, soapy water to wipe down the wire, paying special attention to any food residue that remains stuck on it.

Step 3: Rinse off the wire with a damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.

Step 4: Dry the wire thoroughly with a clean cloth before re-attaching it to the cheese slicer.

Step 5: Replace the wire if it is severely damaged or corrupted and no longer functions properly. This can be done by unscrewing the wire from its socket, then screwing in a new wire of the same size.

Step 6: Once the cheese slicer is reassembled, apply vegetable oil to the wire to prevent rust and corrosion.

Step 7: Plug in your cheese slicer and check that it works correctly before using it again.

These steps will help ensure your cheese slicer is in top condition and ready to use. With a bit of maintenance, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious slices of cheese easily and quickly.

FAQs

What are the different types of cheese slicers?

There are various types of cheese slicers available, including:

  • Wire cheese slicers: These slicers use a taut wire to cut through soft to semi-hard cheeses. They often have adjustable tension and are easy to clean.
    Wire cheese slicers
    Wire cheese slicers
  • Rolling cheese slicers: These slicers feature a rolling blade that easily cuts through hard and semi-hard cheeses.
    Rolling cheese slicers
    Rolling cheese slicers
  • Cheese planes: Cheese planes have a flat, sharp-edged blade that peels thin slices off semi-hard and hard cheeses.
    Cheese planes
    Cheese planes
  • Cheese knives: Designed specifically for cutting cheese, these knives come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of cheese.
    Cheese knives
    Cheese knives

How Do I Choose The Right Cheese Slicer?

To choose the right cheese slicer, consider the following factors:

  • Type of cheese: Different slicers work best for different types of cheese. Wire slicers are ideal for soft to semi-hard cheeses while rolling slicers and cheese planes are better suited for hard and semi-hard cheeses.
  • Ease of use: Look for a slicer with an ergonomic handle and user-friendly design.
  • Durability: Opt for a slicer made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
  • Ease of cleaning: Choose a cheese slicer that is easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher.

Can I use a cheese slicer for other purposes?

While cheese slicers are primarily designed for cutting cheese, some types of slicers can also be used for other purposes, such as:

  • Slicing butter
  • Cutting soft fruits or vegetables
    Cutting soft fruits or vegetables
    Cutting soft fruits or vegetables
  • Shaving chocolate or truffles

Why is my cheese slicer not cutting evenly?

Uneven slicing can occur for several reasons, including:

  • Improperly installed wire or blade
  • Incorrect tension on the wire
  • Uneven pressure is applied when using the slicer

Can I shred cheese with a vegetable peeler?

No, using a vegetable peeler to shred cheese is not recommended. Vegetable peelers are designed to be used on hard vegetables with tough skins, and the blades of a vegetable peeler may not be sharp enough to slice through cheese effectively. A cheese slicer is specifically designed for slicing through soft cheeses, and its wire can easily be changed to accommodate different thicknesses.

Conclusion

How Do You Change The Wire On A Cheese Slicer - Infographics
How Do You Change The Wire On A Cheese Slicer – Infographics

It is important to remember that safety should always be your priority when changing the wire on a cheese slicer. Wear protective gloves and goggles, and ensure all power sources are disconnected. When you have obtained the correct replacement wire, carefully cut it down to size and secure it in place with screws or clips. Your cheese slicer should remain reliable for years with proper care and maintenance.

Conclusion

How do you change wire on a meat slicer - Getsliceright Infographic
How do you change wire on a meat slicer – Getsliceright Infographic

Changing the wire of the cheese slicer is very simple. You can easily replace the wire with a new one. The new wire will give you a much smoother cut than before.