UNIQUE APPLIANCES
SINGLE DOOR REFRIGERATOR WITH FREEZER
Model Numbers: UGP-230L W AC, UGP-230L B AC, UGP-230L T AC, UGP-230L LG AC, UGP-230L BP AC, UGP-230L LB AC
Serial Number: 5013515
Document Version: DEC21V1
Owner's Guide
Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing one of the most efficient refrigeration products available. Unique Appliances is proud of its quality products and dependable service. Before using the appliance, carefully read through this manual, including all information on safety, installation, operation, and cleaning. These guidelines do not cover every possible condition or situation. Use common sense and caution when installing, operating, and cleaning. If unsure about any instructions or warnings, contact your local product dealer or Unique Appliances for assistance.
Need Help?
Before calling for service, consider these steps:
- Read this owner's manual: It contains instructions for proper use and maintenance.
- Visit our website: www.UniqueAppliances.com offers self-service tools, FAQs, and more.
- Damaged appliance: If you receive a damaged appliance, immediately contact the retailer.
- Troubleshooting: Check the troubleshooting section at the end of this manual for common problems before calling.
Important Safety Notes
These warnings are provided for your safety. Understand them fully before installing or using this fridge. Your safety is paramount. If unsure about any meanings or warnings, contact your local product dealer or Unique Appliances.
IMPORTANT: After transit, if the fridge was on its side or back, ensure it is in a level, upright position for 12 hours to allow compressor fluids to redistribute evenly before use.
Prior to Installation
Upon delivery, check that the fridge is complete and undamaged. Do not connect a damaged appliance, especially if the electrical supply cable or refrigerant circuit is affected. Contact your local dealer or Unique Appliances for assistance in case of damage.
DANGER
- Risk of fire or explosion due to flammable refrigerant. Do not puncture refrigerant tubing.
- Do not use mechanical devices to defrost the refrigerator.
- Servicing should only be done by factory-authorized service personnel to minimize product damage or safety issues.
WARNING
- Keep ventilation openings clear of obstruction.
- Do not use mechanical devices or other means to accelerate defrosting, other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
- Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
- Do not store explosive substances (e.g., aerosol cans with flammable propellant) in this appliance.
- Do not use other electrical appliances (e.g., ice cream makers) inside unless recommended by the manufacturer.
- To avoid accidents, do not hang, swing, or pull down on the refrigerator door or handle.
CAUTION
- Risk of fire or explosion due to flammable refrigerant.
- Consult the repair manual or owner's guide before servicing. Follow all safety precautions. Service only if you are a trained or authorized refrigeration technician.
- Dispose of properly in accordance with federal or local regulations.
- Follow handling instructions carefully.
IMPORTANT
- Allow the interior to cool down properly by running the fridge empty for at least 4 hours before adding food.
- This fridge is designed for domestic use only, intended for storing edible food and drinks. It is not for commercial or industrial use.
- Never use excessive force on the handle to open the door.
- If the room/ambient temperature approaches the fridge's operating temperature, it may not function correctly. If the room/ambient temperature exceeds 100°F (38°C), it may not function correctly.
Child Safety & Disposal
Child Safety
Do not allow children to play in, on, or around the fridge. It is not a toy. There is a DANGER OF SUFFOCATION IF A CHILD BECOMES TRAPPED INSIDE. When the appliance is not in use, secure or remove doors to prevent children from playing inside.
DANGER
- Child Entrapment: Before discarding an old appliance, remove the door or lid and leave shelves in place so children cannot climb inside.
- Cleaning and maintenance should not be done by children without supervision.
DANGER OF SUFFOCATION: Keep children away from all packaging material.
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience/knowledge, unless they receive supervision or training from a responsible person.
Disposing of the Appliance
Dispose of your fridge at an authorized disposal site. The refrigerant must be completely drained and collected by an authorized technician for recycling. Check with your local Environmental Agency for recycling recommendations. Before disposal, remove electrical connection wiring and ensure doors are removed to prevent children from being trapped inside (DANGER OF SUFFOCATION!).
This marking indicates the product should not be disposed of with household waste. Recycle responsibly to promote sustainable reuse of material resources.
Grounding Instructions
This appliance must be grounded to reduce the risk of electric shock. It has a cord with a grounding wire and a 3-prong plug. Plug into a properly grounded outlet. If you have a 2-prong outlet, replace it with a 3-prong grounded outlet. The serial rating plate indicates voltage and frequency.
WARNING: Improper use of the grounding plug can result in electric shock. Consult a qualified electrician if grounding instructions are unclear. Do not connect to extension cords, other appliances in the same outlet, splice the power cord, or remove the third ground prong. Do not use extension cords or ungrounded adapters.
If the power supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or a similarly qualified person to avoid hazard.
Installation Instructions
IMPORTANT: After transit, ensure the fridge is in a level, upright position for 12 hours before connecting to power to reduce the risk of cooling system malfunction.
Unpacking and Cleaning
Remove all packaging and securing tapes carefully, using caution with sharp tools. Keep children away from packaging material (DANGER OF SUFFOCATION!). Wash the inside and outside with lukewarm water and mild soap or detergent. Do not use abrasive or corrosive cleaners, steel wool, scouring sponges, or chemical cleaning agents. A sponge, soft brush, or towel is recommended. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Leave doors open for 20-30 minutes to air out residual odors. Check local environmental agency for packaging recycling.
Positioning the Appliance
Install the fridge in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from inclement weather and excessive dust. Place on a flat, firm, stable surface that can support the fully loaded cabinet. Use shims if necessary to level. Do not place in direct sunlight or near heat sources (stove, heater) as this increases electrical consumption. Extreme cold can also affect performance.
Avoid placing the fridge near heat sources (heater, stove, boiler, chimney) and prolonged direct sunlight. The appliance uses its exterior walls for heat transfer. Ensure adequate space between the fridge and neighboring walls or large objects. A minimum spacing of 3 inches (7.6 cm) is highly recommended for sufficient airflow, efficient operation, and longer appliance life. Keep air vent openings of the compressor housing clear of dust and obstructions. This appliance is intended for free-standing installation only and cannot be built into a cabinet or counter.
Installation
- The appliance is heavy; handle with care.
- Ensure the appliance does not stand on or pinch the electrical supply cable during installation or movement.
- Do not install near water (e.g., wet basement, near a sink).
- Installation and adjustments must be performed by qualified personnel. Inadequate technical knowledge may affect performance, damage equipment, and void the warranty.
- Altering or modifying the product is dangerous and voids the warranty.
Use
- Intended for household use only. Not for outside installation or in un-temperature-controlled areas (garages, porches, vehicles).
- Do not store containers with flammable vapors or liquids (organic solvents, spray cans, gas cans) in or around the appliance due to explosion risk.
Product Features
The refrigerator features include:
- Shelf
- Freezer compartment
- Thermostat (0-7 settings)
- Door
- Upper hinge
- Lower hinge
- Adjustable feet
- Crisper
- Detachable door shelf
- Ice scraper
- Ice tray
- Drain cleaner
- Wine rack
The internal diagram shows these components within the refrigerator structure. Accessories include an ice scraper (10), ice tray (11), and drain cleaner (12).
Operation
Starting the Fridge
After connecting to a power source, the compressor will automatically turn on. Allow the cabinet to cool for at least 4 hours before adding food.
Temperature Control
The thermostat, located on the inside ceiling of the fridge compartment, controls the temperature. Larger numbers indicate colder settings; smaller numbers indicate warmer settings.
For initial use, set the thermostat to maximum (7) until desired temperatures are reached. Internal temperature can be measured in the center of the appliance. Temperature may vary based on ambient conditions, load, and door openings. Note: The fridge may run colder at high elevations.
Thermostat Setting | Fridge Temperature | Freezer Temperature |
---|---|---|
Optimal Setting = 4 | 1°C to 4°C (33°F to 39°F) | -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F) |
Setting = 7 | -4°C / 24.8°F | -15°C / 5°F |
Note: Mechanical temperature controllers have a +/- 0.5 range. The fridge may run a few degrees colder at high elevations. Setting 1 is warmest, 7 is coldest.
Adjustments
Adjust the thermostat as ambient temperature changes. If room temperature approaches the appliance's internal temperature, it may run colder, requiring a warmer setting (lower number). If room temperature exceeds 100°F (38°C), it may run warmer, requiring a colder setting (higher number).
Interior Light
The interior LED light turns on when the door is opened and off when closed. Contact a certified service technician for replacement if it burns out. The appliance's functionality is not affected if the light is not working.
Leveling Instructions
Adjustable legs at the bottom front ensure the appliance is level:
- Turn leveling leg counter-clockwise until the foot touches the cabinet bottom.
- Slowly turn the leveling leg clockwise until the appliance is level.
Opening and Closing the Door
Doors have sealing strips to prevent warm air and moisture entry. Ensure seals are free from obstructions for a complete seal. Over-stuffing or unlevel installation can prevent a good seal. The door may be hard to open immediately after closing due to air contraction, but pressure equalizes in seconds.
Loading the Fridge and Freezer
Avoid packing food too tightly around cooling plates. Allow airflow. When loading unfrozen food into the freezer for the first time, fill only 1/3 full and wait until frozen before adding more. Smaller containers cool food faster. Food packages thicker than 2 inches cool slowly. Avoid placing warm food next to cold food.
Normal Operating Sounds
- Faint gurgling or bubbling sounds may occur as refrigerant circulates.
- A whirring or pulsing sound from the compressor indicates it is running.
- A 'click' sound indicates the thermostat cutting in or out.
Defrosting
IMPORTANT: DISCONNECT the appliance from the electrical power supply before cleaning or repositioning.
Defrosting the Unit
Unique Appliances fridges do not have an "Auto Defrost" option. Manual defrosting is required periodically as frost builds up. Perform when the appliance is empty and disconnected.
NEVER USE SHARP METAL TOOLS TO SCRAPE OR CHIP FROST. DO NOT USE HEAT SOURCES (ELECTRIC OR GAS HEATERS) TO ACCELERATE DEFROSTING.
To perform a complete defrost:
- Disconnect the appliance from the electrical supply.
- Remove food and store in coolers or wrap in newspaper in a cool place.
- Leave doors open.
- Plug the defrost water drain (bottom interior) with a rag.
- To speed up defrosting, place a bowl of hot (not boiling) water inside the compartments and close the door.
- When defrosting is complete, wash and dry the interior thoroughly.
- Reconnect the appliance and run empty for at least 2 hours to cool sufficiently.
- Reload the fridge and freezer with previously removed food.
ATTENTION: Partial thawing of frozen food may shorten its safe storage life.
Water Catch Basin
A water catch basin at the back collects defrost water. The hot condenser coil evaporates the water. Note: The catch basin could overfill with large volumes of water during a complete defrost.
Care and Maintenance
Internal Cleaning
Wash the interior with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive/corrosive cleaners, steel wool, scouring sponges, chemical cleaners, or highly perfumed products. Use a sponge, towel, or soft brush. A mixture of 2 tablespoons (30ml) baking soda to 1 quart (1.14L) warm water is recommended. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry.
External Cleaning
Wash the exterior with warm water and mild soap or detergent. Avoid abrasive/corrosive cleaners, chemical cleaners, steel wool, or scouring sponges.
Power Failure
Most power failures are brief and should not affect internal temperature if doors are kept closed. For longer outages, take steps to protect contents. Wait 3-5 minutes before restarting if operation is interrupted.
Vacation
- Short vacations (less than 3 weeks): Leave the appliance operating.
- Long vacations (several months): Remove all items, disconnect power, clean, and dry the interior thoroughly. Leave doors slightly open to prevent odor and mold growth.
Moving
- Remove all items.
- Tape down shelves.
- Turn adjustable legs up to the base to avoid damage.
- Tape the door shut.
- Keep the appliance upright during transportation. Protect the exterior with a blanket.
- If transported on its back or side, allow it to remain upright for 6 hours before plugging in to avoid damage to internal components.
Customer Responsibilities
The following are customer responsibilities and not covered by warranty:
- Proper care and use as described in this manual.
- Damage to interior/exterior finish or components after delivery.
- Proper power supply, circuit breaker, wiring, and connections.
- Replacement of LED lights (contact Unique's technical service).
- Service required due to alteration, misuse, abuse, flooding, fire, lightning, or acts of God.
Energy Saving Tips
- Do not install near heat sources (stove, boiler, heater, chimney) or in direct sunlight.
- Locate in a cool, well-ventilated room. Ensure compressor housing air vents are unobstructed and allow adequate spacing (3" or 7.5cm) around the cabinet for air circulation.
- Avoid unnecessary frosting by packing food and liquids in airtight packages or containers.
- Keep food in tightly sealed packaging, allowing air circulation around items.
- Avoid keeping doors open for extended periods or opening too frequently, as this causes the compressor to run unnecessarily.
- Ensure doors close properly and form a tight seal.
- Maintain an operating temperature of 2°C/36°F to 4°C/39°F for safe food storage. Warmer temperatures can promote unsafe bacterial growth.
Troubleshooting
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
Appliance is connected but no power | Check circuit breaker. Ensure plug is fully inserted into the wall outlet. |
Appliance is operating, but the interior (cabinet) is not cold | Allow at least 4 hours to cool. Check thermostat setting. Ensure room/ambient temperature is not too high (not exceeding 100°F/38°C). Check if large amounts of warm food were recently added. Ensure adequate cabinet ventilation. |
Appliance runs continuously | Temperature setting may be too cold. Door may not be shut properly or opened excessively. Large amounts of warm food may have been added. Appliance may be too close to a heat source or direct sunlight. Ambient temperature or humidity may be very high. |
The door will not open | If the door was just opened, wait a few minutes for air pressure to equalize. |
Excessive frost and ice has built up | Weather may be hot and humid. Ensure food is properly packaged. Check door seal and ensure nothing obstructs closure. Large quantities of food or frequent door openings may contribute. Ensure proper care and maintenance (cleaning, defrosting). |
Noise | Refer to "Normal Operating Sounds" (page 8). |
Light does not work | Contact Unique's technical service department for instructions. |
Electrical Diagram / Rating Label
The electrical diagram illustrates the internal wiring, including the thermostat, door switch, motor protector, and compressor. Labels are provided in both English and French. The rating label details specifications such as rated voltage (110-120V~), rated frequency (60Hz), rated current (1.2A), refrigerant type and amount (R600a / 28g), insulation blowing gas (Cyclopentane), pressure ratings (High Side: 362Psig, Low Side: 128Psig), and internal volumes (Fridge: 6.74 ft³, Freezer: 0.86 ft³). It also lists model numbers and confirms compliance with UL and CSA standards. The appliance is designed for free-standing installation only.
Parts Diagram & List
A parts diagram provides a visual representation of the refrigerator's components, with numbered callouts corresponding to the detailed parts list. The list includes part numbers and descriptions for various components such as screws, covers, hinges, feet, shelves, gaskets, thermostat, LED lamp, drain cleaner, and more.
Example Parts from List:
- Screw ST4.2x16
- Top Cover (various colors)
- Adjustable Foot
- Glass Shelf
- Crisper
- Wine Rack
- Freezer Door Gasket
- Thermostat
- LED Lamp
- Drain Cleaning Tool
- Fridge Door Gasket
- Egg Tray
- Door Handle
- Power Cord
- Manual Kit
For a complete view and to zoom in, please visit the Unique Appliances website.
Warranty
Unique Appliances Ltd. warrants this fridge against manufacturer's defects in material and workmanship under normal usage for one year from the original purchase date, except for surface finish and plastic parts (30-day warranty). The warranty applies to the original purchaser and requires proof of purchase.
Warranty Conditions & Exclusions
The warranty does not cover alterations, misuse, abuse, accident, improper installation/service, delivery damage, or non-household use. It excludes damage from power failure, transit, improper power supply, accident, alteration, misuse, commercial/industrial use, acts of God, customer education service calls, or improper installation (e.g., building-in a free-standing unit). Removal of the serial plate voids the warranty. The purchaser is responsible for service accessibility costs and potential extra charges for remote locations.
Unique is not liable for spoilage or damage to food contents due to appliance defects or improper use.
Factory Assistance
If unable to locate an authorized dealer/service agent or if satisfaction is not received, contact Unique Appliances Customer Service directly at Toll Free 1-877-427-2266 or 905-827-6154.
Appliance Information
To aid in care and servicing, record the following information:
- Model: UGP-230L series
- Serial Number: 5013515
- Purchased From: [Space for user to fill in]
- Date Purchased: [Space for user to fill in]
Notes
[Space for user notes]
Product Registration
Register your product by visiting https://uniqueappliances.com/product-registration/.
Contact Us
For questions regarding operation, safety, or purchase, contact your dealer. For general information, contact the customer service department:
- Email: info@UniqueAppliances.com
- Toll-free: 1-877-427-2266 or 1-905-827-6154 (available during regular business hours, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, EST)
- Website: www.uniqueappliances.com