SHARP Plasmacluster Refrigerator Instruction Manual

Table of Contents (Mokuji)

• Introduction (Hajimeni)

  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Operation Panel

  • Safety Precautions

  • Installation and First Use

  • Food Placement

  • Names of Each Part / Door Closing Reminder Buzzer

  • Temperature Adjustment / Fine Adjustment

  • Chilled Mode / Fresh Freezing

  • Plasmacluster

  • Energy Saving (Setsuden 25)

  • Quick Cooling (Tsukuri-oki Kyaku)

  • Quick Freezing (Oisogi Reitou)

  • Ice Making

  • Ice Size Selection

  • Ice Making Process

  • Stopping Ice Making

  • Troubleshooting (Kon'na Toki wa)

  • Moving and Transporting

  • Power Outage Mode (Taiyo Kosei / Sochiden System)

  • Cleaning (Oteire)

  • Warranty and After-Sales Service

  • Specifications (Shisetsu)

  • Other (Sono Hoka)

Introduction (Hajimeni)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why isn't the interior cooling well?
A: After purchasing, it takes approximately 2-3 hours for the interior to cool down (up to 10 hours in hot weather). Please wait without opening the doors frequently and only place food inside once it has cooled. This will prevent damage to the food.

Q: How to protect the floor (for floors prone to sinking)?
A: Use the optional floor protection sheet. This prevents indentations from the refrigerator's weight. If the floor is soft or uneven, it may affect door opening/closing.

Q: The left and right doors are misaligned.
A: Adjust as follows: Lower the left door by turning the adjustment脚 (feet). If the problem persists, place a board (2-3mm thick) under the rear casters of the left side. For the right door, lower the right adjustment脚.

Q: Ice is not being made.
A: It takes about 6-8 hours for the first ice to be made after the refrigerator cools down (up to 24 hours in hot weather). If the energy-saving mode (Setsuden 25) is set to 'On', it may take longer. Ensure the water tank is filled and correctly inserted. Check if ice making is set to 'Off'.

Q: The amount of ice is not increasing.
A: Push the ice forward in the ice storage bin. If ice accumulates at the back, the sensor may detect it as full, stopping ice production even if the bin is not full. Do not place anything other than ice in the ice storage bin.

Q: When opening one door, the other door also slightly opens.
A: This is normal due to the magnetic door gasket. The other door will close naturally.

For more detailed information, visit the web:
https://jp.sharp/support/refrigerator/doc/point_use.html

Operation Panel

Connecting to Wi-Fi enables the SHARP Cloud Service. Refer to the separate "Cloud Service Guide" for details on Wi-Fi connection and cloud service operations.

Diagram Description: The operation panel shows buttons and indicators for various functions. The layout includes Plasmacluster, Setsuden 25 (Energy Saving), Ice Making, Refrigerator temperature control, Freezer temperature control, Quick Cooling, Quick Freezing, and Wi-Fi status. Specific buttons are labeled with numbers 1 through 6, corresponding to functions like Plasmacluster, Setsuden 25, Ice Making, Refrigerator, Freezer, and Freezer/Ice. Indicator lights show the selected mode.

Function Descriptions:

• 1 Plasmacluster: Releases ions to purify the air. 'Concentrated Shower' mode releases more ions and cools the interior faster.
• 2 Setsuden 25: Automatically adjusts the cooling level based on usage to save energy, up to approximately 25%.
• 3 Ice Making: Controls ice making. Pressing and holding for 3 seconds initiates cleaning of the ice tray.
• 4 Refrigerator: Adjusts refrigerator temperature. Pressing and holding for 3 seconds sets the Chilled Room to a chilled temperature.
• 5 Freezer: Adjusts freezer temperature. Pressing and holding for 3 seconds sets the freezer to Fresh Freezing mode.
• 6 Freezer/Ice: Includes functions like "Quick Cooling" (approx. 20 min rapid cooling), "Quick Freezing" (fast freezing), and "Quick Ice Making" (faster ice production).

Indicator Lights: When you purchase the unit, all indicator lights are off. The color of the Wi-Fi indicator is green.

Safety Precautions

Warning (Kinkyu): Indicates potential for death or serious injury.

Caution (Chui): Indicates potential for minor injury or property damage.

Icons:

• Prohibited Action Icon (Circle with Slash): Indicates actions that must not be performed.
• Mandatory Action Icon (Exclamation Mark in Triangle): Indicates actions that must be performed.

Power Plug and Cord Precautions:

• Do not hold the plug and pull it out.
• Do not touch the plug with wet hands.
• Do not insert the plug into the wall socket by pushing it against the refrigerator.
• Do not use damaged plugs or cords, or loose sockets.
• Do not bundle cords or damage them.
• Use a dedicated 100V outlet (15A or higher). Avoid using extension cords or multiple outlets, as this can cause overheating or short circuits.
• Ensure the plug is inserted firmly into the socket.
• Periodically clean dust from the plug with a dry cloth.
• Unplug the unit when cleaning or not in use for extended periods.

Installation Precautions:

• Do not install outdoors or in places exposed to water (risk of electric shock or fire due to poor insulation).
• Ensure adequate ventilation space around the unit (at least 5cm above, and sides/back as specified). Insufficient ventilation can lead to reduced cooling performance and spoilage of stored items.
• Install on a level and stable surface. Ensure the adjustment脚 are securely fixed to prevent the refrigerator from tipping over, especially when opening doors.
• For earthquake preparedness, secure the unit to a wall or pillar using anti-tip belts (sold separately).
• When using in humid or wet locations, ensure proper grounding and consider installing a leakage circuit breaker.

Precautions for Use with Solar/Battery Systems:

• Only use the dedicated outlet for solar/battery systems.
• Do not use if the battery charge is low.
• Avoid using high-power electrical appliances simultaneously with the refrigerator when powered by solar/battery systems, as this can destabilize the power supply.

Disposal Precautions:

• When storing for disposal, remove the door gaskets to prevent children from getting trapped.
• Dispose of the unit through designated retailers or local authorities to prevent refrigerant leakage and potential fire hazards.

Food Placement

Refrigerator Compartment:

• Door Pockets: Suitable for items like dressings, spices, and bottles (approx. 3-7°C).
• Uruoi Chilled Room (Moisture-Retaining Chilled Room): Maintains high humidity for fresh storage (approx. 0-2°C). Ideal for fresh foods, fermented products, and processed items.
• Tsukuri-oki Room (Quick Cooling/Storage Room): Low-temperature control for storing pre-cooked meals and side dishes (approx. -2-0°C).
• Main Refrigerator Compartment: Upper section for long-term storage of unopened bottles and cans. Lower section for general items.

Freezer Compartment (Lower):

• Upper Freezer Case: For frozen foods like rice, udon noodles, and frozen dough (approx. -20 to -18°C). Note that items like ice cream may soften in hot weather.
• Flexible Tray: For items like ice packs and cup ice cream.
• Lower Freezer Case: For long-term storage of frozen foods and ice cream.

Vegetable Compartment: Approx. 2-5°C. Suitable for small items, leftover vegetables, and larger items like cabbage and lettuce.

Upper Freezer Compartment: Approx. -19 to -17°C. For frequently used frozen foods and tea/coffee.

Precautions for Food Placement:

• Avoid placing foods with high moisture content or eggs near the air outlets, as they may freeze. Be cautious with canned beverages, as they may burst when frozen.
• Do not add water directly to the ice tray to make ice, as it may cause the tray to crack.
• Do not place canned beverages or carbonated drinks in the freezer.
• Do not place food items higher than the case rim in the vegetable drawer, as this can cause drying or frost.
• Do not drop or throw food items into the cases, as this can crack or damage them.

Names of Each Part

Refrigerator Compartment:

• Interior Layout: Describes shelves, door pockets (left/right), chilled room, quick cooling room, water tank, and bottle pockets.
• Adjustable Shelves/Pockets: Instructions on how to adjust the position of shelves and door pockets by lifting and re-inserting them into different slots.
• Folding Tray: Details on how to fold the tray for larger items.
• Egg Compartment: Can hold up to 14 eggs. Can be reversed to be used as a small item holder.

Vegetable, Ice Maker, and Freezer Compartments:

• Vegetable Compartment: Features the "Snow Shakitto Vegetable Compartment" with a cover to maintain humidity. Includes a movable small item case.
• Ice Maker Compartment: Contains the ice tray, water tank, and ice storage bin.
• Freezer Compartments (Upper/Lower): Describes the cases and the flexible tray.

Door Closing Reminder Buzzer: The buzzer sounds if a door is left open for more than one minute, with increasing frequency. The interior light flashes simultaneously. The buzzer stops when the door is closed. Volume cannot be adjusted.

Temperature Adjustment

You can adjust the temperature of the refrigerator and freezer compartments in 5 levels (Weak, Medium, Strong). The table shows the approximate temperature ranges for each setting.

Adjusting Refrigerator Temperature: Press the "Refrigerator" button. The indicator light shows the current setting. Pressing the button cycles through the levels.

Adjusting Freezer Temperature: Press the "Freezer" button. The indicator light shows the current setting. Pressing the button cycles through the levels.

Chilled Room/Quick Cooling Room: The temperature of these compartments is adjusted in conjunction with the refrigerator's temperature setting.

Fine Adjustment: For more precise temperature control, press the "Refrigerator" or "Freezer" button, then press and hold the "Decide" button for 5 seconds. Use the "Refrigerator" or "Freezer" button to select the desired level (17 levels). Pressing "Decide" again confirms the setting.

Chilled Mode / Fresh Freezing

Chilled Mode: Press and hold the "Refrigerator" button for 3 seconds to set the Uruoi Chilled Room and Tsukuri-oki Room to a chilled temperature (approx. 0-2°C and -2-0°C respectively). This mode increases power consumption by about 10-30%.

Fresh Freezing: Press and hold the "Freezer" button for 3 seconds to set the lower freezer compartment to a lower temperature (approx. -23°C). This mode is beneficial for preserving freshness and flavor, and helps prevent temperature fluctuations after door openings or defrost cycles. Power consumption increases by about 10-30%.

Plasmacluster

The Plasmacluster ion technology releases ions inside the refrigerator to sterilize airborne and attached bacteria and deodorize the interior. Two modes are available: Normal (continuous ion release) and Concentrated Shower (higher ion release during frequent door openings or after storing large amounts of food). The Plasmacluster unit does not require replacement.

Nano Low-Temperature Deodorizing Catalyst: This catalyst is located in the air circulation path and works to absorb and decompose odors. It does not require operation, maintenance, or replacement.

Energy Saving (Setsuden 25)

This function automatically adjusts the cooling level based on usage patterns to achieve energy savings of up to approximately 25%. It may slightly raise the internal temperature and pause ice making during periods of low door opening frequency.

Tips for Energy Saving:

• Place the refrigerator away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Ensure adequate ventilation space.
• Do not overfill the refrigerator; allow for proper air circulation.
• Minimize door opening times.
• Allow hot food to cool before placing it in the refrigerator.

Quick Cooling (Tsukuri-oki Kyaku)

This function rapidly cools food for about 20 minutes, ideal for cooling cooked meals before storage or preparing ingredients. It helps preserve freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

Quick Freezing (Oisogi Reitou)

This function quickly freezes food to preserve its taste and texture. It is recommended for freezing foods that have cooled down to below 60°C. For best results, freeze items of similar size and thickness, and seal them properly.

Ice Making

Making Ice: Ensure the "Ice Making" indicator is off. Fill the water tank with clean water. The refrigerator will automatically make ice. The process takes approximately 2 hours for normal ice and about 1 hour 20 minutes for quick ice.

Ice Size Selection (SJ-MF50J only): You can select normal or large ice sizes.

Ice Making Process: Water is sent to the ice tray, frozen, and then dropped into the ice storage bin. The ice level sensor monitors the bin and stops ice making when it is full.

Ice Characteristics:

• White parts or cloudy ice may appear due to mineral content in the water. This is normal and harmless.
• Sharp edges on ice are normal due to the ice tray's design. Handle with care.
• Ice with air bubbles may appear larger.
• White powder in the ice bin is also due to mineral content.

Stopping Ice Making

To stop ice making (e.g., during winter or when using the freezer for other purposes), press the "Ice Making" button until the "Ice Making" indicator is off. Empty the water tank and allow the ice maker to dry. If you restart ice making after a long pause, perform the ice maker cleaning procedure.

Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions for common issues such as:

• Not Cooling / Poor Cooling: Check installation, temperature settings, door seals, and avoid blocking air vents.
• No Ice / Low Ice Volume / Slow Ice Making: Verify water tank is filled and inserted correctly, ice making is enabled, and check for obstructions in the ice bin.
• Ice Odor / Discolored Ice: Ensure the water tank is clean and the water is fresh. Check the water filter.
• Operation Panel Issues: Resetting the unit or contacting service.
• Door Problems: Check for obstructions, door alignment, and gasket condition.
• Condensation / Wetness: Normal in humid conditions or when doors are frequently opened.
• Unusual Noises: Many noises are normal operation sounds (e.g., expansion/contraction, fan operation, ice dropping).

Power Outage: In case of a power outage, the refrigerator may enter a power-saving mode. Refer to the specific section for details on how to use the unit during power outages.

Moving the Refrigerator: Ensure the ice maker and water tank are emptied. Secure the adjustment脚. Use protective sheets to prevent floor damage. Avoid tilting the unit.

Cleaning

Always unplug the refrigerator before cleaning. Allow the unit to sit for 5 minutes after unplugging before cleaning.

General Cleaning: Use a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. Removable parts can be washed with water.

What Not to Use: Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, alcohol, or hot water, as they can damage the plastic surfaces.

Specific Cleaning: Instructions are provided for cleaning the door gasket, water tank, ice maker, and interior components.

Periodic Cleaning: It is recommended to move the refrigerator annually to clean the area around it, including the back, sides, and floor, to remove dust and prevent discoloration.

Warranty and After-Sales Service

Service Requests: Consult the "Troubleshooting Guide" or "Frequently Asked Questions" before requesting service. If the issue persists, unplug the unit and contact the retailer. Provide product name, model number, purchase date, and a description of the problem.

Online Support: SHARP offers online support services, including troubleshooting guides and repair requests, via their website.

Contact Information: Customer service contact numbers and operating hours are provided.

Warranty: The warranty period is typically one year for the main unit and five years for the sealed mechanical parts. Refer to the warranty card for details.

Spare Parts: SHARP maintains spare parts for 9 years after the discontinuation of product manufacturing.

Disposal: Follow local regulations for appliance disposal, which may involve collection and recycling fees.

Specifications

A table detailing the specifications for models SJ-MF46J and SJ-MF50J is provided, including:

• Model Name
• Power Requirements (Voltage, Frequency)
• Motor Power Consumption
• Heater Power Consumption
• Energy Consumption
• External Dimensions (Width, Depth, Height)
• Weight
• Total Capacity
• Refrigerator Compartment Capacity (including Uruoi Chilled Room, Tsukuri-oki Room)
• Freezer Compartment Capacity (Upper/Lower, Ice Maker, Vegetable Compartment)
• JIS Standards for capacity and energy consumption.
• Notes on capacity measurements and energy consumption testing.
• Specifications for the condensation prevention heater.
• Freezer performance ratings (JIS C 9607:2015).
• Recommended storage duration for frozen foods.

Optional Parts: Information on optional parts like floor protection sheets and anti-tip belts, including model numbers and prices.

Automatic Defrost: Explanation of the automatic defrost system.

Instruction Manual: Confirms the manual is in Japanese and designed for the Japanese market.

QR Code: Mentions QR codes are registered trademarks of DENSO WAVE INC. and may link to support sites or videos.

Other (Sono Hoka)

Food Freezing: Explains that food near air outlets may freeze. Recommends checking temperature settings and avoiding direct heat sources. If water in the water tank freezes, do not force it open; allow it to thaw naturally.

Interior Moisture: If the interior is wet, wipe it dry. Avoid placing foods with high moisture content near air outlets. Ensure doors are properly closed.

Interior Odors: Wipe the interior with a damp cloth. Seal foods prone to odor transfer (e.g., milk, tofu) and foods that emit odors (e.g., pickled radish, kimchi). Plasmacluster ions may produce a slight ozone smell, which is normal and dissipates quickly.

Appearance of Parts: Minor variations in plastic parts (e.g., lines, small holes, slight warping) are normal and do not affect performance.

Power Connection Timing: It is safe to connect the power immediately after installation. Do not plug and unplug the unit repeatedly within a 5-minute period.

Troubleshooting (Kon'na Toki wa)

This section provides solutions for various issues:

• Food Freezing: Check temperature settings, air outlet blockage, and ambient temperature.
• Interior Wetness: Ensure doors are closed properly and food is not blocking them.
• Interior Odors: Wipe interior, seal odor-prone foods, and note that Plasmacluster may produce a slight ozone smell.
• Part Appearance: Minor cosmetic variations in plastic parts are normal.
• Power Connection: Safe to connect immediately after installation; wait 5 minutes after unplugging.

Troubleshooting (Operation Panel / Interior Light / Door)

Operation Panel Issues: If display indicators are moving or changing, it may be set to a demonstration mode that can be cancelled by pressing the "Freezer/Ice" button for 5 seconds with the refrigerator and ice maker doors open.

Interior Light Not Working: Check if the unit is in power-saving mode or if the door is not closing properly.

Door Not Closing Properly: Ensure food is not obstructing the door or shelves. Check for proper alignment and gasket condition.

Other Doors Opening: It is normal for other doors to slightly open due to air pressure changes when one door is opened.

Door Misalignment: Adjust the leveling feet.

Troubleshooting (Automatic Ice Making)

No Ice: Check water tank, ice making settings, and ensure the ice bin is clear of obstructions. If the unit is in power-saving mode, ice making may be paused.

Low Ice Volume: Ensure ice is not blocking the sensor in the ice bin. Push ice forward to allow more ice to be made.

Slow Ice Making: This can occur after restarting ice making, adding large amounts of food, during defrost cycles, or in hot weather. If the issue persists, perform ice maker cleaning.

Ice Odor / Discoloration: Check water tank cleanliness, water freshness, and the water filter. Do not use detergent on the filter.

Troubleshooting (General)

Not Cooling / Cooling Poorly: Check installation, ventilation, temperature settings, and door seals.

Hot Sides: The refrigerator dissipates heat from its sides; this is normal.

Noises: Various operational noises are normal, including expansion/contraction, fan operation, and ice making sounds.

Condensation/Wetness: May occur in humid conditions or with frequent door openings. Ensure doors close properly.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please refer to the "Troubleshooting Guide" or visit the SHARP website for online support and diagnostic tools. Contact customer service for further assistance.

https://jp.sharp/support/refrigerator/doc/point_use.html

https://cocoromembers.jp.sharp/m/