This document is an instruction manual for a Russell Hobbs Under Counter Larder Fridge, model number(s) RHUCLF2 (W) (B) (SS). It provides comprehensive information on the appliance's function, technical specifications, usage, and maintenance.
Function Description:
The Russell Hobbs Under Counter Larder Fridge is designed for domestic use to store food and beverages. It operates as a larder fridge, meaning it primarily provides refrigeration and does not include a freezer compartment for long-term frozen food storage, although some models may have two-star frozen-food compartments suitable for pre-frozen food, ice cream, and ice cubes. The appliance uses R600a (Isobutene) as a natural refrigerant gas, which is environmentally friendly. The temperature inside the fridge is controlled by a thermostat knob located internally, allowing users to adjust the cooling level. The fridge is equipped with adjustable shelves, a crisper drawer for fruits and vegetables, bottle racks, and a door rack for organized storage. It also features an internal light for visibility. The door is reversible, offering flexibility in installation to suit different kitchen layouts.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Number(s): RHUCLF2 (W) (B) (SS) - indicating white, black, and stainless steel variants.
- Rated Voltage: 220V – 240V ~ 50Hz.
- Capacity: 110 Litres.
- External Dimensions (HxWxD): 845mm x 501mm x 540mm.
- Refrigerant Gas: R600a (Isobutene).
- Internal Lighting: Energy-efficient, long-life LED (maximum 2W bulb, replaceable by a qualified engineer).
- Power Connection: Must be plugged into an earthed socket.
Usage Features:
- Installation: The appliance requires a minimum of 3 hours to stand upright before plugging in to allow the coolant to settle. It should be placed in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like stoves or ovens, with at least 10cm clearance from heating cores and 30cm above the appliance. If placed next to kitchen cabinets, a 5cm gap is recommended, and 6cm from the back wall. It must be on a flat, firm, and level surface, using adjustable feet for stability.
- Temperature Control: The internal thermostat knob allows temperature adjustment from 1 (warmest) to 6 (coldest). The recommended normal setting is 5. Setting 6 is a rapid cool setting for large amounts of food and should only be used for 2 hours before returning to setting 5 to prevent temperatures from dropping below 0°C. The standard operating temperature for the fridge compartment should be between 0°C and 4°C.
- Door Reversal: The door can be reversed to open from either the left or right side. This process involves tilting the appliance backward (no more than 45 degrees), removing the top cover, detaching the top hinge, swapping the bottom door stopper, and then reattaching the hinges and door on the opposite side. A minimum of 2 people are recommended for this task due to the appliance's weight. After reversal, the appliance must remain upright for at least 3 hours before being switched on.
- Food Storage Guidelines:
- Door or balconies: Foods with natural preservatives (jams, juices, drinks, condiments). Perishable foods should not be stored here.
- Crisper drawer (salad drawer): Fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Bananas, onions, potatoes, and garlic should not be stored in the refrigerator.
- Bottom fridge shelf: Raw meat, poultry, fish (for short-term storage).
- Chiller (box/drawer): Dairy products, eggs.
- Middle fridge shelf: Foods that do not need cooking (ready-to-eat foods, deli meats, leftovers).
- Top fridge shelf: Foods for long-term storage.
- Two-star frozen-food compartments (if present): Suitable for storing pre-frozen food, ice cream, and making ice cubes. Not suitable for freezing fresh food.
- Energy Saving Advice:
- Avoid installing near heat sources.
- Ensure good ventilation and clear air vents.
- Minimize door opening frequency and duration.
- Ensure door seals are clean and intact.
- Store perishable foods in the coldest part (usually the bottom shelves), and vegetables/salads in the crisper box (warmest part).
- Do not overload the appliance to allow proper air circulation.
- Allow hot food to cool down before placing it in the fridge.
Maintenance Features:
- Internal Cleaning: Disconnect from power. Clean periodically with a solution of bicarbonate of soda (5ml to 0.5 litre of warm water) and a damp cloth. Clean accessories separately with soap and water; do not use a dishwasher. Avoid abrasive products, detergents, or soaps. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. Reconnect with dry hands.
- External Cleaning: Wash the outer cabinet with warm soapy water. Do NOT use abrasive products. Exercise caution due to sharp edges on the underside.
- Dusting: Once or twice a year, dust the rear of the appliance and the compressor with a brush or vacuum cleaner to prevent dust accumulation, which can affect performance and increase energy consumption.
- When Not in Use: For long periods of disuse, disconnect from electricity, empty all food, clean the interior, and leave the door open to prevent odour build-up.
- Troubleshooting: The manual includes a troubleshooting section addressing common issues such as the fridge not working, insufficient cooling, excessive cooling, wet internal/external surfaces (condensation), smells/odours, doors not closing properly, and unusual noises (bubbling, gurgling, water flowing, compressor noise). Solutions range from checking power connections and thermostat settings to cleaning drainage pipes and ensuring proper appliance levelling and spacing.
- Light Bulb Replacement: The LED light is designed for long life and should ideally not need replacing. If it does, it must be replaced by a qualified engineer. Instructions are provided for engineers, involving unplugging, locating the lamp cover, twisting it off with a coin, replacing the 2W bulb, and reassembling.
Customer Services & Spare Parts:
For customer services and spare parts, users can call 0345 208 8750 or visit https://mda.russellhobbs.com.
Guarantee:
The product is guaranteed for 12 months from the date of original purchase against faulty materials or workmanship. A valid proof of purchase is required for replacement or refund, which is at the discretion of Product Care. The guarantee is valid for domestic use only and does not cover wear and tear, damage, misuse, or consumable parts.
The manual features the 'Crossed-out wheelie bin Symbol', indicating that the product/batteries should not be disposed of with general household waste. Electrical/electronic/battery items must be discarded in separate collection schemes for recovery and recycling. Users are directed to www.recycle-more.co.uk or in-store for disposal facility details.