Hamilton Beach HBFRF1980 Upright Freezer Owner’s Manual

: June 24, 2024
: Hamilton Beach

Table of Contents

Hamilton Beach HBFRF1980 Upright Freezer
Safety and Warning Information
CAUTIONS FOR SPECIFIC ITEMS AND OPERATIONS
Parts And Features
Installation
Operation
ADJUSTING THE TEMPERATURE
Cleaning And Maintenance
Climate Class Specification
Trouble Shooting
Product Specification
Warranty
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Hamilton Beach HBFRF1980 Upright Freezer

Congratulations, you have acquired a high-quality Hamilton Beach product.
This unit is packed with features that you will find convenient to use.
Please follow the safety precautions and operating instructions provided in this easy-to-use manual. Please take the time to read it, and save these instructions for future use. Please also remember to record the series number. The series number is located on the top of the back next to the rating label. Save your receipt by stapling it to this manual for convenient access.

Safety and Warning Information

Prior to installation and initial usage of the appliance, ensure to carefully read through this user manual, including all tips and warnings. Proper knowledge of the appliance’s operation and safety features is crucial to prevent unnecessary errors and accidents. It is highly recommended that everyone using the appliance familiarizes themselves with its workings.

Keep this instruction manual safely and ensure it remains with the appliance if it changes ownership or location to ensure all users are properly guided on its use and safety precautions.
The manufacturer will not bear any responsibility for damages resulting from the disregard of these safety guidelines. Hence, it is crucial to observe all safety warnings and instructions for preserving life and property.

Notice : this appliance can not be used by persons, including children, with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or a lack of experience and knowledge, unless they are under the supervision or instruction of a responsible person.
Children should not play with the appliance. Any cleaning or maintenance tasks should not be performed by children.
Please ensure all packaging materials are kept out of children’s reach to prevent the risk of suffocation.

WARNING

Do not store explosive substances such as aerosol cans with a flammable propellant in this appliance.
The supply cord must be replaced by the manufacturer or a qualified person if damaged, to avoid hazards.
Keep ventilation openings in the appliance enclosure or any built-in structure clear of obstruction.
Do not use mechanical devices or other means to expedite the defrosting process, other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
Do not use electrical appliances inside the food storage compartments of the appliance unless they are recommended by the manufacturer.
The refrigerant and insulation are flammable. Dispose of the appliance only at an authorized waste disposal center. Avoid exposure to flames.
Ensure the supply cord is not trapped or damaged when positioning the appliance.
Do not place multiple portable socket-outlets or portable power supplies at the rear of the appliance.

CAUTIONS FOR SPECIFIC ITEMS AND OPERATIONS

Ensure that the appliance circuit isn’t damaged during the transportation and installation of the appliance. The refrigerant (R290 / R600a) is flammable and professional disposal is required, as it could cause eye injuries or ignition.
Do not attempt to modify or alter the product specifications. Any cord damage can lead to a short circuit, fire, or electric shock.
Avoid operating the appliance if it is damaged. Only use the appliance with a power supply of single-phase alternating current of 115V/60Hz.
When handling frozen food, consume it straight from the freezer compartment to prevent frost burns.
Ensure you regularly clean surfaces that can come in contact with food and accessible drainage systems.

CAUTION

Always turn off and unplug the appliance before performing any cleaning tasks.
Do not clean the appliance with metal objects, steam cleaners, volatile oils, organic solvents, or abrasive cleaners.
To remove frost from the appliance, use a plastic scraper rather than sharp objects.

Parts And Features

This section provides an overview of the key parts of your appliance and their primary functions. Please note that the appliance’s design might vary slightly from the diagram provided, but the basic functions should remain the same.

Temperature Controller
Power Switch
Lock
Freeze shelve
Door Handle
Front Grill

Installation

INSTALLATION SAFETY GUIDELINES
Take note of the following during the installation of your appliance:

Ensure electrical connections are correctly made according to the instructions provided in this manual.
Upon unpacking, inspect the appliance for any damages. Do not connect the appliance to the power supply if it is damaged. Report any damages immediately to the retailer.
After unpacking, wait for at least four hours before connecting the appliance to allow the oil to flow back into the compressor.
Ensure adequate air circulation around the appliance to reduce overheating risk. Follow the instructions relevant to installation for achieving sufficient ventilation.
Do not position the appliance near radiators or cookers.
After the installation, ensure the mains plug is easily accessible.

Before you begin the installation process, we would like to remind you that if the appliance has been transported or stored in a non-upright position, please ensure to leave it standing upright for approximately 12 hours before operation. This allows the refrigerant inside the appliance to settle, ensuring optimal performance. Failing to follow these guidelines could negatively affect the appliance’s performance and service life.

APPLIANCE SETUP

Unpack the appliance: After removing the appliance from its packaging, make sure all protective film and coatings are completely removed from all surfaces.
Location: Select a spot for your appliance where the floor is both level and firm. To ensure adequate ventilation, maintain at least a 4-inch clearance between the unit and any walls or other obstructions. If the unit is placed near a heat source, this distance should be increased to avoid overheating. Please remember to install the rubber spacer on the back of the appliance as guided in the “Rubber Spacer Installation” Section .
Pre-cleaning: Before the first use, thoroughly clean the interior shelves with soapy water. This removes any residues from the manufacturing process and helps maintain hygiene.
Securing the unit: If your appliance is equipped with castors, set the brakes to keep it stable in its position. If it has adjustable screw feet, level the appliance by turning these as needed.
Remember, these appliances should only be operated in environments with ambient temperatures no higher than 90°F (32°C) as per Climate Class 4 specifications.

SHELF INSTALLATION
Your appliance is designed to offer flexibility in the arrangement of your items. For your convenience. Here’s how to install the shelves:

For Freezers: In our freezers, the evaporator itself serves as shelves.
The number of these shelves varies depending on the model’s capacity.
Be careful when handling the evaporator/shelves to avoid damaging the pipes with excessive force.
Damage or Defects: If you notice any damage or defects with the shelves upon delivery or during use, please contact our customer support for assistance. By tailoring the layout of your appliance to suit your needs, you can optimize its storage capacity and efficiency. Please handle the shelves carefully during installation and adjustment to prevent damage.

RUBBER SPACER INSTALLATION
To guarantee proper ventilation and performance of the appliance, especially when positioned against a wall, it is crucial to install the included rubber spacer onto the backside of the cabinet, as illustrated in the below diagram. It is advisable for there to be 3 inches separating the back of the appliance to the wall and at least 4 inches of space on its two sides, a height of over 4 inches from its top.

Follow the steps below to install the rubber spacer:

Identify the correct location for the rubber spacer on the back of the cabinet (as per the diagram).
Align the holes on the rubber spacer with the corresponding screw holes on the cabinet.
Using a suitable screwdriver, screw the rubber spacer into place.
Ensure that the rubber spacer is securely attached. Failing to install this spacer can result in the compressor malfunctioning and may void your appliance’s warranty. Always prioritize safety and efficiency by installing all provided components as directed.

APPLIANCE LEVELING
The appliance should be level to eliminate vibration. To make the appliance level, it should be upright, and both adjusters should be in stable contact with the floor. You can also adjust the level by unscrewing the appropriate level adjustment in the front(use your fingers or a suitable wrench)

INSTALLATION OF DOOR HANDLE

Take out the Accessary bag from the appliance cabinet, and find the outside handle, screws and screwdriver.

Place the handle on the side of the door, align the hole, and tighten the screws using a screwdriver, then finish the installation.

Operation

BEFORE FIRST USE

Leave the doors open for a while to ventilate the appliance.
While the unit is cleaned before shipment, it is recommended to clean the compartment interior once more after delivery.
Insert the power supply plug into a grounded, single-phase 115V wall outlet.
Allow the unit to operate for about 1 hour to cool the compartment before placing items into the appliance.

TURNING ON THE APPLIANCE

Ensure the doors of the appliance are securely closed.
Plug the unit into a socket. Upon plugging in, the appliance will power on.

RESTARTING THE APPLIANCE
After turning off the appliance, wait for at least 5 minutes before restarting. Restarting the unit immediately can cause fuses to blow, activate the circuit breaker, overload the compressor, or cause other types of damage.

EFFICIENT USE OF YOUR APPLIANCE
To reduce energy consumption, follow these guidelines:

Open and close the door quickly to prevent the escape of cold air from the appliance, and keep the door opened for as short a period as possible.
Install the unit in a well-ventilated location.
Do not use the unit to store water or food that requires water as a storage medium. Never place fresh seafood containing water directly into the unit.

Proper operation of your Freezer is essential for ensuring the best performance and longevity of the appliance. This section provides detailed guidelines on operation and door management for maximum efficiency.

STORING FOOD
The key to maintaining the freshness and quality of your food is proper storage. Here are a few tips:

Allow the appliance to reach its operating temperature before storing food items in it.
Hot food or liquids should be cooled to room temperature before being placed in the appliance.
Wrap or cover food whenever possible to prevent the spread of odors and maintain food quality.
Avoid blocking the fans inside the appliance as they are essential for maintaining consistent internal temperatures.
Try to minimize the time the doors are open to reduce the loss of cold air.

DOOR OPERATION
Your appliance is equipped with a lock to secure the contents and maintain a stable internal environment.

Here are a few tips

Locking the Door: Use one of the provided keys to lock the door when the appliance is not in use.
Unlocking the Door: To access the contents, insert the key into the lock and turn. Always remove the key after unlocking the door and ensure the door is fully closed after use.

SAFETY CHECKS
After cleaning the unit, perform these checks to ensure safety:

Confirm that the power cord plug is firmly inserted into a dedicated wall outlet. Make sure the plug is not abnormally hot.
Check the power cord for any cracks or damage. If you notice any irregularities, contact the dealer from whom you purchased this unit or our customer service department.

ADJUSTING THE TEMPERATURE

To adjust the temperature of your appliance, follow these steps:

Press the button. The current temperature value will start flashing.
Use the and buttons to adjust the temperature within the the specified range:
Freezer model with a solid door: Adjust the temperature between 0°F to – 13°F.
Press the button again to confirm your new temperature setting.

DEFROSTING
The defrosting functionality of your appliance depends on whether it pertains to the freezer compartment.

FREEZER DEFROSTING
MANUAL DEFROST: The freezer compartment does not have an automatic defrost function and should be manually defrosted two or three times a year when the ice is about 1/8 inch thick.
To manually defrost your freezer compartment:

Press and hold the button for five seconds.
The defrost cycle will commence immediately, with the Defrost LED indicator illuminating. This manual defrost cycle will continue for a maximum of 30 minutes.

Cleaning And Maintenance

Maintaining the cleanliness and overall performance of your Freezer requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
These practices not only ensure the appliance operates at peak efficiency but also prolong its life and functionality.

GENERAL CLEANING

Always disconnect the appliance from the power source before cleaning.
Frequently clean the interior with a gentle cleaning agent to prevent bacterial growth and odor.
Do not use abrasive or harsh cleaning agents as they can leave harmful residues or damage the surface.
Avoid using sharp tools which may damage the ABS plastic liner of the cabinets.
Clean the door seal with water only. Wipe dry after cleaning to prevent mold growth.
Do not let cleaning water run into the drain hole, as it could overflow into the evaporation pan.
Be cautious when cleaning the rear of the appliance as it may have sharp edges.

CONDENSER CLEANING
The condenser is an essential part of the appliance and should be cleaned every 30 days. A clean condenser can extend the lifespan of the appliance. We recommend having our service agent or a qualified technician perform this task.
Important Note: All repair and maintenance requiring the removal of panels or parts should be performed by a service agent or a qualified technician. Regular cleaning and maintenance practices are crucial for the longevity and proper operation of your appliance. Remember, an investment in routine maintenance can save you from costly repairs in the future.

SERVICING AND REPAIRS SAFETY GUIDELINES
All electrical work required for servicing the appliance should be carried out by qualified electricians or competent individuals. This appliance must be serviced by an aftersales service center, and only genuine spare parts should be used.

Climate Class Specification

This section outlines the designated climate classes for our appliances and the corresponding operating conditions they are designed for. A climate class is a categorization assigned to an appliance, denoting the range of ambient temperatures the appliance is intended to operate within.

Climate Class| Max. Ambient Temperature & Humidity
---|---
3| 77°F, 60% RH
4| 86°F, 55% RH
5| 104°F, 40% RH
7| 95°F, 75% RH

UNDERSTANDING CLIMATE CLASSES
Climate classes are indicators of the specific temperature and humidity ranges within which an appliance can function effectively and efficiently. These classes are critical in ensuring that your appliance performs optimally under the environmental conditions of your specific region or location.

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE
It’s crucial to ensure that the climate class of your appliance aligns with the ambient temperature and humidity of the room or area where you intend to install and operate the appliance. Operating the appliance in conditions that fall within its specified climate class will promote its efficiency and longevity.

POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE
Operating your appliance outside its designated climate class can lead to several issues. These could include decreased performance, increased energy consumption, potential damage to the appliance, or even premature failure.

HOW TO CHECK YOUR APPLIANCE’S CLIMATE CLASS
Our appliance is designed for a specific climate class, and this information is listed on the appliance’s rating plate or in the technical specifications within the manual. This information allows you to match your appliance’s designed operating conditions with your local environmental conditions.

Trouble Shooting

In this section we identify some common issues you might encounter with your appliance, along with potential causes and solutions.. Please remember, safety is paramount.
CAUTION : Prior to any troubleshooting, ensure the appliance is unplugged. Any troubleshooting measures not included in this manual should only be performed by a qualified electrician or a similarly competent professional.
NOTICE : Maintenance and repairs on the appliance should only be undertaken by qualified service engineers. Unauthorized or unskilled repairs can pose significant risk to the user. Should your appliance require service, please contact your authorized dealer or a local Customer Service Center.

Issue	Potential Causes & Solutions

Not Cooling

The unit doesn’t seem to reduce temperature, and items inside aren’t getting cold.

| • Check if the power supply is interrupted, the power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet, or if the fuse is blown/circuit breaker is activated.

• Make sure the temperature control is not turned to OFF.

Inefficient Cooling

The unit is cooling but not as much as expected. Items are not getting sufficiently cold.

| • Ensure the appliance is properly ventilated and not exposed to direct sunlight or placed near a heater or stove.

• Avoid frequent opening and closing of the lids, and do not overstock items beyond the load line.

• Adjust the temperature control dial as necessary.

• Defrost the freezer compartment if excessive frost is observed.

Excessive Noise

The unit is making a lot of noise, more than typical operating sounds.

| • Verify the floor underneath the appliance is sturdy, and the unit isn’t shaking or rattling.

• Ensure the rear panel isn’t in contact with a wall, and there are no objects behind the freezer.

Note: The compressor may generate a loud sound when operation starts – this will subside with time.

Condensation

There’s water droplets or a wet layer forming on the outside of the unit.

| This can happen on hot, humid days or depending on the place of installation. It is normal when humidity is high and water particles form on cold surfaces. Wipe away condensation with a dry cloth.
Exterior Feels Hot

The outside surface of the unit is unusually warm or hot to the touch.

| This is especially common in summer or when the freezer first starts running. The freezer’s design includes a pipe for radiating heat and preventing condensation. This heat does not affect the items inside the freezer.

Product Specification

Handling Refrigerant And Disposal
DANGER!
This product contains flammable refrigerant, posing a risk of fire or explosion. Repair services must be conducted by trained professionals only. To defrost the refrigerator, avoid the use of mechanical devices and never puncture the refrigerant tubing.

WARNING!
This appliance operates using either R600a or R290 refrigerant.
These are hydrocarbon gases used as a refrigerant in modern appliances, which are environmentally friendly and have excellent thermodynamic properties. This ensures optimal performance while reducing the appliance’s environmental impact.

CAUTION!
Before attempting to service or install this unit, thoroughly consult the repair manual or owner’s guide. Strict adherence to all safety precautions is required. When disposing of this unit, comply with federal or local regulations. Be aware, puncturing the refrigerant tubing may result in a fire or explosion. Handle this product with utmost care.

PRODUCT AND PACKAGING DISPOSAL
As per local regulations, the disposal or recycling of refrigeration products, including all the constituent glass, metal, and plastic components, should be entrusted to professional recycling companies.
Reach out to your local waste collection authority for guidance on disposing of your appliance. Note, local authorities are not responsible for commercial refrigeration equipment disposal, but they may offer advice on locally available disposal options.

Dispose of all packaging materials responsibly. The cardboard can be repurposed, and the protective foil and foam cushions are CFC-free. Keep children away from the packaging and dispose of plastic bags safely

PRODUCT AND PACKAGING DISPOSAL
As per local regulations, the disposal or recycling of refrigeration products, including all the constituent glass, metal, and plastic components, should be entrusted to professional recycling companies.

Reach out to your local waste collection authority for guidance on disposing of your appliance. Note, local authorities are not responsible for refrigeration equipment disposal, but they may offer advice on locally available disposal options.
Dispose of all packaging materials responsibly. The cardboard can be repurposed, and the protective foil and foam cushions are CFC-free.
Keep children away from the packaging and dispose of plastic bags safely

Warranty

To make a warranty claim, please email support2@curtiscs.com or call 1-800-968-9853.

1 Year Warranty
This product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase. During this period, your exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of this product or component found to be defective, at our option; however, you are responsible for all costs associated with returning the product to us. If the product or component is no longer available, we will replace with a similar one of equal or greater value. Prior to a replacement being sent, the product must be rendered inoperable or returned to us.

This warranty does not cover glass, filters, wear from normal use, use not in conformity with the printed directions., or damage to the product resulting from accident, alteration, abuse, or misuse. This warranty extends only to the original consumer purchaser or gift recipient. Keep the original sales receipt, as proof of purchase is required to make a warranty claim. This warranty is void if the product is used for other than single-family household use or subjected to any voltage and waveform other than as on the specified rating on the label (e.g., 120V~60Hz).

We exclude all claims for special, incidental, and consequential damages caused by breach of express or implied warranty. All liability is limited to the amount of the purchase price. Every implied warranty, including any statutory warranty or condition of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, is disclaimed except to the extent prohibited by law, in which case such warranty or condition is limited to the duration of this written warranty. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have other legal rights that vary depending on where you live. Some states or provinces do not allow limitations on implied warranties or special, incidental, or consequential damages, so the foregoing limitations may not apply to you.

For faster service, locate the model, type, and serial numbers on your appliance.
ATTACH YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE HERE, PROOF OF PURCHASE IS REQUIRED TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE.

Please have the following information available when you contact the Support Team:

Name, address and telephone number.
Model number and serial number.
A clear, detailed description of the problem.
Proof of purchase including dealer or retailer name, address and date of purchase.