1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge. This compact and versatile appliance is designed to keep your food and beverages at an optimal temperature, whether cooling or warming. Its portable design makes it suitable for various environments, including home, office, dorm rooms, or while traveling. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your new mini fridge to ensure safe and efficient use.
2. Safety Information
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, always follow these basic safety precautions:
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- Keep the appliance away from water or excessive moisture.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block the fan vents on the back or sides. Maintain at least 2 inches (5 cm) of clearance.
- Use only the provided AC and DC power adapters.
- Unplug the appliance from the power source before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
- Do not use the appliance outdoors. It is designed for indoor use only.
- Keep out of reach of children. This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities unless supervised.
- Do not attempt to repair or modify the appliance yourself. Contact qualified service personnel for assistance.
- Avoid placing hot items directly into the fridge when in cooling mode, or cold items when in heating mode, as this can reduce efficiency.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge (Cooler)
- AC Power Cord (for home outlets)
- DC Power Cord (for 12V car chargers)
- Removable Interior Shelf
4. Product Overview
The Frigidaire EFMIS171 is a compact and efficient personal fridge featuring a retro design. It utilizes thermoelectric technology, making it 100% Freon-Free and environmentally friendly. The unit offers both cooling and warming functions, making it highly versatile.
Front view of the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 4 liters, capable of holding up to six 12 oz beverage cans.
- Cooling Performance: Cools items up to 32°F (18°C) below ambient room temperature.
- Warming Performance: Warms items up to 140°F (60°C) at an ambient temperature of 75°F (24°C).
- Portability: Lightweight at 3 pounds and includes a convenient carrying handle.
- Power Options: Operates on standard AC (120V) home outlets or DC (12V) car chargers.
- Interior: Features a removable shelf for flexible storage.
Interior view of the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge, filled with six beverage cans.
5. Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove the mini fridge and all accessories from its packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or transport.
- Placement: Place the fridge on a flat, stable, and dry surface. Ensure there is at least 2 inches (5 cm) of clear space around all sides of the unit to allow for proper air circulation and heat dissipation. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
- Insert Shelf: If desired, insert the removable plastic shelf into the designated slots inside the fridge.
- Power Connection:
- For Home Use (AC): Connect the AC power cord to the AC input port on the back of the fridge. Then, plug the other end into a standard 120V wall outlet.
- For Car Use (DC): Connect the DC power cord to the DC input port on the back of the fridge. Then, plug the other end into your vehicle's 12V cigarette lighter socket. Ensure your vehicle's engine is running when using the fridge to prevent battery drain.
Rear view of the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge, showing the fan and power inputs.
6. Operating Instructions
- Power On: After connecting the power cord, locate the power switch on the back of the unit. Flip it to the "ON" position.
- Select Mode (Cooling/Heating): The unit has a switch to select between cooling and heating modes. Choose the desired mode:
- Set the switch to "COOL" for refrigeration. The internal temperature will decrease up to 32°F (18°C) below the surrounding ambient temperature.
- Set the switch to "HEAT" for warming. The internal temperature will increase up to 140°F (60°C) at an ambient temperature of 75°F (24°C).
- Pre-Cool/Pre-Heat: Allow approximately 30 minutes for the unit to reach its optimal operating temperature before placing items inside.
- Loading Contents: Open the fridge door using the handle. Carefully place your items inside, ensuring that they do not obstruct the internal fan or vents for efficient operation. Close the door securely.
- Power Off: To turn off the unit, flip the power switch on the back to the "OFF" position and unplug it from the power source.
7. Maintenance
Regular cleaning and proper care will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your mini fridge.
- Cleaning: Always unplug the unit before cleaning. Wipe the interior and exterior surfaces with a soft, damp cloth and a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or immerse the unit in water. Ensure all surfaces are dry before plugging the unit back in.
- Defrosting: This unit features an automatic defrost system. However, if ice buildup occurs, unplug the unit and allow the ice to melt naturally. Wipe away any accumulated water with a clean cloth.
- Ventilation: Periodically check that the fan vents on the back and sides are clear of dust and debris. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to gently remove any blockages.
- Storage: If you plan to store the mini fridge for an extended period, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and dried. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your Frigidaire EFMIS171 mini fridge, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on | Power cord not securely connected Power switch is OFF Power outlet is not functional | Ensure power cord is firmly plugged into unit and outlet. Flip the power switch on the back to "ON". Test the outlet with another appliance. |
| Unit not cooling/heating effectively | Incorrect mode selected Insufficient ventilation Internal fan blocked Not enough time for temperature change Ambient temperature too high/low | Verify COOL/HEAT switch is set correctly. Ensure at least 2 inches of clearance around the unit. Rearrange items to not block the internal fan. Allow 30 minutes for the unit to reach desired temperature. Note that performance is relative to ambient temperature. |
| Excessive noise | Unit not on a stable surface Fan vents obstructed | Place the unit on a flat, stable surface. Clear any obstructions from the fan vents. |
| Water leakage/condensation | Normal condensation Ice buildup melting Overfilling the unit | Wipe away condensation regularly. Unplug and allow ice to melt, then dry thoroughly. Avoid overfilling to reduce condensation. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | EFMIS171-BLACK |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 10" x 7" x 10.5" (25.4 cm x 17.8 cm x 26.7 cm) |
| Capacity | 4 Liters (approx. six 12 oz cans) |
| Item Weight | 3 pounds (1.36 kg) |
| Cooling Method | Thermoelectric |
| Voltage | AC 120V, DC 12V |
| Defrost System | Automatic |
| Shelf Type | Plastic |
| Power Plug Type | Type A - 2 pin (North American) |
| Certification | cETL approved |
Diagram showing the dimensions of the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge.
10. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
This Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge is covered by a 180-day warranty from the original date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, accident, alteration, neglect, or unauthorized repair.
Customer Support:
For warranty claims, technical assistance, or any questions regarding your product, please contact Frigidaire customer support. Please have your model number (EFMIS171) and proof of purchase ready when contacting support.
Contact information can typically be found on the official Frigidaire website or on the product packaging.
