GTW18AW - Freezer Caloric - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Upright Freezer
Brand	Caloric
Model	GTW18AW
Capacity	18 cu ft (approx.)
Dimensions (H x W x D)	65 in x 30 in x 30 in (approx.)
Weight	180 lbs (approx.)
Power Supply	115 V, 60 Hz, 15 A
Annual Energy Consumption	~500 kWh (estimated)
Temperature Control	Adjustable thermostat
Defrost Type	Manual defrost
Interior Light	Yes
Storage Features	Adjustable shelves, door bins, ice cube trays
Door Alarm	Yes (model dependent)
Temperature Alarm	Not available (assumed)
Lock	No (or optional)
Refrigerant	R-134a (or R-600a)
Sound Level	~40 dB (approx.)
Safety	Proper grounding required; do not use extension cord
Cleaning	Clean condenser coils every 6 months; interior with mild soap
Repairability	User manual includes troubleshooting; replaceable gaskets and thermostat
Certification	UL/ETL listed (assumed)

Frequently Asked Questions - GTW18AW Caloric

How do I set the temperature on my Caloric GTW18AW freezer?

Locate the thermostat dial inside the freezer. Turn it to a higher number for colder temperature. The recommended setting for frozen food storage is between -10°F and 0°F.

How often should I defrost my freezer?

Manual defrost is required when the ice build-up reaches 1/4 inch. Typically, defrost every 6 to 12 months or when frost accumulates.

Why is my freezer not freezing properly?

Check if the door is sealing properly, the thermostat is set correctly, and the condenser coils are clean. Also ensure the freezer is not overloaded and has proper ventilation.

Can I use an extension cord with my freezer?

No, do not use an extension cord. Plug the freezer directly into a grounded 120V outlet. Using an extension cord can cause voltage drop and safety hazards.

How do I clean the condenser coils?

Unplug the freezer. Remove the front kickplate. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the coils. Reattach the kickplate and plug in.

What should I do if the door alarm sounds?

The alarm indicates the door has been left open for more than a minute. Close the door completely to silence the alarm. If it persists, check for obstructions or a faulty door switch.

Is the freezer energy efficient?

The estimated annual energy consumption is around 500 kWh, which is typical for a 18 cu ft freezer. For better efficiency, keep the freezer full and maintain clean coils.

How do I change the interior light bulb?

Unplug the freezer. Remove the light cover (usually snaps off). Replace with a standard appliance bulb of the same wattage (typically 40W). Reattach the cover and plug in.

Why is my freezer making unusual noises?

Normal sounds include humming from the compressor, gurgling from refrigerant, and clicking from the defrost timer. If you hear rattling, check if the freezer is level or if items inside are vibrating.

Where can I get replacement parts?

Replacement parts such as gaskets, shelves, and thermostats can be ordered online through appliance parts retailers. Check your model number GTW18AW for compatibility.

USER MANUAL GTW18AW Caloric

"A" Series Top Freezer Refrigerator

Use and Care Manual

Model Identification 2

Electrical Requirements 2

Setting Controls 3

Refrigerator Features 4

Freezer Features 6

Trim Kits 6

Care and Cleaning 7

Energy Tips 9

Vacation Tips 9

Normal Operating Sounds 10

Before Calling for Service 11

Asure Extended Service Plan 16

Keep these instructions for future reference.

If refrigerator changes ownership, be sure this manual accompanies refrigerator.

Consumer Information Line

1-800-843-0304

Model Identification

Please read this Use and Care Manual thoroughly. This manual provides proper maintenance information for maximum benefit of the features selected.

Complete enclosed registration card and promptly return card to the Product Registration department. If registration card is missing, call Consumer Information Line at 1-800-843-0304.

When contacting Caloric, provide product information. Locate product information on the nameplate, found in upper left corner of refrigerator section. Record the following information:

Model Number: ____

Manufacturing Number: ____

Serial or S/N Number: ____

Date of purchase: ____

Dealer's name and address: ____

Keep a copy of sales receipt for future reference or in case warranty service is required.

If something is operating incorrectly, read "Before Calling for Service" section. Any further questions or to locate an authorized Caloric servicer, call 1-800-843-0304. Caloric recommends contacting an authorized Caloric servicer if service is required.

Caloric offers a full line of appliances...ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, microwave ovens, dishwashers. When buying one of these products, choose Caloric.

Enjoy this new refrigerator.

Electrical Requirements

RECOGNIZE THIS SYMBOL AS A SAFETY PRECAUTION

WARNING

Electrical Grounding Instructions-This appliance is equipped with a three-prong (grounding) plug for protection against possible shock hazards. If a two-prong wall receptacle is encountered, customer is required to contact a qualified electrician and have the two-prong wall receptacle replaced with a properly grounded three-prong wall receptacle in accordance with the National Electrical Code.

Refrigerator is designed to operate on a separate 103 to 126 volt, 15 amp., 60 cycle line.

DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES CUT OR REMOVE THE ROUND GROUNDING PRONG FROM THE PLUG. THE UNIT MUST BE GROUNDED AT ALL TIMES. DO NOT

REMOVE WARNING TAG FROM THE SERVICE CORD.

WARNING

DO NOT USE A TWO-PRONG ADAPTER. DO NOT USE AN EXTENSION CORD.

This refrigerator is designed to operate most efficiently under normal household temperatures ranging from 55° to 110°F (12° to 43°C).

Thermostatic Control

Thermostatic control is located in center divider between refrigerator and freezer sections and operates independently of freezer control. A hidden thermostatic sensor measures refrigerator air temperature constantly. If temperature rises as little as 1 1/2°F (.8°C) from setting, thermostatic control lets in more cold air.

Refrigerator and Freezer controls

Locate refrigerator and freezer controls at center divider between refrigerator and freezer.

When freezer control is set to "Off", neither refrigerator nor freezer sections will cool. Initially set both controls to "4". Wait 24 hours for refrigerator and freezer to reach desired temperatures. After 24 hours, adjust controls as desired. "1" is warmest setting and "7" is coldest.

To set temperatures more precisely, use a household thermometer that includes temperatures between -5^ to 50^ F ( -20.5^ to 10^ C). Thermometer can be purchased at a hardware store.

In freezer put thermometer snugly between frozen food packages. Wait 5-8 hours. If temperature is not 0^ to 2^ F ( -18^ to -17^ C), adjust control, one number at a time. Check again after 5-8 hours.

DD-2U/C FreeHand 3.1 12/6/93 8:27 AM

In refrigerator put thermometer in a glass of water. Place glass on shelf in middle of refrigerator. Wait 5-8 hours. If temperature is not 38^ to 40^ F ( 3^ to 4^ C), adjust control, one number at a time. Check again after 5-8 hours.

DD-3U/C FreeHand 3.1 12/6/93 8:26 AM

Exterior Moisture Control

In hot humid conditions, refrigerators form moisture around doors, similar to condensation that forms on a cold glass. Special heaters in refrigerator cabinet minimize condensation. Humidity is subjective depending on location of refrigerator. If refrigerator is in a warm, humid area, set control to "On". If refrigerator is in a cooler, less humid area, set control to "Off". Setting may need to be adjusted as conditions change.

Important

High quality steel is used in this refrigerator. However, constant exposure to moisture may cause refrigerator cabinet to rust. Anytime moisture forms on refrigerator cabinet, set control to "On".

Refrigerator Shelves

Some models feature glass or wire shelves.

Shelves can be adjusted to match size of items stored in refrigerator.

1. Remove shelves by tilting up front. Lift back and pull out.
2. Reinstall shelves by tilting front higher than back. Insert hooks into metal track and lower front.

Refrigerated Deli Keeper (some models)

Refrigerated deli keeper features a drawer inside a sleeve. Freezer air circulates between refrigerator deli keeper and sleeve. This keeps food fresh longer and up to 5°F (.3°C) colder than refrigerator. A control, located on front trim, adjusts amount of freezer air.

Slide control to right for normal refrigerator temperatures and to left for colder temperatures (ice crystals may form). Additional cold air can affect refrigerator temperatures and refrigerator control may need to be adjusted.

Moving Refrigerated Deli Keeper

Remove refrigerated deli keeper drawer. Refer to Refrigerator Shelves instructions to remove and reinstall refrigerated deli keeper sleeve. Use only top three slots. Reinstall refrigerated deli keeper drawer.

If refrigerated deli keeper is moved to opposite side of refrigerator, move refrigerated deli keeper control, located on center back wall of refrigerator, to same side as refrigerated deli keeper.

Crisper Drawers

Crisper drawers store fresh fruits and vegetables. To keep fresh longer, tightly wrap produce to seal in natural moisture. Do not wash produce before placing in crisper drawers. Excess moisture could cause produce to spoil. Do not line crisper drawers with paper towels. Paper towels will retain moisture.

Store leafy vegetables such as lettuce, spinach or cabbage in crisper drawers at high humidity settings. Store produce with skins, such as apples, cauliflower, corn or tomatoes, in crisper drawers at low humidity settings.

Removing Crisper Drawers and Shelf

Important

It may be necessary to remove shelves located above crisper drawers to remove bottom shelf.

1. Open left* crisper drawer.
   *For refrigerator doors hinged on left, open right crisper drawer.
2. Gently push shelf up from underneath.

Caution

To avoid personal injury or property damage, handle tempered glass shelves with care. Chipping, scratching and twisting may cause shelves to break suddenly. Replace shelves immediately if scratched or chipped. Do not expose shelves to rapid temperature changes.

1. Tilt one end of shelf up. Remove shelf from refrigerator.

1. Remove left* crisper drawer by lifting front up while supporting drawer underneath. *For refrigerator doors hinged on left, use crisper on right.

2. Remove crisper support post which fits into recess at bottom center of refrigerator.

3. Slide other crisper drawer to opposite wall and remove.
4. Reinstall crisper drawers and shelf by reversing above procedure.

Egg Bucket

Egg bucket has a removable tray and cover. When tray is removed, bucket will accept a standard egg carton.

11-DD FreeHand 3.1 12/10/93 9:27 AM

Door Buckets (some models)

Door buckets can be moved to fit storage needs.

1. Remove buckets by pushing lock tabs toward center. Pull bucket straight out.
2. Reinstall buckets by sliding bucket into grooved area until tabs lock into place.

Hugger (some models)

Hugger keeps bottles, etc., in place and can be adjusted to meet storage needs. Hugger fits in all door buckets.

Tall Package Retainer (some models)

Retainer keeps tall packages secure in all door buckets.

Frost Free System

Freezer and refrigerator sections are completely frost free. Evaporator coil stops frost before frost starts. Defrosting is automatic. Refrigerator and freezer will never have to be defrosted under normal operating conditions.

Ice Service Rack (some models)

Ice service rack holds two ice cube trays and an ice bin. Rack can be moved to right side by completing the following steps.

1. Slide rack toward front of freezer until screws are in middle of mounting holes.
2. Pull rack away from ceiling of freezer.
3. Remove screws from ceiling using 1/4" hex nut driver.
4. Gently pry plastic plugs from opposite side of ceiling using a flat blade screwdriver covered with tape.
5. Replace plastic plugs with screws and vice versa.
6. Line up middle mounting holes in side of rack with screws on ceiling.
7. Slide rack back until secure.

Automatic Ice Maker (optional)

Refrigerator has an electrical connection in freezer for installation of an ice maker. A water filter can also be added to ensure good ice cubes. Ice maker, model IC6A, and water filter, part #R0183114, can be purchased separately from an authorized Caloric dealer.

Freezer Shelf

1. Remove shelf by pulling shelf forward. A sharp tug may be necessary.
2. Reinstall shelf by sliding shelf until back snaps in.

Rack (some models)

Rack separates food for better organized storage space.

1. Remove rack by sliding rack to release round knobs from shelf wires. Pull down if located under shelf or lift up if located above shelf.
2. Reinstall rack by positioning rack on top or underneath center wire of shelf wires. Lock into place by sliding rack until round knobs are securely in place.

Door Buckets

Refer to Door Bucket instructions in Refrigerator Features section.

Trim Kits

Add custom door panels to door fronts to accent kitchen decor. Decorator trim kits hold these panels in place. These kits can be purchased from an authorized Caloric dealer. Custom panels can be purchased locally.

Adhesives

To remove adhesive residue from surface, dab toothpaste over adhesive. Rub fingers over adhesive and rinse surface.

General

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock which can cause severe personal injury or death, unplug power cord or open household circuit breaker to refrigerator before cleaning. After cleaning, reconnect power.

1. Wash refrigerator with warm, soapy water as needed. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
2. If using concentrated liquid detergent, dilute in warm water first.

3. Do not use following items. These items can scratch, crack and discolor surfaces.

4. abrasive cleaners such as Comet, Ajax, etc.

5. solvents
6. metal scouring pads

Glass Shelves

Caution

To avoid personal injury or property damage, handle tempered glass shelves with care. Chipping, scratching and twisting may cause shelves to break suddenly. Replace shelves immediately if scratched or chipped. Do not expose shelves to rapid temperature changes.

After removing shelf, place on soft surface such as a towel or dishcloth. Allow shelf to reach room temperature before cleaning.

Door Gaskets

1. Clean gaskets with a liquid detergent or baking soda diluted in water at least four times a year.
2. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
3. Apply a light film of petroleum jelly to keep gaskets soft and pliable.
4. Do not use cleaners which contain ammonia or chlorine bleach.

Odor Removal

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock which can cause severe personal injury or death, unplug power cord or open household circuit breaker to refrigerator before cleaning. After cleaning, reconnect power.

1. Remove all food.
2. Thoroughly wash refrigerator and freezer liners with four tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in a quart of warm water. Pay special attention to corners, crevices or grooves and include all accessories, drawers, shelves and gaskets.
3. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
4. Return food to refrigerator. Wash all bottles, containers and jars. Wrap foods in tightly sealed containers to prevent further odors. Wait 24 hours before checking to see if odor has been eliminated. If odor is still present, call 1-800-843-0304 for additional cleaning methods.

Condenser Coil

Clean condenser coil every three months. Dust and lint will cause the following:

• reduced cooling performance
  • increased energy usage
  • premature failure of electrical parts

• Grasp ends of toe grille and lift up. Pull forward to remove.

• Clean coil with a vacuum cleaner hose nozzle.

• Replace toe grille by positioning top and snapping in bottom. Toe grille can only be installed one way.

• Rotate stabilizing leg counterclockwise until leg is off floor. Pull refrigerator away from wall and run a vacuum brush across condenser fan outlet grille on lower back of refrigerator.

Light Bulb

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock which can cause severe personal injury or death, unplug power cord or open household circuit breaker to refrigerator before replacing light bulb. After replacing light bulb, reconnect power.

Replace bulb with a 40 watt or lower appliance bulb. Examples are as follows:

Amana #A0282803 GE or Westinghouse #40A15/1 Sylvania #40A15

Important

If hot, allow bulb to cool and wear gloves to protect hands should bulb break.

1. Remove light bulb cover by unscrewing fastener at back center of light cover. Pull light cover straight down. There are small supports on each side to hold cover in place.

2. Replace light bulb. Reinstall light bulb cover by reversing above procedure.

Energy Tips

This refrigerator is designed to be one of the most energy efficient refrigerators available. Reduce energy use by following these suggestions:

1. Operate in normal room temperatures away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
2. Set freezer, refrigerator and Deli Chiller controls so compartments are no colder than necessary.
3. Keep freezer section full.
4. Keep door gaskets clean and pliable, replace if worn.
5. Clean condenser coil.
6. Use Exterior Moisture Control only when moisture is evident on refrigerator cabinet.

Vacation Tips

For short vacations, remove perishable foods. Check refrigerator warranty certificate for specific coverage. Warranty does not cover food loss. If an ice maker is installed, move ice maker arm up.

For long vacations, do the following:

1. Empty refrigerator and freezer.
2. Unplug refrigerator.
3. Clean refrigerator.
4. Prop doors open, so air can circulate inside.
5. If an ice maker is installed, turn water supply off at saddle valve.

Normal Operating Sounds

This new refrigerator may be replacing a differently designed, less efficient or smaller refrigerator. Today's refrigerators have new features and are more energy efficient. As a result, certain sounds may be unfamiliar. These sounds are normal and will soon become familiar. These sounds also indicate refrigerator is operating and performing as designed.

Freezer Control

Clicks when starting or stopping compressor.

Freezer Fan

Air rushes and whirs.

Sealed System (Evaporator/Heat Exchanger) Refrigerant flow gurgles, pops or sounds like boiling water.

Defrost Heater

Sizzles, hisses or pops.

Condenser Fan

Air rushes and whirs.

Compressor

Has a high pitched hum or pulsating sound.

Defrost Drain Pan

Defrost water falls into drain pan.

Defrost Timer

Snaps in and out of defrost cycle and sounds like an electric clock.

Ice Maker (optional)

Ice cubes drop into ice bucket.

Ice Maker Water Valve Hook-up

(optional)

Buzzes when ice maker fills with water. This occurs whether or not refrigerator is connected to household water supply. If refrigerator is not hooked up to water, stop sound by raising ice maker shut off "arm" to up position.

Insulation

Foam insulation is very energy efficient and has excellent insulating capabilities. However, it is not as sound absorbent as previously used fiberglass insulation.

TM-SOUND FreeHand 3.1 12/10/93 9:46 AM

Before Calling For Service

Refrigerator does not operate

Confirm freezer control is on.

Confirm electrical power cord is plugged in.

Check fuse or circuit breaker. Plug in another item at that wall outlet.

Confirm light bulb works. A dim light indicates low voltage or a weak bulb.

If freezer control is on and lights work but two fans and compressor are not operating, refrigerator may be in defrost cycle. Wait 40 minutes to see if refrigerator restarts.

If refrigerator still won't operate

Unplug refrigerator. Transfer food to another unit or place dry ice in freezer section to preserve food until refrigerator can be serviced. Check refrigerator warranty certificate for specific coverage. Warranty does not cover food loss.

For additional help and/or to find nearest authorized Caloric servicer, call 1-800-843-0304.

If food temperature appears too warm

See above sections.

If a large supply of food was recently added, allow adequate time for food to reach refrigerator or freezer temperature.

Confirm door is closing properly.

Clean condenser coil.

Adjust refrigerator and/or freezer control.

Confirm rear air grille is not blocked. Rear air grille is located behind left crisper.

If Deli Chiller is too warm

Slide Deli Chiller control to a colder setting.

Adjust freezer control to a colder setting.

If refrigerator food temperature is too cold ____

Clean condenser coil.

Adjust refrigerator control.

Adjust freezer control to warmer setting.

Allow several hours for temperature to adjust.

If refrigerator runs too frequently ____

It may be normal to maintain an even temperature.

Doors may have been opened frequently or for an extended period of time.

Clean condenser coil.

Adjust freezer control.

Check gasket for proper seal.

If refrigerator makes unfamiliar sounds or seems too loud ____

These may be normal. See Normal Operating Sounds section.

If water droplets form on inside of refrigerator ____

This is normal during periods of high humidity or if doors have been opened frequently.

If water droplets form on outside of refrigerator

Check gasket for proper seal.

Confirm exterior moisture control is "On".

If crisper drawers or Deli Chiller do not close freely ____

Check for a package which may prevent drawers from closing properly.

Confirm drawers are in proper position.

Clean drawer channels with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to drawer channels.

Confirm refrigerator is level.

If refrigerator has an odor

Clean inside of refrigerator and freezer.

Cover all foods tightly and use freezer containers or freezer wrap.

If ice cubes have an odor

See above section.

Discard ice and clean ice bucket or trays more frequently. Ice cubes are very porous and absorb odors very easily.

If ice cubes stick together or 'shrink'

Empty ice cube bucket or trays more frequently. If used infrequently, ice cubes may stick together or shrink.

If ice forms in inlet tube to ice maker

Check water pressure. Low water pressure will cause valve to leak. Self piercing valves cause low water pressure. Self piercing valve should never be used and warranty will be void. If self piercing valve is used, replace with saddle valve in kit.

Any questions or to locate an authorized Caloric servicer, call 1-800-843-0304. When contacting Caloric, provide product information including model and serial numbers and date of purchase. Locate model and serial numbers on the nameplate, found in upper left corner of refrigerator section. Caloric recommends contacting an authorized Caloric servicer if service is required.

Asure Extended Service Plan

Caloric is pleased to offer long-term service protection on this new refrigerator. Asure Extended Service Plan is specially designed to supplement Caloric's strong warranty. Asure provides budget-protecting coverage on refrigerator for up to five full years and includes parts, labor and travel charges.

A participating Caloric dealer has details or contact:

Consumer Affairs Department

Amana, IA 52204

1-800-843-0304

Consumer Information Line 1-800-843-0304

Part No. 10480904

Printed in U.S.A.