Amana Upright Freezer Use & Care Guide

Freezer Safety

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. Always read and obey all safety messages.

Safety Alert Symbol: This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others. Safety messages will follow this symbol and either the word “DANGER” or “WARNING.”

DANGER: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don't immediately follow instructions.

WARNING: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don't follow instructions.

All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, how to reduce the chance of injury, and what can happen if instructions are not followed.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, follow these precautions:

• Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove the ground prong.
• Do not use an adapter or extension cord.
• Disconnect power before servicing.
• Replace all parts and panels before operating.
• Use nonflammable cleaners.
• Keep flammable materials and vapors (like gasoline) away from the freezer.
• Use two or more people to move and install the freezer.
• Keep keys away from children.
• Remove doors or lid from old freezers/refrigerators.
• Disconnect power before installing an ice maker kit.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Proper Disposal of Your Old Freezer or Refrigerator

WARNING: Suffocation Hazard Remove doors or lid from your old freezer or refrigerator. Failure to do so can result in death or brain damage.

Child entrapment and suffocation are serious dangers. If disposing of an old appliance, remove the doors or lid. Leave shelves in place so children cannot easily climb inside.

Installation Instructions

Unpacking

WARNING: Excessive Weight Hazard Use two or more people to move and install the freezer. Failure to do so can result in back or other injury.

Remove Packaging Materials: Remove tape and glue residue. Use a small amount of liquid dish soap and fingers to rub adhesive, then wipe with warm water and dry. Do not use sharp instruments, rubbing alcohol, flammable fluids, or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface.

Moving Your Freezer: The freezer is heavy. To avoid floor damage, cover the floor with cardboard or hardboard. Always pull the freezer straight out; do not wiggle or “walk” it.

Clean Before Using: After unpacking, clean the interior following instructions in “Freezer Care.”

Location Requirements

WARNING: Explosion Hazard Keep flammable materials and vapors, such as gasoline, away from the freezer. Failure to do so can result in death, explosion, or fire.

IMPORTANT: Do not install near ovens, radiators, or other heat sources. Do not install where temperatures fall below 40°F (5°C).

Ensure the floor can support the weight of a fully loaded freezer.

Allow at least 3 inches (7.5 cm) of air space at the top and on both sides. Allow 1 inch (2.5 cm) between the back of the freezer and the wall. If against a wall, allow extra space on the hinge side for door opening.

This freezer may be installed side-by-side with another appliance, requiring 3 inches (7.5 cm) clearance at the top and sides, and 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) between appliances.

Glass Shelves and Covers: Do not clean cold glass shelves/covers with warm water, as sudden temperature changes or impact can cause breakage. Tempered glass is designed to shatter into small pieces. Handle glass shelves and covers with both hands due to their weight.

Electrical Requirements

WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove ground prong. Do not use an adapter or extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

Ensure proper electrical connection before moving the freezer. A 115 Volt, 60 Hz, AC only, 15- or 20-amp fused, grounded electrical supply is required. A separate circuit serving only the freezer is recommended. Use an outlet that cannot be turned off by a switch. Do not use an extension cord.

NOTE: Turn the Temperature Control to OFF and disconnect power before installation, cleaning, or changing a light bulb.

Freezer Door

TOOLS NEEDED: Various hex-head socket wrenches, Phillips screwdriver, flat-blade screwdriver, open-end wrench, putty knife.

IMPORTANT: Graphics referenced are shown later. Graphics are for a right-hand swing door. For door removal/replacement only, see specific sections.

Before starting, turn the control to OFF and remove food and door bins.

Install and Remove Handle

To install: Place handle, attach with four screws using a flat-blade screwdriver, then attach trim pieces. Apply firm pressure to trim, sliding top trim down and bottom trim up.

To remove: Remove trim pieces, then remove four handle screws and lift off the handle.

Remove Door and Hinges

1. Unplug freezer. Open door, remove base grille (Graphic 1A). Close door securely.

2. Provide additional support for the door while moving hinges. Do not rely on door magnets.

3. Remove top hinge parts (Graphic 1B).

4. Lift door free from lower hinge and cabinet.

5. Remove bottom hinge assembly (three hex head screws) (Graphic 1C).

Reverse Door (optional on some models)

IMPORTANT: Follow instructions for reversing door swing if desired. Otherwise, proceed to “Replace Door and Hinges.”

Cabinet

1. Remove cabinet hinge hole plugs from the top and move them to the opposite side.
2. Remove door stop screws from the bottom hinge bracket.
3. Remove hinge pin nut and hinge pin from the hinge bracket.
4. Rotate hinge bracket to the opposite side of the cabinet.
5. Reinstall hinge pin nut and hinge pin, ensuring the pin points “up.”
6. Invert the door stop so screw holes align with hinge assembly holes.
7. Reinstall door stop screws.
8. Reinstall hinge bracket to the cabinet with three hex head hinge screws.

Replace Door and Hinges

NOTE: Graphics may be reversed if door swing is reversed.

1. Replace bottom hinge parts, tighten screws, and reinstall door.
2. Assemble top hinge parts, do not fully tighten screws yet.
3. Align door so bottom edge is even with the cabinet. Tighten all screws.

Final Steps

1. Check all holes for plugs and screws. Reinstall top hinge cover.
2. Replace the base grille.
3. Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet.
4. Reset controls.
5. Reinstall removable door parts and food.

Freezer Use

Ensuring Proper Air Circulation

Proper airflow is essential for maintaining correct temperatures. Cool air enters through the wall and moves down, then recirculates through a vent near the bottom.

Do not block air vents with food packages, as this restricts airflow and can cause temperature/moisture problems.

IMPORTANT: Wrap or cover foods tightly to prevent odor transfer and drying.

The exterior of the freezer may feel warm; this is normal as it dissipates heat.

Using the Control

Set the temperature control to 4 for normal operation, aiming for 0°F (-17.8°C).

Allow the freezer to cool for 6-8 hours before loading frozen food, or overnight for large amounts of unfrozen food. Do not add more than 2-3 lbs (907-1350 g) of unfrozen food per cubic foot (28.32 L).

The compressor will run constantly until the freezer is cooled, which may take 6-8 hours or longer depending on ambient conditions and door openings. It will cycle on/off as needed afterward.

Adjusting Control

Turn the dial to a higher number for colder temperatures, and a lower number for less cold temperatures. The small snowflake icon represents the coldest setting (1), and the large snowflake icon represents the coldest setting (6).

Fast Freeze (on some models)

This setting runs the freezer continuously at its coldest temperature. Use it before adding large quantities of unfrozen food. Do not exceed 3 lbs (1,350 g) per cubic foot (28.32 L). Return to normal setting after 24-48 hours.

Temperature Alarm (on some models)

An alarm sounds if the temperature rises significantly above normal for the selected setting. The alarm is controlled by a three-position switch: 0 (off), I (normal use, alarm on), or tests the alarm.

Key Eject Lock (on some models)

Hold the key in the lock while turning to lock or unlock. The lock is spring-loaded; the key cannot be left in the lock. Contact your dealer if the key is lost.

Freezer Features

This manual covers various models; your freezer may have some or all listed features.

Refrigerated Shelves (on some models)

Packages in direct contact with shelves receive the best refrigeration. Store fresh, unfrozen food directly on shelves, not on top of frozen packages.

Cabinet shelves offer the best freezing capability. Door shelves and the bottom cabinet are slightly less cold. Avoid placing temperature-sensitive items (meat, poultry) on door shelves or the freezer bottom.

Leave space between packages for cold air circulation.

Door Bin

To remove: Tip bin forward and slide out. To replace: Slide bin above support and tilt back into place.

Storage Basket (on some models)

Provides separate storage for items difficult to place on shelves. To remove: Pull out and lift up.

Storage Gate (on some models)

To Lower/Raise: Lift the top of the gate slightly out of supports, pull forward and down. To raise, lift slightly to clear supports and lower into place.

Freezer Care

Cleaning Your Frost-Free Freezer (some models)

WARNING: Explosion Hazard Use nonflammable cleaner. Failure to do so can result in death, explosion, or fire.

Frost-free freezers remove frost via air circulation. The cooling coil periodically warms to melt frost, which drains away.

Complete cleaning should be done at least annually.

1. Unplug freezer.
2. Remove all frozen food; wrap in newspaper and cover with a blanket, or store in a cooler/another freezer.
3. Wash interior walls with mild detergent in warm water or 2 tbsp baking soda per 1 qt warm water.
4. Do not use abrasive cleaners, window sprays, flammable fluids, waxes, concentrated detergents, bleaches, or petroleum-based products on plastic parts, liners, or gaskets. Do not use paper towels or scouring pads.
5. Rinse well and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
6. For exterior finishes: Use a clean sponge/soft cloth with mild detergent and warm water. Dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or those for stainless steel on painted surfaces.
7. For stainless steel: Use a clean sponge/soft cloth with mild detergent and warm water. Dry thoroughly. Use manufacturer-approved stainless steel cleaner/polish for best results, avoiding plastic parts.
8. Replace frozen food.
9. Plug in freezer.
10. Refer to “Using the Control.”

Base Grille

To Remove/Replace: Open door, pull grille down and out from the top. To replace, align clips with openings and push until it snaps into place.

Defrosting and Cleaning Your Manual Defrost Freezer (some models)

WARNING: Explosion Hazard Use nonflammable cleaner. Failure to do so can result in death, explosion, or fire.

Defrost when frost reaches about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness. Complete defrosting and cleaning annually. High humidity areas may require more frequent defrosting.

Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, concentrated detergents, bleaches, or petroleum-based cleaners on plastic parts, as damage may occur.

NOTE: Remove and replace the drain cap before and after defrosting.

1. Unplug freezer.
2. Remove all frozen food; wrap and store as described above.
3. Remove base grille.
4. Style 1 (Drain System): Pull drain hose from opening, place pan underneath, remove drain cap. Check drain pan frequently.
5. Style 2 (No Drain System): Remove water with a sponge or baster.
6. Place pans of hot water inside with the door open to speed melting. A fan can also help (do not place fan inside).
7. Use a plastic scraper to remove frost. Do not use sharp tools.
8. Wipe walls with a towel or sponge.
9. Wash interior walls with mild detergent/baking soda solution, rinse, and dry.
10. Clean exterior as per finish instructions (painted metal or stainless steel).
11. For drain system models, replace drain hose, cap, and base grille.
12. Replace frozen food.
13. Plug in freezer.
14. Refer to “Using the Control.”

Changing the Light Bulb

NOTE: Use a bulb of the same size, shape, and wattage.

Style 1: Unplug, replace bulb, plug in.

Style 2: Unplug, remove light shield (push backward and down from front), replace bulb, replace shield, plug in.

Power Interruptions

For outages of 24 hours or less, keep the door closed.

For outages over 24 hours: Remove all frozen food and store elsewhere. If no locker is available, consume or can perishable food.

After power is restored, unplug the freezer for 30 minutes to allow the refrigeration system to stabilize, keeping the door closed.

A full freezer stays cold longer. Refreezing may affect quality; discard food if its condition is poor.

Moving Care

To prepare for a move:

1. Remove all frozen food.
2. Unplug the freezer.
3. Remove and wrap removable parts, taping them together.
4. Clean the freezer thoroughly.
5. Tape the freezer shut and tape the power cord to the cabinet.

Refer to Installation and Use sections upon arrival at the new location.

Troubleshooting

Try these solutions first to avoid unnecessary service calls.

Your freezer will not operate

• Check if the power cord is unplugged.
• Check if a fuse is blown or circuit breaker tripped.
• Ensure the Temperature Control is not set to OFF.
• Check if the freezer is in a defrost cycle (on some models).

The lights do not work

• Check if the power cord is unplugged.
• Ensure the light bulb is not loose or burned out. Refer to “Changing the Light Bulb.”

There is water in the defrost drain pan (on some models)

• Water in the pan may be from the defrost cycle; it will evaporate.
• High humidity may cause water to take longer to evaporate.

The motor seems to run too much

• Check for frost or items blocking the door from closing.
• Ensure the room temperature is not excessively high.
• Allow time for the freezer to cool after adding large amounts of food.
• Minimize door openings; get all items out at once.
• Verify the temperature control setting.
• Ensure the door is completely closed.
• Check if condenser coils are dirty (on some models).
• Verify the door gasket seal.
• Ensure adequate air circulation space around the freezer.
• Note: Newer, high-efficiency motors may run longer.

The ice maker is not producing ice or not enough ice (on some models)

• Allow 72 hours for full ice production after installation.
• Ensure the freezer is cold enough.
• Check if the ice maker shutoff arm is in the ON position (down).
• Verify the water line shutoff valve is open.
• Ensure the ice maker mold has water and the supply valve is on.
• Remove any jammed ice cubes.
• Allow 24 hours after removing a large quantity of ice.
• Check the control setting.
• If issues persist, call for service regarding the water line.

Off-taste, odor or gray color in the ice (on some models)

• Discard the first few batches of ice if plumbing is new.
• Discard old ice cubes and make a new supply.
• Clean the freezer and ice bin.
• Consider installing a water filter if minerals are present.

Temperature is too warm

• Ensure air vents are not blocked.
• Minimize door openings.
• Allow time for the freezer to cool after adding large amounts of food.
• Check the temperature control setting.

The door will not close completely or is difficult to open

• Check for food packages blocking the door.
• Ensure shelves and baskets are properly positioned.
• Check if gaskets are dirty or sticky; clean them.
• Ensure the freezer is not wobbling or unstable.

The freezer clicks but does not run

• If there was a local power outage, unplug the freezer for 30 minutes to stabilize the refrigeration system, keeping the door closed.

Assistance or Service

Before calling for service, check “Troubleshooting.” If help is still needed, have your purchase date and complete model/serial number ready.

If You Need Replacement Parts

Use only factory-specified replacement parts for proper fit and function. Contact your nearest service center or call for assistance to locate parts.

In the U.S.A.

For assistance, installation, or service, call Amana Appliances toll-free: 1-800-688-9900. Consultants can assist with features, installation, maintenance, accessory/repair parts sales, specialized customer assistance, and referrals to local service providers.

For further assistance, write to: Amana Brand Home Appliances, Customer eXperience Center, 553 Benson Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692. Include a daytime phone number.

In Canada

For assistance, installation, or service, call toll-free: 1-800-807-6777. Consultants provide similar assistance as in the U.S.A.

For further assistance, write to: Amana Brand Home Appliances, Customer eXperience Center, 200-6750 Century Ave., Mississauga, ON L5N 0B7. Include a daytime phone number.

Accessories

To order accessories, call 1-800-843-0304 or contact your authorized Amana dealer. In Canada, call 1-800-807-6777.

Warranty

LIMITED WARRANTY

For one year from purchase, Amana will pay for factory-specified parts and labor to correct defects in materials or workmanship, provided the appliance is operated and maintained according to instructions. Service must be by an Amana-designated company. This warranty is valid only in the U.S.A. or Canada. Proof of purchase is required.

ITEMS EXCLUDED FROM WARRANTY

This warranty does not cover:

• Use for other than normal, single-family household use.
• Service calls for installation, user instruction, or correcting house fuses, wiring, or plumbing.
• Repair or replacement of light bulbs, air filters, or water filters.
• Damage from accident, alteration, misuse, abuse, fire, flood, acts of God, improper installation, or use of unapproved products.
• Cosmetic damage (scratches, dents, chips) reported more than 30 days after purchase.
• Food or medicine loss due to appliance failure.
• Pickup and delivery (service is in-home).
• Repairs from unauthorized modifications.
• Travel/transportation expenses for service in remote areas.
• Removal/reinstallation if the appliance is inaccessible or not installed per instructions.
• Parts/labor on appliances with removed or altered model/serial numbers.
• Damage or discoloration from markers on dry-erase surfaces or other surfaces.
• Discoloration, rust, or oxidation of stainless steel surfaces.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES

Implied warranties (merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose) are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Some states/provinces do not allow duration limitations.

LIMITATION OF REMEDIES; EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES

The sole remedy is product repair. Amana is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states/provinces do not allow exclusion/limitation of these damages.

If outside the U.S.A./Canada, contact your Amana dealer for warranty information. If service is needed, check “Troubleshooting” and “Assistance or Service” sections, or call Amana (U.S.: 1-800-843-0304, Canada: 1-800-807-6777).

Keep this manual and your sales slip for future reference. Record model, serial number, and purchase date.