TCL American Fridge Freezer

Safety Instructions

Important Safety Information:

1. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lacking experience and knowledge, unless they are given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
2. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent or similarly qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard.
3. This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lacking experience and knowledge if they are given supervision or instruction concerning safe use of the appliance and understand the associated hazards. Children should not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance should not be made by children without supervision.
4. ⚠️ WARNING: Keep ventilation openings, in the appliance enclosure or in the built-in structure, clear of obstruction.
5. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not use mechanical devices or other means to accelerate the defrosting process, other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
6. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not damage the refrigerating circuit.
7. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not use electrical appliances inside the food storage compartments, unless they are of the type recommended by the manufacturer.
8. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not store explosive substances such as aerosol cans with a flammable propellant in this appliance.
9. This appliance is intended to be used in household and similar applications such as:
   • Staff kitchen areas in shops, offices and other working environments;
   • Farm houses and hotels, motels and other residential type environments;
   • Bed and breakfast type environments;
   • Catering and similar non-retail applications.
10. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not put food and liquids in glass containers in the freezing chamber to avoid glass breakage.
11. ⚠️ WARNING: If powered off, the refrigerator will be powered on 5 minutes later to avoid compressor damage.
12. ⚠️ WARNING: If any live part, abnormal noise, smell, smoke or other abnormality is found during use, power off the appliance immediately and contact the aftersales service timely.
13. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not insert your fingers or hands into the bottom of the refrigerator, especially into the bottom at the back; you can be hurt by sharp objects.
14. ⚠️ WARNING: Children must not play with or climb the refrigerator. Children must be supervised by their parents to avoid danger.
15. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not put your hand between the doors when opening or closing the refrigerator door; otherwise you may get smashed fingers. Use the door handle to open or close the door.
16. ⚠️ WARNING: Under the climate classes SN, N, ST and T, the appliance should operate at ambient temperatures ranging from 10 to 43°C. If the appliance operates outside the rated climate class (ambient temperature range), it may not be able to maintain a satisfying interior temperature.
17. Opening the door for long periods can cause a significant temperature increase in the refrigerator compartments.
18. Regularly clean surfaces that can come in contact with food and accessible drainage systems. Clean water tanks if they have not been used for 48 hours.
19. Store raw meat and fish in sealed or covered containers in the refrigerator to prevent them touching or dripping onto other food.
20. Two-star frozen-food compartments are suitable for storing pre-frozen food, storing or making ice-cream and making ice cubes.
21. One-, two- and three-star compartments are not suitable for freezing fresh food.
22. If the refrigerator is left empty for an extended period of time, please leave it disconnected, defrosted, clean, and dry, with the doors open to prevent mould developing within the appliance.
23. ⚠️ WARNING: When positioning the appliance, ensure the power cord is not trapped or damaged.
24. ⚠️ WARNING: Risk of fire / flammable materials.
25. ⚠️ WARNING: Do not locate multiple portable socket-outlets or portable power supplies at the rear of the appliance.
26. ? CAUTION: The power supply shall be consistent with the information on the nameplate, and the standard independent 3-hole socket shall be used (above 10A, and reliably grounded). One socket must not be shared by more than one appliance; otherwise, fire may be caused due to overheat.
27. ? CAUTION: Never pull the power cord by hand. Hold and unplug the power connector from the socket to disconnect the power supply. Never touch the power cord or connector with wet hands to avoid electric shock.
28. ? CAUTION: The power cord must not be squeezed by the refrigerator or any heavy load, and the power cord should not be bent extremely. The damage or peeling of power cord may result in fire or electric shock. If the power cord is broken or cut, please contact the after-sales service immediately.
29. ? CAUTION: No flammables, explosives, corrosive acid or alkaline substances are allowed in the refrigerator.
30. ? CAUTION: The refrigerator must not be used in the rain or under the sunshine.
31. ? CAUTION: It is forbidden to place a container filled with liquid on the refrigerator because the breakage or turnover of the container may affect the electrical insulation of refrigerator and result in electric shock or fire.
32. ? CAUTION: The refrigerator must not be disassembled or modified without permission. The repair must be performed by a specialist.
33. ? CAUTION: In case of leakage of any flammable gas such as coal gas, close the leaking valve first and then open the window for ventilation. Do not unplug the refrigerator connector immediately to avoid fire or explosion caused by electric spark.
34. ? CAUTION: Refrigerating appliances (in particular a refrigerator-freezer Type I) might not operate consistently (possibility of defrosting of contents or temperature becoming too high in the frozen food compartment) when sited for an extended period of time below the cold end of the range of temperatures for which the refrigerating appliance is designed.
35. ? CAUTION: Effervescent drinks should not be stored in food freezer compartments or cabinets or in low-temperature compartments or cabinets, and food like water ices should not be consumed too cold.
36. ? CAUTION: Do not exceed the storage time(s) recommended by the food manufacturers for any kind of food.
37. ? CAUTION: During defrosting, precautions are necessary to prevent an undue temperature rise of the frozen food, such as wrapping the frozen food with newspaper.
38. ? CAUTION: A temperature rise of the frozen food during manual defrosting, maintenance or cleaning could shorten the storage life.
39. ? CAUTION: Care is required for the frozen food in storage if the refrigerator is out of service for an extended period of time (interruption of power supply or failure of the refrigerating system).
40. ? CAUTION: Measures must be taken when the refrigerator is switched off and out of service temporarily or for an extended period (e.g. emptied, cleaned and dried, and the door(s) or lid(s) propped ajar).

Handling and Placement

When handling the refrigerator, at least two persons are required: one lifts the top of the rear part, and the other handles the bottom. Attempting to lift alone or with improper support can be dangerous and may cause accidents.

When moving the refrigerator, be mindful that the lower runners may damage or scratch the floor. For long-distance moves, secure internal accessories with adhesive tape to prevent damage from shifting and crashing.

Place the refrigerator in a location with minimal vibration. In earthquake-prone areas, secure the refrigerator to a wall or pole to prevent it from falling and causing accidents.

Ensure sufficient clearance around the appliance for proper heat dissipation. Insufficient clearance, placing items on top, or blocking the sides can lead to wasted energy and potential damage to surrounding items or walls. Contact between the back and the wall can also cause vibration and noise.

Adjust the front leveling legs to ensure the refrigerator is stable and level. An unlevel appliance can cause vibration and noise.

This refrigerating appliance is not intended to be used as a built-in appliance.

Food Storage

Store raw meat and fish in sealed or covered containers in the refrigerator to prevent them from touching or dripping onto other food.

Two-star frozen-food compartments are suitable for storing pre-frozen food, storing or making ice-cream, and making ice cubes.

One-, two-, and three-star compartments are not suitable for freezing fresh food.

If the refrigerator is left empty for an extended period, disconnect it, defrost, clean, and dry it. Leave the doors ajar to prevent mold development.

Ice-Making

To make ice: Fill the ice-making box with approximately 4/5 water and place it in the freezing chamber. Once the water freezes, twist the box slightly to release the ice cubes. Avoid bending the box. When handling the frozen ice box, use a dry cloth to prevent finger frostbite.

The light source (LED only) is replaceable by a professional.

Accessory Disassembly and Assembly

Glass Shelf (Refrigerating Chamber)

The height of the glass shelf is adjustable for storing items of different volumes. To remove, pull the shelf gently outwards and upwards.

Fruit and Vegetable Box

Used for storing fruits and vegetables. To remove, pull the box directly outwards.

Freezer Drawer

Designed for long-term storage of foods like meat and fish. To remove, pull the drawer outwards and then lift it upwards.

Refrigerator Door Bottle Rack

Used for storing eggs, bottled drinks, and other items. To remove, lift the rack slightly upwards.

Water Storage Box Components

Used to hold water for the water dispenser.

Adding Water to Storage Box

Open the water storage box cover by hand, pour water into the box from a container, and then close the cover.

Installing Water Storage Box

Ensure the water storage box is securely covered. Hold both sides of the water storage bucket with balanced force and slowly press it into place until it is fully seated.

Removing Water Storage Box

To remove the water storage box, follow the installation steps in reverse.

Important Notes for Water Storage Box: Do not fill the water storage box beyond the maximum fill line. For optimal water quality, regularly clean the water storage bucket and outlet pipe. Always disconnect the power supply before cleaning the water storage box and pipes to prevent accidents. Avoid opening the door too quickly, as this may cause water in the tank to overflow.

Water Dispenser Operation

The water dispenser allows users to access drinking water as needed.

To dispense water, press the water-taking handle. Alternatively, use a rigid container to press the handle until the desired amount of water flows from the outlet. Release the handle to stop the water flow.

Important Notes for Water Dispenser: Ensure the water storage box is filled. Use clean water free of impurities to prevent the water outlet from becoming blocked. It is recommended to use at least 2.5L of water per week to maintain fresh water in the system. Close the dispenser door while taking water to prevent door shaking or water splashing. Condensation may appear around the dispenser due to environmental conditions; wipe it with a towel.

Care and Maintenance

It is recommended to clean the refrigerator once per month.

Unplug the power plug before cleaning to prevent electric shock.

Use a damp cloth or a neutral detergent to wipe away oil and dirt. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Avoid using alkaline detergents, soap powder, gasoline, alcohol, or talcum powder, as these can damage the appliance's finish or plastic components.

Regularly clean the refrigerator exterior and clear away dust from the floor around it.

Post-Maintenance Checks:

• Inspect the power line and plug for damage.
• Check the power plug for dust accumulation.
• Feel the plug for any abnormal heat.
• Ensure the socket is not loose.
• Verify the plug is fully inserted into the socket.

Note: Damaged power lines or plugs, or dust on the plug, can lead to electric shock or fire. Wait at least 5 minutes after unplugging before plugging it back in. Keep hands clear of the area beneath the refrigerator to avoid injury.

Failure Analysis

Refrigerator Not Working / Poor Refrigeration

• Causes: Check power supply connection; Ensure the refrigerator is not exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources; Verify sufficient heat dissipation space around the unit.
• Remedies: Connect the power supply; Relocate the refrigerator away from heat sources; Ensure adequate clearance from walls.

Foods in Refrigerating Chamber are Frozen

• Causes: Check if the set temperature is too low; Check if foods with too much water are too close to the rear wall.
• Remedies: Adequately increase the temperature; Move foods with too much water to the door side of the glass shelf.

Abnormal Sound in Refrigerator

• Causes: Check if the bottom of the refrigerator is stable; Check if the refrigerator is too close to the wall; Check if the refrigerator touches other objects.
• Remedies: Adjust the bottom leveling leg to stabilize the refrigerator; Leave sufficient space around the refrigerator; Remove obstacles.

Abnormal Odor in Refrigerator

• Causes: Check if foods are sealed for storage; Check if the refrigerator is clean; Check if foods are stored for too long.
• Remedies: Seal foods for storage; Regularly clean the refrigerator; Do not store foods for too long.

Normal Operation Phenomena

Warm Sides

The sides and the area between the refrigerating and freezing chambers may feel warm due to the refrigerator's pipes (condenser, anti-fog pipes) used for heat dissipation and preventing condensation.

Door is Too Tight to Open

Reopening the door immediately after closing it can be difficult because hot air enters the refrigerator and contracts, creating a pressure difference. The door becomes easier to open after a short while.

Water Ripple Sound in Refrigerator

This sound is made by the refrigerant when the compressor starts or stops. Water produced after defrosting can also cause this sound.

"Click" Sound or Tick Sound in Refrigerator

This sound is caused by the expansion and contraction of the case. It may occur when the case is cold or the door is opened.

Hum Sound in Refrigerator

This sound is produced by the running compressor. If the refrigerator is not leveled, this sound will be louder.

Condensation or Frosting on Freezer Door Surface or Food Surface

This can occur if the ambient temperature or humidity is high, the door is opened for too long, or foods with high water content are not sealed or wrapped tightly.

Condensation on Built-in Light Surface

The light produces heat when lit. If the door is opened for an extended period, a temperature difference can cause condensation on the light case.

Condensation and Water Mist on Body

High ambient humidity can cause moisture in the air to gather on the case, forming condensation.

Technical Parameters

Refer to the product's nameplate for specific technical parameters.

Packaging Information and Disposal

Environmental Packaging Labeling

The packaging materials used for this appliance are designed for environmental responsibility and recycling:

• Cardboard Packaging (Corrugated fiberboard): PAP 20 (Paper Collection)
• Protective Parts (Corrugated fiberboard): PAP 20 (Paper Collection)
• Cardboard Packaging (Non-corrugated fiberboard): PAP 21 (Paper Collection)
• Protective Parts (Non-corrugated fiberboard): PAP 21 (Paper Collection)
• Plastic Bag for Manual Packaging: LDPE 4 (Plastic Collection)
• Plastic Bag for Product Packaging: HDPE 2 (Plastic Collection)
• Manual, Energy Efficiency Label, Warranty Card: PAP 22 (Paper Collection)
• Other Label (Paper): PAP 22 (Paper Collection)
• Protective Parts (EPE): LDPE 4 (Plastic Collection)
• EPS Foam (EPS+PP): PS+PP 7 (Plastic Collection)
• EPS Foam (EPS): PS 6 (Plastic Collection)
• Protective Parts (EPS): PS 6 (Plastic Collection)
• Packaging Belt: PP 5 (Plastic Collection)

Disposal

Old appliances retain some residual value. An environmentally friendly disposal method ensures that valuable raw materials are recycled. Refrigerants and insulation materials require special handling. Before disposal, ensure there is no damage to the equipment's rear pipes. Consult your local council for current options regarding the disposal of old equipment and packaging.

Correct Disposal of this Product: This marking indicates that the product should not be disposed of with other household waste across the EU. To prevent potential harm to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, recycle it responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources. To return your used device, please utilize available return and collection systems or contact the retailer where the product was purchased for environmentally safe recycling.

Description of Climate Types

This refrigerating appliance is designed for use within specific ambient temperature ranges, categorized by climate classes:

Climate Class Definitions:

• Extended temperate: This refrigerating appliance is intended to be used at ambient temperatures ranging from 10°C to 32°C.
• Temperate: This refrigerating appliance is intended to be used at ambient temperatures ranging from 16°C to 32°C.
• Subtropical: This refrigerating appliance is intended to be used at ambient temperatures ranging from 16°C to 38°C.
• Tropical: This refrigerating appliance is intended to be used at ambient temperatures ranging from 16°C to 43°C.