This document is a user manual for Thomson Chest Freezers, models TFRF520-C-SM and TFRF710-D-SM. It provides essential information regarding general safety, installation, features, usage, maintenance, troubleshooting, and product specifications.
Function Description:
The Thomson Chest Freezer is designed for freestanding installation in household and similar applications. Its primary function is to freeze and store food items, maintaining them at low temperatures to preserve their quality and extend their shelf life. The freezer is suitable for use in various settings, including staff kitchen areas, offices, farmhouses, hotels, motels, bed and breakfast establishments, and catering services. It is not intended for recessed or built-in installation.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual covers two models: TFRF520-C-SM and TFRF710-D-SM.
- Capacity of Chest Freezer (CU FT):
- TFRF520-C-SM: 5.4 CU FT
- TFRF710-D-SM: 7.0 CU FT
- Temperature Control Type: Mechanical for both models.
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 6.8°F (-14°C to -20°C) for both models.
- Dimensions (approximate):
- Depth (Excluding Hinge): 21.85 inches (both models)
- Depth (Including Hinge): 23.23 inches (both models)
- Height with Door Open 45 Degrees: 47.64 inches (both models)
- Height with Door Open 90 Degrees: 54.33 inches (both models)
- Product Width:
- TFRF520-C-SM: 28.94 inches
- TFRF710-D-SM: 35.24 inches
- Product Depth: 23.23 inches (both models)
- Product Height: 33.46 inches (both models)
- Electrical Requirement: 115 volts, 15 amps outlet with proper grounding. The freezer is not designed to operate in temperatures below 55°F.
Usage Features:
- Installation:
- The freezer should be placed on a floor strong enough to support it when fully loaded.
- When moving, the freezer should not be tilted more than a 45-degree angle to prevent compressor and sealed system damage. If tilted, it must stand upright for at least 24 hours before plugging in to allow refrigerant to settle.
- Recommended clearances for proper air circulation: 4 inches (102mm) on sides and back, and the top should not be blocked.
- It should be installed in a properly insulated and heated location, away from direct sunlight, radiators, baseboard heaters, or cooking appliances.
- Operation:
- After placement, plug the freezer into a 115-volt, 15-amp electrical outlet.
- The temperature control knob has settings from "1" (warmest) to "7" (coldest). The initial recommended setting is "4". After 24 hours, adjust to the desired setting.
- Setting "5" is generally sufficient for regular home use.
- To stop the cooling function, turn the dial to "0".
- If unplugged or in case of a power outage, wait 5 minutes before plugging it back in.
- The temperature inside can vary based on ambient room temperature, lid opening frequency, and the amount of fresh food added.
- Avoid overloading the appliance and freezing large quantities of fresh food simultaneously to maintain performance.
- A "quick-frozen mode" is indicated by setting "7", which may cause the compressor to run continuously. Frequent use of this setting is not recommended.
- Food Storage:
- The freezer includes a removable vinyl-coated wire basket for accessible storage.
- Containers should be wiped before storing to prevent spills.
- Hot food should be allowed to cool before freezing to conserve energy.
- Meats should be stored in their original packaging or rewrapped.
- Proper packaging is crucial to prevent air and moisture flow, which can lead to odor and taste transfer and drying out of food. Recommended packaging includes plastic containers with airtight lids, heavy-duty aluminum foil, saran film plastic wrap, and self-sealing plastic bags.
- Do not refreeze defrosted/thawed foods.
- It is recommended to mark the freezing date on packaging.
- Storage suggestions for various foods are provided, ranging from 3-4 months for TV dinners to 1 year for whole chicken or turkey.
- Normal Operating Sounds:
- Boiling water, gurgling sounds, or slight vibrations are normal due to refrigerant circulation.
- The thermostat control will click when cycling on and off.
Maintenance Features:
- Defrosting and Draining:
- Defrost when frost becomes 1/4 inch thick for efficient operation.
- Never use sharp or metallic instruments to remove frost, as this can damage cooling coils and void the warranty.
- Do not use boiling water; allow ice and frost to melt naturally.
- Remove frozen food and place it in a cooler during defrosting.
- Unplug the unit. Defrosting typically takes a few hours; keeping the door open can speed up the process.
- For draining, place a tray beneath the exterior drain plug, unscrew and remove the plug to allow water to flow out. Monitor the tray to prevent overflow.
- After draining, wipe the interior with a soft cloth, replace the drain plug, plug in the power cord, reset the temperature control, and return food.
- Cleaning:
- Always unplug the freezer before cleaning to avoid electric shock.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of 3-4 tablespoons of baking soda mixed with warm water. Use a sponge or soft cloth dampened with this solution to wipe down the freezer.
- Rinse with clean warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives, ammonia, chlorine bleach, concentrated detergents, solvents, or metal scouring pads, as they can dissolve, damage, or discolor the freezer.
- Door Gaskets:
- Clean door gaskets every three months to ensure a proper seal.
- Applying petroleum jelly lightly on the hinge side of gaskets helps keep them pliable and ensures a good seal.
- Power Interruptions:
- During thunderstorms or other power outages, remove the power cord.
- After power is restored, replug the cord.
- If the outage is prolonged, inspect and discard spoiled or thawed food, then clean the freezer before reusing.
- Vacation and Moving Care:
- For long vacations or absences, empty the freezer, unplug it, and clean the door gaskets. Prop the doors open to allow air circulation.
- When moving, always move the freezer vertically. Moving it lying down can damage the sealed system.
- Disposal:
- This appliance should not be treated as regular household waste.
- It should be taken to an appropriate waste collection point for recycling electrical components.
- Contact local waste removal agencies or government offices for information on collection points and to ensure disposal is in accordance with federal and local regulations.
Safety Rules:
- Read all instructions before use.
- Wait 24 hours after placing the freezer in a horizontal or tilted position before plugging it in.
- Use the appliance only for its intended purpose.
- Ensure proper installation and grounding.
- Never unplug by pulling the power cord; always grasp the plug firmly.
- Immediately repair or replace damaged electrical cords.
- Unplug before cleaning or repairs; service should be performed by a certified technician.
- Do not use electrical devices or sharp instruments for defrosting.
- Remove doors from old freezers to prevent child entrapment.
- Avoid touching cold surfaces with damp or wet hands to prevent skin adhesion.
- Do not refreeze completely thawed foods.
- Do not operate in the presence of explosive fumes.
- Keep ventilation openings clear of obstruction.
- Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.
- Do not use electrical appliances inside food storage compartments unless recommended by the manufacturer.
- Children should be supervised and not allowed to play with the appliance.
- Do not use extension cords or ungrounded (two-prong) adapters.
- If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or a qualified person.