Care and Cleaning
Preparing for Vacation
CAUTION
If your refrigerator has a dispenser and there is any possibility that the temperature can drop below freezing where the refrigerator is located, the water supply system (including the water tank and the water valve) must be drained by a qualified servicer.
For short vacations or absences (three months or less):
1.Remove all perishables.
2.If no one will be checking in on the refrigerator
during your absence, remove all frozen items also.
3.If your refrigerator has an automatic ice maker:
•Shut off the water supply to the ice maker at least one day ahead of time.
•After the last load of ice drops, raise the wire shut off arm to the OFF position.
•Empty the ice bin.
4.If the room temperature will drop below 55° F
(13° C), follow the instructions for longer absences.
For long vacations, absences (more than three months) OR if the room temperature will drop below 55° F (13° C):
1.Remove food.
2.If your refrigerator has an automatic ice maker:
•Shut off the water supply to the ice maker at least one day ahead of time.
•After the last load of ice drops, raise the wire shut off arm to the OFF position.
•Empty the ice bin.
3.If your refrigerator has a dispenser system with water filter, remove the water filter cartridge and install the filter bypass. Dispose of the used cartridge.
4.Turn the freezer control to OFF.
5.Unplug the refrigerator.
6.Thoroughly clean the interior of both compartments with a baking soda solution and a clean soft cloth (four tablespoons of baking soda in one quart of warm water.).
7.Dry thoroughly.
8.Leave the doors open to prevent the formation of mold and mildew.
Upon Your Return:
After a Short Vacation or Absence:
For models with automatic ice makers or dispensers:
•Reconnect the water supply and turn on supply valve (see pages
•Monitor water connection for 24 hours and correct leaks if necessary.
•Run
•Restart the ice maker.
•Discard at least the first three ice harvests.
After a Long Vacation or Absence:
•If your refrigerator has an automatic ice maker, reconnect the water supply and turn on supply valve (see pages
•Plug the refrigerator back in and reset controls (see pages 7).
•Monitor water connection for 24 hours and correct leaks, if necessary.
For dispenser models, run water through the dispenser for at least three minutes with the filter bypass in place, then install water filter.
•After installing the water filter, run water through the dispenser continuously for at least two minutes, or until water runs steady. Initially you may notice a one to two minute delay in water dispersal as the internal tanks fills.
•Restart the ice maker.
•Discard ice produced within the first 12 hours (at least the first three harvests).
Preparing to Move
•Follow the above instructions for long vacations/absences, through step 7.
•Secure all loose items such as shelves and drawers by taping them securely in place to prevent damage.
•Tape the doors shut.
•Use an appliance dolly when moving the refrigerator. Always truck the refrigerator from its side or back- never from its front.
•Be sure the refrigerator stays in an upright position during moving.
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