GE APPLIANCES GPE12 Freezer Refrigerator Instruction Manual

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Installation Instructions     Model GPE12

If you have questions, call 800.GE.CARES or visit our Website at: GEAppliances.com.
In Canada, call 1.800.561.3344 or Visit our Website at: geappliances.ca

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Read these instructions completely and carefully.

• IMPORTANT – Save these instructions for local inspector’s use.

• IMPORTANT – Observe all governing codes and ordinances.

• Note to Installer – Be sure to leave these instructions with the Consumer.

• Note to Consumer – Keep these instructions for future reference.

• Skill level – Installation of this appliance requires basic mechanical skills.

• Completion time – Refrigerator Installation 15 minutes
  Reversing the Door Swing 1 hour

• Proper installation is the responsibility of the installer.

• Product failure due to improper installation is not covered under the Warranty.

REFRIGERATOR LOCATION

• Do not install the refrigerator where the temperature will go below 55°F (12.7°C) because it will not run often enough to maintain proper temperatures.
• Do not install the refrigerator where the temperature will go above 100°F (37°C) because it will not perform properly.
• Do not install the refrigerator in a location exposed to water (rain, etc.) or direct sunlight.
• Install it on a floor strong enough to support it fully loaded.

CLEARANCES

Allow the following clearances for ease of installation, proper air circulation and plumbing and electrical connections.
Sides    1″ (25.4 mm)
Top      4″(101.6 mm)
Back     0″ (0 mm)

UNPACKING YOUR REFRIGERATOR

• Remove tape and any labels (except for the rating label) from your refrigerator. Tape or glue residue can also be removed by rubbing a small amount of liquid dish soap over the adhesive with your fingers. Wipe with warm water and dry.
• Do not use sharp instruments, rubbing alcohol, flammable fluids, or abrasive cleaners to remove tape or glue. These products can damage the surface of your refrigerator.
• When moving the refrigerator, do not tilt the refrigerator beyond 45° from upright position.

LEVELING LEGS

Adjustable legs at the front corners of the refrigerator should be set so the refrigerator is firmly positioned on the floor, and the front is raised just enough that the door closes easily when opened about halfway.

To adjust the leveling legs, turn the legs clockwise to raise the refrigerator, counterclockwise to lower it.

To raise the refrigerator

POWER CORD

• Plug the refrigerator power cord into its own properly grounded wall outlet with a voltage rating matching that on the refrigerator rating plate.
• Do not use an extension cord.
• Read all safety precautions on pages 3 and 4.

REFRIGERATOR FEATURES

REVERSING THE DOOR SWING

Follow all steps when reversing the door swing. Failure to follow these instructions, leaving off parts, or overtightening screws, can lead to the door falling off and result in injury and property damage.

IMPORTANT NOTES

When reversing the door swing:

• Read the instructions all the way through before starting.
• Handle parts carefully to avoid scratching paint.
• Set screws down by their related parts to avoid using them in the wrong places.
• Provide a non-scratching work surface for the doors.
• It is recommended that 2 people perform this task.

IMPORTANT: Once you begin, do not move the cabinet until door-swing reversal is completed.

These instructions are for changing the hinges from the right side to the left side—if you ever want to change the hinges back to the right side, follow these same instructions and reverse all references to left and right.

Unplug the refrigerator from its electrical outlet.

Empty all door shelves.

TOOLS YOU WILL NEED

8 mm Socket driver       Phillips screwdriver       Masking tape

Putty knife or thin-blade screwdriver

[1] REMOVE THE FREEZER DOOR

Remove the hinge cover. Unscrew and  remove the top hinge and shim.

Lift the freezer door up and away from the appliance.

Set the door on a non-scratching surface with the outside up.

NOTICE: Do not let door drop to the floor. Doing so could damage the door stop.

NOTE: When removing the top hinge, watch for shim between the bottom of the hinge and the top of the case that may stick to the case. Do not lose.

1. Shim

NOTE: When removing the door, watch for washer between the center hinge pin and the bottom of the freezer door that may stick to the door. Do not lose.

[2] REMOVE THE FRESH FOOD DOOR

Tape the door shut with masking tape.

Remove the center hinge by removing the screws. Lift up the hinge to remove it.

NOTE: Some models have a shim between the center hinge and the case that may stick to the case. Do not lose. Also save the washes for the center hinge screws for future use.

Remove the tape holding the door shut.

Lift the fresh food door up and off the bottom hinge.

Set the door outside-up on a non-scratching surface.

NOTE: When removing the door, watch for washer between the bottom hinge pin and the bottom of the fresh food door that may stick to the door. Do not lose.

NOTICE: Do not let door drop to the floor.
Doing so could damage the door stop.

[3] BOTTOM HINGE

Remove the screws and bottom hinge with shim from the right side. Remove the screw covers from the left corner.

Using the left hinge included with the parts that came with your refrigerator along with the screws (and washers if applicable) removed earlier, install the left hinge onto the bottom left of your refrigerator. Make sure a shim is attached to your left hinge before installation.

Place the screw covers into the holes now vacant on the right.

[4] TRANSFER FRESH FOOD DOOR STOP TO THE LEFT

Follow all steps when reversing the door swing. Failure to follow these instructions, leaving off parts, or overtightening screws, can lead to the door falling off and result in injury and property damage.

Remove the door stop and hinge pin sleeve from the bottom of the right side of the door.

Using the left door stop included with the parts that came with your refrigerator, transfer the hinge pin sleeve to the left side and install the left door stop.

Bottom of Door              Bottom of Door
(Right Side)                       (Left Side)

[5] REHANG THE FRESH FOOD DOOR

Make sure the washer(s) are in place on the bottom hinge pin. Make sure the door is aligned horizontally and vertically. Place the fresh food door on the bottom hinge, close the door and tape it in place with masking tape.

Remove the screw covers from the left edge of the door and insert it into the hole on the opposite side.

1. Screw Covers

[6] INSTALL CENTER HINGE ON THE LEFT

Remove the three screw covers on the left side and install two of them on the right.

Using the middle hinge with shim and screws (and washers if applicable) removed earlier, install the middle hinge on the left side.

Remove the tape holding the door shut.

NOTICE: When assembled correctly, the hinge is tight against the cabinet.

ATTENTION: The screws must be properly tightened. Turn the screws until snug. Then tighten the screws a minimum of 1/2 turn using both hands.

[7] TRANSFER TOP HINGE TO THE LEFT

Using a putty knife with the edge covered with masking tape, remove the screw cover on the left. Be careful of the paint finish.

Reinstall the screw cover on the right side.

[8] TRANSFER FREEZER DOOR STOP TO THE LEFT

Follow all steps when reversing the door swing. Failure to follow these instructions, leaving off parts, or overtightening screws, can lead to the door falling off and result in injury and property damage.

Remove the door stop and hinge pin sleeve from the bottom of the right side of the door.

Using the left door stop included with the parts that came with your refrigerator, transfer the hinge pin sleeve to the left side and install the left door stop.

Bottom of Door              Bottom of Door
(Right Side)                       (Left Side)

[9] REHANG THE FREEZER DOOR

Transfer the screw cover on top of the door to the opposite side.

1. Screw Cover

Make sure the washer (if applicable) is in place on the center hinge pin. Place the freezer door on the center hinge over the pin. Assure the door is aligned horizontally and vertically, and that the gasket seals on all sides.

Attach the top hinge removed earlier on the left side of your refrigerator and replace the hinge cover

TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS: Normal Operating Sounds

Normal Operating Sounds

Newer refrigerators sound different from older refrigerators. Modern refrigerators have more features and use newer technology.

Do you hear what I hear? These sounds are normal.

• The new high efficiency compressor may run faster and longer than your old refrigerator and you may hear a high-pitched hum or pulsating sound while it is operating.
• You may hear a whooshing sound when the doors close. This is due to pressure equalizing within the refrigerator.

|

• You may hear the fans spinning at high speeds.
  This happens when the refrigerator is first plugged in, when the doors are opened frequently or when a large amount of food is added to the refrigerator or freezer compartments.
  The fans are helping to maintain the correct temperatures.

---|---

CLICKS, POPS, CRACKS and CHIRPS

• You may hear cracking or popping sounds when the refrigerator is first plugged in. This happens as the refrigerator cools to the correct temperature.
• The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping sound when attempting to restart (this could take up to 5 minutes).
• Expansion and contraction of cooling coils during and after defrost can cause a cracking or popping sound.
• On models with an icemaker, after an ice making cycle, you may hear the ice cubes dropping into the ice bucket.

|     WATER SOUNDS

• The flow of refrigerant through the freezer cooling coils may make a gurgling noise like boiling water.
• Water dropping on the defrost heater can cause a sizzling, popping or buzzing sound during the defrost cycle.
• A water dripping noise may occur during the defrost cycle as ice melts from the evaporator and flows into the drain pan.
• Closing the door may cause a gurgling sound due to pressure equalization.

Troubleshooting Tips… Before you call for service

Save time and money! Review the charts on the following pages first and you may not need to call for service. If needed, service can be scheduled by visiting us online GEAppliances.com or calling 800.GECARES 800.432.2737.
In Canada visit GEAppliances.ca or call 800.561.3344.

minutes for defrost cycle to end.
Refrigerator is unplugged.| Push the plug completely into the outlet.
The fuse is blown/circuit breaker is tripped.| Replace fuse or reset the breaker.
Vibration or rattling (slight vibration is normal)| Front leveling legs need adjusting.| See Leveling Legs.
Motor operates for long periods or cycles on and off frequently. (Modem refrigerators with more storage space and a larger freezer require more operating time. They start and stop often to maintain even temperatures.)| Normal when refrigerator is first plugged in.| Wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to completely cool down.
Often occurs when large amounts of food are placed in refrigerator.| This is normal.
Door left open.| Check to see if a package is holding door open.
Hot weather or frequent door openings.| This is normal.
Temperature control set at the coldest setting.| See About the control.
Fresh food or freezer compartment too warm| Temperature control not set cold enough.| See About the control.
Warm weather or frequent door openings.| Set the temperature control one step colder. See About the control.
Door left open.| Check to see if a package is holding door open.
Frost or ice crystals on frozen food (frost within package is normal)| Door left open.| Check to see if a package is holding door open.
Too frequent or too long door openings.|
Ice cubes have odor/ taste| Food transmitting odor/taste to ice cubes.| Wrap foods well.
Interior of refrigerator needs cleaning.| See Care and cleaning.
Slow ice cube freezing| Door left open.| Check to see if package is holding door open.
Temperature control not set cold enough.| See About the control.
Refrigerator has odor| Foods transmitting odor to refrigerator.| Foods with strong odors should be tightly wrapped. Keep an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator; replace every three months.
Interior needs cleaning.| See Care and cleaning.
Moisture forms on outside of refrigerator| Not unusual during periods of high humidity.| Wipe surface dry.
Moisture collects inside (in humid weather, air carries moisture into refrigerator when doors are opened)| Too frequent or too long door openings.|
Interior light does not work| No power at outlet.| Replace fuse or reset the breaker.
LED light burned out.| See Replacing the LED light
Food is freezing in the refrigerator| Food too close to the air vent at the back of the refrigerator.| Move the food away from the air vent.
Refrigerator control is set too cold.| Move the refrigerator control to a warmer temperature setting one increment at a time. See About the controls.
Food too close to the thermistor and blocks the air flow to the thermistor.| Move the food away from the thermistor.
Rust, tarnish, or grime on stainless steel doors| Moist environment or salt air.| Clean stainless steel with cleaners containing oxalic acid (e.g. Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser) will remove rust, lime, and other tarnish. Do not wipe the refrigerator with a soiled dish cloth or wet towel. Do not use scouring pads, powdered cleaners, bleach or cleaners containing bleach because these products can scratch and ruin the brush finish of the stainless steel.

LIMITED WARRANTY

Staple your receipt here. Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under the warranty.

Refrigerator Limited Warranty

For US Customers , all warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician. To schedule service, on- line, 24 hours a day, visit us at GEAppliances.com, or call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737). Please have serial number and model number available when calling for service.
In Canada , call 800.561.3344.
Servicing your refrigerator may require the use of the onboard data port for diagnostics. This gives a GE Appliances Factory Service technician the ability to quickly diagnose any issues with your appliance and helps improve its products by providing information on your appliance. If you do not want your appliance data to be sent to GE Appliances, please advise your technician NOT to submit the data at the time of service.

One Year
From the date of the original purchase| Any part of the refrigerator which fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During the limited one-year warranty , GE Appliances will also provide, free of charge , all labor and related service to replace the defective part.

What is Not Covered:

• Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the product.
• Improper installation, delivery or maintenance.
• Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for other than the intended purpose or used commercially.
• Loss of food due to spoilage.
• Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers.
• Damage caused after delivery.
• Replacement of the water filter cartridge, if included, due to water pressure that is outside the specified operating range or due to excessive sediment in the water supply.
• Replacement of the light bulbs, if included, or water filter cartridge, if included, other than as noted above.
• Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or acts of God.
• Incidental or consequential damage caused by possible defects with this appliance.
• Product not accessible to provide required service.
• Damage caused by a non-GE Appliances Brand water filter.
• Damage to finish, such as surface rust, tarnish, or small blemishes not reported within 48 hours of delivery.
• Products which are not defective, broken, or which are working as described in the owner’s manual.

EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES—Your sole and exclusive remedy is product repair as provided in this Limited Warranty. Any implied warranties, including the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law.

For US Customers: This limited warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home use within the USA. If the product is located in an area where service by a GE Appliances Authorized Servicer is not available, you may be responsible for a trip charge or you may be required to bring the product to an Authorized GE Appliances Service location for service. In Alaska, the limited warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal rights are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state’s Attorney General.

Warrantor US: GE Appliances, a Haier company
Louisville, KY 40225

For Customers in Canada: This limited warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased in Canada for home use within Canada. In-home warrant service will be provided in areas where it is available and deemed reasonable by Mabe to provide.

Warrantor Canada: MC Commercial, Burlington, Ontario, L7R 5B6

ACCESSORIES

Accessories

Icemaker Accessory Kit IM4D:

An IM4D icemaker accessory kit is available at extra cost.

To order, go to GEApplianceparts.com or call 800.626.2002. In Canada call 800.661.1616. For installation, please follow instructions in the IM4D Icemaker Accessory Kit Owner’s Manual.

NOTE: The step shelf in the freezer MUST be placed in the lowest position when the icemaker is installed.

The water valve cover assembly that came with the Owner’s Manual must be installed when installing the optional icemaker kit. Please call 800.626.2002 and order part WR13X20070 if the water valve cover assembly is missing. In Canada, call 800.661.1616.
Please follow instructions in the Water Valve Installation Procedure sheet attached to the back of the unit.

1. Icemaker
2. Feeler Arm
3. Power Switch

Connect to potable water supply only.

A cold water supply is required for automatic icemaker operation. The water pressure must be between 40 and 120 psi (275-827 kilopascals)

Water Supply Kits

Kits containing copper tubing, shutoff valve, fittings and instructions needed to connect the icemaker to your cold water line are available at extra cost from your dealer or from Parts and Accessories. In the U.S., call 800.626.2002. In Canada, call 800.661.1616.

For water valve installation, please follow the instructions in the IM4D Icemaker Accessory Kit Owner’s Manual and the Water Valve Installation Procedure sheet attached to the back of the unit.

Notes

49-1000508 Rev. 0

CONSUMER SUPPORT

Consumer Support

GE Appliances Website

Have a question or need assistance with your appliance? Try the GE Appliances Website 24 hours a day, any day of the year! You can also shop for more great GE Appliances products and take advantage of all our on-line support services designed for your convenience. In the US: GEAppliances.com In Canada: GEAppliances.ca

Register Your Appliance

Register your new appliance on-line at your convenience! Timely product registration will allow for enhanced communication and prompt service under the terms of your warranty, should the need arise. You may also mail in the pre-printed registration card included in the packing material.
In the US: GEAppliances.com/register
In the Canada: Prodsupport.mabe.ca/crm/Products/ProductRegistration.aspx

Schedule Service

Expert GE Appliances repair service is only one step away from your door. Get on-line and schedule your service at your convenience any day of the year. In the US: GEAppliances.com/service or call 800.432.2737 during normal business hours.
In Canada: GEAppliances.ca/en/support/service- request or call 800.561.3344

Extended Warranties

Purchase a GE Appliances extended warranty and learn about special discounts that are available while your warranty is still in effect. You can purchase it on-line anytime. GE Appliances Services will still be there after your warranty expires.
In the US: GEAppliances.com/extended-warranty or call 800.626.2224 during normal business hours.
In Canada: GEAppliances.ca/en/support/purchase-extended- warranty or call 800.290.9029

Remote Connectivity

For assistance with wireless network connectivity (for models with remote enable), visit our website at GEAppliances.com/connect or call 800.220.6899.
In Canada: GEAppliances.ca/connected-home-smart- appliances/ or call 800.220.6899.

Parts and Accessories

Individuals qualified to service their own appliances can have parts or accessories sent directly to their homes (VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted). Order on-line today 24 hours every day.
In the US: GEApplianceparts.com or by phone at 877.959.8688 during normal business hours.

Instructions contained in this manual cover procedures to be performed by any user. Other servicing generally should be referred to qualified service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since improper servicing may cause unsafe operation.

Customers in Canada should consult the yellow pages for the nearest Mabe service center, visit our website at GEAppliances.ca/en/products/parts- filters-accessories or call 800.661.1616.

Contact Us

If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from GE Appliances, contact us on our Website with all the details including your phone number, or write to:

In the US: General Manager, Customer Relations | GE Appliances, Appliance Park | Louisville, KY 40225
GEAppliances.com/contact

In Canada: Director, Consumer Relations, Mabe Canada Inc. | Suite 310, 1 Factory Lane | Moncton, N.B. E1C 9M3
GEAppliances.ca/en/contact-us

Printed in United States

References

• Appliance Parts, Accessories & Water Filters | GE Appliances
• Connect Your Smart Appliances
• Contact Us or Get Help with Questions | GE Appliances
• Bodewell Care Protection Plans
• GEAppliances.com/register
• Appliance Repair Service and Support | GE Appliances
• Prodsupport.mabe.ca/crm/Products/ProductRegistration.aspx

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>