7
FREEZER CARE
Defrosting and Cleaning Your Freezer
Defrost and clean your freezer when frost has built up to about
¹⁄₄
"
(0.6 cm) thickness. Complete defrosting and cleaning should be
done at least once a year. In high humidity areas, a freezer may
need more frequent defrosting and cleaning.
Do not use abrasive cleaners on your freezer. Do not use cleaning
waxes, concentrated detergents, bleaches, or cleaners containing
petroleum on plastic parts. Damage can occur.
NOTE: For models with a defrost water drain, the drain cap must
be removed before defrosting the freezer and replaced securely
afterward.
1. Unplug freezer or disconnect power.
2. Remove all frozen food. Wrap frozen food in several layers of
newspaper and cover with a blanket. Food will stay frozen for
several hours. You may also store frozen food in a cooler,
additional refrigerator-freezer, or in a cool area.
3.
Style 1 - Models with a drain system:
Remove the drain cover by pulling it straight out. Then insert
the hose adapter (provided) into the drain outlet. Remove the
plastic cap from inside the bottom of the freezer. Place a pan
under the drain, or attach a hose to the threaded end of the
hose adapter and direct the water into a separate drain.
NOTE: Check the drain pan frequently to avoid water
overflow. Have a second pan handy for easier emptying.
Style 2 - Models without a drain system:
Remove water using a sponge or baster to remove excess
water from the freezer bottom and empty water into a large
pan.
4. Place pans of hot water in freezer with lid open to speed
melting. Directing air from an electric fan into freezer will also
help. Do not place fan or any electrical device in freezer.
5. Use a plastic scraper to remove frost.
NOTE: Do not use an ice pick, knife, or other sharp-pointed
tool to defrost freezer. Damage can occur.
6. Wipe water from walls with a towel or sponge.
7. Wash the inside walls with a solution of mild detergent in
warm water or 2 tbs (26 mg) baking soda to 1 qt (0.95 L) warm
water. Do not use abrasive or harsh cleaners.
8. Rinse well and wipe dry with a clean soft cloth.
9. Use a clean sponge or soft cloth and mild detergent in warm
water to clean outside of freezer, door liner, and gasket.
10. Rinse well and wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth.
11. Wax painted metal surfaces on the outside of freezer to avoid
rust.
NOTE: Do not use wax on plastic parts. Wax may damage
them.
12. For models with a defrost water drain, you should remove the
hose adapter and replace the drain cover and the plastic cap
in the bottom of the freezer.
13. Replace all frozen food.
14. Plug in freezer or reconnect power.
15. Refer to “Using the Control” section.
Changing the Light Bulbs
(on some models)
1. Unplug freezer or disconnect power.
2. Reach behind the light lens to remove bulb.
3. Replace bulb with a 15-watt appliance bulb.
4. Plug in freezer or reconnect power.
Power Interruptions
If the power will be out for 24 hours or less, keep the lid closed to
help food stay cold and frozen.
If the power will be out for more than 24 hours, do one of the
following:
■
Remove all frozen food and store it in a frozen food locker.
■
If a food locker is not available, consume or can perishable
food at once.
After the power is restored, unplug the freezer for 30 minutes, to
allow the refrigeration system to equalize. During this time keep
the lid closed whenever possible.
REMEMBER: A full freezer stays cold longer than a partially filled
one. A freezer full of meat stays cold longer than a freezer full of
baked goods. If you see that food contains ice crystals, it may be
refrozen, although the quality and flavor may be affected. If the
condition of the food is poor, dispose of it.
Moving Care
When you are moving your freezer to a new home, follow these
steps to prepare it for the move.
1. Remove all frozen food.
2. Unplug the freezer.
3. Take out all removable parts, wrap them well, and tape them
together so they don’t shift and rattle during the move.
4. Clean the freezer thoroughly.
5. Tape the freezer shut and tape the electrical cord to the
cabinet.
When you get to your new home, refer to the “Installation
Instructions” and “Freezer Use” sections for information on
installation and setting the controls.
WARNING
Explosion Hazard
Use nonflammable cleaner.
Failure to do so can result in death, explosion, or fire.
