Hotpoint 8746 Handbook Freezers Instruction Manual

June 13, 2024
Hotpoint

Hotpoint 8746 Handbook Freezers

Hotpoint-8746-Handbook-Freezers-product

Your new Hotpoint Freezer

Using your new freezer is very simple. Nevertheless, to get the best results it is important that you read right through this handbook before using your freezer for the first time. Also do not load your freezer immediately it is switched on, but wait until the correct storage temperature has been reached ( see page 9).

Electrical Requirements
We recommend that this appliance is connected to the mains supply via a suitable switched socket in a readily accessible position.
All Hotpoint appliances come complete with a fitted plug. The plug on your freezer has a 13A fuse. If the plug does not fit your sockets, a new plug can be fitted. Cut off the old plug and throw it away, do not insert it into a socket elsewhere in the house as this could cause a shock hazard.

WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
IMPORTANT: Fitting a Different Plug:
The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

  • Green and Yellow – Earth
  • Blue – Neutral
  • Brown – Live

If you fit your own plug the colours of these wires may not correspond with the identifying marks on the plug terminals. This is what you have to do:

  • Connect the green and yellow (Earth) wire to the terminal in the plug marked ‘ff or with the symbol -½ , or coloured green or green and yellow.
  • Connect the blue (Neutral) wire to the terminal in the plug marked ‘N’ or coloured black.
  • Connect the brown (Live) wire to the terminal marked ‘L’ or coloured red.

With alternative plugs a SA fuse must be fitted either in the plug or adaptor or in the main fuse box. In the event of replacing a fuse in the plug supplied, a 13A AST A approved fuse to BS1362 must be fitted.

If the plug is the molded on type the fuse cover must be refitted when changmg the fuse. In the event of losing the fuse cover the plug must not be used until a replacement fuse cover has been obtained and fitted. A new fuse cover can be obtained from your nearest Hotpoint Service Centre or local Electricity Board. The colour of the correct replacement fuse cover is that of the coloured marks or insert in the base of the plug.

Mains Lead Replacement
If the supply cord on this appliance is damaged, it must be replaced by a special cord which is obtainable from your nearest Hotpoint Service Centre (see back page).

Get to know your Freezer

Installing your Freezer

Where to put your freezer
Your freezer should be placed where it is easy to use, alongside or beneath a work surface is often a good position. Try to avoid putting it near anything which gives off heat, a cooker or radiator for example. If this is unavoidable an air gap of10mm (½”) must be left between the hot object and the freezer. In such a position your freezer will have to work harder and will cost more to run. Once you have decided on the most suitable place, make sure that there is adequate air circulation at the back of the freezer. For Model 8721 just push the freezer back until the grille is against the wall.

For Model 8751 fit the two wall spacers supplied to the top of the condenser as shown and push the freezer back until the spacers are against the wall. If Model 8721 is placed underneath a worksurface, make sure that there is a gap of at least 20 mm (¾”) between the top of the freezer and the underside of the worksurface. If there is not enough clearance available, ventilation can be provided by fitting a special grille at the rear of your worksurface. This grille, Part No. 8040, is available from your retailer or Hotpoint Service Centres using the Accessories Order Form supplied with your freezer. If Model 8751 is placed underneath any wall cup boards, make sure that there is a gap of at least 38mm (1 ½”) between the top of the freezer and the underside of the cupboards. Finally, make sure your freezer is standing correctly by adjusting the two front feet until all four feet are in firm contact with the floor. Correct adjustment avoids excessive vibration and noise.

A Wheel Kit, Part No. 8031, for fitting to the back of your freezer, is available from your retailer or Hotpoint Service Centres using the Accessories Order Form supplied.

Note: You should not stack your freezer with any other appliance.
Do not attempt to stand on top of the freezer, it is not designed for such use and you could injure yourself or damage the appliance by such abuse.

Fitting decor panels to match your kitchen units
For that fully coordinated kitchen look it is possible to fit a matching decor panel to your freezer. A special trim kit is available from Hotpoint that attaches to the edges of the appliance door and enables a decor panel, up to 4mm (%in) thick, to be fitted. Decor panels are available from most kitchen suppliers.

  • Model 8721 requires trim kit Part No. 8001 (Brown) or Part No. 8004 (White)
  • Model 8751 requires trim kit Part No. 8002 (Brown) or Part No. 8005 (White)

These are available from your retailer or Hotpoint Service Centres (see back page) using the Accessories Order Form supplied with your freezer.

Repositioning the door hinge
Just follow the step by step instructions below:
Tools Required: A 7mm/8mm A/F Spanner or a No. 2 Pozidriv.

  • Take out all the loose fittings from inside the freezer.

  • Carefully lay the freezer on its back (you may need assistance for this) onto the original packing. Take care to avoid damage to the pipework by keeping it off the floor.

  • Unscrew and remove the two front feet (A).

  • Remove the clamping plate (B) and bottom hinge (C) (also the spacer (X), Model 8721 only) by unscrewing the two screws (D). Make sure that if any packing washers (E) are fitted they are left on the hinge pin.

  • Remove the bottom screws (F), washers and plate (G) and fit them on the opposite side of the cabinet, making sure the hole in the cabinet for the foot is not covered over.

  • Remove the door by gently pulling it downwards until clear of the top hinge.

  • Remove the top hinge (H) by unscrewing the two screws CT) – replace the screws (J) but not the washer (K). Make sure the screw heads do not protrude below the recess.

  • Remove the two screws (L) in the opposite recess and use them to fit the top hinge (H), with the washer (K) on top, in the recess. Tighten the screws so that they are just gripping the hinge.

  • Before re-fitting the door, the plug (M) and the top and bottom hinge bushes (N) must be swapped over. Prise them out of their location, taking care not to mark the adjacent surfaces. Reposition them on the opposite side of the door.

  •  Reposition the door handle insert (P) on the opposite side of the door.
    To do this, remove the four screws (R) and swap over the insert. Refit the four screws.

  • Refit the door by laying it on the cabinet and, sliding it upwards, locate the top hinge bush on the top hinge pin. Adjust the position of the top hinge so that the door fits evenly

  • With all the packing washers that may have been originally fitted (E) retained on the pin, fit the bottom hinge pin (C) into the hinge bush (N). Adjust as necessary so the door fits evenly.

  • The bottom hinge can now be secured to the cabinet using the clamping plate (B) (and spacer (X), Model 8721 only) and two screws (D). The clamping plate should be fitted with the long straight side facing the outside edge of the cabinet and the large hole towards the rear of the cabinet.

  • Replace both adjustable front feet (A) setting them at approximately 25 mm (1″) from the bottom of the cabinet.

  • Carefully stand the freezer up (you may need assistance for this) and _r1ut it where you have decided to locate it. Ensure it is standing correctly by adjusting the two front feet until all four feet are in firm contact with the floor.

  • Check the door opens and doses easily. Ensure the door seal does not bind on the hinge side and that there are no gaps allowing air into the cabinet. Adjust the hinges if necessary.

  • Tighten the top hinge screws.

  • Finally put back all the loose fittings inside the freezer.

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Installing next to a Fridge or Larder Fridge
This can be done in one of two ways – either free standing or linked. Free standing: Just slide in next to the Fridge, but leave a gap of SO mm (2″) between the two to avoid a build up of condensation. Make sure both appliances stand correctly (see page 5). Linking: If you have either Hotpoint Freezer you can join them with the appropriate Larder Fridge or Fridge to make them look like one unit. To join Model 8721 with Model 8126 or Model 8221 requires linking kit Part No. 8010 (Brown) or Part No. 8011 (White). To join Model 8751 with Model 8141 requires linking kit Part No. 8020 (Brown) m: Part No. 8021 (White). These are available from your retailer or Hotpoint Service Centres ( see back page) using the Accessories Order Form supplied with your Freezer. The kit comes complete with wheels so that the unit can be easily moved.
The width of the linked appliances is 1108mm (43.6″).

Note: To ensure that the doors function properly you will need to change the left hand appliance so that its door hinges on the left hand side (see pages 6 and 7). Also make sure that the two appliances stand correctly .

Getting your Freezer ready for use

Before using your freezer for the first time the interior, including the door, and all removable parts should be wiped out. Use a damp doth wrung out in either a solution of one teaspoonful of bicarbonate of soda to one pint of water or Milton diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

WARNING: Never use any household cleaner or detergent, abrasive powders or wax polish. These not only damage the surfaces, they also leave a smell in the freezer.

Final check
Before you start using the freezer, check that

  • it is thoroughly dry inside,
  • air can circulate freely,
  • the feet have been adjusted, ie. all four are firmly on the ground.

Starting
Insert the plug into the wall socket and switch on the supply. The green (mains) and red (temperature warning) lights will come on together and your freezer will start working. You will hear a noise as the compressor starts up. If you are going to store already frozen food open the freezer door and check that the Fast Freeze switch is at ‘O’ (off). The red light will go out when the has reached the correct temperature. Then you can put in your already frozen food. If you are going to freeze fresh food, you must press ‘•’ (ON) on the Fast Freeze switch. The amber light will come on and you must wait at least three 10urs before putting in your fresh food to be frozen. Do not put more than 12kg (26.Slb) offresh food to be frozen in Model 8721 or 14kg (30.81b) in Model 8751.

Running-in the compressor
Your freezer is operated by a compressor which switches on and off in order to maintain the freezer’s temperature. The compressor is a precision piece of machinery like a car engine, and requires a running-in period of up to 2 months. During this time the compressor has to work a little harder and this may result in more noise than usual.

When you contact us we need to know:

  1. Your name, address and post code.
  2. Your telephone number.
  3. Clear and concise details of the fault.
  4. The model number (8721 or 8751), and color.
  5. When it was purchased. Please put the date here
  6. If you have subscribed to the Hotpoint Iced Diamond Plan (see below). Make sure you have all these details before you call.

The Controls

Controlling the Temperature
Your freezer is fitted with a factory set thermostat control which does not require any adjustment. In the summer months, or in conditions giving high temperatures around the freezer the compressor has to work harder and run for longer periods. This is quite normal. Conversely, during cold weather the compressor will run for much shorter periods.

Green Mains Light
Comes on and stays on as long as the electricity supply is not interrupted.

Red Temperature Warning Light
Comes on when the temperature inside the freezer rises above the correct storage temperature. If it comes on for a short period when you open the door to load or unload food, storage times will not be affected. However, if the red light stays on this indicates that something is wrong. First check that the door has not been accidentally left open. If this is not the case, call your nearest Hotpoint Service Office (or local importer if outside the United Kingdom) (see back page).

Fast Freeze Switch and Amber Fast Freeze Light
Press’*’ (ON position) when freezing fresh food and the amber light will
come on ( see Freezing Fresh Foods, page 11).

Economy Switch
Press ‘E’ (Economy position) for normal conditions. If the room is cold or humid or if freezing fresh food, water droplets may form on the outside of the freezer. When this happens press ‘H’ (Humid position). A low energy heater will come on and the water droplets will disappear. When conditions return to normal reset the switch to ‘E’.
Note: When the switch is set on ‘H’ the outside front edges of the freezer may feel warm. This is normal.

Freezer Contents Cards
Use a soft pencil to itemise both the contents of the freezer and ‘use by’ dates. Use a soft rubber to remove the writing.

Storing Food

Storing food in your freezer
Your freezer carries the m:[E] symbol which indicates that it is suitable for the long-term storage of commercially frozen foods and also can be used to freeze and store fresh food.
Model 8721 will store up to 32kg (70 lb) of frozen food and Model 8751 up to 55.5kg (122.41b). These figures are based on an average density of 0.32kg of mixed food per litre of net storage volume (201b per cubic foot). In the case of meat they will take appreciably more. Generally speaking long-term storage means up to 3 months, but this will vary with the nature of the packaged food, so always follow the Manufacturer’s recommended storage time given on the packet. For storing riome frozen fresh food refer to the pictorial guide on the door liner or the separate booklet on freezing fresh foods. If there is a power failure do not open the door. Frozen food should not be affected if the failure is less than 15½ hours for Model 8721 or 13½ hours for Model 8751. If the failure is longer then the food should be checked and either eaten immediately or cooked and then refrozen.

Freezing Fresh Foods
Maximum Freezing Loads

  • You can freeze up to 12kg (26.Slb) of fresh or cooked food in Model 8721 and up to 14kg (30.81b) in Model 8751 in any 24 hours. Slightly larger  quantities can be frozen if the Fast Freeze switch is set to’’ (ON) 24 hours beforehand. Press ‘’ (ON position) on the Fast Freeze switch. The amber Fast Freeze light will come on. If the freezer has not been in use it will be necessary to set the Fast Freeze switch to ‘’ at least 3 hours before putting in the fresh food. Also if you set the Fast Freeze switch to’’ 24 hours beforehand you will be able to freeze slightly larger quantities.
  • Press ‘H’ on the Economy switch to avoid condensation on the outside of the freezer.
  • Put 8kg (17.Slb) for Model 8721 and 10kg (221b) for Model 8751 of fresh food into the Fast Freeze compartment and the remainder in the lower compartment with as much food as possible in contact with the compartment floors.
  • Leave the switches on for 24 hours then reset the Fast Freeze switch to ‘O’ and the Economy switch to ‘E’.

Freezing up to 10 kg (22 lb) in both Models

  • Transfer any frozen food from the Fast Freeze compartment to the storage baskets or lower compartment.
  • Press’’ (ON position) on the Fast Freeze switch. The amber Fast Freeze light will come on. If the freezer has not been in use it will be necessary to set the Fast Freeze switch to’’ at least 3 hours before putting in the fresh food.
  • Press ‘H’ on the Economy switch to avoid condensation on the outside of the freezer compartment.
  • Put the fresh food into the Fast Freeze compartment with as much food as possible in contact with the compartment floor.
  • Leave the Fast Freeze switch on for 24 hours if the maximum quantity (10 kg) is being frozen or proportionally less time for smaller quantities.
  • Reset the Fast Freeze switch to ‘O’ and the Economy switch to ‘E’ when freezing is complete.
  • Freezing up to 12kg (26.51b) in Model 8721 and up to 14kg (30.81b) in Model8751
  • Transfer any frozen food from the Fast Freeze and lower compartments to the storage baskets.

Do’s and Don’ts
DO

  • Always choose high quality fresh food and be sure it is thoroughly clean before you freeze it.
  • Prepare fresh food for freezing in small portions to ensure rapid freezing.
  • Remember lean foods last longer than fat foods and salt will reduce storage life.
  • Wrap all foods in aluminum foil or polythene bags and make sure any air is excluded. Keep the door shut when freezing fresh foods.
  • Separate food in different baskets for easy identification.
  • Wrap frozen food when you buy it and put it into the freezer as soon as possible.
  • Store commercially frozen food in accordance with the instructions given on the packets that you buy.
  • Defrost the freezer before the ice becomes thick (see page 13).

DON’T

  • Exceed the maximum freezing loads when freezing fresh food .
  • Put hot food into the freezer. Let it cool down first.
  • Leave the door open for long periods as this will cause excessive ice formation and make the more costly to run.
  • Put liquid-filled bottles or sealed cans containing carbonated liquids (fizzy drinks, etc) into the freezer as they may burst.
  • Try to keep frozen food which has thawed; it should be eaten within 24 hours or cooked and refrozen.
  • Give children lollipops and water ices direct from the freezer. The low temperature may cause ‘freezer burns’ on their lips.

Caring for your Freezer

Defrosting
Why and When:
Excessive frost build-up reduces the efficiency of your freezer so from time to time chip off the frost using the plastic scraper supplied. You do not need to switch off the power supply to do this . Never use sharp metal tools to chip the frost away they will damage your When the ice  about 6 mm (¼”) thick on the refrigerated surfaces -0mpletely defrost the You should find you only need to do this about ice or twice a year, depending on usage. Try to defrost when is little or no food in the freezer. Defrosting must be carried out as quickly as possible since a rise in the temperature of your frozen food may reduce the recommended storage time.

Just follow these steps:

  • Switch off and pull out the mains plug.
  • Remove any frozen food. Wrap it in several layers of newspaper or a blanket and, using the storage baskets, put it in a cool place.
  • Place bowls of hot water in the Fast Freeze compartment and lower compartment.
  • As soon as the frost begins to melt use the plastic scraper to chip it off.
  • Sponge out the defrost water which collects in the bottom of the freezer.
  • After defrosting remove the bowls and dry the interior thoroughly.
  • Replace the mains plug and switch on. Press’*’ (ON) on the Fast Freeze switch. Unwrap the frozen food and replace. Close the door.
  • After three hours press ‘O’ (OFF) on the Fast Freeze switch. The amber light will go out.
  • Job done!

Leaning your Freezer
It is a good idea to dean the inside of your freezer after defrosting. Always switch off and pull out the mains plug first. Wipe out the inside of the freezer using a dean doth wrung out in either a solution of one teaspoonful of bicarbonate of soda to one pint of water or Milton diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The complete interior including the door, and removable parts, should be washed. Never use any household cleaner or detergent, abrasive powders orwax polish. These not only damage the surfaces, but also leave a smell in the freezer. Before you refill the freezer ensure it is thoroughly dry. Clean the outside of your freezer, but not the door seal, with a damp cloth, using a small amount of detergent, followed by a wipe down with a dean cloth. Do not use an abrasive powder. The rubber door seal must be cleaned with soap and water only as detergent will damage it.

Finally, the compressor and condenser at the back of the freezer can be carefully deaden. Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust. Always check that the freezer is disconnected from the mains when doing this. Remember to re-connect the mains plug and switch on after cleaning your freezer.

Table top
This is designed to serve as an extra worksurface, but be careful with it.
Do not drop heavy objects on it and do not sit on it!

Going away
If you expect to be away for any length of time and don’t want to use your freezer, switch off at the power point and pull out the plug. Remove all food and follow the defrosting instructions (see page 13). After defrosting dry out the interior. Always leave the door ajar to prevent the accumulation of odours.

If your Freezer won’t work … don’t panic
Just run through these quick checks before calling your local Hotpoint Service Office.

  • Check that the plug is firmly in the wall socket and that the power supply is on.
  • Check the power supply to the socket by plugging in another appliance.
  • If the other appliance works, check the fuse in the freezer’s plug.
  • If you have changed the plug, check the wiring (see page 2).
  • If there is excessive noise or vibration, check that all four feet are firmly in contact with the ground (see page 5).
  • If water droplets appear on the outside of the cabinet, check that you have the Economy switch set on ‘H’ (see page 10).
  • You may find the freezer difficult to open just after you have used it. This is due to a pressure difference which will soon equalise. Wait a few minutes then open the door.

If, after following all these instructions, you are still having problems, contact your nearest Hotpoint Service Office ( or local importer if outside the United Kingdom). The telephone number is shown on the back page.

When you contact us we need to know:

  • Your name, address and post code.
  • Your telephone number.
  • Clear and concise details of the fault.
  • The model number (8721 or 8751), and colour.
  • When it was purchased.
  • Please put the date here
  • If you have subscribed to the Hotpoint Iced Diamond Plan (see below).
  • Make sure you have all these details before you call.

Five Year Guarantee

From the moment your freezer is delivered, Hotpoint guarantees it for FIVE YEARS. During the five years all parts are completely free of charge, provided they are fitted by Hotpoint’ s own Service Engineer. Labour costs are chargeable after the first year.

Our FIVE YEAR
GUARANTEE also covers loss of food up to £250 in the first year. This guarantee does not cover accidents, negligence or power cuts. The freezer must be used in the United Kingdom and must not be tampered with or taken apart by anyone who is not authorized Hotpoint representative. Hotpoint’s guarantee in no way limits your rights.

Iced Diamond Plan
At the end of the first year Hotpoint offers a Service Plan which for an annual payment provides free of charge repairs and extends the loss of food cover up to £250 throughout the membership period. If you wish to enjoy the benefits of this scheme please fill in the registration card and send it, together with your chequeen/postal order to the nearest Hotpoint Service Office, addresses shown on the back page.

Proof of Purchase
For future reference please attach your purchase receipt to this booklet and keep it in a safe place.

References

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

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