Chest Freezer - Manual Defrosting Instructions

Manual Defrost model freezers must be defrosted manually. For best operation the freezer should be defrosted when the frost accumulation becomes 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

Defrosting Instructions for Chest Freezers:

  1. Turn the temperature control to OFF and unplug the freezer.

  2. Remove all food from the freezer. Food may be temporarily stored in large corrugated boxes, insulated bags, picnic coolers, etc. Use towels and newspapers for insulation as needed.

  3. Some GE and Hotpoint chest freezers have a convenient drain at the front with a hose adaptor. Check the Owner's Manual for specific model information. Download a copy of the Owner's Manual.

  4. For models that come with a hose adaptor, it is normally packaged in a bag in the bottom of the freezer. Remove the drain cap on the front of the freezer, insert the hose connector and attach a hose. After attaching the hose, remove the drain plug from inside the freezer. Sponge the remaining moisture from the bottom of the freezer.

  5. You may speed up the defrosting process by leaving the freezer lid open and removing large, loose pieces of frost before they melt. You can also add pans of hot water to speed up the process.

  6. After defrosting is complete, rinse the interior with a baking soda and water solution. Rinse and dry.

  7. Replace the drain plug inside the freezer and the cap on the defrost drain (on models so equipped).

  8. Plug the freezer in, return the temperature control to the normal position and return food to the freezer.

 

Note: It is not recommended to use a garden hose with a defrost hose adaptor.

 

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