1. Important Safety Information
Please read all instructions carefully before using your new WANAI refrigerator. Keep this manual for future reference. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or other hazards.
- Ensure the refrigerator is placed on a stable, level surface.
- Allow the appliance to stand upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it in to allow refrigerants to settle.
- Do not block ventilation openings in the appliance enclosure or in the built-in structure.
- Do not use mechanical devices or other means to accelerate the defrosting process, other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
- Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
- Do not use electrical appliances inside the food storage compartments of the appliance, unless they are of the type recommended by the manufacturer.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
- Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
2. Product Overview
The WANAI 3.5 Cu.ft Retro Refrigerator with Freezer is a compact, dual-door appliance designed for efficient food storage in various settings such as homes, offices, dorms, or RVs. It features a separate freezer compartment and a refrigerator section, offering versatile temperature control.

Image: The WANAI 3.5 Cu.ft Retro Refrigerator with Freezer in blue, showcasing its dual-door design and interior layout with various food items.
Key Features:
- Dual Door Design: Separate freezer and refrigerator compartments.
- Adjustable Thermostat: Seven temperature control settings.
- Removable Glass Shelves: Two adjustable glass shelves for flexible storage.
- Crisper Drawer: Dedicated drawer for keeping fruits and vegetables fresh.
- Low Noise Operation: Operates at approximately 40 dB.
- Energy Efficient: Annual energy consumption of 153 kWh.
- Compact Dimensions: 17.5 x 17.5 x 33.8 inches.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper setup ensures optimal performance and longevity of your refrigerator.
3.1 Unpacking
- Carefully remove all packaging materials, including foam and adhesive tape.
- Inspect the refrigerator for any shipping damage. Report any damage to your retailer immediately.
- Remove any internal accessories and clean them before use.
3.2 Placement
- Place the refrigerator on a firm, level floor that can support its weight when fully loaded.
- Ensure there is adequate space around the refrigerator for proper ventilation (at least 4 inches on the sides and back, and 8 inches at the top).
- Avoid placing the appliance in direct sunlight or near heat sources like stoves or heaters.
- The refrigerator is designed for freestanding installation.

Image: Dimensions and features for placement, including adjustable feet and wheels for easy movement.
3.3 Leveling
- Adjust the leveling feet at the bottom of the refrigerator to ensure it is stable and level. This helps prevent vibrations and ensures proper door sealing.

Image: Detail of the adjustable feet and wheels for precise leveling and easy repositioning.
3.4 Handle Installation
- The handles are included separately and must be installed by the user. Refer to the included handle installation guide for detailed steps.

Image: The two retro-style handles that require user installation.
3.5 Initial Power-On
- After placement and leveling, allow the refrigerator to stand upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it into a power outlet. This allows the compressor oils and refrigerants to settle, preventing potential damage.
- Plug the refrigerator into a dedicated 110 Volt AC outlet.
4. Operating Instructions
Understanding the controls and features of your refrigerator will help you maximize its efficiency.
4.1 Temperature Control
The refrigerator features a seven-level adjustable thermostat located inside the fresh food compartment. Turn the dial to adjust the cooling intensity.
- Setting '1' is the warmest, and '7' is the coldest.
- The recommended setting for general use is typically '4' or '5'.
- The freezer temperature ranges from -0.4°F (-18°C).
- The refrigerator temperature ranges from 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C).

Image: The internal temperature control dial and the temperature ranges for both compartments.
4.2 Storage Compartments
- Freezer Compartment (Top): Ideal for storing frozen foods such as meat, ice cream, and seafood. Capacity: 1.0 Cu.ft.
- Refrigerator Compartment (Bottom): Suitable for fresh foods like vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and beverages. Capacity: 2.5 Cu.ft.
- Removable Glass Shelves: Adjust the height of the shelves to accommodate items of various sizes.
- Crisper Drawer: Use for optimal storage of fresh produce.

Image: Internal layout showing the 1.0 Cu.ft freezer and 2.5 Cu.ft refrigerator capacities.

Image: Removable shelves and drawer for organized food storage.
5. Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance helps ensure the efficient operation and extends the lifespan of your refrigerator.
5.1 Cleaning
- Always unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.
- Clean the interior and exterior surfaces with a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals.
- The removable glass shelves and crisper drawer can be washed with warm soapy water. Ensure they are completely dry before placing them back in the refrigerator.
- Clean the door gaskets regularly to ensure a tight seal.
5.2 Defrosting
This refrigerator features a manual defrost system for the freezer compartment.
- When ice accumulation in the freezer reaches about 0.2 inches (5 mm) thick, it is time to defrost.
- Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet.
- Remove all food items from the freezer and refrigerator compartments and store them in a cooler.
- Leave the freezer door open to allow the ice to melt naturally. Place towels at the bottom to absorb water. Do not use sharp objects or heating devices to speed up defrosting.
- Once all ice has melted, clean and dry the interior thoroughly.
- Plug the refrigerator back in and allow it to cool down for a few hours before returning food.
6. Troubleshooting Guide
If you encounter any issues with your refrigerator, please consult the following common troubleshooting steps before contacting customer service.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator does not operate | Not plugged in; Power outage; Circuit breaker tripped. | Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet. Check household fuse/circuit breaker. |
| Temperature is not cold enough | Temperature control set too warm; Door left open; Excessive food load; Poor ventilation. | Adjust temperature control to a colder setting. Ensure door is closed properly. Reduce food load if overfilled. Ensure adequate space around the unit for ventilation. |
| Excessive noise | Refrigerator is not level; Objects vibrating against the unit; Compressor noise. | Adjust leveling feet to ensure the unit is stable. Move any objects away from the refrigerator. Compressor noise is normal during operation. |
| Water on floor/inside unit | Drain tube blocked; Excessive humidity; Door left open. | Check and clear the drain tube if applicable. Ensure the door is closed properly. Manual defrost is required if ice buildup is significant. |
| Door does not close properly | Gasket dirty/damaged; Refrigerator not level; Obstruction. | Clean or replace door gasket. Level the refrigerator. Remove any obstructions. |
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the WANAI 3.5 Cu.ft Retro Refrigerator with Freezer.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | WANAI |
| Model Number | De-BCD72-Blue |
| Total Capacity | 3.5 Cubic Feet |
| Freezer Capacity | 1.0 Cubic Feet |
| Refrigerator Capacity | 2.5 Cubic Feet |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | 17.5 x 17.5 x 33.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 45 Pounds |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 153 Kilowatt Hours Per Year |
| Noise Level | 40 Decibels |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Wattage | 58 watts |
| Number of Doors | 2 |
| Defrost System | Manual |
| Shelf Type | Glass |
| Included Components | Refrigerator, Handles, User Manual |
8. Warranty and Support
WANAI products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact WANAI customer service directly.
For further assistance, please visit the official WANAI website or contact their customer support channels.