FORTE F21UFESWW Upright Convertible Refrigerator User Manual

June 6, 2024
FORTE

FORTE F21UFESWW Upright Convertible Refrigerator

Important Safety Instructions

WARNING

  1. Read these instructions.
  2. Keep these instructions.
  3. Heed all warnings.
  4. Follow all instructions.
  5. Do not use this appliance near water.
  6. Clean only with a damp cloth.
  7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
  8.  Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
  9. Do not install near any heat sources, such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.
  10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
  11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
  12. Do not attempt to modify or extend the power cord of this appliance.
  13. Unplug this appliance during lightning storms or when it will not be used for long periods of time.
  14. Make sure that the available AC power matches the voltage requirements of this appliance.
  15. Do not handle the plug with wet hands. This could result in an electric shock.
  16. Unplug the power cord by holding the plug, never by pulling the cord.
  17. Do not turn the appliance on or off by plugging or unplugging the power cord.
  18. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the appliance has been damaged in any way, such as the power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the appliance, the appliance has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
  19. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain, moisture, dripping, or splashing, and no objects filled with liquids should be placed on top of it.
  20. Do not use extension cords or ungrounded (two prong) adapters.
  21. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
  22. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
  23. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified person, in order to avoid a hazard.
  24. Take off the doors and leave the shelves in place so that children may not easily climb inside.

WARNING

Electric Shock Hazard

Failure to follow these instructions can result in electric shock, fire, or death.

  1. WARNING: Keep ventilation openings, in both the freezer and the built-in structure, clear of obstruction.
  2. WARNING: Do not touch the interior of the freezer with wet hands. This could result in frost bite.
  3. WARNING: Do not use mechanical devices or other means to accelerate the defrosting process, other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
  4. WARNING: Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
  5. WARNING: Do not damage the refrigerant tubing when handling,moving, or using the freezer.
  6. WARNING: DANGER—Never allow children to play with, operate, or crawl inside the freezer. Risk of child entrapment. Before you throw away your old freezer:
    •  Take off the doors
    • Leave the shelves in place so that children may not easily climb inside
  7. Unplug the freezer before carrying out user maintenance on it.
  8. This freezer can be used by children age eight years and older and persons with reduced physical or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they are given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the freezer in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children should not play with the freezer. Cleaning and maintenance should not be performed by children without supervision.
  9. If a component part is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similar qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard.
  10. Please dispose of the freezer according to local regulations as the freezer contains flammable gas and refrigerant.
  11. Follow local regulations regarding disposal of the freezer due to flammable refrigerant and gas. All refrigeration products contain refrigerants, which under the guidelines of federal law must be removed before disposal. It is the consumer’s responsibility to comply with federal and local regulations when disposing of this product.
  12. This freezer is intended to be used in household and similar environments.
  13. Do not store or use gasoline or any flammable liquids inside or in the vicinity of this freezer.
  14. Do not use extension cords or ungrounded (two-prong) adapters with this freezer. If the power cord is too short, have a qualified electrician install an outlet near the freezer. Use of an extension cord can negatively affect the freezer’s performance.

Grounding requirement

This freezer must be grounded. This freezer is equipped with a cord having a grounding wire with a grounding plug. The plug must be inserted into an outlet that is properly installed and grounded. Improper use of the grounding plug can result in a risk of electric shock. Consult a qualified electrician or service person if the grounding instructions are not completely understood, or if doubt exists as to whether the freezer is properly grounded.

Features

Interior

Notes: The illustrations shown in this user guide are only for reference. The actual product may differ slightly.

  1. Air flow outlet
  2. Glass shelf
  3. Air flow inlet
  4. Plastic drawer
  5. Door tray
  6. Leveling feet (2 – bottom front) Wheels (2 – Bottom back)

Control

Important: The control panel automatically locks after 15 seconds of inactivity to prevent accidental activation. Unlock the control panel for use.

FORTE-F21UFESWW-Upright-Convertible-Refrigerator-2

Set Temperature

This freezer can be used as either a freezer or refrigerator (fridge) for your food storage needs. The default mode is Freezer and the default temperature is Colder.

  • Freezer mode temperature range: 10 °F to -8 °F (-12 °C to -22 °C).
  • Fridge mode temperature range: 35 °F to 45 °F (2 °C to 7 °C).

To Set the temperature

  1. Press and hold for 3 seconds to unlock the control panel.
  2. Press repeatedly to toggle among the Cold/Colder/Coldest temperature settings.
  3. Release to select desired setting.

Notes

  • If the freezer is unplugged or loses power, you must wait 3 to 5 minutes before restarting it. The freezer will not start if you attempt to restart it sooner.
  • If you choose to adjust the temperature settings, allow several hours for the temperature to stabilize between adjustments.

Setting up your freezer

Before using your freezer

  • Remove the exterior and interior packing, especially the foam packing between the outside condenser and the cabinet.
  • Let the freezer stand upright for approximately two hours before connecting it to power. This reduces the possibility of a malfunction in the cooling system from improper handling during transportation.
  • Wash the inside with a damp, warm cloth and a baking soda solution (two tablespoons in a quart of water), then wipe dry with a dry cloth. Do this periodically to keep your freezer looking new.
  • For proper operation, it’s very important that you level the freezer using the leveling feet. If this is not done, the door may not close or seal properly, causing cooling, frost, and moisture problems. Turn the leveling feet clockwise to raise that side of the freezer or counterclockwise to lower that side. The leveling feet are easier to adjust if you have someone push against the top of the freezer to take some weight off.
  • When moving your freezer, do not tilt it beyond 45° from upright.

Finding a suitable location

  • Place your freezer on a floor that is strong enough to support the freezer when it is fully loaded.
  • This freezer is designed to be free standing only, and should not be recessed or built-in.
  • Allow 7.9 inches (20 cm) of space between the sides of the freezer and the walls, 3.9 inches (10 cm) between the back of the freezer and the wall, and 11.8 inches (30 cm) between the top of the freezer and the ceiling. This allows for proper air ventilation. Adjust the feet to keep the freezer level.
  • If you locate the freezer next to a fixed wall, allow sufficient space on the hinge side for the door to swing open.
  • Locate the freezer away from direct sunlight and sources of heat, such as a stove, heater, or radiator. Direct sunlight may affect the acrylic coating and heat sources may increase electrical consumption. Extremely cold temperatures may also prevent the freezer from performing properly.
  • Avoid locating the freezer in moist areas.

Leveling your freezer

  • It is very important for the freezer to be level. If the freezer is not leveled during installation, the doors may not close or seal properly, causing cooling, frost, or moisture problems.
  • To level your freezer, rotate the leveling feet clockwise (to raise) the freezer or counter-clockwise (to lower).

Providing a proper power supply

Check your local power source. This freezer requires a 115V, 60Hz power supply. Use a receptacle that accepts the grounding prong. The power cord is equipped with a 3-prong (grounding) plug which mates with a standard 3-prong (grounding) wall outlet to minimize the possibility of electric shock hazard from this freezer. We recommend that the freezer be plugged into an electrical circuit serving only this appliance and that the circuit cannot be turned off with a switch or pull-chain.

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Maintaining your freezer

  1. Unplug your freezer from the wall outlet.
  2. Remove all food.
  3. Wash the shelves with a mild detergent solution.
  4. Wash the inside with a damp warm cloth soaked in a solution of one quart of lukewarm water to two tablespoons of baking soda solution.
  5. Dry the interior and exterior with a soft cloth.
  6. Be sure to keep the door gasket (seal) clean to keep the unit running efficiently.

Storing your freezer

  1. Unplug your freezer from the wall outlet.
  2. Remove all food.
  3. Clean the freezer.
  4. Leave the door open slightly to avoid possible formation of condensation, mold, or odor.

Moving your freezer

  1. Unplug your freezer from the wall outlet.
  2. Remove all food.
  3. Securely tape down all loose items inside your freezer.
  4. Tape the door shut.

Be sure the freezer does not tilt more than 45° from the upright position during transportation.

Troubleshooting

Fault indication

If a fault is detected, the display shows one of the following codes. If a fault is indicated, call for service:

Fault code|

Both Flashing

|

Both Flashing

|

Both Flashing

---|---|---|---
Description| Temperature sensor fault| Defrost sensor fault| Ambient Temperature sensor fault

General

Problem Possible cause Possible solution

Both Flashing


Both Flashing

| Temperature sensor failure.| Call for service.
Defrost sensor failure.| Call for service.


Both Flashing


The freezer does not operate

| Ambient temperature sensor failure.| Call for service.
The freezer is unplugged.| Make sure that the freezer is plugged in and that the plug is pushed completely into the outlet.
The fuse on the circuit is blown or the circuit breaker is tripped.| Check the house fuse/circuit breaker box and replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker.
Power failure.| If a power failure occurs, the freezer turns off. Wait until the power is restored.
The freezer door does not close completely| Food packages are interfering with the door.| Move the food packages or remove some food.
The door gaskets are dirty.| Clean the door gaskets.
The freezer may not be level.| Level the freezer.
Problem| Possible cause| Possible solution
---|---|---
Food in the freezer is not cold| The door has been opened too often or was not closed properly.| Make sure that the door is closed properly.
You have just added a large amount of food to the freezer.| Allow time for the new food to cool, then check again.
The door is not closed completely.| Check the door gasket and food distribution and make sure that the door closes completely.
The freezer has recently been disconnected for a period of time.| Allow time for the freezer to cool before adding food. Four hours are required for the freezer to cool down completely.
The thermostat is set too warm.| Set the thermostat to a colder setting.
The freezer makes unusual noises or vibrations| The freezer may not be level on the floor.| Level the freezer with the leveling feet.
The body of the freezer is touching a wall.| Move the freezer out from the wall.
Metal parts undergo expansion and contraction.| This is normal.
Refrigerant is circulating throughout the system.| This is normal.
Moisture is building up in the interior of the freezer| The door has been opened too often or was not closed properly.| Make sure that the door is closed properly.
The freezer is in a location that is very humid.| Move the freezer to a dryer location.
The weather is hot and humid.| This is normal.
The freezer door does not close completely| Food packages are interfering with the door.| Move the food packages or remove some food.
The door gaskets are dirty.| Clean the door gaskets.
The freezer is not level.| Level the freezer with the leveling feet.
The compressor turns on and off frequently.| The room temperature is hotter than normal.| This is normal.
You have just added a large amount of food to the freezer.| Allow time for the new food to cool, then check again.
The door is not closed completely or was opened too often.| Check the door gasket and food distribution and make sure that the door closes completely.
The freezer has recently been disconnected for a period of time.| Allow time for the freezer to cool before adding food. Four hours are required for the freezer to cool down completely.
The thermostat was not set correctly.| Set the thermostat to the correct setting.

Specifications

Dimensions (WxDxH) 21 cu.ft. – 32.8 x 28.9 x 76.8 in. (83.2 x 73.5 x 195 cm)

Net Weight

| ****

198.4 lbs. (90 kg)

Power requirements| 115 V ~ 60 Hz
Power cord length| 65 in. (165 cm)

Freezer Warranty

Your FREEZER has been inspected and tested and is warranted subject to following for a period to 12 months from the date of purchase against defects in workmanship and materials. During this period, we undertake to repair or replace any defective part which was originally defective in our opinion. This warranty is null and void if the appliance is used for commercial purposes.

SECOND THROUGH FIFTH YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON SYSTEM PARTS AS LISTED In the second through fifth years from the date of purchase, when this freezer is operated and maintained according to instructions attached to or furnished with the product, Forte Appliances will pay for replacement parts and repair labor costs to correct defects in materials or workmanship in system. These parts are: compressor, evaporator, condenser, dryer, and connecting tubing.

This warranty is valid only when:

  1. This appliance has not been opened or tampered with by any unauthorized person.
  2. The appliance is brought to and taken from the retailer at the customer’s cost and risk.
  3. The warranty card and Cash Memo duly signed by the authorized retailer are present with the complaint.
  4. The appliance has been installed, used and maintained in accordance with the instruction manual.

The warranty does NOT apply for:

  1.  Damages due to chipping, peeling of coating and denting.
  2. Breakage or damage to components made of Bakelite, plastic materials, rubber parts and cord.
  3. Normal wear and tear of parts.
  4. Damage resulting from accident, mishandling or negligence on the part of the customer. Liability for consequential loss or damage is neither accepted nor implied.

FORTE Appliances will not pay for:

  1. Service calls to correct the installation of your freezer, to instruct you how to use your refrigerator, to replace house fuses or correct house wiring or plumbing, to replace light bulbs, or replacement water filters other than as noted above.
  2. Repairs when your freezer is used in other than normal, single-family household use.
  3. Pickup and delivery. Your freezer is designed to be repaired in the home.
  4. Damage resulting from accident, alteration, misuse, abuse, fire, flood, improper installation, acts of God, or use of products not approved by FORTE Appliances
  5. Any food loss due to product failure.
  6. Repairs to parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to the appliance.
  7. Replacement parts or repair labor costs for units operated outside the United States or Canada.
  8. Travel or transportation expenses for customers who reside in remote areas.
  9. Any labor costs for replacement of the water filter during the limited warranty period.

References

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