Maintenance and Cleaning, Defrosting the freezer

Instructions for the user

9. MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING

9.1 Defrosting the refrigerator compartment

The refrigerator compartment has automatic defrosting. During normal operation of the refrigerator, frost forms on its back wall when the compressor is working and dissolves when it is not in operation. When the compressor is not working, the frost which has built up on the back wall melts and the water flows into the opening provided in the bottom of the body of the refrigerator. From here, it flows into the tray on the compressor, where it evaporates.

Warning

the amount of ice which forms on the back wall may vary with changes in weather conditions (temperature and humidity), the frequency with which the door is opened, the appliance's operating temperatures and the amount of fresh foods stored inside (especially fruit and vegetables).

9.2 Defrosting the freezer

The freezer compartment has to be defrosted manually. When the thickness of frost or ice on the shelves exceeds 2 cm, the freezer should be defrosted. A few hours before defrosting, use the knob provided to set the thermostat on 7 in order to further lower the temperature of the frozen foods. Then turn the knob to the 0 (stop) setting and disconnect the plug from the electrical mains. Remove the frozen foods from the freezer compartment and protect them from thawing while cleaning. For the FAB32 model, fit the pipe provided into the groove in the bottom of the appliance. Place a container underneath the pipe to collect the defrosted water.

9.3 Cleaning the refrigerator

Before cleaning, disconnect the plug from the electrical mains. Clean the outside using only water and a gentle liquid detergent or an ordinary detergent for washable surfaces (such as a window-cleaning product). Never use products containing abrasives or substances which may attack the lacquered or painted parts, acids or chemical solvents. Use a sponge or a soft cloth.

Do not use steam cleaners to clean the inside; we recommend the use of specific disinfectants. Specific SMEG-brand products for cleaning steel are available from our Service Centres.

Remove the shelves and accessories, taking care not to apply excessive force when removing. Follow the instructions provided in the "Door Shelves and Containers" section carefully. Never wash removable plastic parts in the dishwasher; use only warm water and washing-up liquid or water and vinegar. Take care not to wet the electrical lighting components with water or detergents.

Clean the gaskets with warm water and then dry.

To allow the refrigerator to operate at full efficiency, periodically also clean the condenser on the rear with a brush or a vacuum cleaner.

Also make a periodic check on the tray above the compressor, and clean it if necessary.

9.4 Switching off the refrigerator

If the refrigerator is to be out of use for some time, turn the thermostat knob to 0 (stop). For model FAB32, proceed as explained above to switch off the refrigerator section, and press the switch provided on the controls display to switch off the freezer. Then empty the compartments, disconnect the appliance from the electrical mains, and once it has defrosted dry any residual moisture which has collected. Leave the door ajar to prevent the humidity and trapped air from creating unpleasant smells.