FA280P - Refrigerator SMEG - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Refrigerator
Brand	Smeg
Model	FA280P
Total Net Capacity	280 L
Refrigerator Capacity	210 L
Freezer Capacity	70 L
Energy Class	E (EU 2019/2016)
Annual Energy Consumption	200 kWh/year
Noise Level	38 dB(A)
Climate Class	N-ST
Dimensions (HxWxD)	177.5 x 60 x 65.5 cm
Weight	60 kg
Power Supply	230 V ~ 50 Hz
Refrigerant	R600a
Defrost System	Automatic (Refrigerator), Manual (Freezer)
Number of Shelves	4 adjustable glass shelves
Number of Drawers	1 vegetable drawer, 3 freezer drawers
Interior Light	LED
Reversible Doors	Yes
Installation Type	Freestanding
Compliance	CE, RoHS

Frequently Asked Questions - FA280P SMEG

What is the correct temperature setting for the refrigerator compartment?

The ideal temperature for the refrigerator is between +2°C and +6°C. Use the thermostat dial to adjust; typically setting 3-4 is recommended for normal use.

How do I defrost the freezer?

This model has a manual defrost freezer. To defrost, unplug the fridge, remove all food, and leave the freezer door open. Place towels to absorb melting water. Do not use sharp tools to remove ice.

Can I reverse the door opening direction?

Yes, the doors are reversible. Refer to the user manual for step-by-step instructions. You will need a screwdriver and possibly a helper to hold the door.

Why is my fridge making unusual noises?

Normal operational sounds include clicking (compressor start/stop), gurgling (refrigerant flow), and occasional humming. If noises are loud or irregular, check if the fridge is level and not touching walls or cabinets.

How often should I clean the condenser coils?

Clean the condenser coils (located at the back) every 6-12 months to maintain efficiency. Use a vacuum or soft brush. Unplug the fridge before cleaning.

What type of light bulb does the fridge use?

The interior light is LED. If it fails, contact Smeg service for replacement as it is not user-serviceable.

How do I change the water filter?

This model does not have a water filter or dispenser. If you have a different model, consult the manual.

What should I do if the fridge is not cooling?

First check the power supply and thermostat setting. Ensure the door seals are clean and closing properly. If the problem persists, the compressor or refrigerant may be faulty; contact a qualified technician.

Can I store warm food directly in the fridge?

It is not recommended. Allow hot food to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to avoid raising the internal temperature and overworking the compressor.

What is the warranty period for Smeg FA280P?

Smeg typically offers 2 years warranty for parts and labor. Check your purchase receipt for details. Registration may extend the warranty.

USER MANUAL FA280P SMEG

GB Instructions for use

Refrigerator-freezer

We thank you for the confidence you have shown by purchasing our appliance. We wish you a lot of pleasure using the appliance.

The refrigerator-freezer is intended for use in households.

The lower part is the refrigerator compartment intended for storing fresh food at temperatures above 0°C.

The upper part is the freezer compartment intended for freezing fresh food and long-term storage of frozen food (up to one year, depending on the type of food). This compartment is labeled with four stars / asterisks.

Important warnings .... 3

A few tips on how to save power with your refrigerator-freezer combo 4

Appliance description 5

Installation and connection 7

Changing the door opening direction 9

Operating the appliance 11

Recommended food arrangement in the appliance 13

Storing food in the refrigerator 14

Freezing fresh food and storing frozen food ..... 15

Defrosting the appliance 17

Cleaning the appliance 18

Troubleshooting 19

Information on appliance noise 20

Important warnings

- This appliance is manufactured in compliance with relevant safety standards. However, it is still advisable that it is not used without due supervision by persons with diminished physical, motoric, or mental capabilities or persons with inadequate experience or knowledge. The same recommendation applies to minors using the appliance.

- Before connecting the appliance, carefully read the instructions for use which describe the appliance and its correct and safe use. The instructions apply to several types / models; therefore, they may include descriptions of settings and equipment that may not be available in your appliance.

- Remove the packaging that is intended for protecting the appliance or its respective parts during transport. Remove the spacers installed on the door corners and replace them with hole plugs / covers.

- Before connecting to the power mains, the appliance should be left to stand still in an upright position for at least 2 hours. Thus, operation errors due to the effect of transport on the cooling system will be much less likely to occur.

- The appliance must be connected to the power mains and grounded in compliance with the effective standards and regulations.

- The appliance may not be used outdoors and should not be exposed to rain.

- The appliance must be disconnected from the power mains (unplug the power cord from the wall outlet) before cleaning or before replacing the bulb.

- If the power cord is damaged, it should be replaced by a service technician or other authorized person.

- If the appliance is not used for a longer period of time, switch it off with the relevant button and disconnect it from the power mains. Empty the appliance, defrost it, clean it, and leave the door ajar.

- To protect the environment, dispose of the appliance after its useful life by taking it to an authorized waste collection center.

- The packaging is made of environment-friendly materials that can be recycled, disposed of, or destroyed without hazard to the environment.

• Children should not play with the appliance.

- The label with basic information on the appliance is attached in the appliance interior. If the label is not in your local language, replace it with the one supplied with the appliance.

• Warning! Ventilation slots on the appliance or a built-in element must always be clean and unobstructed.
• Warning! Do not use mechanical devices or tools to defrost the refrigerator, nor any other methods except for those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Warning! When installing, cleaning, or removing the appliance, make sure the insulation on the refrigeration system parts is not damaged. Thus you will also prevent damage to the environment.
• Warning! Do not use electric appliances in the refrigerator or freezer interior, except for those expressly allowed by the refrigerator-freezer manufacturer.

The symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product may not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

A few tips on how to save power with your refrigerator-freezer combo

• Observe the installation instructions.
• Do not open the appliance door more frequently than necessary.
• Occasionally check whether air can circulate freely behind the appliance.
• Condenser unit mounted on the appliance back wall must be kept clean at all times (see section "Cleaning the appliance").
• If the seal is damaged or loose, replace it as soon as possible.
• Store your food in closed containers or other appropriate packaging.
• Before placing the food in the refrigerator, let it cool down to room temperature.
• Defrost your frozen food in the refrigerator compartment.
• Remove the freezer drawers and door as described in the instructions, in order to make use of the entire capacity.
• Defrost your conventional freezer when a frost layer approximately 3-5 millimetres thick has accumulated on the surfaces in the freezer compartment.
• Make sure the shelves are evenly distributed and that the food is arranged in a way that allows free circulation of air (heed the recommended food arrangement as described in the instructions).
• In appliances fitted with a fan, do not block the fan slots.

Appliance description

A Refrigerator compartment

B Freezer compartment

1 Control unit 2 Interior illumination lamp 3 Shelf (height adjustable) 4 Water discharge gutter / groove 5 Fruit and vegetables bin 6 Refrigerator door rack (deep and shallow version, with or without cover) 7 Bottle rack 8 Foot

- Appliance interior equipment may change subject to appliance model.

A Refrigerator compartment

B Freezer compartment

1 Control unit 2 Interior illumination lamp 3 Fan 4 Shelf (height adjustable) 5 Bottle rack 6 Water discharge gutter/groove 7 Fruit and vegetables bin 8 Refrigerator door bin (versions: deep, shallow; with or without cover) 9 Bottle shelf with retainer 10 Foot

- Appliance interior equipment may change subject to appliance model.

Installation and connection

Selecting the room

- The appliance should be installed in a dry and well-ventilated room. The appliance will operate correctly if the ambient temperature is within the ranges listed in the table below. The appliance class is indicated on the label with the basic information about the appliance.

Class Ambient temperature
SN (subnormal) from	+10°C to +32°C
N (normal) from +16°C	C do +32°C
ST (subtropical) from	+16°C do +38°C
T (tropical) from +16°C	C do +43°C

Installing the appliance

Appliance installation should be carried out by at least two persons to avoid any physical injury or damage to the appliance.

• The appliance should stand firmly in an upright position on a sufficiently solid base. At the front, the appliance is fitted with two adjustable legs that can be used to level the appliance. The rear side of the appliance is fitted with wheels (certain models only) to facilitate positioning the appliance at the preselected place.
• If there is a kitchen furniture element above the appliance, there should be a clearance of at least 5 centimeters between this element and the refrigerator to ensure sufficient cooling of the condenser unit.
• Do not expose the appliance to direct sunlight and do not place it near sources of heat. If this cannot be avoided, install an insulation panel.
• The appliance may stand freely or it can be placed next to a kitchen furniture element or a wall. Mind the space required to open the door and pull out the drawers and shelves (see installation diagram).

Connecting the appliance

Remark:

* Applies to OLD TIMER appliances.

- Use the power cord to connect the appliance to the power mains. The wall outlet should be fitted with a ground contact (safety socket). Nominal voltage and frequency are indicated on the label with basic information about the appliance.

- The appliance should be connected to the power mains and grounded in compliance with the relevant effective standards and regulations. The appliance will withstand short-term deviations from the nominal voltages, but not more than from -6% to +6%.

Changing the door opening direction

Tools required: socket wrench / spanner Nr. 8, slot and cross screwdriver

1. Use the slot screwdriver to remove the covers A and B.
2. Undo / remove the hinges (C, E1) and the door (D), starting from the top and working your way down. Make sure the door is not damaged.
3. Move the covers (H) to the opposite side.
4. Door (D): move the hinges (J) and the cover (M) to the opposite side.
5. Start from the bottom and work your way up: attach and secure the lower hinge (E2) supplied in a bag; mount the door (D); and fasten the hinge (C); Do not forget to use the washers, placing them as they were before the door was removed.
6. Attach the covers A and B.
7. Changing the handle position: remove the covers, undo the screws, and attach the handle to the opposite side. Place the covers on the opposite side. Use the covers supplied in a bag to cover the slot where the handle was initially attached.

Save the hinge E1 in case you need to change the direction of door opening again at a later time.

Changing the direction of low temperature compartment door opening

1. Undo the latch A and door hinge B of the low temperature compartment and remove the door C.
2. Rotate the door by 180 degrees, mount them on the other side of the low temperature compartment, and attach the latch A and door hinge B to the other side of the cell.
3. Cover the holes left in the cell with the plugs supplied in the bag.
4. Check the door seal. If the seal does not fully fit the door, remove it and rotate it by 180 degrees.

Changing the door opening direction

Remark:

- At OLD TIMER appliances alteration of door opening direction is not possible.

Operating the appliance

Model without fan

Model with fan

A Temperature setting and on/off knob B Fan on/off switch (only with some models)

Turning the appliance on/off

Turn on: rotate the thermostat knob clockwise towards position 7.

Fan

(only with some models)

Turn off: rotate the knob back to position STOP (0).

Setting the temperature

• Higher settings (towards 7) selected with the knob correspond to lower (cooler) temperatures. The temperature in the refrigerator interior may drop below 0°C . Only use higher settings when a lower temperature is desired and recommended or when environment temperature is lower than 16°C . When the environment temperature is normal, a medium setting is recommended.
• A change in the environment temperature affects the temperature in the appliance. Hence, the thermostat setting should be adjusted accordingly.
• When the thermostat knob is set to position STOP (0), the appliance will not operate (cooling system is off); however, the appliance is still powered (a light will illuminate the interior when the refrigerator door is opened).

- The fan distributes the cool air in the refrigerator more evenly, speeds up the cooling process, and reduces accumulation of dew on the shelves. It only operates when the compressor is in operation.

- Switching on the fan is recommended as an additional function in the following cases:

• when room temperature rises (above 30° C),
• in case of higher humidity or when droplets of dew start to accumulate on the shelves,
• when inserting larger quantities of food (rapid cooling).

- Switching the fan on and off

Switch on =

Switch off = 0

Warning: When the fan is switched on, power consumption increases and the temperature in the refrigerator drops. Hence, it is recommended to reset the temperature in the appliance interior.

• Recommended settings:
• when fan is activated: position 1-4,
• without the fan: position 4-7.

Temperature setting for the refrigerator compartment also indirectly affects the temperature in the freezer compartment.

Recommended food arrangement in the appliance

Recommended food arrangement in the appliance

Refrigerator compartment areas:

• Upper area: canned/preserved food, bread, wine, pastry, etc.
• Medium area: dairy products, ready-to-eat meals, desserts, juices, beer, cooked food, etc.
• Lower area: meat, meat products, delicatessen, etc.
• Vegetable drawer/bin: fresh fruit, vegetables, salads, root vegetables, potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, tropical fruit, sauerkraut, turnips, etc.

Refrigerator door areas:

• Upper/medium part: eggs, butter, cheeses, etc.
• Lower part: beverages, cans, bottles, etc.

Freezer compartments:

- Freezing and storage of frozen food (see section "Freezing and storage of frozen food").

Storing food in the refrigerator

Important warnings on food storage

⚠️ Appropriate use of the appliance, appropriate food packaging, maintaining the appropriate temperature, and observing hygienic guidelines will decisively affect the quality of food storage. Observe the best-before dates indicated on the product packaging. Food stored in the refrigerator should be placed in closed containers or otherwise suitably packed to prevent emitting scent and moisture. Do not store flammable, volatile, and explosive substances in the refrigerator. ⚠️ Bottles with high alcohol content should be tightly sealed and stored in an upright position. Some organic solutions, essential oils in lemon and orange peel, butter acid, etc., may damage plastic surfaces in case of prolonged contact, causing premature ageing of these materials. ⚠️ Unpleasant smell warns of poor appliance cleanliness or deteriorated food (see Cleaning and Maintenance). ⚠️ Remove perishables from the refrigerator before a longer period of absence from home.

Refrigerator interior equipment

The equipment depends on the models.

• The shelves can be inserted into any of the shelf guides in the refrigerator interior. They are protected against being pulled out. To remove a shelf from the refrigerator, lift it slightly at the front, tilt it as needed, and pull it out. Food that perishes quickly should be kept at the back of the shelf where temperatures are lower.
• Certain models are equipped with a wire bottle rack that allows bottles to be placed on the cork. It is safeguarded against being pulled out. It may be pulled out only when empty, by lifting the front part and pulling it towards you. Place the bottle rack in the appliance in such a way as to avoid obstructing the door closing due to the length of the stacked bottles.

The maximum load of the rack is 9 bottles of 0.75 liters, or 13 kg total mass - see the label on the right side of the interior of the appliance.

The bin/drawer at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment, under the glass shelf, is intended for storing fruit and vegetables. It provides humidity, thus preventing the food from dehydrating. The food must be appropriately packaged to prevent emitting or receiving smells and moisture.

The interior side of the refrigerator door is fitted with racks and bins intended for storing cheese, butter, eggs, yogurt, and other smaller packages, tubes, cans, etc. The lower part of the door is fitted with a bottle rack.

Food storage time

Recommended storage time for the refrigerator

Foodsmoked Time
eggs, marinated meat, smoked meat up to	10 days
cheese up to 10 days
root vegetables up to 8 days
butter up to 7 days
deserts, fruit, ready-to-eat dishes, raw meat chunks	up to 2 days
fi sh, raw chopped meat, seafood up to 1 day

Freezing fresh food and storing frozen food

Freezing procedure

The maximum quantity of fresh food that can be introduced into the appliance at one time is indicated on the label with basic information on the appliance. If this quantity is exceeded, freezing quality will deteriorate, as will the quality of the already frozen food.

24 hours before freezing fresh food, rotate the A knob to a position between 4 and 6.

Fresh food should not be in contact with the packages of already frozen food!

• When freezing minor quantities of food (1-2 kg), the super freeze setting is not required.
• After completing the freezing process, rotate the A knob back to the desired setting.

Important warnings on freezing fresh food

The freezer should only be used for freezing food that is appropriate for freezing. The food should always be fresh and of adequate quality. Choose an appropriate packaging for the food and package it correctly. The packaging should be airtight and watertight to prevent loss of humidity or vitamins from the food. ⚠️ Indicate the type of food, quantity, and freezing date on each food package. It is important that the food is frozen as quickly as possible; therefore, smaller packages should be preferred. Before freezing, the food should be cooled.

Storing pre-frozen food

• When storing or using frozen food, observe the manufacturer's instructions. Temperature and best before date are indicated on the packaging.
• Only choose food with undamaged packaging, stored in freezers at temperatures of -18°C or lower.
• Do not buy a food package covered with frost, as this is a sign that the food has been slightly thawed several times. Such food is of lesser quality.
• When transporting frozen food, prevent it from defrosting / thawing. Higher temperature will result in shorter storage time and deteriorated food quality.

Storage times for frozen food

Recommended time for storage in the freezer

Food Time
fruit, beef from 10 to 12 months
vegetables, veal, poultry from 8 to 10 months
venison from 6 to 8 months
pork from 4 to 6 months
chopped, dice, or ground meat 4 months
bread, pastry, ready-to-eat meals, lean fi sh	3 months
tripes / innards 2 months
smoked sausage, fatty fi sh 1 month

Defrosting frozen food

Microorganisms are not destroyed by freezing. After defrosting, their activity is resumed intensively and the food may perish quickly. Therefore, use the thawed food as quickly as possible. Partial thawing decreases the nutritive value of the food, particularly fruit, vegetables, and ready-to-eat food.

Defrosting the appliance

Automatic refrigerator defrosting

The refrigerator does not require defrosting, as ice accumulated on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment interior is melted automatically.

The accumulated ice is thawed when the compressor is not operating. The drops will drip through the opening in the refrigerator back wall into a container above the compressor, from where they will evaporate.

Defrosting a conventional freezer

If an excessive layer of ice accumulates on the refrigerator back wall (3-5 mm), the appliance should be disconnected and defrosted manually.

• The freezer should be defrosted when approximately 3-5 mm of frost has accumulated.
• 24 hours before defrosting, rotate the A knob to a position between 4 and 6.

After 24 hours, remove the frozen food from the freezer and protect it from thawing.

• Disconnect the appliance – rotate the thermostat knob A to the STOP (0) position and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
• Leave the door open until the frost or ice can be easily removed from the surfaces using, for example, a plastic scraper. Be careful not to damage the freezer interior surfaces. Remove the frost or ice from the freezer using a cloth before it melts.
• Do not use electrical appliances to defrost the appliance (hairdryer, etc.).
• When defrosting the refrigerator, do not use any defrosting sprays as these may damage the plastic surfaces or harm your health.
• Clean the appliance interior and wipe it dry (see cleaning the appliance).
• Before putting the food back into the freezer, connect the appliance to the power mains and rotate the A knob back to the desired setting.

Cleaning the appliance

Before cleaning, disconnect the appliance from the power mains - rotate the thermostat knob A to the STOP (0) position and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

Use a soft cloth to clean all surfaces. Cleaners containing abrasive particles, acids, or solvents are not appropriate as they will damage the surface.

Clean the appliance exterior with water or a mild solution of suds.

Lacquer-coated and aluminum surfaces can be cleaned with lukewarm water to which some mild detergent has been added.

Cleaning agents with minor alcohol content are also acceptable (e.g., window cleaners).

Cleaners with alcohol content are not allowed for cleaning plastic parts.

Clean the appliance interior with lukewarm water to which you may add some vinegar.

- Placed under the cooling board that cools the refrigerator interior are a trough (groove) and an opening through which melted water is discharged from the appliance interior. The trough and the opening should never be blocked; therefore, check them often and clean as required (e.g., using a plastic straw).

- Frost and ice accumulated in a layer of 3-5 mm will cause an increase in power consumption; therefore it should be removed regularly. Do not use any sharp objects, solvents, or sprays.

- Condenser unit on the back of the refrigerator should always be kept clean, free of dust or deposit from kitchen smoke. Use a soft non-metal brush or a vacuum cleaner to clean the dust periodically.

- Also clean the container above the refrigerator compressor. If it was removed for cleaning, replace it afterwards. Make sure the container is in a horizontal position!

• After cleaning, switch on the appliance and put the food back in.

Troubleshooting

Problem: Cause or remedy:
After connecting to the power mains, the appliance does not operate:	·Preverite, Če je v vtičnici napetost, in Če je aparat vklopljen.
Cooling system has been working continuously for a long period of time:	·Too high environment temperature.
	·Door is open too often or it is left open too long.
	·Door is not closed appropriately (there may be dirt between the door and the refrigerator, the door may be tilted, the seal should be checked, etc.).
	·Too much fresh food was inserted.
	·Insuffi cient compressor and condenser cooling. Check the air circulation behind the appliance and clean the condenser.
Excessive build-up of ice on the back wall of refrigerator interior may result from the following:	·Door is opened to often or it is left open too long.
	·Warm food was placed in the refrigerator.
	·Food or a container are in contact with the refrigerator interior back wall.
	·Poor door sealing.If the seal is dirty or damaged, clean it or replace it.
Water is dripping from the refrigerator:	·Blocked water discharge opening; or water from thawed ice is dripping past the water collection trough.
	·Clean the blocked opening, e.g. using a plastic straw.
	·If the layer of ice is too thick, defrost the appliance annually (see “Defrosting the appliance”).
Replacing the bulb:	·Before replacing the bulb, disconnect the appliance from the power mains (unplug the power cord from the wall outlet / socket). Insert a screwdriver into the slot in the cover, lift it and remove it. Replace the bulb with a new one (E14, same power rating as the one provided by the manufacturer) and replace the cover.
	·Do not dispose of the blown bulb with organic waste.
	·The bulb is considered a consumable and is excluded from any warranty!

If none of the above reasons seems to match your problem, please contact the nearest service center and state the type, model and serial number as indicated on the label with basic information attached in the appliance interior.

Information on appliance noise

Cooling in the refrigerators-freezers is enabled by a cooling system with a compressor (with some appliances also a fan), which emits a certain level of noise during operation. The level of noise depends on installation, proper use, and appliance age.

• After appliance startup, the compressor may be somewhat louder (fluid noise, noise caused by refrigerant flowing through the system). This is not a sign of malfunction and it will not affect the appliance useful life. Eventually, the level of this noise will be reduced.
• Occasionally, sudden or louder noise may appear during appliance operation, which will appear uncommon; these are mostly the result of improper installation:

- The appliance must be placed horizontally and firmly on a solid base.

- The appliance should not be in contact with the wall or adjacent elements.

- Make sure the appliance interior equipment is appropriately fitted and that the noise is not caused by vibrating cans, bottles, or other containers in contact with each other.

WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES THAT DO NOT AFFECT THE APPLIANCE FUNCTIONALITY.