Dometic CFX Portable Refrigerator/Freezer User Manual

1. Explanation of Symbols

PERICOLO! Safety indication that signals a danger situation which, if not avoided, will cause death or serious injury.

WARNING! Safety indication that signals a danger situation which, if not avoided, may cause death or serious injury.

CAUTION! Safety indication that signals a danger situation which, if not avoided, may cause minor or moderate injuries.

NOTICE! Indication of a situation that, if not avoided, may cause property damage.

NOTE Supplementary information regarding the use of the product.

2. Safety Instructions

WARNING! Failure to observe these warnings could cause death or serious injury.

Electrical Shock Hazard

• Do not operate the refrigerator if it shows visible damage.
• If the power cable of this refrigerator is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, a service agent or a similarly qualified person in order to avoid safety hazards.
• This refrigerator may only be repaired by qualified personnel. Incorrect repairs may result in considerable hazards.

Fire Hazard

• When positioning the appliance, ensure the power cord is not pinched or damaged.
• Do not place portable multiple sockets or portable power supplies on the back of the appliance.

Health Hazard

• This appliance can be used by children aged 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.
• Children shall not play with the appliance.
• Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.
• Children aged from 3 to 8 years may load and unload refrigerating appliances.

Explosion Hazard

• Do not store explosive substances such as aerosol cans with a flammable propellant in the refrigerator.

CAUTION! Failure to observe these precautions may cause minor or moderate injuries.

Electrical Shock Hazard

• Before putting the refrigerator into operation, ensure that the power supply and the plug are dry.
• Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply before cleaning and care, and after each use.

Health Hazard

To avoid contamination of food, observe the following instructions:

• Check that the cooling capacity of the appliance is sufficient for the food or medicines you wish to cool.
• Foodstuffs may only be stored in their original packaging or in suitable containers.
• Prolonged opening of the refrigerator may cause a significant increase in the temperature in the appliance compartments.
• Regularly clean surfaces that come into contact with food and accessible drain systems.
• If the appliance is left empty for long periods:
• Switch off the appliance.
• Defrost the appliance.
• Clean and dry the appliance.
• Leave the lid open to prevent mould from developing inside the appliance.

NOTICE! Risk of damage

• Compare the voltage data on the rating plate with that of the available sockets and connections.
• Connect the refrigerator only as follows:
• with the DC connection cable to a vehicle's DC power supply.
• or by connecting the AC connection cable to the AC power supply.
• Never pull the plug out of the socket by pulling the cable.
• If the portable refrigerator is connected to a DC socket: disconnect the refrigerator and other electrical appliances from the battery before connecting a fast charger.
• If the portable refrigerator is connected to a DC socket: disconnect or switch off the refrigerator when the engine is switched off. Otherwise, the battery may discharge.
• The refrigerator is not suitable for the transport of caustic materials or materials containing solvents.
• The insulation of the refrigerator contains flammable cyclopentane and requires special disposal procedures. At the end of its service life, take the portable refrigerator to a suitable recycling centre.
• Do not use electrical appliances inside the refrigerator, except for those specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
• Do not place the refrigerator near open flames or other heat sources (radiators, direct sunlight, gas ovens, etc.).

3. Scope of Delivery

See fig. 1, page 3

4. Accessories

Available as accessories (not included in scope of delivery):

5. Intended Use

The portable refrigerator is suitable for cooling foodstuffs. The portable refrigerator is also suitable for use in vehicles. The portable refrigerator is designed for operation with a vehicle's DC power socket or an AC power supply.

The portable refrigerator is suitable for use in camping.

The portable refrigerator is not suitable for:

• Storing corrosive, caustic or solvent-containing substances
• Freezing foodstuffs

This portable refrigerator is not intended to be used as a built-in appliance.

This portable refrigerator is only suitable for the intended use and application in accordance with these instructions.

This manual provides the necessary information for correct installation and/or operation of the portable refrigerator. Incorrect installation and/or operation or improper maintenance will result in unsatisfactory performance and possible failure.

The manufacturer assumes no liability for any injuries or damage to the product resulting from:

• Incorrect assembly or connection, including overvoltage
• Incorrect maintenance or use of spare parts other than those originally supplied by the manufacturer
• Modifications to the product without the explicit authorization of the manufacturer
• Use for purposes other than those described in this manual

Dometic reserves the right to modify the appearance and specifications of the product.

6. Description of Operation

The refrigerator cools and keeps products cold. Cooling is carried out by a low-maintenance, compressor-based cooling circuit. The generous insulation and the powerful compressor ensure efficient and rapid cooling.

The refrigerator is suitable for mobile use.

The portable refrigerator can withstand an inclination of 30° for short periods, for example on boats.

6.1 Functions

• Power supply with priority circuit for connection to AC voltage
• Three-level automatic battery control device to protect the vehicle battery
• Display with temperature indication in °C and °F
• Automatically switches off in case of low battery voltage
• Temperature regulation: with two buttons in 1 °C (and 2 °F) increments
• Recessed handles
• USB port for power supply
• Emergency switch (if available)
• Removable basket

6.2 Control and Indicator Elements

Lid catch: fig. 2 1, page 3

Control unit (fig. 3, page 3)

Connection sockets (fig. 4, page 4)

Emergency switch (if fitted) and USB port (fig. 5, page 4)

7. Operation

7.1 Initial commissioning

NOTE For hygienic reasons, clean the inside and outside of the portable refrigerator with a damp cloth before initial commissioning (see also chapter “Cleaning and Care” on page 126).

Reversing the lid opening direction (CFX50 only)

The lid hinges can be moved to the opposite side if you want to open the lid from the opposite direction. Proceed as shown.

1. Open the lid and remove it (fig. 6 A, page 4).
2. Remove the 3 screws for each hinge (fig. 6 B, page 4) and take off the hinges.
3. Using a small screwdriver, remove the plastic covers from the new hinge positions and reapply them to the previous hinge positions.
4. Attach the hinges in the new positions.
5. Insert the lid into the hinges on the opposite side (fig. 6 C, page 4).

Selecting the temperature unit of measurement

The temperature can be displayed in two units of measurement, Celsius and Fahrenheit. Proceed as follows.

1. Switch on the portable refrigerator.
2. Press the “SET” button (fig. 3 4, page 3) twice.
3. Use the “UP +” (fig. 3 7, page 3) or “DOWN –” (fig. 3 6, page 3) buttons to select Celsius or Fahrenheit.

The display shows the set temperature unit for a few seconds. The display flashes a few times before returning to the current temperature display.

7.2 Energy saving

• Choose a well-ventilated resting place protected from direct sunlight.
• Allow hot foods to cool down before placing them in the portable refrigerator to freeze.
• Do not open the refrigerator more often than necessary.
• Do not leave the portable refrigerator open longer than necessary.
• If the portable refrigerator has a basket: for optimal energy consumption, position the basket according to its position when delivered.
• Regularly check that the lid seal is properly seated.

7.3 Connecting the portable refrigerator

Connecting to a battery (vehicle or boat)

The portable refrigerator can be operated at 12 V⎓ or 24 V⎓.

WARNING! Risk of damage! Disconnect the portable refrigerator and other loads from the battery before connecting a fast charger. Overvoltages can damage the appliance's electronic system.

For safety reasons, the portable refrigerator is equipped with an electronic system that protects it against reverse polarity. This way, the portable refrigerator is protected against short circuits when connected to a battery.

Using the DC connection cable with fuse

WARNING! Risk of damage! To protect the appliance, the supplied DC connection cable includes a fuse inside the plug. Do not remove the DC connection cable with fuse. Only use the supplied DC connection cable.

1. Insert the DC connection cable (fig. 1 2, page 3) into the portable refrigerator's DC voltage input (fig. 4 5, page 4).
2. Connect the connection cable to the DC output.

Connecting to an AC power supply (e.g. at home or in the office)

DANGER! Risk of death from electric shock! Never touch plugs and switches with wet hands or if you are standing on a wet surface. If the portable refrigerator is on board a boat and is powered by an AC mains supply, a residual current device must be installed between the mains supply and the portable refrigerator. Consult an expert.

The portable refrigerators feature a multi-voltage power supply with a priority circuit for connection to an AC voltage source. If the device is connected to an AC power supply, the priority circuit automatically switches the portable refrigerator to AC operation, even if the DC connection cable is still connected.

When switching from AC mains to battery operation and vice versa, the red LED may briefly light up.

1. Insert the AC connection cable (fig. 1 3, page 3) into the portable refrigerator's AC socket (fig. 4 1, page 4).
2. Connect the connection cable to the AC output.

7.4 Using the automatic battery control device

The appliance has a multi-level automatic battery control device that protects the vehicle battery from excessive discharge when connected to the onboard DC supply. If the refrigerator is operated in the vehicle with the ignition switched off, the refrigerator will automatically switch off as soon as the supply voltage drops below a settable value. The portable refrigerator will switch on again as soon as the reset voltage is reached by charging the battery.

WARNING! Risk of damage! When switched off by the automatic battery control device, the battery is no longer fully charged. Avoid repeated restarts or operating loads without long charging phases. Ensure the battery is recharged.

In “HIGH” mode, the automatic battery control device activates faster than in “LOW” and “MED” levels (see table below).

To select the mode of the automatic battery control device, proceed as follows.

1. Switch on the portable refrigerator.
2. Press the “SET” button (fig. 3 4, page 3) three times.
3. Use the “UP +” (fig. 3 7, page 3) or “DOWN –” (fig. 3 6, page 3) buttons to select the mode of the automatic battery control device.
   The display shows: LO (LOW), MED (MED), HI (HIGH)

The display shows the set mode for a few seconds. The display flashes a few times before returning to the current temperature display.

NOTE If the portable refrigerator is powered by the vehicle's starter battery, select the “HIGH” mode of the automatic battery control device. If the refrigerator is connected to a power battery, it is sufficient to select the “LOW” mode of the automatic battery control device.

7.5 Using the portable refrigerator

WARNING! Risk of overheating! Ensure there is always sufficient ventilation so that the heat generated during operation can dissipate. Be careful not to cover the ventilation grilles. Ensure that the distance between the appliance and walls or other objects is such that air can circulate.

1. Place the portable refrigerator on a stable base. Ensure that the ventilation grilles are not covered and that the warm air produced can escape freely.

NOTE Position the portable refrigerator as shown (fig. 1, page 3). If the portable refrigerator is positioned in a different orientation, it may be damaged.

2. Connect the portable refrigerator, see chapter “Connecting the portable refrigerator” on page 119.

WARNING! Risk of damage due to excessively low temperatures! Ensure that only objects or products that can be cooled to the selected temperature are placed in the portable refrigerator.

3. Press the “ON/OFF” button (fig. 3 1, page 3) for one to two seconds.
   The “?” LED lights up (fig. 3 2, page 3).
   The display (fig. 3 5, page 3) lights up and shows the current temperature.

NOTE – Indicated temperature The displayed temperature is that of the large internal compartment (CFX50: fig. 7 1, page 5).

The portable refrigerator begins to cool the interior.

NOTE If powered by a battery, the display automatically switches off if the battery voltage is low. The “?” LED flashes orange.

Securing the portable refrigerator lid

1. Close the lid.
2. Press the latch (fig. 2 1, page 3) downwards until it engages with an audible click.

NOTE – “Lid open” alarm If the lid is left open for three minutes or more and the appliance is switched on, the interior light flashes until the lid is closed.

7.6 Adjusting the temperature

To avoid food waste, consider the following:

• Minimize temperature fluctuations. Only open the portable refrigerator when necessary and for the shortest possible time. Store food in a way that allows air to continue circulating well.
• Adjust the temperature according to the quantity and type of food.
• Food can easily absorb or release odours or flavours. Always store food covered or in containers/bottles.

1. Press the “SET” button (fig. 3 4, page 3) once.
2. Use the “UP +” (fig. 3 7, page 3) and “DOWN –” (fig. 3 6, page 3) buttons to select the cooling temperature.
   The display shows the cooling temperature for a few seconds. The display flashes a few times, then the current temperature is displayed again.

7.7 Setting the display brightness

The display brightness can be adjusted to suit low ambient light. To set the display brightness, proceed as follows.

1. Switch on the portable refrigerator.
2. Press the “SET” button (fig. 3 4, page 3) four times.
3. Use the “UP +” (fig. 3 7, page 3) or “DOWN –” (fig. 3 6, page 3) buttons to set the display brightness.
   The display shows: d0 (default), d1 (medium), d2 (dark)

The display shows the set mode for a few seconds. The display flashes a few times before returning to the current brightness.

NOTE The factory setting for display brightness is d0 (default). If a fault occurs, the brightness is automatically set to d0 (default). After the fault is resolved, the set brightness is reactivated.

7.8 Using the emergency switch (if fitted)

The emergency switch (fig. 5 1, page 4) is located under the control panel on all models, except for the CFX28, where it is located above the power sockets. For normal use, the switch must be in the “NORMAL USE” position. If an electronic control system fault occurs, move the switch to “EMERGENCY OVERRIDE” (emergency function).

NOTE If the switch is in the “EMERGENCY OVERRIDE” position, the portable refrigerator runs at maximum cooling speed and may freeze.

7.9 USB port for power supply

The USB port can be used to charge small devices (e.g. mobile phones and MP3 players).

To use the portable refrigerator with any USB device, simply connect a USB cable (not included) to the device.

NOTE Ensure that the small device connected to the USB port is suitable for operation at 5 V/500 mA.

7.10 Switching off the portable refrigerator

1. Empty the portable refrigerator.
2. Switch off the refrigerator.
3. Disconnect the connection cable.

If the portable refrigerator is not to be used for a longer period of time:

Leave the lid slightly open to prevent odours.

7.11 Defrosting the portable refrigerator

Air humidity can form frost inside the refrigerator or on the evaporator, thus reducing cooling capacity. Therefore, defrost the appliance in good time.

WARNING! Risk of damage! Never use hard or pointed tools to remove ice or to detach frozen-on objects.

To defrost the refrigerator, proceed as follows.

1. Remove the contents from the portable refrigerator.
2. If necessary, place them in another refrigerator to keep them cool.
3. Switch off the appliance.
4. Leave the lid open.
5. Remove the thawed water.

7.12 Replacing the AC fuse

DANGER! Risk of death from electric shock! Disconnect the power supply and the connection cable before replacing the appliance fuse.

1. Disconnect the power supply to the appliance.
2. Remove the connection cables.
3. Using a screwdriver, lever out the fuse holder (fig. 4 2, page 4).
4. Replace the faulty fuse with a new one of the same type and amperage (4 A, 250 V).
5. Press the fuse holder back into place.
6. Reconnect the power supply to the appliance.

7.13 Replacing the fuse in the DC connection cable

1. Unscrew the contact pin housing (fig. 8 3, page 5) from the socket (fig. 8 1, page 5).
2. Replace the faulty fuse (fig. 8 2, page 5) with a new one of the same type and amperage (3AG, fast-acting, 10 A).
3. Reassemble the plug in reverse order.

NOTE – Internal fuse for DC The device also has an additional DC fuse (automotive standard flat-blade fuse, 10 A). This fuse can only be replaced by an authorized repair center.

7.14 Replacing the light circuit board

1. Disconnect the power supply to the appliance.
2. Using a screwdriver, lever out the transparent cover (fig. 9 1, page 5).
3. Unscrew the mounting screws of the circuit board (fig. 9 2, page 5).
4. Remove the socket from the circuit board (fig. 9 3, page 5).
5. Replace the faulty circuit board with a new one.
6. Insert the new circuit board, reversing the steps described in the instructions for removing the circuit board.
7. Reinsert the transparent cover into the housing.
8. Reconnect the power supply to the appliance.

8. Cleaning and Care

WARNING! Risk of damage! Never wash the refrigerator under running water and do not immerse it in water for rinsing. Do not use corrosive detergents or rough objects for cleaning, as they could damage the refrigerator. Clean the inside and outside of the appliance from time to time with a damp cloth.

Ensure that the ventilation and air extraction openings of the appliance are free of dust and dirt to allow the heat generated during operation to escape and not damage the appliance.

9. Troubleshooting

10. Warranty

Statutory warranty terms apply. If the product is defective, please contact your trusted retailer or the manufacturer's branch in your country (see dometic.com/dealer).

To process a repair and warranty claim, you must send the following documentation along with the device:

• A copy of the receipt with the date of purchase,
• The reason for the claim or a description of the fault.

11. Disposal

Collect packaging material in the appropriate recycling bins where possible.

Consult your local recycling centre or specialist dealer for information on how to dispose of the product in accordance with applicable disposal regulations.

12. Technical Specifications

NOTE If the ambient temperature is above +32 °C (+90 °F), it is not possible to reach the minimum temperature.

Control certificates:

CE E4

The cooling circuit contains R134a.

Contains fluorinated greenhouse gases

Hermetically sealed equipment

CFX28, CFX35, CFX40

CFX50