Defy DFC402 Refrigerator Instruction Manual

Introduction

Dear customer,

Your new Defy refrigerator was manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility and has passed the strictest quality control procedures. Please read this manual carefully before using your product for the first time and then store it within easy reach for future reference. We trust you will enjoy years of trouble-free use.

The User Manual

• This manual provides information on how to safely operate and care for your product to gain maximum benefit.
• Pay particular attention to any safety instructions.
• Please read all additional documents supplied with your product.
• This manual may be used for several similar but different models. Please check for relevance regarding your particular model.

Explanation of Symbols Used in This Manual

• [Important Safety Information]: Warning for hazardous situations with regard to life and property.
• [Caution: Supply Voltage]: Warning for supply voltage.
• [Caution: Fire Hazard]: Warning for fire hazard.
• [Caution: Hot Surfaces]: Warning for hot surfaces.
• [Read Instructions]: Read the instructions.
• [Useful Information]: Important information or useful hints about usage.

Unpacking

Remove all packaging. Ensure that packing material is disposed of in a responsible manner and that any plastic bags are cut up to prevent children playing with them and accidentally suffocating. If the refrigerator is damaged in any way, do not use it. Report the damage to your dealer who will take the necessary corrective action.

1. Your Refrigerator

[Diagram: Illustration of the Defy DFC402 refrigerator with numbered parts.]

1- Fridge compartment, 2- Diffuser cover, 3- Illumination lens, 4- Fridge compartment glass shelves, 5- Chiller compartment, 6- Crisper, 7- Icematic, 8- Freezing compartments, 9- Freezer compartment, 10- Ventilation lid, 11- Fridge compartment door shelves, 12- Water Dispenser.

Note: Figures represented in this instruction manual are schematic and may not correspond exactly with your refrigerator. If parts are not included, they may be model-specific and valid only for some models.

2. Important Safety Information

Please review and observe the following information. Failure to do so may result in injuries or material damage and will render any warranty and reliability commitments void. The usage life of the refrigerator is 10 years, during which spare parts will be stocked.

This refrigerator is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised or instructed by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to prevent them from playing with the refrigerator.

Warnings

• Hand this owner's manual to the new owner if ownership changes.
• The refrigerator must only be used for its intended purpose: storing edible foodstuffs.
• The refrigerator is intended for household and similar applications, such as staff kitchen areas, farm houses, hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and catering services (non-retail applications).
• Consult your authorized DEFY service center for all questions and problems. Only authorized agents should carry out repairs.
• Vapour and vaporized cleaning materials must never be used for cleaning or defrosting, as they may contact electrical parts, causing short circuits or electric shocks.
• Do not allow children to hang on the refrigerator door, as the unit could topple forward, risking personal injury. Never use parts like the door as a means of support or step.
• Do not use electrical appliances inside the refrigerator or freezer.
• Do not drill, cut, or modify the refrigerator, as injuries may result if the refrigerant circuit is damaged.
• Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
• Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.
• Repairs must be carried out by authorized persons only; incompetent repairs create a user risk.
• Unplug the refrigerator when cleaning, performing routine maintenance, or if it will not be used for an extended period. To unplug, pull the plug, not the cable.
• Do not operate a damaged refrigerator. Consult your nearest DEFY service center if you have concerns.
• Electrical safety is guaranteed only if your home's earth system complies with national standards.
• Exposing the refrigerator to rain, snow, sun, and wind is an electrical safety risk.
• If the mains lead is damaged or needs replacing, it must be replaced by a special purpose-made lead obtained only from a DEFY Authorized Service Agent.
• Never plug the refrigerator into the wall socket during installation; death or serious injury may result.
• Never connect your refrigerator to electricity-saving systems, as they may damage it.
• Do not store medicine or academic research samples requiring strict temperature control.
• Do not store or use flammable gas, benzene, petrol, or volatile substances in or near the refrigerator.
• Do not store explosive substances like aerosol cans with flammable propellants.
• In case of malfunction, disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
• Do not overload the refrigerator with excessive food. Overloading can cause food items to fall and cause injury or damage when opening the door. Never place objects on top of the refrigerator, as they may fall and cause injury.
• If a blue light is fitted, do not look at it through optics.

The refrigerator may move if the adjustable legs are not properly leveled. Levelling the legs helps prevent movement.

When carrying, do not hold by the door handle, as it may break.

When placing next to another refrigerator or freezer, maintain at least 80 mm distance to prevent adjacent walls from humidifying.

For refrigerators with a freezer compartment: Do not put bottled and canned liquid beverages in the freezer, as they may burst. Do not touch frozen food with bare hands; they may stick.

Never pour or spray water into or on the refrigerator. Do not store liquids, pot plants, or open containers on top, as spills can cause electrical shorting.

For manually controlled refrigerators, wait at least 5 minutes after a power failure before starting.

Avoid any damage to the power cable when transporting the refrigerator.

[Diagram: Illustration showing how bending the power cable can cause a fire.]

Never place heavy objects on the power cable.

Do not touch the plug with wet hands.

Do not plug in if the wall socket is loose.

On delivery, check for damage and ensure all parts and accessories are in perfect condition.

Ensure the plug remains readily accessible. Do not use multiple adapter plugs or extension cables.

Ensure sufficient spacing between the refrigerator and surrounding walls.

Unplug the refrigerator from the mains when cleaning.

Child Safety

• If the door has a lock, keep the key out of children's reach.
• If discarding an old refrigerator with a lock or latch, disable it to prevent children from being trapped and suffocating.
• Children must be supervised to prevent tampering.

HCA Warning

Refrigerator cooling systems containing R600a:

DEFY is committed to environmental care. This Defy refrigerator is environmentally friendly, containing non-CFC/HFC natural substances in the cooling system (R600a) and insulation (cyclopentane). These are potentially flammable if exposed to fire. Take care not to damage the cooling circuit/pipes during transportation and use.

In case of damage, do not expose the refrigerator to fire or potential ignition sources and immediately ventilate the room. Ignore this warning if your refrigerator's cooling system contains R134a.

[Never dispose of the Refrigerator in a fire.]

[Do not dispose of your Refrigerator along with regular household waste.] Contact your local authority for disposal information and facilities.

For refrigerators with a water dispenser

Pressure of water mains should be a minimum of 1 bar and a maximum of 8 bars. Use only potable water.

3. Installation

Please remember that the manufacturer is not liable if the information in this manual is not followed.

Points to be Considered When Re-transporting Your Refrigerator

1. Empty and clean the refrigerator before any transportation.
2. Fasten shelves, accessories, and crisper securely with adhesive tape to protect against jolts before repackaging.
3. Tie packaging with thick tape and strong rope, and follow printed transportation guidelines.

Before Operating Your Refrigerator

Check the following before use:

1. Is the interior dry and can air circulate freely at the rear?
2. [Diagram: Illustration showing two plastic wedges being fitted between the refrigerator and the wall to ensure air circulation.] The plastic wedges provide the required distance for air circulation. (Figure is an example and may not match your refrigerator exactly).
3. Clean the interior as recommended in the “Maintenance and Cleaning” section.
4. Plug the refrigerator into the wall socket. The interior light will come on when the fridge door is open.
5. You may hear a noise as the compressor starts up. Liquid and gas noises from the refrigeration system are normal, even if the compressor is not running.
6. The front edges may feel warm; this is normal and designed to avoid condensation.

Electrical Connection

Connect your refrigerator to a grounded socket protected by an appropriately rated fuse.

Important:

• Connection must comply with national regulations.
• The power cable plug must be easily accessible after installation.
• The specified voltage must equal your mains voltage.
• Extension cables and multiway plugs must not be used.

[Caution: Damaged power cable must be replaced by a qualified electrician.]

[Caution: Damaged refrigerator must not be operated before repair; danger of electric shock!]

Adjusting the Feet

The refrigerator may move if adjustable legs are not properly leveled. Levelling the legs helps prevent movement.

You can level your refrigerator by turning the front legs. Turning the leg in the direction of the black arrow lowers it; turning it the opposite way raises it.

[Diagram: Illustration showing how to turn the adjustable feet of the refrigerator.]

Having someone assist in tilting the refrigerator slightly will help with this process.

Placing and Installation

If the entrance door is not wide enough, call an authorized service center to remove the refrigerator doors to allow sideways passage.

1. Install your refrigerator in a place that allows for ease of use.
2. Keep it away from heat sources, humid places, and direct sunlight.
3. Ensure appropriate air ventilation: at least 50 mm space from the ceiling and 50 mm from the wall. If the floor is carpeted, elevate the refrigerator by 25 mm.
4. Place on an even floor surface to prevent jolts.
5. Do not keep in ambient temperatures below 10°C.

Install at least 300 mm away from heat sources (hobs, ovens, stoves) and 50 mm from electrical ovens. Do not locate under direct sunlight.

Ensure the interior is cleaned thoroughly.

If installing two refrigerators side-by-side, maintain at least 20 mm distance between them.

Initial Operation (First Six Hours)

• Do not open the door frequently.
• Operate the refrigerator empty, without food.
• Do not unplug the refrigerator.
• In case of power failure, refer to the "Recommended solutions for the problems" section.
• Keep original packaging and foam materials for future transportation or moving.

4. Using Your Refrigerator

Indicator Panel

The touch-control indicator panel allows temperature setting without opening the door. Touch the relevant button.

[Diagram: Illustration of the Defy DFC402 refrigerator's touch-control indicator panel with numbered buttons and indicators.]

1. Fast Freeze Button, 2. Freezer Compartment Temperature Setting Button, 3. Eco-Extra Button, 4. Vacation Button, 5. Fridge Compartment Temperature Setting Button, 6. Quick Cool Button, 7. Fridge Compartment Temperature Indicator, 8. Eco Extra Function Indicator, 9. Freezer Compartment Temperature Indicator, 10. Quick Cool Function Indicator, 11. Vacation Function Indicator, 12. Quick Freeze Function Indicator, 13. Economy Mode Indicator, 14. Error Status Indicator, 15. Key Lock Indicator, 16. Ionizer Indicator Light, 17. Humidity Indicator.

Note: Figures are schematic and may not correspond exactly. Parts may be model-specific.

Button and Indicator Functions

• 1. Fast Freeze Button: Press briefly to activate/deactivate Fast Freeze.
• 2. Freezer Compartment Temperature Setting Button: Set freezer temperature (-18°C, -20°C, -22°C, -24°C).
• 3. Eco-Extra Button: Press briefly to activate Eco-Extra function for energy-efficient cooling during low usage periods. Economy indicator will be active.
• 4. Vacation Button: Press briefly to activate Vacation function. Press and hold for 3 seconds to stop ice formation.
• 5. Fridge Compartment Temperature Setting Button: Set fridge temperature (8°C, 6°C, 4°C, 2°C).
• 6. Quick Cool Button: Press briefly to activate/deactivate Quick Cool for rapid cooling of fresh food. Runs for 2 hours continuously.
• 7. Fridge Compartment Temperature Indicator: Shows the set temperature for the Fridge Compartment.
• 8. Eco Extra Function Indicator: Indicates Eco-Extra is active.
• 9. Freezer Compartment Temperature Indicator: Shows the set temperature for the Freezer Compartment.
• 10. Quick Cool Function Indicator: Indicates Quick Cool is active.
• 11. Vacation Function Indicator: Indicates Vacation function is active. Fridge compartment shows "- -"; no cooling in fridge compartment, others cool normally.
• 12. Quick Freeze Function Indicator: Indicates Quick Freeze is active. Runs for 6 hours continuously for freezing fresh food or making ice.
• 13. Economy Mode Indicator: Indicates energy-efficient mode is active.
• 14. Error Status Indicator: Activates if cooling is inadequate or there's a sensor failure. Displays "E" for Freezer or numbers for Fridge compartment, providing error information to service personnel.
• 15. Key Lock Indicator: Press Eco Extra and Freezer Temp Setting buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds to activate/deactivate. Prevents accidental changes.
• 16. Ionizer Indicator Light: Lights up continuously, indicating the refrigerator is protected against bacteria.
• 17. Humidity Indicator: Lights up continuously, indicating food is preserved for a long time under ideal humidity.

Open Door Warning

An audio warning sounds if the fridge or freezer door is left open for a period. The warning mutes when any button is pressed or the door is closed.

Egg Tray

Install the egg holder on a desired door or body shelf. Never store it in the freezer compartment.

Blue Light

Food stored in crispers illuminated by blue light continues photosynthesis, helping preserve freshness and increase vitamin content.

Defrosting

The fridge and freezer compartments defrost automatically.

5. The Freezer Compartment

Deep-Freeze Information

• Freeze food as rapidly as possible to maintain quality.
• Keep food for long periods at -18°C or lower.
• Quality of food can be maintained for months at -18°C or lower.
• Store pre-packed frozen food according to manufacturer's instructions for a (4-star) compartment.
• To maintain high quality: Put packages in freezer quickly after purchase, ensure contents are labeled and dated, and do not exceed "Use By" or "Best Before" dates.
• If there is a power failure, do not open the freezer door. Frozen food will not be affected up to the "Temperature rise time". If the failure lasts longer, check food and consume or refreeze after cooking if necessary.
• Wrap all food before storage. Seal foods or place in airtight containers to prevent dehydration.
• Eliminate air pockets from packages by firm sealing. Seal folds with deep-freeze sealing tape.
• Unwrapped food with acids or salt may stain the interior.
• When loading bulk, load one quarter at a time and allow to freeze before adding more.
• Divide food into reasonable portions.
• Allow hot food to cool before freezing. Freeze cooked food in small quantities for rapid freezing and quality.
• Defrosted food must be consumed within 24 hours. Only cooked food can be refrozen. Do not refreeze defrosted food.
• Do not exceed expiry dates on food packs.
• Do not take out frozen food with wet hands.
• Use appropriate packaging to avoid odor penetration or degradation.
• Transport pre-frozen food in foil-lined cooler bags and transfer to the home freezer promptly.
• Place fresh food near side walls for fast freezing.
• Never exceed maximum freezing capacity. For freezing over 2 kg, activate Fast Freeze and wait at least three hours before adding food. Do not freeze too large a quantity at once.
• Quality is best preserved when frozen quickly to the center. Avoid mixing already frozen and fresh food.

Deep Freeze Packaging Information

Packaging materials must be tear-proof, resistant to cold, humidity, odor, oils, and acids. They must be airtight and suitable for deep freeze usage.

Materials Necessary for Packaging

Cold-resistant adhesive tape, self-adhesive labels, rubber rings, and a pen.

6. Water Dispenser (Some Models)

The water dispenser provides chilled water without opening the fridge door, saving electricity.

Using the Water Dispenser

Push the lever with your glass for water flow; releasing the lever stops flow. Maximum flow is achieved by fully depressing the lever. Flow depends on lever pressure. Gently reduce pressure as the cup fills to avoid overflow. A small lever depression results in a trickle, which is normal.

[Diagram: Illustration showing how to dispense water using the lever and a glass.]

Filling the Water Dispenser's Tank

Open the water tank cover. Fill with pure, clean drinking water. Close the cover. To prevent accidental flow, lock the water dispenser.

[Diagram: Illustration showing the water tank and its cover.]

[Warning!] Do not fill the water tank with liquids other than drinking water (e.g., fruit juice, carbonated beverages, alcoholic drinks). This can cause malfunction, damage, and void the warranty. Ingredients may attack the tank material.

Use clean, pure drinking water only. The tank capacity is 2.2 liters (3.8 pints); do not overfill.

Push the dispenser arm with a rigid glass. For disposable plastic glasses, push the arm with your fingers from behind the glass.

[Diagram: Illustration showing dispensing water with a rigid glass and a plastic glass.]

Safety Lock

The safety lock provides ease of use when filling the water tank and prevents children from tampering.

[Diagram: Illustration showing the UNLOCK and LOCK positions for the water dispenser safety lock.]

Water Tray

Water drips accumulate in the drip tray. Empty it periodically by pulling it towards you. Remove the plastic strainer by pressing on the sides.

[Warning:] Connect only to a drinking water line.

Cleaning the Water Tank

Release the tank cover by opening latches on both sides. Remove the tank and clean with warm, clean water. Place it back in its seating, install the cover, and close latches.

Ensure removed parts are properly refitted to prevent water leakage.

[Important:] Do not wash any water tank parts in the dishwasher.

[Diagram: Step-by-step illustration for cleaning the water tank.]

7. Sliding Body Shelves

Sliding body shelves can be removed by lifting slightly from the front and moving back and forth. Two stop points allow partial pulling for access. Lifting and pulling further releases the shelf. Hold shelves firmly from the bottom to prevent tipping.

Shelves are held by rails on the refrigerator body and can be placed on lower or upper rails. Push backwards gently until seated.

[Diagram: Illustration showing how to adjust and remove sliding shelves.]

Chiller Compartment

Chiller compartments prepare food for freezing or store food at temperatures slightly below the fridge compartment. You can increase internal volume by removing chiller compartments. Pull the compartment towards you until it stops, then lift about 1 cm and pull to release.

Crisper

The crisper is designed to keep vegetables fresh by maintaining humidity through cool air circulation around it.

Remove door shelves aligned with the crisper before removing the crisper itself, as illustrated.

[Diagram: Step-by-step illustration for removing the crisper drawer.]

8. Maintenance and Cleaning

General Cleaning

• Always disconnect the plug from the mains socket before cleaning.
• Note: Turning the thermostat to '0' does not switch off the power.
• Clean the interior with a solution of one tablespoon of Bicarbonate of Soda to two liters of warm water. Dry with a soft cloth.
• Do not use scouring pads or abrasive powders.
• Wipe up spillages (especially citric and acidic juices) immediately to prevent staining.
• Shelves and freezer baskets can be removed for cleaning.
• Vacuum or dust the back of the refrigerator with a soft bristle brush.
• A mild furniture polish can be used on the exterior cabinet for lustre and protection against fingerprints.
• Ensure no water enters the lamp housing or other electrical items.
• If the refrigerator will not be used for a long period: unplug the power cable, remove all food, clean it, and leave the door ajar.
• Check door seals regularly for cleanliness and food particles.
• To remove door racks, empty them and push the rack upwards from the base.

Replacing the Light Bulb

Contact your nearest Defy service center to arrange for a technician to replace the light bulb.

Owner's Responsibility

• Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
• Do not use electrical appliances inside food storage compartments unless recommended by the manufacturer.

Items Not Covered by Factory Faults (Owner's Responsibility):

• Damage to exterior finish.
• Breakage of glass and other components.
• Replacement of light bulbs.
• Damage caused through improper use.
• Damage caused by moving the appliance.

Protection of Plastic Surfaces

Do not place liquid oils or oil-cooked meals in unsealed containers, as they may damage plastic surfaces. Clean oil spills immediately with warm water.

9. Trouble Shooting

Please review this list before calling a service center. It may save time and money. This list includes frequent complaints not arising from defective workmanship or material usage. Some features may not apply to your model.

10. Refrigerator Specifications

DFC402

(1) Energy classes: A ... G (A = economical, G = less economical)

11. Service Centres

If you have followed the instructions and still have a problem, contact the nearest Defy Service Centre for advice or to arrange for a technician.

• BLOEMFONTEIN
  160 Long Street, Hilton, Bloemfontein 9301.
  Tel. 051 400 3900
  Bloemfontein.Service@defy.co.za
• JOHANNESBURG
  Cnr. Mimetes & Kruger Sts. Denver ext.12
  Johannesburg. 2094.
  Tel. 011 621 0200 or 011 621 0300
  Gauteng.Service@defy.co.za
• CAPE TOWN
  5A Marconi Rd.
  Montague Gardens, 7441.
  Tel. 021 526 3000
  CapeTown.Service@defy.co.za
• POLOKWANE
  87 Nelson Mandela Drive.
  Superbia 0699.
  Tel. 0152 92 1166 / 7 / 8 / 9.
  Polokwane.Service@defy.co.za
• DURBAN
  35 Intersite Avenue,
  Umgeni Business Park, Durban 4051.
  Tel. 031 268 3300
  Durban.Service@defy.co.za
• PORT ELIZABETH
  112 Patterson Road,
  North End, Port Elizabeth 6001.
  Tel. 041 401 6400
  PortElizabeth.Service@defy.co.za
• EAST LONDON
  16 Bowls Rd. Arcadia,
  East London 5201.
  Tel. 043 743 7100
  EastLondon.Service@defy.co.za
• PRETORIA
  Block A1 Old Mutual Industrial Park.
  Cnr. D.F.Malan Drive & Moot Str.
  Hermanstad. 0082.
  Tel. 012 377 8300
  Pretoria.Service@defy.co.za

Other areas are serviced by over 200 authorised service agents. Please consult the nearest regional Defy service centre for details.

12. Warranty

This certificate is issued by DEFY APPLIANCES LIMITED to the original purchaser of the appliance and constitutes the only warranty given.

The Company warrants to the original purchaser that for a period of TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, the appliance is free from defects in workmanship and material under normal domestic use, subject to the following conditions:

1. Repair or replacement of defective parts shall be at the Company's election. Service may be provided by Defy Service Divisions or Authorised Service Dealers. The cost of service is borne by the Company if the appliance is located within 50km of a service center or dealer. Beyond 50km, the purchaser is liable for standard travelling charges.
2. Vitreous enamelware, fuses, and lamps are excluded. The purchaser must exercise due care and attention in use and maintenance. Abuse, misuse, conflict with operating instructions, incorrect voltages, or commercial use releases the Company from obligations.
3. This warranty is void if the appliance is dismantled or repaired by unauthorized persons, or if non-approved substitute parts are used, or if the serial number is removed.
4. The Company is not responsible for damages from fire, flood, civil disturbances, or Acts of God. The Company is not liable for consequential loss or damage due to failure or malfunction.
5. The Company is not responsible for transportation or other costs beyond those in Point 1.
6. These warranties do not apply if the appliance is purchased or used outside the Republic of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, and Lesotho.
7. If service is requested under warranty and no fault is found, all costs are for the purchaser's account.
8. This Certificate and your invoice serve as proof of purchase. Produce both for warranty service; failure to do so makes the purchaser liable for service costs.

KEEP THIS CERTIFICATE AND SALES INVOICE AS PROOF OF PURCHASE FOR WARRANTY PURPOSES.

Product Registration

Record the following information for future reference. The serial number may be found on the serial label at the rear of the machine.

SERIAL NUMBER: .........................................................................................................................................

DATE OF PURCHASE: ...................................................................................................................................

PURCHASED FROM: .....................................................................................................................................

Please register your product at www.defy.co.za

DEFY APPLIANCES (PTY) LTD
P.O.BOX 12004
JACOBS
DURBAN
4026
SOUTH AFRICA