Hotpoint Refrigerator/Freezer Combination
Operating Instructions
Product Guarantee and Repair Information
12 Months Parts and Labour Guarantee
Your appliance benefits from a manufacturer's guarantee covering breakdown repairs for twelve months from the date of purchase. If the appliance is proven defective due to workmanship or materials within this period, Hotpoint will, at its discretion, repair or replace the appliance at no cost.
Guarantee Conditions:
- The appliance must be installed and operated correctly according to operating and maintenance instructions.
- The appliance must be used only on the electricity or gas supply printed on the rating plate.
- The appliance is for normal domestic purposes only.
- The appliance must not be altered, serviced, maintained, dismantled, or interfered with by any unauthorized person.
- Any repair work must be undertaken by Hotpoint or its appointed agent.
- Any parts removed during repair or replaced appliances become Hotpoint's property.
- The appliance must be used in the United Kingdom or Republic of Ireland.
The guarantee does not cover:
- Damage from transportation, improper use, neglect, interference, or improper installation.
- Replacement of consumable items or accessories (e.g., plugs, cables, batteries, light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, starters, covers, filters).
- Replacement of removable glass or plastic parts.
This guarantee will not apply if the appliance has been used in commercial or non-domestic premises.
Recycling and Disposal Information
Hotpoint is committed to helping the environment by using quality, recycled components. Please dispose of packaging and old appliances carefully. To minimize risk to children, remove the door, plug, and cut the mains cable flush with the appliance. Dispose of these parts separately to ensure the appliance cannot be plugged in and the door cannot be locked shut.
Repairs and After Sales
For product help, advice, repairs, spare parts, or accessories:
For local repair engineers: 03448 111 606
ROI: 0818 313 413
(UK standard local rate applies; ROI local Irish rate applies)
For Parts and Accessories visit: parts.hotpoint.co.uk/shop
Please register your appliance at www.hotpointservice.co.uk to activate your 10-year parts guarantee.
When contacting advisors, please have your model number and serial number ready.
Description of the Appliance
Control Panel
The control panel allows you to manage the appliance's functions:
- 1. ON/OFF Button: Press for 2 seconds to turn the entire product (fridge and freezer compartments) on or off. The last set value is indicated on the interface. An audible signal confirms the switch-off.
- 2. FRIDGE Temperature Indicator: Displays the current temperature of the fridge compartment.
- 3. FRIDGE Temperature Setting: Allows you to adjust the fridge temperature in a cyclical manner. The selected temperature is confirmed on the interface.
- 4. SUPER Indicator Light: Illuminates when the SUPER button (rapid freezing) is pressed.
- 5. SUPER Button: Used for rapid freezing of fresh foods. Pressing it illuminates the SUPER indicator light.
Diagram shows a control panel with buttons labeled 1 (ON/OFF), 2 (FRIDGE temp indicator), 3 (FRIDGE temp setting), 4 (SUPER indicator), and 5 (SUPER button).
Overall View
The following components are part of the appliance. Note that diagrams may not directly represent the specific model purchased.
- 1. Levelling FEET: Adjustable feet for stable placement.
- 2. STORAGE compartment: General storage area.
- 3. FREEZER and STORAGE compartment: Combined freezer and storage area.
- 4. FRUIT and VEGETABLE bin: Compartment for storing fruits and vegetables.
- 5. COMPARTMENT 3 IN 1 ZONE: A versatile compartment for storing meat, fish, delicate food, rapid cooling, or low-temperature defrosting.
- 6. Control panel: Interface for managing appliance settings.
- 7. WINE RACK: Specific rack for storing wine bottles.
- 8. SHELVES: Adjustable shelves for food storage.
- 9. LAMP: Internal lighting (refer to Maintenance section for replacement).
- 10. COMPARTMENT EXTRA ZONE: Additional storage compartment.
- 11. Removable multipurpose SHELVES: Additional adjustable shelves.
- 12. BOTTLE shelf: Dedicated shelf for bottles.
Diagram illustrates the overall view of the refrigerator-freezer, with numbered components indicating different compartments, shelves, and the control panel.
Installation
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
Please read these operating instructions carefully before putting your new appliance into operation. Keep these instructions for future reference.
Positioning and Connection
Positioning
- Place the appliance in a well-ventilated, humidity-free room.
- Do not obstruct the rear fan grills. The compressor and condenser require good ventilation to operate efficiently and save energy.
- Ensure at least 10 cm space between the top of the appliance and any furniture above it, and at least 5 cm between the sides and any furniture/side walls.
- Position the appliance away from heat sources such as direct sunlight or electric kitchens.
Diagram shows a side view with a 50mm clearance indicated.
Levelling
- Install the appliance on a level and rigid floor.
- If the floor is not perfectly horizontal, adjust the refrigerator by tightening or loosening the front feet.
Electrical Connections
After transporting the appliance, place it vertically and wait at least 3 hours before connecting it to the electricity mains. Ensure the following before plugging in:
- The appliance is earthed and the plug complies with the law.
- The socket can withstand the appliance's maximum power.
- The voltage matches the values on the data plate (e.g., 220-240V).
- The socket is compatible with the appliance's plug. If not, consult an authorized technician. Do not use extension cords or multiple sockets.
The power supply cable and electrical socket must be easily accessible. The cable must not be bent or compressed. It should be checked regularly and replaced by authorized technicians.
The manufacturer declines liability for failure to observe these safety measures.
The appliance is supplied with a 13amp fused plug for immediate use.
Fuse and Plug Information
Replacing Fuse Covers
When replacing a faulty fuse, always use a 13amp ASTA approved fuse to BS 1362 and refit the fuse cover. If the fuse cover is lost, the plug must not be used until a replacement is obtained. Replacement fuse covers must match the original color coding.
Changing the Plug
If you need to remove the moulded plug (e.g., to add a longer cable or route the cable through partitions), ensure either:
- The plug is replaced by a fused 13amp rewireable plug bearing the BSI mark of approval.
- The mains cable is wired directly into a 13amp cable outlet controlled by a switch, accessible without moving the appliance.
Disposing of the Plug
If the supplied plug does not fit your socket, cut it off and dispose of it safely. Cut the cable close to the moulded plug and remove the fuse. WARNING: To avoid a shock hazard, do not insert the discarded plug into another socket.
Fitting a New Plug
IMPORTANT: Wires in the mains lead are colored according to the following code:
- Green and Yellow: Earth
- Blue: Neutral
- Brown: Live
Connect the wires to the corresponding terminals in the plug (Earth 'E', Neutral 'N', Live 'L'). If a 13amp plug (BS 1363) is used, it must be fitted with a 13amp fuse. If in doubt about the electrical supply, consult a qualified electrician.
CE Marking confirms compliance with EEC directives: Low Voltage Equipment (73/23/EEC & 93/68 EEC) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC & 93/68/EEC).
Start-up and Use
Starting the Appliance
Follow installation instructions before starting. Clean compartments and accessories with lukewarm water and bicarbonate. Electronic versions have a motor protection switch that delays compressor start-up by approximately 8 minutes. The compressor also restarts after power interruptions.
- Connect the plug and check that the FRIDGE TEMPERATURE indicator turns on. If it remains off, press the ON/OFF button.
- Set the FRIDGE TEMPERATURE to an average value. Food can be inserted after a few hours once the temperature stabilizes.
Cooling System (No Frost)
The No Frost system circulates cold air to collect humidity and prevent ice/frost formation. It maintains optimal humidity, preserves food quality, prevents sticking, and eliminates the need for manual defrosting. Ensure aeration cells are not blocked by food or containers. Close bottles and wrap food tightly.
Using the Refrigerator to its Full Potential
- Place only cold or lukewarm foods in the compartment.
- Cooked foods have a shorter shelf life than raw foods.
- Do not store liquids in open containers, as this increases humidity and causes condensation.
SHELVES:
Shelves are removable and adjustable in height and depth via special guides, accommodating large containers. Shelf height can be adjusted without complete removal.
Diagram shows how to adjust the shelves.
Temperature Indicator Light
This light helps identify the coldest area in the refrigerator.
- Check that "OK" appears clearly on the indicator light.
- If "OK" does not appear, the temperature is too high. Set the FRIDGE TEMPERATURE to a colder value and wait 10 hours for stabilization.
- Re-check the indicator light and readjust if necessary. If large quantities of food were added or the door was opened frequently, it is normal for "OK" not to show immediately. Wait at least 10 hours before adjusting to a colder setting.
COMPARTMENT 3 IN 1 ZONE
This versatile compartment offers maximum flexibility:
- Store meat, fish, and delicate food.
- Rapidly cool hot food from 70°C to 3°C, or other fresh foods and leftovers.
- Low-temperature defrosting, which inhibits microorganism proliferation.
The 0°C temperature can be achieved under standard conditions when the fridge compartment is at about 4°C. Lowering the fridge temperature also lowers the CHILLER compartment temperature.
Using the Freezer to its Full Potential
- Do not re-freeze food that is defrosting or has already been defrosted. Cook and eat such foods within 24 hours.
- Place fresh food for freezing separately from already frozen food, preferably in the lower FREEZER and STORAGE compartment for optimal freezing.
- To freeze fresh food effectively and safely, activate the SUPER function 24 hours before placing food in the freezer. Activate SUPER again after placing food; it will deactivate automatically after 24 hours.
- Do not place glass bottles containing liquids, corked or hermetically sealed, in the freezer, as they could break.
- The maximum daily freezing quantity is indicated on the appliance's technical properties plate (e.g., 2Kg/24h).
To avoid blocking air circulation in the freezer, do not obstruct ventilation holes with food or containers. Do not open the door during freezing. In case of power cuts or malfunction, do not open the freezer door to maintain the internal temperature for at least 12-18 hours. To maximize freezer space, drawers can be removed.
Maintenance and Care
Switching the Appliance Off
For cleaning and maintenance, disconnect the appliance from the electricity supply by pressing the ON/OFF button and pulling the plug out of the socket.
Cleaning the Appliance
- Clean external and internal parts, and rubber seals with a sponge soaked in lukewarm water and bicarbonate of soda or neutral soap. Avoid solvents, abrasive products, bleach, or ammonia.
- Removable accessories can be soaked in warm water with soap or dishwashing liquid, then rinsed and dried.
- Dust on the back of the appliance can be removed gently using a vacuum cleaner hose set on medium power. Ensure the appliance is switched off and unplugged before cleaning.
Avoiding Mould and Unpleasant Odours
The appliance uses hygienic, odour-free materials. To maintain an odour-free refrigerator and prevent stains, always cover or seal food properly. If switching off for an extended period, clean the inside and leave the doors open.
Replace LED Light
The LED lighting provides clear visibility. If replacement is needed, contact Technical Service.
Replacing the Light Bulb
To replace the light bulb in the refrigerator compartment, unplug the appliance. Access the bulb by removing the cover as shown in the diagram. Replace with a similar bulb within the power range indicated on the cover.
Diagram shows steps for replacing the light bulb, including removing a cover.
Precautions and Tips
The appliance is designed and manufactured to international safety standards. Please read the following warnings carefully.
General Safety
- The appliance is designed for domestic use only and is not intended for commercial or industrial use.
- It must be used by adults only for storing and freezing food, following manual instructions.
- Do not install outdoors, even in covered areas, as exposure to rain and storms is dangerous.
- Do not touch the appliance with bare feet or wet/moist hands and feet.
- Avoid touching internal cooling elements to prevent skin abrasions or frost burns.
- Always pull the plug from the mains socket when unplugging; do not pull the cable.
- Always switch off and disconnect the appliance from the electricity supply before cleaning or maintenance. Turning off the ON/OFF button is insufficient to eliminate all electrical contacts.
- Do not attempt self-repairs in case of malfunction; repairs by inexperienced persons may cause injury or further damage.
- Do not use sharp or pointed utensils, or electrical equipment other than recommended, inside frozen food compartments.
- Do not put ice cubes directly from the freezer into your mouth.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or experience/knowledge capabilities, unless supervised or instructed by a responsible person. Supervise children to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
- Keep packaging material out of reach of children, as it can pose a choking or suffocation hazard.
Disposal
- Observe local environmental standards when disposing of packaging material for recycling.
- The European Directive 2012/19/EU (WEEE) requires that old household electrical appliances must not be disposed of in unsorted municipal waste. Appliances must be collected separately for optimal recovery and recycling of materials, reducing impact on health and the environment. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol [crossed-out bin symbol] on the product signifies your obligation to collect it separately when disposing. Contact your local authority or retailer for disposal information.
Respecting and Conserving the Environment
- Install the appliance in a fresh, well-ventilated room, protected from direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
- Avoid keeping the door open for long periods or opening it too frequently to conserve energy.
- Do not overfill the appliance; cold air must circulate freely for proper food preservation. Overfilling forces the compressor to work continuously.
- Do not place hot food directly into the refrigerator, as this increases internal temperature and energy consumption.
- Defrost the appliance if ice forms. A thick layer of ice hinders cold transference and increases energy consumption.
Troubleshooting
Before calling for assistance, check the following potential solutions:
- The interface is off: Check if the plug is inserted correctly, if the outlet has power, or if there is electricity in the house.
- The motor does not start: The appliance has a motor protection control (see Start-up and Use).
- The alarm sounds: This may occur if the refrigerator door has been open for more than two minutes (the buzzer stops when the door is shut) or if the correct switching-off procedure was not followed (see Maintenance).
- The refrigerator and freezer do not cool well: Check if doors close properly or if seals are damaged. Avoid opening doors too frequently. Ensure the FRIDGE TEMPERATURE is set correctly and the appliance is not over-filled.
- Food inside the refrigerator is beginning to freeze: The FRIDGE TEMPERATURE may be set too low, or food might be in contact with the back inside wall of the refrigerator.
- The motor runs continuously: The SUPER button may have been pressed (yellow SUPER indicator is on). Check if the door is closed properly or is continuously opened. The outside ambient temperature might be very high.
- The appliance makes a lot of noise: Ensure the appliance is installed on a level surface. It might be installed between vibrating cabinets. The internal refrigerant may make a slight noise even when the compressor is off; this is normal.
- The back wall of the refrigerator unit is covered in frost or droplets of water: This indicates normal operation.