Whirlpool Upright Freezers
Use & Care Guide
For questions about features, operation/performance, parts, accessories, or service, call: 1-800-253-1301.
In Canada, call for assistance 1-800-461-5681, for installation and service, call: 1-800-807-6777 or visit our website at: www.whirlpool.com or www.whirlpool.com/canada
Freezer Safety
[Safety Alert Symbol] Your safety and the safety of others are very important. Always read and obey all safety messages.
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.
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, follow these basic precautions:
- Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet.
- Do not remove the ground prong.
- Do not use an adapter.
- Do not use an extension cord.
- Disconnect power before servicing.
- Replace all panels before operating.
- Use nonflammable cleaner.
- Keep flammable materials and vapors, such as gasoline, away from the freezer.
- Use two or more people to move and install the freezer.
- Keep the key away from children.
- Remove doors or lid from your old freezer or refrigerator.
- Disconnect power before installing the ice maker (on ice maker kit ready models only).
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.
IMPORTANT: Child entrapment and suffocation are not problems of the past. Junked or abandoned freezers or refrigerators are still dangerous, even if they will sit for "just a few days." Before discarding:
- Take off the doors or lid.
- Leave the shelves in place so children cannot easily climb inside.
Freezer Installation
Unpacking
WARNING: Excessive Weight Hazard. Use two or more people to move and install. Failure to do so can result in back or other injury.
Removing packaging materials: Remove tape and glue residue from surfaces. Rub a small amount of liquid dish soap over adhesive with fingers, wipe with warm water, and dry. Do not use sharp instruments, rubbing alcohol, flammable fluids, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the freezer surface.
Moving Your Freezer: Your freezer is heavy. Protect the floor when moving. Always pull the freezer straight out; do not wiggle or "walk" it, as this can damage the floor.
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.
For optimal operation, locate the freezer where the temperature is between 40°F (4°C) and 90°F (32°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. For hinge-side clearance, allow extra space for the door to open wider.
NOTE: Keep flammable materials away. Do not install near ovens, radiators, or other heat sources.
Cleaning Before Use
After removing packaging, clean the interior before use. Refer to the "Freezer Care" section.
Electrical Requirements
WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard. Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove ground prong, use an adapter, or use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
Recommended Grounding Method: Use a 115 Volt, 60 Hz, AC only, 15 or 20 ampere fused, grounded electrical supply. A separate circuit for the freezer is recommended. Use an outlet that cannot be turned off by a switch or pull chain. Do not use an extension cord.
Water Supply Connection
Read all directions carefully before connecting the water line.
IMPORTANT: If using the freezer before the water line is connected, turn the ice maker OFF. All installations must meet local plumbing code requirements. Use plastic tubing and check for leaks. Install only in areas where temperatures remain above freezing.
Tools Required: Standard screwdriver, 7/16 in. and 1/2 in. open-end wrenches or adjustable wrenches, 1/4 in. nut driver, and drill bit.
NOTE: Your dealer may offer a kit with a 1/4 in. shut-off valve, union, and plastic tubing. Ensure any saddle-type valve complies with local codes; avoid piercing-type or 3/16 in. valves.
Cold Water Supply: Connect to a cold water line with 30-120 psi pressure. Call your utility company if unsure.
Connecting to Water Line:
- Unplug freezer or disconnect power.
- Turn OFF main water supply. Open nearest faucet to clear the line.
- Locate a 1/2 in. to 1 1/4 in. (12.7 mm to 3.18 cm) vertical cold water pipe near the freezer. (Horizontal pipes work, but drill the top side to avoid water and sediment.)
- Measure the distance for plastic tubing, adding 7 ft. (2.1 m) for cleaning. Use 1/4 in. (6.35 mm) O.D. tubing, cut square.
- Drill a 1/4 in. hole in the cold water pipe.
- Fasten the shut-off valve to the pipe using the clamp. Ensure the outlet is in the drilled hole and the washer is under the clamp. Tighten the packing nut and clamp screws carefully for a watertight seal; do not overtighten.
- Slip the compression sleeve and nut onto the tubing. Insert tubing into the valve outlet squarely. Screw on the compression nut; do not overtighten.
- Place the free end of the tubing in a container or sink. Turn ON main water supply and flush until water is clear. Turn OFF the shut-off valve. Coil the tubing.
Connecting to Freezer:
- Attach the plastic tube to the valve inlet using a compression nut and sleeve. Tighten the nut; do not overtighten. Use the tube clamp on the freezer back to secure the tubing.
- Turn shut-off valve ON. Check all connections for leaks and tighten as needed.
- If water quality requires, install a second water strainer in the 1/4 in. line.
- Plug in freezer or reconnect power.
Removing the Handle
Tools Required: 1/4 in., 1/2 in., 5/16 in. hex-head socket wrenches, flat-head screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver.
- Apply firm pressure to the trim face. Slide top trim up and bottom trim down away from the handle. Lift trim pieces off shoulder screws. (Note: Accent pieces may need removal first.)
- Remove handle screws and handle.
- Replace handle as shown.
Door Closing and Alignment
- Locate and remove the 4 bolts holding the freezer in the shipping crate.
- Locate the 2 front leveling legs.
- Screw legs into the front holes at the bottom of the freezer. The back rests on 2 fixed supports.
- Adjust front legs to ensure the freezer does not rock.
- Connect to proper electrical supply and attach retaining clip.
- Slide freezer into place.
- Use a leveling tool on top, side-to-side, then front-to-back. Turn legs counterclockwise to raise a corner, clockwise to lower.
- Repeat step 7 until level.
- After loading, recheck level.
Freezer Use
Ensuring Proper Air Circulation
Proper airflow is essential for maintaining temperature. Cool air enters through the wall, moves down, and recirculates through a vent near the bottom.
Do not block vents with food packages, as this prevents airflow and can cause temperature and moisture problems.
IMPORTANT: Wrap or cover foods tightly to prevent odors and drying.
Using the Control
Setting the Control: Turn the temperature control to 4 for optimal temperature (around 0°F / -17.8°C). Allow 6-8 hours for initial cooling, or overnight before adding large amounts of unfrozen food. Do not add more than 2-3 lbs (907-1350 g) of unfrozen food per cubic foot.
NOTE: The compressor will run continuously initially until the cabinet cools. It may take 6-8 hours or longer. Once cooled, it cycles on and off. The exterior may feel warm; this is normal as heat is transferred to the room.
Adjusting the Control
- Higher number = colder temperatures.
- Lower number = less cold temperatures.
Fast Freeze (on some models)
This setting runs the freezer continuously at its coldest temperature. Use it just before adding large amounts of unfrozen food. Return to normal setting after 24-48 hours. Do not exceed 3 lbs per cubic foot for best food quality.
Key Eject Lock (on some models)
WARNING: Entrapment Hazard. Keep key away from children. Failure to do so can result in death, suffocation, or frostbite.
If equipped, the lock reduces child entrapment risk. Hold the key in the lock while turning to lock or unlock. The key cannot be left in the lock.
If the key is lost, contact your dealer for a replacement, providing model and serial numbers.
Ice Maker Operation (on some models)
To turn on/off: Do not force the shut-off arm. Lower the arm to turn ON. The automatic shut-off feature raises the arm when the bin is full.
To manually turn OFF, lift the arm to the OFF (arm up) position and listen for a click.
To increase ice production: If ice production is slow, adjust the temperature control to a higher (colder) setting in half-number steps. Wait 24 hours between adjustments. Allow 24 hours for the first batch; discard the first three batches.
NOTE: Ice quality depends on water quality. Avoid softened water supplies. Do not store items on the ice maker or in the ice storage bin.
Freezer Features
This manual covers multiple 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 items.
Placement Tips: Cabinet shelves offer the best freezing. Door shelves and the bottom are slightly less cold. Store temperature-sensitive items (meat, poultry) on cabinet shelves. Leave space between packages for cold air circulation.
Storage Basket (on some models)
Provides separate storage for items difficult to place on shelves. Pull out and lift up to remove.
Storage Gate (on some models)
To lower/raise: Lift 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 (on some models)
WARNING: Explosion Hazard. Use nonflammable cleaner. Failure to do so can result in death, explosion, or fire.
Frost-free freezers automatically remove frost. For complete cleaning, do this at least once a year. High humidity may require more frequent cleaning.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, concentrated detergents, bleaches, or petroleum-based cleaners on plastic parts.
Cleaning Steps:
- Unplug freezer or disconnect power.
- Remove all frozen food. Wrap in newspaper and cover with a blanket, or store in a cooler/another freezer.
- Wash interior walls with mild detergent in warm water or 2 tbsp baking soda per quart (0.95 L) warm water.
- Rinse and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
- Clean exterior, door liner, and gasket with a mild detergent and warm water.
- Rinse and wipe dry.
- Wax painted metal surfaces for rust protection. (Do not wax plastic parts.)
- Replace frozen food.
- Plug in or reconnect power.
- Refer to "Using the Control" section.
Base Grille
To remove/replace: Open door, pull grille from both sides. To replace, align tabs with openings and push firmly.
NOTE: Check the drain pan for overflow; keep a second pan handy.
Defrosting and Cleaning Your Manual Defrost Freezer (on some models)
WARNING: Explosion Hazard. Use nonflammable cleaner. Failure to do so can result in death, explosion, or fire.
Defrost when frost is about 1/4 in. (6 mm) thick. Complete defrosting and cleaning should be done at least annually. High humidity may require more frequent defrosting.
Do not use abrasive cleaners or petroleum-based products on plastic parts.
NOTE: Remove the drain cap before defrosting and replace it securely afterward.
- Unplug freezer or disconnect power.
- Remove and wrap frozen food as described above.
- Remove base grille.
- For models with a drain system: Pull drain hose out, place a pan underneath, and remove the drain cap inside.
- For models without a drain system: Use a sponge or baster to remove excess water.
- Place pans of hot water inside with the door open to speed melting. An electric fan directed into the freezer can also help (do not place fan inside).
- Use a plastic scraper to remove frost. (Do not use ice picks or knives.)
- Wipe walls with a towel or sponge.
- Wash interior walls with mild detergent solution or baking soda solution.
- Rinse and wipe dry.
- Clean exterior, door liner, and gasket with mild detergent.
- Rinse and wipe dry.
- Wax painted metal surfaces. (Do not wax plastic parts.)
- For models with a drain system: Replace drain hose, cap, and grille.
- Replace frozen food.
- Plug in or reconnect power.
- Refer to "Using the Control" section.
Changing the Light Bulb
NOTE: Use an appliance bulb of the same size, shape, and wattage.
- Unplug freezer or disconnect power.
- Remove the light shield by pulling it forward and down from the back.
- Replace the bulb.
- Plug in or reconnect power.
Power Interruptions
If power goes out, call the power company for an estimated outage duration.
- For outages of 24 hours or less, keep the freezer closed.
- For outages longer than 24 hours:
- Remove food and store in a locker, OR
- Add 2 lbs (907 g) of dry ice per cubic foot (28.32 L) to keep food frozen for 2-4 days, OR
- Use or can perishable food immediately if other options are unavailable.
REMEMBER: A full freezer stays colder longer. If food contains ice crystals, it may be refrozen, but quality/flavor may be affected. Discard if food quality is poor.
Moving Care
- Remove and pack frozen food in dry ice.
- Unplug and clean the freezer thoroughly.
- Tape the freezer shut and secure the power cord.
- Refer to "Freezer Installation" and "Freezer Use" sections upon arrival at your new home.
Troubleshooting
Try these solutions before calling for service.
Your Freezer Will Not Operate
- Is the power cord unplugged? Plug into a grounded outlet.
- Has a fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped? Replace fuse or reset breaker.
- Is the Temperature Control set to OFF? See "Using the Control."
- Is the freezer defrosting (on some models)? It will cycle regularly.
The Lights Do Not Work
- Is the power cord unplugged? Plug into a grounded outlet.
- Is the light bulb loose or burned out? See "Changing the Light Bulb."
Water in the Defrost Drain Pan (on some models)
- Is the freezer defrosting? Water will evaporate.
- Is it humid? Evaporation may take longer in humid conditions.
The Motor Seems to Run Too Much
- Is frost buildup or packaging preventing the door/lid from closing? Defrost/clean or reposition items.
- Is the room temperature higher than normal? The motor runs longer in warmer conditions (normally 40-80% of the time).
- Was a large amount of food recently added? The motor will run longer to cool the freezer down.
- Is the door/lid opened frequently? Conserve energy by getting all items at once, keeping food organized, and closing the door promptly.
- Is the control set correctly for ambient conditions? See "Using the Control."
- Is the door/lid not closing completely? Push firmly shut. If it won't close, see "The door or lid will not close completely."
- Are condenser coils dirty (on some models)? Clean them to improve air transfer. See "Cleaning."
- Is the door/lid gasket sealed properly? Contact a qualified technician.
- Is there adequate air circulation space? See "Location Requirements."
- NOTE: New, high-efficiency motors may run longer than older models.
Ice Maker Not Producing Ice or Producing Insufficient Ice (on some models)
- Newly installed: Wait 72 hours for full production after the freezer cools.
- Freezer temperature: Ensure the freezer is cold enough. Wait 24 hours after hook-up. See "Using the Control."
- Shut-off arm position: Ensure the arm is down (ON). See "Ice Maker Operation."
- Water line valve: Ensure the shut-off valve is open. See "Connecting to a Water Source."
- Water in mold/no ice: Verify water supply connection and valve are open. See "Connecting to a Water Source."
- Ice cube jammed: Remove with a plastic utensil. See "Ice Maker Operation."
- Large amount of ice removed: Allow 24 hours for ice production.
- Control setting: Adjust if too little ice is produced. See "Using the Control."
- NOTE: If the issue persists, there may be a water line problem. Call for service.
Off-Taste, Odor, or Gray Color in Ice (on some models)
- New plumbing: Discard first few batches of ice.
- Old ice cubes: Discard and make a new supply.
- Cleanliness: Clean freezer and ice bin. See "Cleaning."
- Minerals in water: Consider installing a water filter.
Temperature is Too Warm
- Blocked air vents: Move objects away from vents. See "Ensuring Proper Air Circulation."
- Frequent door opening: Freezer warms up. Get items at once, stay organized, close door quickly.
- Large amount of food added: Freezer will take hours to return to normal temperature.
- Control setting: Ensure it's correct for ambient conditions. See "Using the Control."
Door or Lid Will Not Close Completely
- Food packages: Reposition items to fit more tightly and take up less space.
- Shelves/basket out of position: Return them to their correct places.
- Dirty or sticky gaskets: Clean gaskets per "Cleaning" instructions.
- Freezer wobble/instability: See "Door Closing and Alignment."
Door or Lid is Difficult to Open
- Dirty or sticky gaskets: Clean gaskets per "Cleaning" instructions.
Freezer Clicks but Does Not Run
- Power outage: Unplug freezer for 30 minutes to equalize the refrigeration system. Keep door closed if possible.
Assistance or Service
Before calling for service, check "Troubleshooting." This may save you a service call cost.
When calling, have your purchase date and complete model and serial numbers ready.
If You Need Replacement Parts
Use only FSP® replacement parts for proper fit and function. Contact the Whirlpool Customer Interaction Center or your nearest authorized service center to locate parts.
In the U.S.A.
Call the Whirlpool Customer Interaction Center toll-free: 1-800-253-1301. Consultants can assist with features, specifications, installation, use, maintenance, accessories, and repair parts. They can also provide referrals to local dealers and service companies. Whirlpool-designated technicians are trained for warranty and post-warranty service.
For assistance, write to: Whirlpool Brand Home Appliances, Customer Interaction Center, 553 Benson Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692. Include a daytime phone number.
In Canada
Call the Inglis Limited Customer Interaction Center toll-free: 1-800-461-5681 (8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. EST). Consultants can assist with features, specifications, and local dealer referrals.
For service in Canada, call 1-800-807-6777. Inglis Limited technicians are trained for warranty and post-warranty service.
For further assistance, write to: Inglis Limited, Customer Interaction Center, 1901 Minnesota Court, Mississauga, Ontario L5N 3A7. Include a daytime phone number.
Whirlpool® Freezer Warranty
One-Year Full Warranty
For one year from purchase, Whirlpool Corporation will pay for FSP® replacement parts and labor to correct defects in materials or workmanship, provided service is by a Whirlpool-designated company.
Ten-Year Full Warranty
For ten years from purchase, Whirlpool Corporation will pay for FSP® replacement parts and labor to correct defects in the sealed refrigeration system (compressor, evaporator, condenser, dryer, tubing), provided service is by a Whirlpool-designated company.
Whirlpool Corporation Will Not Pay For:
- Service calls for installation, user instruction, fuse replacement, house wiring/plumbing correction, or light bulb replacement.
- Repairs for non-normal, single-family household use.
- Pickup and delivery (service is in-home).
- Damage from accident, alteration, misuse, abuse, fire, flood, acts of God, or unapproved products.
- Food loss coverage for commercial applications.
- Repairs due to unauthorized modifications.
- Parts or labor costs for units operated outside the U.S. and Canada.
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION AND INGLIS LIMITED SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states/provinces may not allow this exclusion/limitation.
Warranty does not apply outside the 50 United States and Canada. Contact your dealer for details on other warranties.
For service, check "Troubleshooting" and "Assistance or Service" sections, or call the Whirlpool Customer Interaction Center (1-800-253-1301 in the U.S.A., or Inglis Limited in Canada).
Limited Domestic Food Loss Coverage
Reimbursement for food spoiled during the first year due to defects in materials/workmanship. For years 2-10, reimbursement is for food spoiled due to FAILURE OF THE SEALED REFRIGERATION SYSTEM.
Verification by Whirlpool or its designated service company is required. Reimbursement is based on domestic use and freezer size:
- 14.9 cu ft or smaller: up to $100.00
- 15.0 cu ft or larger: up to $150.00
These amounts may not cover actual replacement cost but are the maximum cumulative payments for the ten-year period.
Whirlpool is not responsible for food loss due to natural spoilage, misuse, neglect, power interruption, fire, water damage, theft, riots, strikes, war, or acts of God.
Keep this manual and your sales slip for future reference. You must provide proof of purchase or installation date for in-warranty service.
Record your freezer's model and serial numbers for assistance:
Dealer Name: _________________________ Address: _________________________ Phone Number: _________________________ Model Number: _________________________ Serial Number: _________________________ Purchase Date: _________________________