Kogan 168L Upright Frost-Free Freezer

Table of Contents

• Safety & Warnings
• Overview
• Installation
• Operation
• Cleaning & Care
• Troubleshooting
• Notes

Safety & Warnings

General Safety

• Read this user guide carefully before installing and using the appliance to ensure correct use and prevent accidents.
• Keep this user guide for future reference. If the appliance is moved or sold, ensure the user guide stays with it.

Children and Vulnerable Person Safety

• This appliance can be used by children aged 8 years and above, and by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge, only if they have been properly supervised or instructed on safe use and understand the potential hazards.
• Children aged 3 to 8 may load and unload the appliance under supervision.
• Children must be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
• Children under 8 must not carry out cleaning or maintenance unless supervised.
• Keep all packaging materials out of reach of children due to the risk of suffocation.
• When discarding the appliance, unplug it, cut off the power cable, and remove the door to prevent children from entering or suffering electric shock.
• If replacing an old appliance with a magnetic door seal, and the old unit has a spring lock, make the lock unusable before disposal to prevent entrapment.

General Safety Warnings

• Warning: Keep ventilation openings in the appliance enclosure or built-in structure free from obstruction.
• Warning: Do not use mechanical devices or other means to accelerate defrosting unless approved by the manufacturer.
• Warning: Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
• Warning: Do not use electrical appliances (e.g., ice cream makers) inside the appliance.
• Warning: Do not touch the light bulb after extended use as it may be hot.
• Warning: When positioning the appliance, ensure the power cord is not trapped or damaged.
• Warning: Avoid placing multiple power boards or power supplies behind the appliance.
• Do not store flammable substances (e.g., aerosol cans) inside the appliance.
• The refrigerant used (R-600a, isobutane) is environmentally friendly but flammable. Avoid damaging the refrigerant circuit.
• During transport and installation, ensure no components of the refrigerant circuit are damaged.
• Keep away from open flames and ignition sources.
• Thoroughly ventilate the area where the appliance is located.
• Do not modify or alter the appliance in any way. Damage to the cord may cause short circuits, fire, or electric shock.

Suitable Use Environments

• Household settings.
• Staff kitchens in shops, offices, and other work environments.
• Farmhouses and accommodations such as hotels and motels.
• Bed and breakfast environments.
• Catering and similar non-retail uses.

Electrical Safety

• All electrical components must be replaced by a certified technician.
• The supplied light bulb is a 'special use' lamp and is not suitable for domestic lighting.
• Do not extend the power cord.
• Ensure the power plug is not crushed or damaged by the rear of the appliance.
• Ensure access to the power plug is always possible.
• Do not pull the power cable.
• Do not insert the plug into a loose outlet to avoid electric shock or fire.
• Do not operate the appliance without the lamp installed.
• Handle the appliance carefully when moving; it is heavy.
• Avoid touching frozen items with wet hands to prevent frostbite or skin abrasions.
• Do not expose the appliance to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Overview

The Kogan 168L Upright Frost-Free Freezer features the following components:

• 1. Thermostat: Controls the internal temperature.
• 2. Shelf: Adjustable shelving for storage.
• 3. Drawers: For organizing frozen items.
• 4. Levelling Feet: Adjustable feet to ensure the unit is stable and level.

Diagram showing the internal layout of the freezer with numbered components.

Installation

Space Requirements

• Ensure there is sufficient clearance for the door to open fully.
• It is recommended to maintain a minimum gap of 50mm on both sides of the appliance.

Diagram illustrating recommended clearances around the freezer for optimal operation. Dimensions provided: A=544mm, B=571mm, C=1426mm, D=50mm (min), E=50mm (min), F=50mm (min), G=948mm, H=1115mm, L=135°.

Levelling the Unit

• Adjust the two front levelling feet until the unit is stable and level.
• If the unit is not level, doors may not close correctly, affecting cooling performance and energy efficiency.

Diagram showing how to adjust the levelling feet by turning them clockwise (shorten) or anticlockwise (lengthen).

Diagram showing a level unit with a checkmark and an unlevel unit with a cross.

Positioning

• Install the appliance in a location where the surrounding (ambient) temperature matches the climate class specified on the appliance's rating plate.
• Permitted ambient temperature ranges:
  • Extended Temperate (SN): 10°C to 32°C.
  • Temperate (N): 16°C to 32°C.
  • Subtropical (ST): 16°C to 38°C.
  • Tropical (T): 16°C to 43°C.

Location

WARNING: The appliance must be installed so that it can be easily disconnected from the mains power supply. Ensure the power plug remains accessible after installation. This appliance is not designed for built-in installation.

• Install the appliance away from heat sources such as radiators, stoves, boilers, or direct sunlight. Ensure adequate air circulation around the rear of the unit.
• If placing the appliance under an overhead wall cabinet, maintain a minimum clearance of 50mm between the top of the unit and the cabinet.
• Avoid installing the appliance beneath overhanging wall units altogether.
• Use the adjustable feet at the base to level the appliance accurately.

Electrical Connection

• Before connecting, verify that the voltage and frequency listed on the rating plate match your household power supply.
• The appliance must be earthed. The power plug includes a grounding contact.
• If your electrical outlet is not grounded, a separate earth connection must be installed in accordance with local electrical regulations. Consult a qualified electrician.

Reversing the Door

Tool Required

• Philips head screwdriver.
• Flat bladed screwdriver.
• Spanner.

Preparation

• Ensure the appliance is unplugged and empty before starting.
• Tilt the unit backward and rest it securely on a stable surface.
• Do not lay the unit flat, as this may damage the coolant system.
• Retain all removed parts for reinstallation.
• It is recommended that 2 people carry out this procedure for safety and ease.

Reversing the Door Steps

1. Use tape to hold the door closed during the door reversal process.
2. Detach the core and hinge covers on one side and the screw and core cover on the opposite side.
3. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the 3 screws securing the top hinge bracket.
4. Detach the top hinge and flip it so the straight edge aligns with the outer edge of the freezer.
5. Use the previously removed screws to secure the hinge.
6. Fit the core and screw covers onto the opposite side.
7. Install the hinge cover on the new hinge side.
8. Gently tilt the freezer (do not lay it flat) to access the underside.
9. Unscrew the feet and remove them.
10. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the lower screw on the opposite side to the lower hinge.
11. Unscrew the 2 screws and remove the hinge.
12. Move the previously removed lower screw to the opposite side.
13. Remove the hinge pin by removing the nut and washer.
14. Flip the lower hinge, reinstall the hinge pin and secure in place using the washer and nuts. Tighten securely using a spanner.
15. Align the hinge on the new side. Reinsert the 2 screws and tighten.
16. Screw the feet back into place.

Operation

Cleaning the Interior

• Before first use, clean the interior and all internal accessories with lukewarm water and a mild neutral soap. Dry all surfaces thoroughly.
• Note: Do not use detergents or abrasive powders, as these will damage the finish.

Temperature Setting

• Plug in the appliance. The internal temperature is regulated by a thermostat with 3 settings: MIN, NORMAL, and MAX.
• MIN is the warmest setting.
• MAX is the coldest setting.
• The appliance may not maintain the correct temperature if:
  • It is placed in a very hot environment.
  • The door is opened frequently or left open for extended periods.

Diagram showing the thermostat dial with MIN, NORMAL, and MAX settings.

Daily Use

Food Placement Guidelines

Position different food items in different compartments according to the following recommendations:

Freezing Fresh Food

• The freezer compartment is designed to freeze fresh food and store frozen or deep-frozen items long term.
• Place fresh food in the bottom compartment for optimal freezing performance.
• Refer to the appliance's rating plate for the maximum quantity of food that can be frozen in 24 hours.
• Do not add more food during the 24-hour freezing process.

Storing Frozen Food

• When starting the appliance or after a long period of non-use, allow it to run for at least 2 hours at a high setting before placing food inside.
• Important: If accidental defrosting occurs (e.g., due to a power outage) consume the food quickly or cook and re-freeze it immediately.
• To maintain best performance:
  • Ensure frozen food purchased from stores was properly stored before purchase.
  • Transfer frozen items from store to freezer as quickly as possible.
  • Avoid frequent or prolonged door openings.
  • Once thawed, food must not be re-frozen as it deteriorates rapidly.
  • Always follow the storage duration recommendations provided by food manufacturers.

Ice-cubes

• The appliance may include one or more trays for ice cube production.

Thawing

• Frozen food can be thawed in the fridge or at room temperature, depending on how quickly you need it.
• Small items can be cooked directly from frozen; just allow for additional cooking time.

Helpful Hints and Tips for Freezing

• Do not exceed the 24-hour freezing capacity listed on the rating plate.
• Avoid adding additional food during the 24-hour freezing period.
• Only freeze high-quality, fresh, and thoroughly cleaned food.
• Divide food into small portions for quicker freezing and easier defrosting.
• Use airtight packaging (e.g., aluminium foil or polythene wrap) to prevent freezer burn.
• Avoid contact between fresh unfrozen food and items that are already frozen.
• Lean foods store better and longer than fatty ones.
• Salt shortens the storage life of frozen food.
• Water ices or ice lollies may cause frostbite if consumed immediately after removal.
• Label each package with the freezing date to monitor storage time.

Temperature Setting Recommendation

• This table provides general guidance for thermostat settings based on seasonal temperatures.
• At the recommended setting, frozen food should ideally be stored for no more than 1 month.
• Storage times may be shorter at other temperature settings.

Diagrams showing recommended thermostat settings for Summer, Normal, and Winter ambient temperatures.

Cleaning & Care

• For hygiene and optimal performance, the interior of the appliance, including all internal accessories, should be cleaned regularly.
• Always disconnect the appliance from the power supply before cleaning.
• Unplug the unit or switch off the circuit breaker/fuse.
• Never clean the appliance with a steam cleaner. Moisture can infiltrate electrical components, posing a risk of electric shock.
• Steam and high temperatures may also damage plastic parts.
• The appliance must be completely dry before use.
• Avoid using ethereal oils or organic solvents such as lemon juice, orange peel oil, butyric acid, or cleaners containing acetic acid. These can damage plastic components.

Cleaning Instructions

• Do not allow corrosive substances to come into contact with appliance surfaces.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing tools.
• Remove all food from the freezer and store it in a cool, covered location.
• Switch off the appliance and disconnect it from the power.
• Clean the interior and accessories using a soft cloth with lukewarm water.
• Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
• Once a year, clean the condenser at the back of the appliance using a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to prevent dust buildup and improve energy efficiency.
• After cleaning and drying, reconnect the appliance and return it to normal use.

Removing Frost

• Over time, frost will accumulate on the walls of the freezer. This should be removed periodically to maintain efficiency.
• Do not use sharp metal tools to scrape off frost, as this may damage the evaporator.
• When frost buildup becomes excessive, follow these steps for complete defrosting:
  • a. Unplug the appliance from the electrical outlet.
  • b. Remove all food, wrap it in several layers of newspaper, and store it in a cool place.
  • c. Leave the freezer door open and place a shallow bowl or tray beneath the unit to collect melting ice and water.
  • d. Once defrosting is complete, dry the interior thoroughly with a clean cloth.
  • e. Plug the appliance back into the outlet and resume normal operation.

Disposal

Symbol indicating that the appliance should not be disposed of with household waste. Recycle responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources.

Troubleshooting

• Before troubleshooting, always disconnect the appliance from the power.
• Any repair or troubleshooting not covered in this user guide must be carried out by a qualified electrician.
• Some operational noises, such as compressor hum or refrigerant flow sounds, are normal during appliance use.

Notes

Blank lined section for user notes.