Liebherr Base Unit Fridge User Guide

1 Appliance at a Glance

The manufacturer constantly develops its types and models. Liebherr reserves the right to make design, equipment, and technical modifications. Please read these instructions carefully to understand your new appliance's benefits. Instructions apply to several models; differences are marked with an asterisk (*). Instructions are marked with a , and results with a .

1.1 Description of Appliance and Equipment

Note: Place food inside the appliance as shown in the diagram to save energy during operation. Shelves, drawers, and baskets are arranged for optimum energy efficiency.

Figure 1: Illustrates the components of the appliance. Key parts include: (1) Freezer compartment*, (2) Can rack, (3) Bottle holder, (4) Bottle rack, (5) Temperature control and LED interior light, (6) Shelf, (7) Vegetable bin, (8) Sectioned shelf, (9) Coldest zone, (10) Type plate, (11) Height-adjustable feet at the front, (12) Drain hole.

1.2 Appliance Range of Use

Intended Use: The appliance is suitable for cooling food products in a domestic or household-like environment, including staff kitchens, bed and breakfast establishments, country houses, hotels, motels, and wholesale catering services. The appliance is not suitable for freezing food. It is suitable for integrating under counters. All other uses are not permitted.

Foreseeable Misuse: Applications expressly forbidden include storing and refrigerating medicines, blood plasma, laboratory preparations, or similar substances based on the Medical Device Directive 2007/47/EC, and use in areas at risk of explosions. Misusing the appliance may lead to damage or spoilage of stored goods.

1.3 Conformity

The refrigerant circuit has been tested for leaks. When installed, the appliance complies with applicable safety regulations and EU directives (2014/35/EU, 2014/30/EU, 2009/125/EC, 2011/65/EU, 2010/30/EU, 2014/53/EU). The full EU Declaration of Conformity is available at: www.Liebherr.com.

1.4 EPREL Database

Details about energy labelling and ecodesign requirements are available on the European product database (EPREL) from March 1, 2021. Access the database via https://eprel.ec.europa.eu/ by entering the model ID found on the nameplate.

1.5 Saving Energy

• Ensure good ventilation; do not cover ventilation holes or grids.
• Do not install in direct sunlight or next to ovens or radiators.
• Energy consumption depends on ambient temperature; warmer temperatures increase consumption.
• Open the appliance for the shortest possible time.
• Lower temperature settings increase energy consumption.
• Sort your food: visit home.liebherr.com/food.
• Keep food properly packed and covered to prevent frost.
• Take out food only as long as necessary.
• Allow warm food to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator.
• Defrost the appliance if a thick layer of frost forms.

2 General Safety Information

Danger for the User

• This device can be used by children and individuals with impaired physical, sensory, or mental abilities, or lack of experience, provided they are supervised or instructed on safe use and hazards. Children must not play with the appliance. Cleaning and maintenance must be done by adults. Children aged 3-8 can load and unload; children under 3 must be kept away unless supervised.
• When disconnecting, always hold the plug, not the cable.
• In case of a fault, pull the mains plug or deactivate the fuse.
• Do not damage the mains power cable; do not operate with a defective cable.
• Repairs and interventions may only be carried out by After-Sales Service or trained specialists.
• Install, connect, and dispose of the appliance according to instructions.
• Only use the appliance when installed.
• Keep these instructions in a safe place and pass them on.

Fire Hazard

• The coolant is eco-friendly but flammable; leaks may ignite.
• Do not damage refrigerant circuit pipes.
• Do not handle ignition sources inside the appliance.
• Do not use electrical appliances inside (e.g., steam cleaners, heaters, ice cream makers).
• If refrigerant leaks: remove naked flames/ignition sources, air the room, and inform customer services.
• Do not store explosives or sprays with combustible propellants (butane, propane, pentane) in the appliance.
• Store alcoholic drinks or containers with alcohol in tightly closed containers to prevent ignition by electrical components.

Climate Classifications

The appliance is designed for specific ambient temperatures based on its climate classification, indicated on the rating plate.

Note: Adhere to specified ambient temperatures for proper operation.

3 Controls and Displays

3.1 Operating and Control Elements

Figure 2: Shows the operating and control elements. (1) indicates the Temperature control.

Symbols on the Appliance:

• A symbol on the compressor refers to the oil within, indicating danger if swallowed or inhaled (relevant for recycling). No danger in normal operation.
• A symbol on the compressor indicates flammable materials. Do not remove this sticker.
• A sticker on the rear of the appliance refers to foam-padded panels in the door and/or housing, relevant for recycling. Do not remove this sticker.

Please observe the specific information in the other sections:

• [DANGER]: Identifies a situation involving direct danger which, if not obviated, may result in death or severe bodily injury.
• [WARNING]: Identifies a dangerous situation which, if not obviated, may result in death or severe bodily injury.
• [CAUTION]: Identifies a dangerous situation which, if not obviated, may result in minor or medium bodily injury.
• [NOTICE]: Identifies a dangerous situation which, if not obviated, may result in damage to property.
• [NOTE]: Contains useful instructions and tips.

4 Putting into Operation

4.1 Transporting the Appliance

• Transport the appliance only in suitable packaging, upright, and not alone.

4.2 Installing the Appliance

• [WARNING] Improper Use: Fire hazard if the mains cable/plug contacts the appliance's back due to vibration, potentially causing a short circuit. Ensure the appliance does not touch connectors or main cables. Do not connect appliances to sockets near the back. Do not place multi-sockets, power distributors, or other electronic appliances (like halogen transformers) at the back.
• [WARNING] Fire Hazard Due to Dampness: If live parts or the mains lead become damp, short circuits may occur. The appliance is designed for enclosed areas; do not operate outdoors or where exposed to splash water or damp conditions. Only use when installed.
• [WARNING] Leaking Coolant and Oil: Fire hazard. Coolant and oil are flammable. Escaping coolant and oil can ignite if the concentration is high enough and in contact with an external heat source. Do not damage the pipelines of the coolant circuit and the compressor.
• [WARNING] Fire Hazard and Damage: Do not place heat-emitting appliances (e.g., microwaves, toasters) on the appliance.
• [NOTICE] Covered Vents: Appliance can overheat, reducing service life and causing operational impairments. Always ensure good ventilation and keep vents/grids unobstructed.
• [NOTICE] Risk of Damage Due to Condensate: Do not install directly alongside another refrigerator/freezer.
• Installation Steps: Report any damage immediately to the delivery company. Ensure the installation floor is horizontal and even. Avoid direct sunlight, ovens, or radiators. The appliance is suitable for use as an integrated base unit, ventilated at the feet. Do not install alone. Ensure adequate room size for coolant (at least 1 m³ per 8 g of coolant). Detach the connecting cable holder from the rear. Remove protective film from decorative trims and all transit supports. Dispose of packaging material. Clean the appliance. Ensure good ventilation in damp environments.

4.3 Disposing of Packaging

[WARNING] Danger of Suffocation: Do not allow children to play with packing material.

Packaging is made of recyclable materials (corrugated board, expanded polystyrene, polythene bags/sheets, polypropylene straps, nailed wooden frame with polyethylene panel). Take packaging material to an official collection point.

4.4 Connecting the Appliance

• [NOTICE] Failure to Connect Properly: Can cause damage to electronics. Do not connect to stand-alone inverters (e.g., solar power systems, petrol generators) or use energy-saving plugs.
• [WARNING] Failure to Connect Properly: Fire hazard. Do not use extension cables or distributor blocks.
• Ensure the type of current (alternating current) and voltage at the installation site conform to the data on the type plate.
• The socket must be properly earthed and fused (tripping current between 10 A and 16 A).
• The socket must be easily accessible for quick disconnection in an emergency and located outside the area of the appliance's rear.
• Check the electrical connection and plug in the power plug.

4.5 Switching on the Appliance

Put the appliance into operation about 2 hours before first loading food. Turn the temperature control (Figure 2 (1)) from the '0' setting to point '3'. The interior light should be on. The compressor may take up to 10 minutes to start.

5 Control

5.1 Refrigerator Compartment

Natural air circulation creates temperature zones: coldest above vegetable drawers and at the rear wall; warmest at the top front and in the door.

5.1.1 Refrigerating Food

• The coldest areas are directly above the vegetable compartments and along the back wall. The warmest area is at the top front and in the door.
• [NOTE] Ventilation: Insufficient ventilation increases energy consumption and reduces cooling power. Always keep air slots clear.
• Store perishable foods (ready-to-eat meals, meat, sausages) in the coldest areas. Place butter and preserves in the top area and in the door.
• Use reusable plastic, metal, aluminium, glass containers, and foil wrap for food storage.
• Store raw meat and fish in clean, sealed containers on the bottom shelf to prevent contact with or dripping onto other foods.
• Foods that easily absorb or give off smell or taste, as well as liquids, should be stored in sealed containers or covered.
• Do not pack foods too closely together to allow air circulation.

5.1.2 Setting the Temperature

The temperature can be set between the first point (warmest, minimum cooling) and 'max.' (coldest, maximum cooling). A middle control setting is recommended, establishing approximately 5 °C in the refrigerator compartment. An average temperature of approximately -18 °C is established in the freezer compartment*.

Turn the temperature control (Figure 2 (1)). Temperature can be set slightly colder within a zone (e.g., 4 to 5 or between control points). Temperature depends on door opening frequency, duration, room temperature, and food type/quantity. Adjust as needed.

5.1.3 Shelves

Shelves are prevented from accidental pull-out by stops.

Moving or Removing Shelves: Lift the shelf and pull it out towards the front. Insert shelf with the raised edge pointing upwards at the back. Food will not freeze onto the rear wall.

5.1.4 Using the Sectioned Shelf

Slide the sectioned shelf under as shown in the illustration. The glass shelf with stop face (2) must be at the back, and the glass plate (1) with pull-out stops (3) must be at the front, with stops facing downwards.

5.1.5 Door Racks

Remove storage rack according to the illustration.

5.1.6 Removing the Bottle Holder

Remove the bottle holder by holding the plastic part.

5.2 Freezer Compartment*

You can store frozen food for months, make ice cubes, and freeze fresh food at -18 °C or lower. Air temperature may fluctuate.

5.2.1 Freezing Food

The rating plate indicates the maximum quantity of fresh food that can be frozen within 24 hours under "Freezing capacity ... kg/24h".

[CAUTION] Risk of Injury Due to Broken Glass: Bottles and cans containing drinks, especially sparkling ones, may burst when frozen. Do not freeze drinks in bottles and cans.

• 24 hours before freezing food, set the temperature to a mid-to-cold position.
• When freezing the maximum amount of food, set the temperature controller to the coldest position 24 hours prior. The freezer temperature will drop, and the appliance will operate at maximum refrigerating capacity.
• To rapidly freeze food to the core, do not exceed the following quantities per pack: Fruit/vegetables up to 1 kg; Meat up to 2.5 kg.
• Pack food in portions using freezer bags, reusable plastic, metal, or aluminium containers.
• Distribute food over the shelf and avoid contact with already frozen goods to prevent thawing.
• Reset the temperature 24 hours after storing the food.

5.2.2 Storage Times

Guide times for storing various foods in the freezer compartment:

• Ice cream: 2 to 6 months
• Sausage, ham: 2 to 6 months
• Bread, bakery products: 2 to 6 months
• Game, pork: 6 to 10 months
• Fish, fatty: 2 to 6 months
• Fish, lean: 6 to 12 months
• Cheese: 2 to 6 months
• Poultry, beef: 6 to 12 months
• Vegetables, fruit: 6 to 12 months

5.2.3 Thawing Food

Thaw food in the refrigerator compartment, microwave oven, conventional or fan oven, or at room temperature. Remove only the required amount and use thawed food as quickly as possible. Food once thawed should only be refrozen in exceptional cases.

6 Maintenance

6.1 Defrosting

6.1.1 Defrosting Refrigerator Compartment

The fridge compartment defrosts automatically. Defrosted water evaporates. Water drops or a thin layer of frost/ice on the back wall are normal. Clean the drain hole regularly to allow defrost water to drain.

6.1.2 Defrosting Freezer Compartment*

A layer of frost and ice forms in the freezer compartment after prolonged use, which is normal. It forms more quickly if the door is opened frequently or warm food is placed inside. A thick layer of ice increases energy consumption, so defrost regularly.

[WARNING] Improper Defrosting: Can cause injuries and damage. Do not use mechanical equipment, electrical heating, steam-cleaning appliances, naked flames, or defroster sprays. Do not use sharp objects to remove ice.

• Switch off the appliance and pull out the plug.
• Wrap frozen food in newspaper or blankets and store in a cool place.
• Leave the compartment and appliance door open during defrosting.
• Remove detached pieces of ice.
• Prevent defrost water from running into the kitchen unit.
• Pick up defrost water several times using a sponge or cloth.
• Clean the compartment (see 6.2 Cleaning the Appliance).

6.2 Cleaning the Appliance

Clean the appliance regularly.

[WARNING] Risk of Injury and Damage from Hot Steam: Hot steam can cause burns and damage surfaces. Do not use steam cleaners.

[NOTICE] Incorrect Cleaning Damages the Appliance: Do not use cleaning agents in concentrated form, scouring/abrasive sponges, steel wool, sharp/abrasive cleaning agents (containing sand, chloride, or acid), or chemical solvents. Do not damage or remove the type plate. Do not pull off, bend, or damage cables or components. Prevent cleaning water from entering the drain channel, ventilation grille, or electrical parts.

• Use soft cleaning cloths and a universal pH-neutral cleaning agent.
• Use cleaning and care products suitable for contact with foodstuffs for the interior.
• Empty the appliance and pull out the power plug.
• Clean the vent grille regularly; dust deposits increase energy consumption.
• Clean plastic outer and inner surfaces with lukewarm water and a little washing-up liquid.
• Clean the drain hole: remove deposits with a narrow instrument, e.g., a cotton bud.
• Most parts can be dismantled for cleaning (refer to relevant chapters).
• Clean drawers and other items of equipment by hand with lukewarm water and a little washing-up liquid.
• After cleaning: Wipe the appliance and items dry. Connect and switch on again. Put food back inside when the temperature is sufficiently cold.

6.3 Changing the Interior Light

The appliance uses an LED lamp as standard illumination. If an incandescent bulb is used, use one with a maximum of 15 W and an E14 socket. Power supply (AC) and voltage must comply with the rating plate details.

[WARNING] Risk of Injury from LED Light: The light intensity corresponds to risk group RG 2. If the cover is removed, do not look directly into the light at close quarters through optical lenses, as this may damage your eyes.

[WARNING] Fire Hazard from LED Light: If different LED lights are used, there is a danger of overheating or fire. Use the manufacturer's original LED light.

To Exchange the Lamp: Switch off the appliance and pull out the power plug or switch off the fuse. As shown in the diagram, press to open the lamp cover on the inside at the front and pull it off to the side. Replace the lamp. Reattach the lamp cover and snap it into place.

6.4 Customer Service

First, check if you can rectify the fault yourself (see 7 Malfunctions). If not, contact Customer Services using the address in the enclosed Customer Service Directory.

[WARNING] Unprofessional Repair: Can cause injuries. Repairs and actions not expressly specified on the appliance and mains cable must be carried out by service personnel only. A damaged mains cable may only be replaced by the manufacturer, its Customer Service, or a similarly qualified person. For appliances with an IEC connector, the customer may make the change.

• Read the appliance designation (Figure 3 (1)), service number (Figure 3 (2)), and serial number (Figure 3 (3)) from the model plate located inside the appliance on the left-hand side.
• Notify customer service, specifying the fault, appliance designation, service number, and serial number. This helps provide faster, more accurate service.
• Keep the appliance closed until customer service arrives; the food will stay cooler longer.
• Pull out the mains plug (do not pull the connecting cable) or switch off the fuse.

6.5 Energy Efficiency Class Lighting

¹ The appliance may contain light sources with different energy efficiency classes. The lowest energy efficiency class is indicated.

7 Malfunctions

Your appliance is designed for a long lifespan and reliable operation. If a malfunction occurs, check if it's due to a handling error. You may be able to rectify the following faults yourself:

• Appliance does not work: Check if the appliance is switched on, the power plug is properly inserted, and the wall socket fuse is in order.
• The compressor runs for a long time: The compressor switches to a low speed when less cooling is needed. This increases running time but saves energy; it is normal for energy-saving models.
• A LED on the bottom rear of the appliance flashes regularly every 15 seconds*: The inverter is equipped with a diagnostic LED; the flashing is normal.
• Excessive noise: Speed-regulated compressors can generate different running noises due to various speed steps; the sound is normal.
• A bubbling and gurgling noise: This noise comes from the refrigerant flowing in the refrigeration circuit; the sound is normal.
• A quiet clicking noise: Produced when the refrigeration unit (motor) automatically switches on or off; the sound is normal.
• A hum: Briefly louder when the refrigeration unit (motor) switches on. This is normal when the refrigeration increases automatically (e.g., after placing fresh food or leaving the door open).
• The ambient temperature is too high: Solution: refer to section 1.2 Appliance Range of Use.

Notify customer service, specifying the fault, appliance designation, service number, and serial number.

8 Decommissioning

Vibration Noises

• The appliance may not be standing firmly on the floor, causing objects and adjacent units to vibrate. Check the installation and realign the appliance. Keep bottles and jars apart.

Outer Surfaces are Warm*

The heat from the refrigeration circuit is used to prevent condensate from forming; this is normal.

The Temperature is Not Cold Enough

• The door may not be properly closed.
• Insufficient ventilation. Keep ventilation grilles clear and clean.
• The ambient temperature is too high (see 1.2 Appliance Range of Use).
• The appliance was opened too frequently or for too long. Wait for it to reach the required temperature; if not, contact after-sales service (see 6 Maintenance).
• The appliance is too close to a heat source (stove, heater, etc.). Change the position of the appliance or the heat source.
• The appliance was not inserted properly into the recess. Check insertion and door closure.

The Internal Light Does Not Come On

• The appliance is not switched on.
• The lamp (if an LED lamp) is faulty.

[WARNING] Risk of Injury from LED Light: The light intensity corresponds to risk group RG 2. If the cover is removed, do not look directly into the light at close quarters through optical lenses, as this may damage your eyes.

• Change the lamp (see 6 Maintenance).

8.1 Switching off the Appliance

Turn the temperature control (Figure 2 (1)) to '0'.

8.2 Taking the Appliance out of Service

• Empty the appliance.
• Switch off the appliance (see 8.1 Switching off the appliance).
• Remove the mains connector.
• Clean the appliance (see 6.2 Cleaning the Appliance).
• Leave the door open to prevent odour.

9 Disposal

9.1 Preparing Appliance for Disposal

Liebherr appliances may contain batteries. In the EU, end-users are legally obliged to remove batteries before disposing of old appliances. If your appliance contains batteries, a notice is attached.

If lamps can be removed without destruction, remove them before disposal.

• Take the appliance out of operation (see 8.2 Taking the appliance out of service).
• For appliances with batteries: remove the batteries (see Maintenance chapter for description).
• If possible: remove lamps without destroying them.

9.2 Disposing of the Appliance in an Environmentally Friendly Manner

The appliance contains valuable materials and must be disposed of separately from unsorted municipal waste.

• Dispose of batteries separately from the old appliance. Return batteries free of charge to retailers, recycling centres, and collection centres for recyclable materials.
• Dispose of removed lamps via the respective collection systems.
• For Germany: Dispose of the appliance free of charge via class 1 collection containers at local recycling and recyclable material collection centres. Retailers will also take back old appliances free of charge if the sales area is over 400 m² when purchasing a new fridge/freezer.

[WARNING] Leaking Coolant and Oil: Fire hazard. Coolant and oil are flammable. Escaping coolant and oil can ignite if the concentration is high enough and in contact with an external heat source. Do not damage the pipelines of the coolant circuit and the compressor.

• Transport the appliance without damaging it.
• Dispose of batteries, lamps, and the appliance according to the above specifications.