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Amana Distinctions - User Manual

Amana Distinctions
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Part No. 12591321
Form No. A/05/03
©2003 Maytag Appliances Sales Co.
Side by Side
Refrigerator
Questions about your features?
Please contact us with your model and serial number:
Maytag Services
SM
Attn: Amana CAIR
®
Center
P.O. Box 39
403 West 4th Street North
Newton, Iowa 50208-0039
Ph# 1-800-843-0304 in U.S.A.
1-866-587-2002 au Canada
Internet: http://www.amana.com
Owner’s Manual
Covering and Models
Keep instructions for future reference.
Keep this manual and your sales receipt together in a safe place
in case warranty service is required.
Contents
Introduction..........................................................................................2
Important Safety Information ...............................................................3
Installing Your Refrigerator.............................................................4-10
Measuring the Opening.....................................................................4
Transporting Your Refrigerator ..........................................................4
Selecting the Best Location ..............................................................4
How to Install and Remove Handles.................................................5
Removing the Doors and Hinges ......................................................7
Replacing the Doors..........................................................................7
How to Install and Remove Panels...................................................8
How to Connect the Water Supply....................................................9
How to Level Your Refrigerator .......................................................10
Setting and Maintaining Proper Temperatures ..................................11
Initial Temperature Settings .............................................................11
Adjusting the Controls .....................................................................11
How to Perform a Temperature Test ...............................................11
About Your Water Filter .....................................................................12
Water Filter Removal and Installation .............................................12
Water Filter Data ...............................................................................13
Fresh Food Features....................................................................14-16
Interior Shelves ...............................................................................14
Door Storage...................................................................................14
Climate-Controlled Drawers ............................................................15
Storage Drawers .............................................................................16
Accessories .....................................................................................16
Freezer Features..........................................................................17-18
Automatic Ice Maker........................................................................17
Interior Shelves ...............................................................................17
Door Storage...................................................................................18
Dispenser Features......................................................................19-20
Dispenser Light ...............................................................................19
Dispenser Pad.................................................................................19
Removable Tray ..............................................................................19
Water Dispenser Operation.............................................................19
Control Features .............................................................................20
Hints and Care .............................................................................21-22
How to Clean Your Refrigerator ......................................................21
How to Remove Odors from Refrigerator .......................................22
Energy Saving Ideas .......................................................................22
How to Remove and Replace Light Bulbs ......................................22
Normal Operating Sounds.................................................................23
Troubleshooting............................................................................24-26
Warranty ............................................................................................28
As an Energy Star
®
Partner,
Amana
®
has determined that this
product* meets the Energy Star
®
guidelines for energy efficiency.
* This manual covers several models. Please refer to the feature
sticker on the interior of the fresh food door to verify that your
model number complies with Energy Star
®
standards.

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers

  • J
    jessicaclarkAug 19, 2025
    Why is my Amana Distinctions Refrigerator leaking water?
    • E
      Edwin HarrisAug 19, 2025
      If your Amana Refrigerator is leaking water, the cause might be related to the water connection. The manufacturer recommends using copper tubing for installation, as plastic tubing is less durable and can lead to leaks. Also, avoid using self-piercing and 3/16” saddle valves, as they can cause low water pressure and may clog the line.
  • B
    Beverly HenryAug 21, 2025
    Why is the ice maker not producing ice in my Amana Refrigerator?
    • E
      Erin MendozaAug 21, 2025
      If the ice maker in your Amana Refrigerator isn't producing ice, first, make sure the ice maker arm is in the correct position. Check that the household water supply is properly connected and reaching the water valve. Inspect the copper or plastic tubing for any kinks, and if found, turn off the water supply and remove them or replace the tubing. Ensure that the water pressure is adequate, ideally between 20 to 100 psi, with a minimum of 35 psi for refrigerators with water filters. Also, verify that the freezer temperature is between 0 to 2° F (-18 to –17° C) and that the ice bin is correctly installed.
  • K
    Kevin SandersAug 23, 2025
    Why are water droplets forming on the outside of my Amana Distinctions Refrigerator?
    • J
      Julia BullockAug 25, 2025
      If water droplets are forming on the outside of your Amana Refrigerator, it could be due to several reasons. Check for any internal obstructions preventing the door from closing properly, such as improperly closed drawers or oversized containers. Ensure the door gaskets are sealing correctly by cleaning them. High humidity levels can also cause this issue, which is normal during humid conditions. Lastly, the temperature controls may need adjustment.
  • M
    Mark HicksAug 26, 2025
    What to do if food temperature appears too warm in my Amana Distinctions?
    • C
      Cassie NelsonAug 26, 2025
      If the food temperature in your Amana Refrigerator appears too warm, ensure the door is closing properly. Check and clean the door gaskets to ensure they are sealing well. Adjust the temperature controls as needed. Clean the condenser coils, and make sure the rear air grille isn't blocked by food items. Reduce the amount of time the door is open and organize food efficiently. Also, allow recently added food time to cool down.
  • J
    Janice BruceAug 27, 2025
    Why are water droplets forming on the inside of my Amana Distinctions?
    • A
      Anthony HarrisAug 28, 2025
      If water droplets are forming on the inside of your Amana Refrigerator, it may be due to high humidity levels or frequent door openings. Try to reduce the time the door is open and organize food items efficiently. Also, ensure that the door gaskets are sealing properly by cleaning them.
  • J
    John BrownAug 30, 2025
    What to do if the temperature of food is too cold in my Amana Distinctions?
    • A
      amy84Aug 30, 2025
      If the food in your Amana Refrigerator is too cold, the condenser coils might be dirty and require cleaning. Alternatively, the refrigerator or freezer controls may be set too high, requiring adjustment.
  • A
    aprilsandovalSep 1, 2025
    Why is the water filter indicator light red on my Amana Distinctions Refrigerator?
    • M
      Megan CoxSep 1, 2025
      If the water filter indicator light is red on your Amana Refrigerator, it means the water filter needs to be replaced. If a replacement filter isn't available, you can use a bypass filter.
  • J
    Justin HigginsSep 3, 2025
    Why are the environment-controlled drawers too warm in my Amana Distinctions Refrigerator?
    • A
      Amy MejiaSep 3, 2025
      If the environment-controlled drawers in your Amana Refrigerator are too warm, the control settings might be too low. Also, check if the freezer controls are set too low. Lastly, make sure the drawer is properly positioned.
  • J
    jennifer86Sep 5, 2025
    Why is the water flow slower than normal in my Amana Distinctions Refrigerator?
    • S
      Sandra ScottSep 5, 2025
      If the water flow in your Amana Refrigerator is slower than normal, it might be due to low water pressure. The water pressure should be between 20 to 100 pounds per square inch for proper function; a minimum of 35 pounds per square inch is recommended if you have a water filter. Another potential cause is an improperly installed water valve; avoid self-piercing and 3/16” saddle valves. Kinks in the copper or plastic tubing can also restrict water flow—turn off the water supply and remove any kinks, replacing the tubing if necessary. Finally, the water filter may be clogged and require replacement.
  • J
    James JacksonSep 7, 2025
    What to do if my Amana Distinctions does not operate?
    • P
      Patricia FloresSep 8, 2025
      If your Amana Refrigerator isn't operating, start by ensuring it's properly plugged in. For select models, check that the dial control in the freezer isn't set to off or that the electronic temperature controls haven't been turned off. Also, inspect the fuse and circuit breaker, replacing any blown fuses and resetting the breaker if needed. Lastly, consider whether there has been a power outage in your area.

Summary

Important Safety Information

What You Need to Know About Safety Instructions

General guidance on understanding safety warnings and precautions in the manual.

Recognize Safety Symbols, Words, Labels

Explanation of safety symbols, words like DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION.

Installing Your Refrigerator

Measuring the Opening

Details on required clearances for installing the refrigerator in an opening.

Transporting Your Refrigerator

Tips and precautions for safely moving the refrigerator to its final location.

Selecting the Best Location

Guidelines for choosing an optimal and safe location for the refrigerator.

How to Install and Remove Handles

Installing Front-Mounted Handles

Step-by-step instructions for attaching front-mounted handles to the refrigerator doors.

Removing Front-Mounted Handles

Procedure for detaching front-mounted handles from the refrigerator doors.

Installing Full-Length Extruded Handles

Guide for installing long, extruded handles on the refrigerator doors.

Removing Full-Length Extruded Handles

Instructions for taking off full-length extruded handles from the doors.

Refrigerator Handle Installation (Stainless Steel)

Installing Standard Handles

Detailed steps for attaching standard handles to refrigerator doors.

Removing Standard Handles

Procedure for detaching standard handles from refrigerator doors.

Installing Front-Mounted Handles for Stainless Steel

Instructions for installing front-mounted handles on stainless steel models.

Removing Front-Mounted Handles for Stainless Steel

Procedure for removing front-mounted handles from stainless steel models.

Removing the Doors and Hinges

Replacing the Doors

Steps for reinstalling refrigerator doors and hinges after removal.

Refrigerator Panel Installation

How to Install and Remove Panels

Instructions for installing and removing decorative panels on refrigerator doors.

Installing Panels

Step-by-step guide for fitting and securing decorative panels onto the refrigerator doors.

Removing Panels

Procedure for safely detaching decorative panels from the refrigerator doors.

How to Connect the Water Supply

How to Level Your Refrigerator

Setting and Maintaining Proper Temperatures

Initial Temperature Settings

Guidance on setting initial temperatures for the refrigerator and freezer compartments.

Adjusting the Controls

Instructions for modifying temperature controls for desired cooling levels.

How to Perform a Temperature Test

Method for testing refrigerator and freezer temperatures using thermometers.

About Your Water Filter

Water Filter Removal and Installation

Steps for removing and installing the refrigerator's water filter cartridge.

Initial Install of Water Filter

Procedure for installing a new water filter for the first time.

Replacing Water Filter

Instructions on how to replace an existing water filter with a new one.

Water Filter Maintenance and Ordering

Guidance on changing, ordering, flushing, and bypassing the water filter system.

Fresh Food Compartment Features

Interior Shelves

Information on various types of interior shelves, including SpillSaver, SideGlide, and extensions.

Door Storage Features

Details on door storage components like the Beverage Chiller or Mini Chiller.

Freezer Compartment Features

Automatic Ice Maker

Information and operating instructions for the automatic ice maker system.

Interior Shelves

Details on fixed, hanging wire, and Stor-Mor system shelves in the freezer.

Quick Chill Zone

Description of the Quick Chill Zone shelf for rapid chilling or freezing of items.

Freezer Compartment Features (Continued)

Ice Storage Bin

Instructions for removing and installing the ice storage bin in the freezer.

Door Storage

Details on adjustable and fixed door buckets for organizing items in the freezer door.

Tilt-Out Door Buckets

Information on tilt-out door bucket assemblies for convenient freezer door storage.

Ice and Water Dispenser Features

Dispenser Light

Explanation of the light that activates in the dispenser area during use.

Dispenser Pad

Location and function of the dispenser pad used for selecting and dispensing ice/water.

Removable Tray

Description of the removable tray at the dispenser base for collecting spills.

Front Fill Button

Details on the front fill button feature for dispensing water into large containers.

Water Dispenser Operation

Guidelines and precautions for operating the water dispenser.

Dispenser Control Features

Control Features

Overview of the 5-button and 3-button control panels for the dispenser.

Ice Dispenser Operation

Instructions on how to select and dispense cubed or crushed ice.

Dispenser Lock

Explanation of the dispenser lock feature to prevent accidental dispensing.

Filter Status Indicator Light

Meaning of the filter status light and how to reset it after filter replacement.

Auto Light

Information on the auto light function that activates the dispenser light in low light.

Sabbath Mode

How to activate and deactivate Sabbath mode to disable lights and dispenser during rest periods.

Refrigerator Hints and Care

How to Clean Your Refrigerator

Detailed instructions for cleaning different parts of the refrigerator, including warnings.

Refrigerator Hints and Care (Continued)

How to Remove Odors from Refrigerator

Steps to eliminate unpleasant odors from the refrigerator interior.

Energy Saving Ideas

Tips for optimizing refrigerator efficiency and reducing energy consumption.

How to Remove and Replace Light Bulbs

Procedure for safely replacing light bulbs in the fresh food and freezer sections.

Understanding Normal Refrigerator Sounds

Refrigerator Troubleshooting Guide

Operation Problems

Solutions for issues related to compressors, drawers, and general operation of the refrigerator.

Food Temperature Issues

Troubleshooting problems with food being too cold or too warm, and door sealing.

Refrigerator Odor and Water Droplets

Addressing issues with refrigerator odors and water droplets forming inside or outside.

Troubleshooting: Operation and Ice;Water

Drawer and Refrigerator Operation Issues

Solutions for drawers not closing freely and refrigerator running too frequently.

Ice and Water Issues

Troubleshooting cloudy water, particles, dispenser lights, and ice/water dispensing problems.

Troubleshooting: Ice Maker and Water Flow

Ice Maker and Water Filter Issues

Solutions for ice maker not producing ice, red filter light, and leaking water.

Water Flow and Dispenser Temperature

Troubleshooting slow water flow, improper water installation, and dispenser water not being cold.

Amana Refrigerator Warranty Information

Owners Responsibility

List of responsibilities for the refrigerator owner regarding care, maintenance, and service.

Amana Distinctions Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandAmana
ModelDistinctions
CategoryRefrigerator
LanguageEnglish

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