Smeg FQ55FNDE / FQ55FXDE Refrigerator
Model Numbers: FQ55FNDE, FQ55FXDE
Welcome
Thank you for choosing a Smeg product. This manual provides essential information for the optimal use and maintenance of your refrigerator. Please read it carefully before use and keep it for future reference. If transferring ownership, include this manual.
Symbols and Notes
This manual uses the following symbols:
- ℹ️ Information: Important information and useful tips.
- ⚠️ Warning: Risk to life and property.
- ⚡ Electrical Hazard: Risk of electric shock.
- ♻️ Recycling: Product packaging is made from recyclable materials according to national environmental regulations.
INFORMATION
Product information is stored in the product database. You can access it by visiting the following website and searching for the model identifier (*) found on the energy efficiency label:
1. Safety Instructions
1.1 Application
This product is intended for domestic and indoor use only. Do not use it commercially or outdoors. Avoid exposure to rain, snow, sun, or wind, as this may cause a fire hazard.
1.2 Safety for Children, Vulnerable Persons, and Pets
Children aged 8 and above, and persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities may use the appliance if supervised or instructed on safe use. Children aged 3-8 can load and unload refrigerating products. Keep children and pets away from the appliance; it is dangerous for them to play with, climb on, or enter it. Cleaning and maintenance should only be performed by supervised children. Keep packaging materials away from children to prevent injury or suffocation.
Disposal of Old Appliances: Unplug the appliance, cut the power cord, remove shelves to prevent children from entering, and remove doors before disposal.
1.3 Electrical Safety
Always disconnect the appliance from the power supply before installation, maintenance, cleaning, or repair. Ensure the power cord is not damaged, pinched, or in contact with heat sources. Do not use extension cords or multi-way adapters. The power socket must be easily accessible. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified service agent.
1.4 Transport Safety
The product is heavy; do not move it alone. Do not pull by the door. Be careful not to damage the cooling system or pipes. If pipes are damaged, avoid contact with the product and keep away from ignition sources. Ventilate the area and contact a service agent.
1.5 Installation Safety
Contact an authorized service agent for installation. Ensure electrical and water connections are suitable. If not, consult a qualified electrician and plumber. Install the product on a flat, stable surface and level it using the adjustable feet. Ensure adequate ventilation; do not block vents. Do not install near heat sources or in direct sunlight. The installation location must be dry and well-ventilated. Do not connect to solar power systems. Ensure sufficient installation space based on the refrigerant quantity (minimum 1 m³ per 8g of refrigerant).
1.6 Safety During Use
Do not use chemical solvents. Do not place open flames on or near the appliance. Do not climb on the appliance. Do not damage cooling pipes with sharp objects. Do not place electrical appliances inside unless recommended. Be careful not to trap body parts with moving components or doors. Avoid eating ice cream or ice cubes immediately after removal due to the risk of frostbite. Do not touch internal metal parts or frozen food with wet hands. Do not freeze carbonated drinks in cans or bottles, as they may burst. Do not store flammable aerosols, chemicals, or dry ice near the appliance. Avoid spilling water on electrical parts. The product is not intended for storing medical supplies, blood plasma, or laboratory samples.
Water/Ice Dispenser Safety: Use only drinking water. Do not allow children to play with the dispenser or ice maker. Do not insert objects into the water dispenser or ice maker openings.
1.7 Maintenance and Cleaning Safety
Disconnect the appliance before cleaning. Do not use abrasive tools, harsh detergents, or flammable substances. Clean the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid water contact with the lamp cover and electrical parts. Clean door shelves after emptying them. Do not use chlorine-based cleaners on external surfaces.
Avoiding Odors: Clean the interior with water and baking soda every 15 days. Store food in sealed containers. Remove spoiled food. Use mild cleaning agents.
1.8 Lighting
Contact an authorized service agent for LED bulb replacement.
1.9 WEEE and Waste Disposal
This product complies with the WEEE directive. Do not dispose of it with household waste. Return it to a designated collection point for electrical and electronic equipment.
1.10 RoHS Compliance
This product complies with the RoHS directive, restricting hazardous substances.
1.11 Packaging Information
Packaging materials are recyclable. Dispose of them at local collection points.
1.12 Service
For repairs, contact an authorized service center. Use only original spare parts. Self-repair may void the warranty. Spare parts like thermostats, sensors, and light sources are available for 7 years after production discontinuation. Door seals are available for 10 years.
2. Refrigerator
Diagram showing refrigerator and freezer compartments:
A - Refrigerator Compartment
- 1. Dairy shelf
- 2. Refrigerator shelves
- 3. Protective wire
- 8. Adjustable glass shelves
- 9. Air circulation
B - Freezer Compartment
- 4. Frozen food storage compartments
- 5. Vegetable containers
- 6. Breakfast compartment
- 7. Odor filter
*Optional components are indicated. Diagrams are schematic and may not match your specific model.
3. Installation
3.1 Suitable Installation Location
Install in a dry, well-ventilated room, with ambient temperatures between 10°C and 38°C. Contact an authorized service agent for installation. Ensure electrical and water supplies meet requirements. If not, hire a qualified electrician and plumber. Do not allow unauthorized persons to perform installation work. Ensure the power cord is disconnected during installation. If the door opening is too narrow, remove the doors. Place the appliance on a flat surface to avoid vibrations. Keep at least 30 cm from heat sources (radiators, cookers) and 5 cm from electric ovens. Avoid direct sunlight and humid environments. Ensure at least 5 cm clearance from ceilings and walls for proper air circulation. Do not install below -5°C.
3.2 Installing Plastic Spacers
Use plastic spacers to maintain proper distance between the appliance and the wall for air circulation. Unscrew existing screws and use the provided ones to attach the spacers to the ventilation cover.
3.3 Adjusting the Feet
If the appliance is not level, adjust the front feet by turning them left or right.
3.4 Connecting the Power Supply
⚠️ WARNING: Do not use extension cords or power strips. The power cord must be replaced by an authorized service agent if damaged. Ensure the plug is easily accessible after installation. Maintain a 4 cm gap between two refrigerators placed side-by-side.
3.5 Water Connection (Optional)
⚠️ WARNING: Disconnect the appliance and water pump before connecting. Water supply connections, filter, and water tank must be installed by an authorized service agent. Connect the water hose to the appliance first. Ensure you have the following parts: 1. Connector (for hose attachment), 2. Hose clamps (for wall attachment), 3. Water hose (5m, 1/4 inch), 4. Adapter (with porous filter for cold water supply), 5. Water filter (optional, not needed if using a water tank).
3.6 Connecting the Water Hose to the Appliance
Disconnect the nozzle adapter, route the hose through the connector, and push it firmly into place. Tighten the connector manually or with pliers. Connect the other end of the hose to the water supply or water pump.
3.7 Connecting to Water Supply (Optional)
Install a standard 1/2 inch tap with a valve for cold water supply. Consult a plumber if unsure. Connect the adapter to the water supply valve and then connect the hose to the adapter.
3.8 For Appliances Using a Water Tank (Optional)
Use a water pump recommended by the service agent. Connect the hose to the appliance and pump. Secure the pump inside the water tank. After connecting, run the pump for 2-3 minutes. Refer to the pump's manual. The water filter is not needed when using a water tank.
3.9 Water Filter (Optional)
3.9.1 Mounting External Filter on the Wall (Optional): ⚠️ WARNING: Do not attach the filter to the product. Ensure you have the necessary parts (connectors, adapter, filter, hose clamps, filter mounting device). Connect the adapter to the water valve. Determine the mounting location and attach the filter mounting device to the wall. Mount the filter vertically. Connect the water hose from the top of the filter to the appliance's water connector.
3.9.2 Internal Filter: The internal filter is not pre-installed. Activate the "Ice Off" indicator before installation. Connect the water line or water tank line as shown in the diagrams. After connecting the filter, discard the first 10 glasses of water. The filter removes particles, not microorganisms.
4. Preparation
4.1 Saving Energy
Do not connect to electronic energy-saving systems. Do not leave doors open for extended periods. Do not place hot food or drinks inside. Avoid overfilling the appliance. For maximum freezer capacity, remove upper drawers and place them on the wire frame. Energy consumption is tested with the top shelf and ice bin removed. Store food in the lower drawer. Defrosting frozen food in the refrigerator saves energy. Ensure food does not touch the temperature sensor. Store food in drawers for better efficiency and preservation. Avoid direct contact between the temperature sensor and food packaging.
4.2 First Use
Ensure all preparation steps from the safety and installation sections are completed. Run the appliance empty for 6 hours without opening the doors, if possible. You may hear the compressor start. The front edges may feel warm; this is normal and prevents condensation. The control panel may turn off after 5 minutes of inactivity.
4.3 Tips for Energy Saving
Optimal energy use is achieved with drawers at the bottom and evenly distributed shelves. Door bin placement does not affect energy consumption.
Tips for Cooling Fresh Food
Maintain a temperature of +4°C or lower for fresh food. Higher temperatures reduce shelf life. Pack food in sealed containers to preserve freshness and aroma. Separate cooked and raw food to prevent cross-contamination. Thaw food in the refrigerator. Do not place hot food inside; let it cool to room temperature first. Place new food items behind older ones.
Tips for Cooling Food
Meats should be packaged appropriately and placed on the glass shelf above the vegetable drawer, consumed within 1-2 days.
5. Using the Product
5.1 Control Panel
The control panel may vary by model. Indicators and audible signals help operate the refrigerator.
- 1. Economical Use (ECO)
- 2. High Temperature/Error Alert
- 3. Energy Saving (Display Off)
- 4. Quick Cooling
- 5. Vacation Mode
- 6. Refrigerator Temperature Setting
- 7. Energy Saving (Display Off) / Alarm Off
- 8. Key Lock
- 9. Eco-Fuzzy
- 10. Freezer Temperature Setting
- 11. Quick Freezing
1. Economical Use
The ECO symbol indicates the freezer is set to -18°C, the most economical setting. The ECO indicator turns off when Quick Cooling or Quick Freezing is activated.
2. High Temperature/Error Alert
This indicator lights up for temperature alerts or errors. Consult the troubleshooting section. It also indicates power failure or high temperature warnings. During a power failure, the maximum freezer temperature reached will flash. Press the alarm off button to clear the warning after checking the food.
3. Energy Saving (Display Off)
If the doors remain closed for an extended period, the energy-saving function automatically activates, illuminating the ECO symbol. Other display symbols turn off. Opening a door or pressing a button deactivates this function. It is factory-activated and cannot be deactivated.
4. Quick Cooling
Activates the Quick Cooling indicator. The refrigerator temperature will show '1'. Press the Vacation mode button to cancel. The function automatically turns off after one hour. Use it before loading large amounts of fresh food.
5. Vacation Mode
Press and hold the Vacation mode button for 3 seconds to activate. The refrigerator compartment display will show '--'. Cooling is deactivated in the refrigerator compartment but remains active in other compartments. This mode is not suitable for storing food in the refrigerator compartment. Press the button again to cancel.
6. Refrigerator Temperature Setting
Press the button to set the refrigerator temperature from 8 down to 1.
7.1 Energy Saving (Display Off)
Pressing the button activates the energy-saving symbol and function, turning off other display symbols. Pressing any button or opening the door deactivates it. Pressing the button again turns it off.
7.2 Alarm Off Warning
For power failure/high temperature alarms, press the alarm off button after checking the food to clear the warning.
8. Key Lock
Press and hold the Key Lock button for 3 seconds to activate. The lock symbol will light up. Press and hold again for 3 seconds to deactivate. This prevents accidental temperature changes.
9. Eco-Fuzzy
Activate by pressing and holding the Eco-Fuzzy button for 1 second. The freezer switches to economy mode after 6 hours, indicated by the ECO light. Press and hold for 3 seconds to deactivate.
10. Freezer Temperature Setting
Adjust the freezer temperature from -15°C to -24°C.
11. Quick Freezing
Press the Quick Freezing button to activate the indicator. The freezer temperature will show -27°C. Press the button again to cancel. The function automatically turns off after 24 hours. Use it before loading large quantities of fresh food.
5.2 Zero Degree Compartment (Optional)
This compartment is for storing delicatessen items or meat at lower temperatures for immediate consumption. Do not store fruits or vegetables here. Remove compartments to increase internal volume.
5.3 Vegetable Container
Designed to maintain humidity for fresh vegetables. It has an intensified cold air circulation. Store only vegetables and fruits here, keeping leafy greens and fruits separate for better longevity.
5.4 Blue Light (Optional)
The vegetable containers have blue lighting to help vegetables continue photosynthesis, keeping them fresh.
5.5 Ionizer (Optional)
The ionizer system in the cooling air duct ionizes the air, eliminating bacteria and odor-causing molecules.
5.6 Odor Filter (Optional)
The odor filter in the cooling air duct prevents unpleasant smells.
5.7 Telescopic Drawer
Be careful not to trap body parts when using the drawer. The divider can be removed for cleaning. Drawers can only be removed for cleaning.
5.8 Humidity Control Crisper
This feature controls humidity for fruits and vegetables, ensuring longer freshness. Store leafy vegetables and moisture-sensitive items horizontally. Place heavier vegetables at the bottom and lighter ones at the top. Do not store vegetables in bags, as this can cause spoilage. Use perforated paper instead of bags if hygiene is a concern. Avoid storing ethylene-producing fruits like apples, pears, and peaches with other fruits and vegetables, as ethylene gas can accelerate ripening and spoilage.
5.9 Movable Middle Section
This section prevents cold air leakage. It ensures a seal when the refrigerator doors are closed. It also increases the net capacity of the refrigerator compartment. It moves automatically when the doors are closed.
5.10 Ice Tray (Optional)
Use the ice tray for easy ice production. Fill with water, place in the freezer, and wait about two hours for ice. To release ice, remove the tray and bend it over a tray.
5.11 Freezing Fresh Food
Freeze food as quickly as possible using the Quick Freezing function to preserve quality. Pack food in airtight containers. Label each package with the date. Place previously frozen food in front to use first. Do not refreeze thawed food. Do not freeze large quantities at once.
5.12 Recommendations for Storing Frozen Food
Set the freezer temperature to at least -18°C. Place food in the freezer quickly to avoid thawing. Check expiry dates. Ensure packaging is not damaged.
5.13 Information on Deep Freezing
The freezer must freeze 4.5 kg of food to -18°C within 24 hours per 100 liters of freezer capacity. Food can be stored longer at -18°C or below. Food can remain fresh for months. Do not let food to be frozen touch previously frozen food to avoid partial thawing.
Freezer Setting | Refrigerator Setting | Description |
---|---|---|
-18°C | 4°C | Default recommended setting. |
-20, -22, or -24°C | 4°C | Recommended for ambient temperatures above 30°C. |
Quick Freezing | 4°C | Used for quick freezing; the appliance returns to previous settings afterward. |
-18°C or lower | 2°C | Use if the refrigerator compartment is not cooling sufficiently due to ambient temperature or frequent door openings. |
5.14 Food Placement
Freezer Shelves: Frozen products like meat, fish, ice cream, vegetables.
Refrigerator Shelves: Food in pots, covered plates, and boxes; eggs (in lidded containers).
Refrigerator Door Shelves: Small, packaged portions of food or drinks.
Vegetable Container: Fruits and vegetables.
Fresh Food Compartment: Delicatessen items (breakfast portions, meat products for short-term consumption).
Note: Boil and drain vegetables to extend freezing time. Store food in airtight containers. Do not freeze bananas, tomatoes, lettuce, celery, cooked eggs, or potatoes, as this degrades quality and can cause spoilage.
5.15 Door Open Alert (Optional)
The alert system may vary by model. If the door is left open for 60-120 seconds, an audible warning will sound, possibly accompanied by a visual signal (flashing light). Closing the door or pressing a button silences the alarm. In Version 2, the alarm escalates, with a visual warning after 4 minutes if the door remains open. The alarm can be delayed by pressing a button. It cancels when the door is closed.
5.16 Interior Lighting
Uses LED lighting. Contact service for issues. The light is for internal illumination, not room lighting.
6. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning extends the product's lifespan. ⚠️ WARNING: Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use abrasive tools, harsh detergents, or flammable substances. For No Frost models, water droplets or frost may appear on the back wall; do not remove them. Clean the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid scratching the surface. Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in water, use a damp cloth, wipe the appliance, and dry thoroughly. Keep water away from lamp covers and electrical parts. Clean door shelves after emptying and removing them. Do not use chlorine-based cleaners on external or chrome parts.
6.1 Avoiding Unpleasant Odors
Odors can arise from improper storage or cleaning. Clean the interior with water and baking soda every 15 days. Store food in sealed containers. Remove spoiled food. Avoid harsh cleaning agents.
6.2 Protecting Plastic Surfaces
Oils can damage plastic surfaces; clean immediately with warm water.
7. Troubleshooting
Check these common issues before contacting service:
Refrigerator Not Working
- Plug not fully inserted: Push it in completely.
- Blown fuse or circuit breaker: Check fuses.
Condensation on Refrigerator Side Wall
- Doors opened too frequently.
- Humid environment.
- Food stored in unsealed containers.
- Doors left ajar.
- Thermostat set too low: Adjust to a higher temperature.
Compressor Not Working
- Sudden power failure or reconnection: The compressor may restart after 6 minutes due to thermal protection. If it doesn't restart, contact service.
- Defrosting cycle is active (normal for automatic defrost).
- Appliance not plugged in.
- Incorrect temperature setting.
- No power supply.
Increased Noise During Operation
Normal operation noise can vary with ambient temperature.
Refrigerator Cycles Too Frequently or for Too Long
- Newer, larger products may run longer.
- High ambient temperature.
- Recently connected or loaded with new food: Allow time to reach temperature.
- Hot food recently added: Do not add hot food.
- Doors opened frequently or left ajar: Cold air loss.
- Door seals dirty, worn, or misaligned: Clean or replace seals.
- Thermostat set too low.
Freezer Too Cold, Refrigerator Normal
Freezer temperature set too low: Adjust to a higher setting.
Refrigerator Too Cold, Freezer Normal
Refrigerator temperature set too low: Adjust to a higher setting.
Food in Refrigerator Drawers Freezing
Refrigerator temperature set too low: Adjust to a higher setting.
Refrigerator or Freezer Too Warm
- Refrigerator temperature set too high.
- Doors opened frequently or left ajar.
- Doors may be slightly ajar.
- Recently connected or loaded with new food.
- Hot food recently added.
Shocks or Noise
- Uneven or unstable floor: Adjust feet. Ensure floor is stable.
- Items placed on the appliance.
- Normal operation sounds (fluid/gas flow, fan).
- Condensation on internal/external surfaces: Normal in humid conditions or with frequent door openings.
- Unpleasant odors: Clean regularly, use appropriate containers, remove spoiled food.
- Doors not closing: Check for obstructions, ensure appliance is level.
- Vegetable drawer stuck: Check for food obstructing it.
Surface is Hot
Areas around doors, side panels, and the rear grille may become warm during operation; this is normal.
⚠️ WARNING: If problems persist, contact your retailer or an authorized service agent. Do not attempt repairs yourself.
Technical Data
Technical information is available on the appliance's rating plate and energy label. The QR code on the energy label links to the EU EPREL database for product performance information. Keep the energy label and manual for reference. You can also find this information in EPREL using the link https://eprel.ec.europa.eu/ along with the model and serial number.
Information for Research Institutes
Installation and preparation for EcoDesign verification must comply with EN 62552. Ventilation requirements, recess dimensions, and clearances are detailed in Chapter 3. Contact the manufacturer for further information. The product's light source is energy class "G" and must be replaced only by professional service technicians.