Do not preheat the slow cooker.
Your Crockpot™ Slow Cooker makes a great server for hot beverages or dips. Keep it on the lowsetting to maintain the proper serving temperature.
A Crockpot™ Slow Cooker does not have direct heat at the bottom. Therefore, always fill the stoneware at least half full to conform to recommended times. If you fill the stoneware less than half full, please note that cooking time will be affected.