FORTÉ FFD18ESC250SS French Door Refrigerator Instruction Manual

1. Important Safety Information

Read all instructions before using this appliance to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Electrical Safety: Ensure the refrigerator is properly grounded. Do not use extension cords. Disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.
• Ventilation: Maintain adequate clearance around the refrigerator for proper air circulation and cooling efficiency.
• Children Safety: Do not allow children to play with or inside the appliance. Supervise children near the refrigerator.
• Flammable Materials: Do not store explosive substances or flammable materials inside the refrigerator.
• Disposal: Dispose of the appliance according to local regulations. Remove doors to prevent child entrapment.

2. Product Overview

The FORTÉ FFD18ESC250SS is a 33-inch 250 Series Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator designed for modern kitchens. It offers a total capacity of 17.9 cu. ft. and incorporates advanced cooling technologies to preserve food freshness.

The official logo for FORTÉ appliances.

Key Features:

• Total No Frost: Prevents ice buildup, eliminating the need for manual defrosting.
• Inverter Compressor: Provides efficient and quiet cooling, contributing to energy savings.
• Super Cooling & Super Freezing: Rapidly cools or freezes new items to maintain freshness.
• Open Door Alarm: Alerts you if the refrigerator door is left open, helping to conserve energy.
• LED Lighting: Bright, energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates the interior for clear visibility.
• Recessed Handle: Offers a sleek, integrated look and prevents obstruction.
• Energy Star Certified: Meets strict energy efficiency guidelines, reducing electricity consumption.

3. Setup and Installation

This refrigerator is designed for freestanding installation. Proper placement and electrical connection are crucial for optimal performance.

Placement:

• Place the refrigerator on a level, stable surface.
• Ensure adequate clearance (at least 2 inches) on the sides and back for proper ventilation.
• Avoid direct sunlight or proximity to heat sources like ovens or radiators.

Electrical Connection:

• Connect the refrigerator to a dedicated 120 Volt, 60 Hz, AC-only electrical outlet with a 15-amp or 20-amp fuse or circuit breaker.
• Do not use an adapter or extension cord.

Leveling:

Use the adjustable feet at the bottom of the refrigerator to ensure it is level and stable. This helps the doors close properly and prevents vibrations.

4. Operating Instructions

The refrigerator features an intuitive control panel to manage temperature settings and special functions.

Front view of the Forte FFD18ESC250SS French Door Refrigerator in stainless steel.

Control Panel:

The internal control panel allows you to adjust settings for the refrigerator, FlexZone, and freezer compartments. It also provides options for the ice maker and other features.

• Fridge Temperature: Adjust the temperature for the main refrigerator compartment.
• FlexZone: This adaptable compartment can be set to different temperatures for various storage needs (e.g., soft freeze, deli).
• Freezer Temperature: Control the temperature of the freezer drawers.
• Ice Maker: Activate or deactivate the ice maker function. Options for cubed ice or ice bites may be available.
• Filter Reset: Reset the water filter indicator after replacing the filter.
• AutoFill Pitcher: If equipped, this feature automatically refills a pitcher with filtered water.
• Door Alarm: An audible alarm will sound if a door is left open for an extended period.
• Lock: Lock the control panel to prevent accidental changes.

Special Functions:

• Super Cooling: Use this function to quickly cool down the refrigerator compartment, ideal for when large quantities of new groceries are added.
• Super Freezing: Activates rapid freezing in the freezer compartment, useful for preserving the quality of newly added frozen items.

5. Storage Features

The FFD18ESC250SS offers versatile storage options to organize your food efficiently.

Refrigerator Compartment:

• Glass Shelves: Three adjustable glass shelves provide flexible storage for various items.
• Crisper Drawer: A dedicated drawer designed to maintain optimal humidity levels for fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Door Bins: Multiple bins on the French doors accommodate bottles, condiments, and smaller items.
• Water Filter: An integrated water filter system provides clean, filtered water.

Freezer Compartment:

• Freezer Drawers: Two spacious freezer drawers offer ample storage for frozen foods.
• Ice Storage: A dedicated section for ice production and storage, with a capacity of 6.26 cubic feet.

6. Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and efficient operation of your refrigerator.

Cleaning:

• Interior: Clean with a mild detergent and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Exterior: Wipe stainless steel surfaces with a soft cloth and a stainless steel cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Door Gaskets: Clean regularly to ensure a tight seal.

Defrosting:

This refrigerator features a Total No Frost system, which automatically prevents ice buildup, eliminating the need for manual defrosting.

Water Filter Replacement:

Replace the water filter every six months or when the filter indicator light illuminates. Refer to the control panel for the filter reset function.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your refrigerator, consult the following common troubleshooting steps before contacting service.

• Refrigerator Not Cooling: Check if the power cord is securely plugged in. Ensure the temperature settings are correct. Verify that the doors are fully closed.
• Unusual Noises: Some operational noises are normal (e.g., compressor hum, refrigerant flow). If noises are excessive or unusual, ensure the refrigerator is level and not touching walls or cabinets.
• Water Leakage: Check the water supply line for secure connections. Ensure the drain pan is correctly positioned.
• Door Alarm Sounds Frequently: Ensure doors are closing completely and gaskets are clean and intact.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact FORTÉ customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.