Vissani Chest Freezer

Use and Care Guide

Models: DCM5QRWW, DCM7QRWW

Item #: 000-000

Thank you for choosing Vissani. We appreciate your trust and confidence. We strive to create quality products designed to enhance your home. Visit us online to see our full line of products available for your home improvement needs.

Safety Information

To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, electric shock, or injury when using your freezer, follow these basic safety precautions:

This freezer must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation Instructions before it is used.
Unplug the freezer before making repairs or cleaning. Note: Power to the freezer cannot be disconnected by any setting on the control panel.
Note: Repairs must be performed by a qualified Service Professional.
Replace all parts and panels before operating.
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
Do not store explosive substances such as aerosol cans with a flammable propellant in this appliance.
Do not use an extension cord.
To prevent suffocation and entrapment hazards to children, remove the lid from any freezer before disposing of it or discontinuing its use.
To avoid serious injury or death, children should not stand on, or play in or with the appliance.
Children and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge can use this appliance only if they are supervised or have been given instructions on safe use and understand the hazards involved.
This appliance is intended for household and similar applications such as staff kitchen areas, shops, offices, farm houses, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, catering, and similar non-retail environments.

ℹ️ IMPORTANT: Indicates a reminder of the possible dangers associated with a hazardous situation.

? DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. Limit the use of this hazard statement to the most extreme situations.

⚠️ WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

? CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

[NOTICE]: Is the preferred signal word to address practices not related to personal injury.

? CAUTION

To reduce the risk of injury when using your freezer, follow these basic safety precautions:

Do not clean the freezer with warm water when it is cold. Components may break if exposed to sudden temperature changes or impact.
Keep fingers out of "pinch point" areas; be careful closing the lid when children are present.
Do not touch cold surfaces in the freezer compartment with damp or wet hands, as skin may stick.
Do not refreeze completely thawed frozen foods.

Explosion Hazard - Flammable Refrigerant

This appliance contains isobutane refrigerant (R600a), a natural gas with high environmental compatibility but also combustible. Adhere to the following warnings:

Handle, install, and operate the appliance with care to avoid damage to the refrigerant tubing.
Service shall only be performed by authorized service personnel using manufacturer-authorized parts.
Dispose of the appliance in accordance with Federal and Local Regulations. Contact local authorities for environmentally safe disposal.
Keep ventilation openings clear of obstruction.
Do not use mechanical devices to accelerate defrosting.
Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
Do not use electrical appliances inside the food storage compartment.

Electrical Shock Hazard

Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove the ground prong.
Do not use an adapter or an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
Ensure the appliance is properly grounded. The power cord has a 3-prong plug.
Have your wall outlet and circuit checked by a qualified electrician to ensure proper grounding. If a 2-prong outlet is encountered, it is your responsibility to replace it with a properly grounded 3-prong outlet.
The freezer must be plugged into its own individual electrical outlet matching the rating plate's voltage.
A 115 Volt AC, 60 Hz, 15- or 20-amp fused, grounded electrical supply is required. A separate circuit serving only your freezer is recommended. Use an outlet that cannot be turned off by a switch.
Do not use an extension cord, as this can cause overheating and fire hazards.
Never unplug by pulling the power cord; grip the plug firmly and pull straight out.
Immediately discontinue use of a damaged supply cord and have it replaced by a qualified service professional.
Be careful not to roll over or damage the power cord when moving the freezer away from the wall.

Proper Disposal of Your Old Appliance

⚠️ WARNINGS: SUFFOCATION AND ENTRAPMENT HAZARD

Failure to follow these disposal instructions can result in death or serious injury.

ℹ️ IMPORTANT: Junked or abandoned appliances are still dangerous. If you are getting rid of your old appliance, follow these instructions to help prevent accidents:

Before Throwing Away Your Old Freezer: Take off the freezer lid. Leave the baskets in place so children cannot climb inside.

Refrigerant and Foam Disposal:

Dispose of the appliance in accordance with Federal and Local Regulations. Flammable refrigerant and insulation material require special disposal procedures. Contact your local authorities for environmentally safe disposal.

Pre-Installation

Read these instructions completely and carefully.

Freezer Location

Locate the freezer in a dry, well-ventilated room for convenient day-to-day use.
Do not install where the temperature goes below 0°F (-18°C) or above 110°F (43°C), as it will not maintain proper temperatures.
Do not install in a location exposed to rain water or direct sunlight.
Ensure the floor is strong enough to support the freezer when fully loaded.

Level Freezer

Level the freezer from side to side and front to back so the lid seals properly. Use shims if necessary.
Note: Lid removal should not be necessary during installation. If hinge adjustment is needed, refer to specific instructions.

Clearances and Ventilation

Allow at least 2 inches (50.8 mm) clearance on both sides and 2 inches (50.8 mm) between the back of the freezer and the wall.
Leave room above the freezer to open the lid.
Keep flammable materials and vapors (e.g., gasoline) away from the freezer.
Do not cover the freezer with items like blankets, sheets, or tablecloths, as this reduces air circulation.
Notice: Do not place the freezer on its side. If it has been on its side, it must remain upright for 24 hours before plugging in.

Lid Removal

? CAUTION: Lifting Hazard. The lid is heavy. Use both hands to secure the lid before lifting.

? CAUTION: The hinge spring is under tension.

If it is necessary to remove the lid, follow these steps:

Remove each upper hinge cover by grasping the sides and pulling upwards. Remove each lower hinge cover by grasping the sides and pulling downwards.
Open the lid to its maximum position (hinges are loosest here).
Loosen, but do not remove, the 4 screws from the lower part of the hinge mounted to the cabinet.
Raise/lift the lid until the screws align with the larger slotted openings in the bottom of the hinge. Each hinge is still attached to the lid with 3 screws.
To reinstall the lid, follow the steps in reverse. Tighten all hinge screws but avoid over-tightening to prevent stripping. Reinstall the hinge covers.

Operation

Starting the Freezer

Clean the inside of the freezer with a mild solution of baking soda and water (see Care and Cleaning).
Connect the cord to the power outlet.
Set the temperature control to 4 (recommended setting) on the scale from 1 (least cold) to 7 (coldest).
Allow the freezer to operate for at least 6 to 8 hours before placing food inside.

Controls

The control, located on the front of the freezer cabinet, is an adjustable dial with temperature settings ranging from 1 (least cold) to 7 (coldest) and Off.

A. Interior Drain Plug (not shown)
B. Vinyl Coated Wire Basket
C. Temperature Control Adjustment
D. Power Indicator - green light
E. Exterior Drain Plug

Turn the temperature control adjustment (C) to 4 (recommended setting).
Allow the freezer to cool for several hours before adding food.

Adjusting the Temperature

Adjust the control dial to one of the adjacent settings: 3 (less cold) or 5 (colder).
Note: Except when starting the freezer, do not adjust the control more than one setting at a time.
Wait 24 hours between adjustments for the freezer temperature to stabilize.

Recommended Grounding Method

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

Power Indicator

The Power Indicator (D) illuminates when the freezer is properly connected to electrical power.

ℹ️ IMPORTANT: Turning the control dial to OFF does not disconnect the freezer from the power supply. Even when Cooling is turned Off, the Power Indicator (D) will remain illuminated as long as the freezer is plugged into an outlet.

Sliding Basket

Store small packages in the basket to avoid losing them in the bottom of the freezer. The basket can be moved from side to side or it can be removed when loading or unloading food below it.

To remove the basket, lift it straight up and out.
To replace the basket, lower it back into place.

Maintenance

In most climates, defrosting will be necessary only about twice a year. To ensure efficient operation, do not permit more than 1/4" (6 mm) thickness of frost to accumulate on the walls.

To remove frost, scrape with a plastic or wood spatula or scraper.
Do not use an ice pick, metal, or sharp-edged instrument as it may damage or scratch the freezer.
Do not use boiling water as it may damage the freezer.
Do not use any electrical device in defrosting your freezer.

⚠️ WARNING: The freezer must be unplugged to avoid an electrical hazard from the power source when defrosting the unit.

For Complete Defrosting

Turn the temperature control (C) to the far left OFF setting and unplug the freezer.
Remove all food and place it in insulated containers (e.g., corrugated boxes, insulated bags, picnic coolers). Use towels and newspapers for insulation as needed.
Place a tray (not included) in front of the freezer, beneath the exterior drain plug (E), to collect water. Remove the exterior drain plug (E) and the interior drain plug (A) to allow water to drain into the tray.
Note: Water accumulated at the bottom will drain into the tray. Monitor the tray to avoid overflow.
With the lid open, you may use pans of hot tap water (less than 120° F [49° C]) to speed defrosting. Directing air from an electric fan into the freezer can also help. Do not place the fan or any electrical device inside the freezer. Remove large pieces of ice before they melt.
Wipe water from the walls with a towel or sponge.
After defrosting, clean the inside of the freezer (see Care and Cleaning).
Replace the drain plugs.
Plug in the freezer. Return the temperature control to its previous position and return food to the freezer.

Care and Cleaning

Cleaning Your Freezer

Outside: Protect the paint finish. Apply appliance polish wax when new and at least twice a year. Wax also removes tape residue. Keep the finish clean by wiping with a cloth lightly dampened with appliance polish wax or mild liquid dishwashing detergent. Dry and polish with a clean, soft cloth. Do not use soiled cloths, wet towels, scouring pads, powdered cleaners, or bleach.
Notice: Be careful when moving the freezer away from the wall, as floor coverings can be damaged.
Inside: Clean the inside at least once a year. Unplug before cleaning if possible. Wring out excess moisture from sponges or cloths when cleaning near switches or controls. Use a warm water and baking soda solution (approx. 1 tablespoon baking soda per quart of water). Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. Do not use cleaning powders or abrasive cleaners. Do not wash removable parts in a dishwasher. An open box of baking soda inside will absorb odors; change every three months.
? CAUTION: Damp objects stick to cold metal surfaces. Do not touch interior metal surfaces with wet or damp hands.

In Case of an Extended Power Failure

Keep the freezer lid closed. The freezer will keep food frozen for 24 hours if warm air is not admitted.
If the freezer is out of operation for 24 hours or more, add dry ice (in large pieces). Add more ice as needed.
If dry ice is not available, move food to a frozen food locker temporarily until power is restored.
? CAUTION: Handling dry ice can cause freezing of the hands; gloves or other protection are recommended.

Preparing to Move

Turn the temperature control to OFF. Disconnect the power cord. Remove food, defrost, and clean the freezer.
Secure loose items like baskets with tape.
Keep the freezer upright during moving and transportation. Secure it in the vehicle to prevent movement. Protect the exterior with a blanket.

Preparing for Vacation

To maintain freezer operation during vacations, ensure your house power is not turned off. Ask a neighbor to check power supply and operation every 24 hours.
For extended absences, consider moving frozen foods to temporary storage. If leaving the freezer empty, unplug it, leave the lid open, and place an open box of baking soda inside to prevent odors.

Save Money and Energy

Locate the freezer in the coolest area of the room, away from heat-producing appliances or ducts, and out of direct sunlight.
Let hot foods cool to room temperature before placing them in the freezer. Overloading forces the compressor to run longer, and slow freezing can lead to spoilage.
Wrap foods properly and wipe containers dry before placing them in the freezer to reduce frost buildup.
Do not line freezer baskets with aluminum foil, wax paper, or paper towels, as liners interfere with cold air circulation.
Organize and label food to reduce lid openings and search times. Remove needed items at once and close the lid promptly.

Troubleshooting

Save time and money! Review the charts below before calling for service.

Freezer Not Operating / Light Off

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Freezer does not operate or the Light is off	The temperature control is set to OFF position.	Turn the temperature control to a setting between 1 and 7.
	The freezer is unplugged.	Push the plug completely into the outlet.
	The fuse is blown/circuit breaker is tripped.	Replace the fuse or reset the breaker.

Freezer Starts/Stops Too Frequently

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Freezer starts/stops too frequently	The lid was left open.	Check to see if a package is holding the lid open.
	Too frequent or too long lid openings.	Open the lid less often.
	The temperature control is set too cold.	See "Operation" section for details.

Freezer Operates Too Long

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Freezer operates too long	The lid was left open.	Check to see if a package is holding the lid open.
	Too frequent or too long lid openings.	Open the lid less often.
	The temperature control is set too cold.	See "Operation" section for details.
	Inadequate air circulation space around the cabinet.	See "Pre-Installation" section.
	The room or outside weather is hot.	It's normal for the freezer to work harder under these conditions.
	The freezer has been disconnected recently for a period of time.	It takes 6-8 hours for the freezer to cool down completely.
	Large amounts of warm or hot food have been stored recently.	Warm food will cause the freezer to run more until the desired temperature is reached.

Noisy Operation or Cabinet Vibrates

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Noisy operation or cabinet vibrates	The floor may be weak, causing the freezer to vibrate when the compressor is on.	Check to make sure the freezer is located on a solid floor and use shims, as needed, to level the unit.
	The cabinet is not positioned solidly on the floor.	See "Pre-Installation" section. Use shims, as needed, to level the unit.
	The freezer is touching the wall.	Level the freezer or move slightly. See "Level Freezer" instructions.

Freezer Temperature Too Warm

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Freezer temperature too warm	The lid was left open.	Check to see if a package is holding the lid open.
	Too frequent or too long lid openings.	Open the lid less often.
	The temperature control is set too warm.	Turn the temperature control to a colder setting. Allow several hours for the temperature to stabilize.
	Large amounts of water or hot food may have been stored recently.	Wait until the freezer has had a chance to reach its selected temperature.
	The freezer has been disconnected recently.	The freezer requires 6-8 hours to cool down completely.

Foods Defrosting

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Foods defrosting	The temperature control is set to OFF position.	Turn the temperature control to a setting between 1 and 7.
	The freezer is unplugged.	Push the plug completely into the outlet.
	The fuse is blown/circuit breaker is tripped.	Replace the fuse or reset the breaker.
	The lid was left open.	Check to see if a package is holding the lid open.
	Too frequent or too long lid openings.	Open the lid less often.

Freezer Temperature Too Cold

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Freezer temperature is too cold	The temperature control is set too cold.	See "Operation" section.

Moisture Forms on Outside of Cabinet

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Moisture forms on outside of cabinet	Not unusual during periods of high humidity.	Wipe the surface dry.
	The lid may not be seating properly, causing cold air from inside the freezer to meet warm moist air from the outside.	See "Pre-Installation" section.

Lid Won't Fully Close by Itself

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Lid won't fully close by itself	A package is holding the lid open.	Move the package to a different location.

Slow Starting Time After Being Off

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Slow starting time after being off	The built-in overload protection.	This is normal after being off.

Excessive Frost Buildup

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Excessive frost buildup	The lid was left open.	Check to see if a package is holding the lid open.
	Too frequent or too long lid openings.	Open the lid less often.

Freezer External Surface Temperature is Warm

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Freezer external surface temperature is warm	Not unusual during periods of high humidity.	Wipe the surface dry.
	The external freezer walls can be as much as 30°F (16.7° C) warmer than the room temperature.	This is normal while the compressor works to transfer heat from inside the freezer cabinet.

Sound Levels

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Louder sound levels whenever the freezer is on	Modern freezers have increased storage capacity and more stable temperatures. They require a high-efficiency compressor.	This is normal. When the surrounding noise level is low, you might hear the compressor running while it cools the interior.
Higher sound levels when compressor comes on	The freezer operates at higher pressures during the start of the ON cycle.	This is normal. The sound will level off or disappear as the freezer continues to run.
Popping or cracking sound when compressor comes on	Metal parts undergo expansion and contraction, as in hot water pipes.	This is normal. The sound will level off or disappear as the freezer continues to run.
Bubbling or gurgling sound, like boiling water	Refrigerant (used to cool freezer) is circulating throughout the system.	This is normal.

Moisture Forms on Inside Freezer Walls

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Moisture forms on inside freezer walls	The weather is hot and humid, which increases the internal rate of frost buildup.	This is normal.
	The lid may not be seating properly.	See "Pre-Installation" section.
	The lid is kept open too long, or is opened too frequently.	Open the lid less often.

Odors in Freezer

Problem	Possible Causes	What To Do
Odors in freezer	The interior needs to be cleaned.	Clean the interior with a sponge, warm water and baking soda.
	Foods with strong odors are in the freezer.	Cover the food tightly.

Normal Operating Characteristics

These are normal and do not indicate a need for service:

A warm cabinet exterior as the refrigeration system transfers heat from the inside to the outside through the exterior cabinet walls.
The sound of the high-efficiency compressor motor.

Contact Information

Questions, problems, missing parts? Before returning to the store, call Vissani Customer Service:

8 a.m. - 7 p.m., EST, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., EST, Saturday

Phone: 1-877-527-0313

Website: HOMEDEPOT.COM

Retain this manual for future use.

	Vissani MDCF9WH Freezer Use and Care Guide Comprehensive guide for the Vissani MDCF9WH freezer, covering usage, care, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information. Learn how to operate and maintain your Vissani freezer safely and efficiently.
	Vissani Chest Freezer Use and Care Guide Comprehensive use and care guide for Vissani Chest Freezers, models MDCF5WH and MDCF7WH. Learn about safety, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for optimal performance and longevity. Includes warranty information and energy-saving tips.
	VISSANI Chest Freezer MDCF5WH MDCF7WH Use and Care Guide Comprehensive use and care guide for VISSANI chest freezers, model numbers MDCF5WH and MDCF7WH. Covers safety information, proper usage, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty.
	Vissani Chest Freezer Use and Care Guide: Models HMCF5W5 & HMCF7W5 Comprehensive guide for Vissani 5.0/7.0 cu ft chest freezers (Models HMCF5W5, HMCF7W5). Includes safety instructions, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.
	VISSANI MDCF9WH Freezer Use and Care Guide Comprehensive guide for the VISSANI MDCF9WH freezer, covering safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty. Learn how to use and care for your appliance effectively.
	Vissani Refrigerator-Freezer Use and Care Guide Comprehensive use and care guide for Vissani MDFF7SS Refrigerator-Freezer, including safety information, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Learn how to operate and care for your Vissani appliance.
	Vissani Upright Freezer Use and Care Guide This guide provides essential information for the safe and effective use and care of your Vissani Upright Freezer, Model MDUFC7SS4. Learn about safety warnings, proper usage, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty.
	Vissani MDFF7SS Refrigerator-Freezer Use and Care Guide Essential guide for the Vissani MDFF7SS Refrigerator-Freezer, covering safe operation, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Get the most out of your appliance with Vissani's comprehensive instructions.