GE GDE20GMHBRES Operating instructions

GEAppliances.com
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Safety Instructions ............ 2, 3
Operating Instructions
Additional Features .................. 9
Automatic Icemaker ................ 12
Care and Cleaning ............. 13-14
Controls .......................... 4-5
Crispers and Pans .................. 10
Freezer ............................ 11
Replacing the Light Bulbs ........... 15
Shelves and Bins .................. 8, 9
Water Filter ....................... 6, 7
Installation Instructions
Installing the Refrigerator ....... 17-21
Installing the Water Line ........ 30-32
Preparing to Install
the Refrigerator .................... 16
Removing and Replacing
the Doors (Double Door
Refrigerator Models only) ....... 27-29
Removing and Replacing the
Freezer Drawer ................ 22, 23
Reversing the Door Swing
(Single Door Refrigerator
Models only) ................... 24-26
Troubleshooting Tips ...... 33-37
Normal Operating Sounds .......... 33
Consumer Support
Consumer Support ........ Back Cover
Performance Data Sheet ....... 41, 41
State of California Water
Treatment Device Certificate .... 43, 44
Warranty for Canadian
Customers ......................... 40
Warranty for U.S.Customers ........ 39
Write the model and serial
numbers here:
Model #
Serial #
Find these numbers on a label
on the right side, near the top of the
refrigerator compartment,
Refr
Models 20, 22 and 23
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La section francaise commence a la page 45
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200D9366P016 49-60603-4 03- 74 GE

IMPORTANT SAFETYINFORMATION.
READALL INSTRUCTIONSBEFOREUSING.
AWARNING!
Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as described in this Owner's Manual.
SAFETYPRECAUT/ONS
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should be followed, including the following.
This refrigerator must be properly installed and
located in accordance with the Installation
Instructions before it is used,
iiiiiiiiiiii_i_
iiiiiiiiiiii_i_
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Do not allow children to climb, stand or hang on the
shelves in the refrigerator. They could damage the
refrigerator and seriously injure themselves.
Do not touch the cold surfaces in the freezer
compartment when hands are damp or wet. Skin
may stick to these extremely cold surfaces.
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable
vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.
Keep fingers out of the "pinch point" areas; clearances
between the doors and between the doors and
cabinet are necessarily small. Be careful closing doors
when children are in the area.
In refrigerators with automatic icemakers, avoid
contact with the moving parts of the ejector
mechanism, or with the heating element that
releases the cubes. Do not place fingers or hands
on the automatic icemaking mechanism while the
refrigerator is plugged in.
Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning and making
repairs.
NOTE: We strongly recommend that any servicing be
performed by a qualified individual,
Setting either or both controls to O(off) does not
remove power to the light circuit.
Do not refreeze frozen foods which have thawed
completely.
ADANGER! RISK OF CHILD ENTRAPMENT
PROPERDISPOSALOF THEREFRIGERATOR
Child entrapment and suffocation are not problems of
the past. Junked or abandoned refrigerators are still
dangerous...even if they will sit for 'lust a few days."
Ifyou are getting rid of your old refrigerator, please
follow the instructions below to help prevent accidents.
Before You ThrowAway Your Old
Refrigerator or Freezer:
Take off the doors.
Leave the shelves in place so that children may not
easily climb inside,
Refrigerants
All refrigeration products contain refrigerants, which
under federal law must be removed prior to product
disposal. If you are getting rid of an old refrigeration
product, check with the company handling the
disposal about what to do.
USEOFEXTENSIONCORDS
Because of potent/al safety hazards under certain conditions, we strongly recommend against the use of
an extension cord.
However, if you must use an extension cord, it isabsolutely necessary that it be a UL-listed (in the United States) or a
CSAcertified (in Canada), 3-wire grounding type appliance extension cord having a grounding type plug and outlet
and that the electrical rating of the cord be 15 amperes (minimum) and 120 volts.

GEAppliances.com
AWARNING!
HOW TOCONNECTELECTRICITY
Do not.,under any c/mumsmnces, cut or remove the third (ground) prong from the power cord
Forpersonal safety, this appliance must be properly grounded
The power cord of this appliance is equipped with a
3-prong (grounding) plug which mates with a standard
3-prong (grounding) wall outlet to minimize the
possibility of electric shock hazard from this appliance.
Have the wall outlet and circuit checked by a qualified
electrician to make sure the outlet is properly grounded.
Where a standard 2-prong wall outlet is encountered, it
isyour personal responsibility and obligation to have it
replaced with a properly grounded 3-prong wall outlet.
The refrigerator should always be plugged into its own
individual electrical outlet which has a voltage rating
that matches the rating plate.
This provides the best performance and also prevents
overloading house wiring circuits which could cause a
fire hazard from overheated wires.
Never unplug your refrigerator by pulling on the power
cord. Always grip plug firmly and pull straight out from
the outlet.
Repair or replace immediately all power cords that have
become frayed or otherwise damaged. Do not use a
cord that shows cracks or abrasion damage along its
length or at either end.
When moving the refrigerator away from the wall, be
careful not to roll over or damage the power cord,
USEOFADAPTERPLUGS
Adapter plugs are not permitted in Canada.
READAND FOLLOWTHISSAFETYIA/FORMATIONCAREFULLY,
SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS

About the controls with temperature settin s.
(on some models)
[]
HoEd3second_to r_set
TEMPERATURE SET
WARMER _ _WARMER
COLDER COLDER
oo_Recom,_e,,d_d _7oFRecommended
[]
Hold 3 s_onds
[]
[]
Ho_d 3 seconds to re_t
TEMPERATURE SET
WARMER _ _WARMER
COLDER COLDER
0o_Rec_,_e_ed 37° _Recomme_ed ¢q
Hold3seconds
(FIGA) (on some models) (FIGB)
NOTE: Therefrigerator is shipped with protective film covering the temperature controls, if this film was not removed
during installation, remove it now.
The temperature controls are preset in the factory at 37°F for the refrigerator compartment and O°F for
the freezer compartment. Allow 24 hours for the temperature to stabilize to the preset recommended
settings.
The temperature controls can display both the SET temperature as well as the actual temperature in the
refrigerator and freezer. The actual temperature may vary slightly from the SET temperature based on
usage and operating environment.
Setting either or both controls to OFF stops cooling in both the freezer and refrigerator compartments,
but does not shut off electrical power to the refrigerator.
Changing the Temperature
For Controls-on-the-Door Models:
FIG. "A" Tochange the temperature, press and release the
WARMER or COLDERpad. The ACTUAL TEMPlight will come on
and the display will show the actual temperature. To change the
temperature, tap either the WARMER or COLDER pad until the
desired temperature is displayed.
FIG. "B" To visualize the real temperature press and release
the ACTUAL TEMPpad. The display will show the actual
temperature for 10 seconds.
To change the temperature, tap either the WARMER or
COLDERpad until the desired temperature is displayed. The SET
TEMPlight will come on during this process.
For Controls Inside the Refr,_erator:
Opening the door displays the actual temperature. To change
the temperature, press either the WARMERor COLDERtouch
pads until the desired temperature is displayed.
Once the desired temperature has been set, the temperature
display will return to the actual refrigerator and freezer
temperatures after 5 seconds. Several adjustments may be
required.
Each time you adjust controls, allow 24 hours for the refrigerator
to reach the temperature you have set.
To turn the cooling system off, tap the WARMERpad for either
the refrigerator or the freezer until the display shows OFF. To
turn the unit back on, press the COLDERpad for either the
refrigerator or freezer. Then press the COLDERpad again and it
will go to the preset points of O°Ffor the freezer and 37°Ffor the
refrigerator. Setting either or both controls to OFFstops cooling
in both the freezer and refrigerator compartments, but does not
shut off electrical power to the refrigerator.

About TurboCooI.T (onsomemoddW GEAppliances.com
Turbo Cool
(on some models)
TURBOCOOL
(on some models)
How it Works
TurboCoolrapidly cools the refrigerator
compartment in order to more quickly
cool foods, Use TurboCoolwhen adding
a large amount of food to the refrigerator
compartment, putting away foods after they
have been sitting out at room temperature or
when putting away warm leftovers, It can also
be used if the refrigerator has been without
power for an extended period,
Once activated, the compressor will turn
on immediately and the fans will cycle on
and off at high speed as needed for eight
hours, The compressor will continue to run
until the refrigerator compartment cools to
approximately 34°F (1°C),then it will cycle on
and off to maintain this setting, After 8 hours, or
if TurboCoolis pressed again, the refrigerator
compartment will return to the original setting,
How to Use
Press TurboCool The refrigerator temperature
display will show be,
After TurboCoolis complete, the refrigerator
compartment will return to the original setting,
NOTES; The refrigerator temperature cannot
be changed during TurboCool
The freezer temperature is not
affected during TurboCool
When opening the refrigerator door
during TurboCoo/, the fans will
continue to run if they have cycled on,
DoorAIGrm
(on some models)
[ALARMDOOR
(on some models)
About Door Alarm (onsomemode/s)
The door alarm will sound if any door is open
for more than 2 minutes, The beeping stops
when you close the door,
(on some models)
[ ENERGY
ISAVER
(on some models)
About Energy Saver (on.som_modd.s)
This product is equipped with an Energy Saver
feature, The refrigerator is shipped with the
Energy Saver feature enabled,
Over time, moisture can form on the front
surface of the refrigerator cabinet and cause
rust, If moisture does appear on the front
surface of the refrigerator cabinet, turn off the
Energy Saver feature by pressing and releasing
the ENERGYSA VERpad on the control panel,

About the water filter. (on22and23moddsonly)
Water Filter Cartridge
The water filter cartridge is located in the
back upper right corner of the refrigerator
compartment,
When to Replace the Filter
There is a replacement indicator light for
the water filter cartridge on the temperature
display. This light will turn orange to tell you
that you need to replace the filter soon. The
filter cartridge should be replaced when the
replacement indicator light turns red or if
the flow of water to the dispenser or icemaker
decreases,
Installing the Filter Cartridge
0 If you are replacing the cartridge, first
remove the old one by slowly turning it to
the left, DO NOTpull down on the cartridge,
A small amount of water may drip down,
ACAUTION:/fair has beer, trapped
in the system, the filter cnrtridge may be dected
as it is removed, Use cnution when removing,
Water Filter
Reset
O
Hold35ecs
(on some models)
Hold 3seconds to reset
(on some models)
Remove the protective foil from the end of
the cartridge.
Fillthe replacement cartridge with water
from the tap to allow for better flow from
the dispenser immediately after installation,
Lining up the arrow on the cartridge
and the cartridge holder, slowly rotate the
cartridge clockwise until it stops. When the
cartridge is properly installed, you will feel it
"click" as it locks into place.
Do not overtighten.
Run water from the dispenser for
3 minutes (about 11/2gallons) to clear
the system and prevent sputtering.
See ToUse the Dispenser section.
0 Press and hold the RESET WATER FILTER
pad for 3 seconds.
IVOTE.'A newly-installed water filter
cartridge may cause water to spurt from
the dispenser.
Filter Bypass Plug
You must use the filter bypass plug when a
replacement filter cartridge is not available. The
icemaker will not operate without the filter or
filter bypass plug.
Replacement Filters:
To order additional filter cartridges
in the United States, visit our Website,
GEAppliances.com, or call GEParts and
Accessories, 800.626.2002.
Filter ModelMWF
Customers in Canada should consult
the yellow pages for the nearest Mabe Service
Center.

About the water filter. (on20moddsonly) GEAppliances.com
y
Water Filter Cartridge
The water filter cartridge is located in the
back upper right corner of the refrigerator
compartment,
When to Replace the Filter
The filter cartridge should be replaced when
the flow of water to the icemaker decreases, or
every 6 months,
Installing the Filter Cartridge
0 If you are replacing the cartridge, first
remove the old one, Open the cartridge
cover by pressing in on the tab at the front
and pulling down,
0 Remove the cartridge by slowly rotating it
counterclockwise, A small amount of water
may drip down,
CAUTION:#air has been tmpped
in the system, the filter cartridge may be _ected
as it is removed, Use caution when removing,
Remove the protective foil from the end of
the cartridge,
Lining up the arrow on the cartridge and
the cartridge holder, slowly rotate the
cartridge clockwise until it stops, When the
cartridge is properly installed, you will feel it
"click" as it locks into place, The grip on the
end of the cartridge should be positioned
vertically,
Do not overtighten
Close the cartridge cover,
Filter Bypass Plug
You must use the filter bypass plug when a
replacement filter cartridge is not available, The
icemaker will not operate without the filter or
filter bypass plug,
Replacement Filters:
To order additional filter cartridges in
the United States, visit our Website,
GEAppliances.com, or call GEParts and
Accessories, 800.626.2002.
Filter Model GSWF
Customers in Canada should consult the yellow
pages for the nearest Mabe Service Center,

About the shelves and bins.
Not all features are on a// models.
Some models have wire shelves
that can be adjusted in the same
manner.
ii _i ii!_!_
i
Rearranging the Shelves
Shelves in the refrigerator compartment are adjustable,
Refrigerator Compartment
To remove:
0 Remove all items from the shelf,
0 Tilt the shelf up at the front,
0 Lift the shelf up at the back and bring the
shelf out,
To replace:
While tilting the shelf up, insert the top hook
atthe back of the shelf in a slot on the
track,
Lower the front of the shelf until the bottom
of the shelf locks into place,
Spillproof Shelves (onsomemode/s)
Spillproof shelves have special edges to help
prevent spills from dripping to lower shelves, To
remove or replace the shelves, see Rearranging
the Shelves
<:.... _,:_ \
/
Slide- Out Spillproof Shelf fortsom_modal.s)
The slide-out spillproof shelf allows you to
reach items stored behind others, The special
edges are designed to help prevent spills from
dripping to lower shelves,
Toremove:
Remove all items from shelf,
Remove the shelf from the compartment by
lifting up and out,
Remove the glass shelf from the frame by
sliding the shelf out until it stops,
Pullthe shelf up to release it from the front
of the frame,
Slide the shelf back to release it from the
back of the frame,
To reinstall the glass shelf, reverse these
instructions,
Make sure that the shelfsits fiat aRer
reinsmllation and doesn't move fkee_ from side
to side,
Make sure you push the shelves all the way in
before you close the door,
Tuck-A way Shelf {onsomemode/.sj
This shelf can retract to half its size for storage
of tall items on the shelf below,
Toremove:
Pullthe shelf out and up,
Slide the shelf back until it stops,
To return the shelf to its original position,
pull up and forward on the shelf, Push
down slightly to lock the shelf into position,

GEAppliances.com
Adjustable Bins on the Door
Adjustable bins can easily be carried from
refrigerator to work area,
Toremove: Lift bin straight up, then pull out,
Toreplace or relocate: Slide in the binjust
above the molded door supports, and push
down, The bin will lock in place,
The snugger helps prevent tipping, spilling or
sliding of small items stored on the door shelf,
Grip the finger hold near the rear of the snugger
and move it to fit your needs,
Non-Adjustable Bins on the Door
Toremove: Lift the bin straight up, then pull out,
Toreplace: Engage the bin in the molded
supports on the door and push down, It will lock
in place,
About the additional features.
Sheff Saver Rack (on.somemodel.s)
Slide-out beverage rack holds twelve cans of
soda or two wine/water bottles (lengthwise),
It can be removed for cleaning,
Toremove, slide the rack out to the stop
position, lift the rack up and past the stop
position and lift it out,

About the crispers and pans.
Not all features are on a// models.
II' Fruit and Vegetable Crisper
Excess water that may accumulate in the
bottom of the drawers or under the drawers
should be wiped dry.
Adjustable Humidity Crisper (on.som_mod_/._)
Slide the control all the way to the HIGH setting Slide the control all the way to the LOWsetting
to provide high humidity recommended for to provide lower humidity levels recommended
most vegetables, for most fruits.
Second Slot
r
Adjustable Temperature Deft Pan (on.somemodal.s)
When the pan is placed in the 2nd slot from
the top of the track and the lever is set at
COLDEST, air from the freezer is forced around
the pan to keep it very cold.
You can move the pan to any location if you
don't want the extra cold storage.
The settings can be adjusted anywhere
betweencold_ andcoldest_ _.
When set at cold, the pan will stay at the
normal refrigerator temperature.
The coldest setting provides the coldest storage
area,
10

About the freezer. GEAppliances.com
Not all features are on all models.
Appearance and features may vary
Freezer Shelves and Baskets
0 A shelf above the ice storage bin
A half-width basket
A shallow full-width basket
A deep full-width basket
NOTE: Do not fill baskets higher than the rim of
the basket, This may cause baskets to stick or
jam when opening or closing,
Appearance may vary
Basket Removal
Toremove the deep full-width basket on
freezer drawer models:
Open the freezer drawer until it stops,
The freezer basket rests on the inside tabs
on the drawer slides,
0 Lift the basket so that it is out of all 6 slide
bracket tabs,
Tilt the basket and lift out of the drawer,
When replacing the deep full-width basket:
Tilt the basket back and lower it down into
the drawer, Rotate the basket to a horizontal
position and press it down into the 6 alignment
tabs,
NOTE.Always be sure that the basket is seated
in all 6 slide bracket tabs before sliding back
into the freezer, The basket can be turned in
either direction front to back and installed into
the freezer,
'i
Appearance may vary
Appearance may vary
Toremove the half-width basket:
Pullthe basket out to the stop location,
0 Lift the basket up at the front to release it
from the slides,
Lift the back up and out of the slide,
Toremove the shallow full-width basket:
Pullthe basket out to the stop location,
Lift the front up and over the stop location,
When replacing the basket, make sure that
the wire tabs and wire hooks on the sides of the
basket go into the slots in the top of the upper
basket slides,
NOTE.Always be sure to fully close this basket,
Lift the basket up and out,
11

About the automatic icemaker.
A newly installed refrigerator may take 72 to 24 hours to begin making ice.
Power
Icemaker
Green
Power
Light
Automatic Icemaker (on some models)
The icemaker will produce sevencubes percycle-
approximately 100-130 cubes in a 24-hour period,
depending on freezer compartment temperature,
room temperature, number of door openings and
other use conditions,
Seebelow for how to access ice and reach the
power switch,
Ifthe refrigerator isoperated before the water
connection is made to the icemaker,set the power
switch in the O (off)position,
When the refrigerator has been connected to the
water supply,setthe power switch to the I(on)
position,The icemaker power light will turn green
when the freezer light switch is pressed in or when
the freezer door is closed,
The icemaker will fillwith water when it cools to 15°F
(-10°C),Anewly installed refrigerator may take 12to
24 hours to begin making ice cubes,
Youwill hear a buzzingsound each time the
icemaker fillswith water,
Throw away the first few batches of ice to allow the
water lineto clear,
Besure nothing interferes with the sweep of the
feeler arm,
When the bin fillsto the level ofthe feeler arm, the
icemaker will stop producing ice,It isnormal for
several cubesto bejoined together,
If ice isnot used frequently, old ice cubes will
become cloudy, taste stale and shrink,
NOTE."Inhomes with lower-than-average water
pressure,you may hear the icemaker cycle multiple
times when making one batch ofice,
NOTE."Setthe power switch to the 0 (off)position
if the water supply Lsshut off
To reach the power switch.
Spill Shelf
12
!ii_! _(ii:
_i!ii_ii__iI_iii_iiiiI
Accessing Ice and Reaching the
Power Switch
Toreach the icemaker power switch, pull the shelf
above the ice bin straight out, Always be sure to
replace the shelf,
Toaccess ice,simply pullthe bin forward,
To access ice.
Icemaker Accessory Kit
Ifyour refrigerator did not come already equipped
with an automatic icemaker, an icemaker accessory
kit isavailable at extra cost,
Checkthe back of the refrigerator for the specific
icemaker kit neededfor your model,
To Use the Dispenser (on some moddg
Pressthe glassgently against the top of the
dispensercradle,
The spillshelf is not self-draining, To reduce water
spotting, the shelf should becleaned regularly,
lf no water is dispensed when the refrigerator is-first
Locking the Dispenser
installed,there may be ak in the water line ,system,
Pressthe LOCKpad for 3 seconds to lock
the dispenserand control panel,To unlock,
pressand hold the pad again for 3 seconds,
removePressthed_s_enserarmf_rat/easttw_minutest_watersystem_T__ush_ut/mpur_t_es/nthewater//ne_traPPedair from the water lineand to fi//the ILOCK J
throw away the first s/x glasshuLsof wate_ Hold3seconds
To Use the Internal Water Dispenser (on some mode/s)
Thewater dispenser is located on the leftwall inside
the refrigerator compartment,
Todispense water."
O Holdthe glassagainst the recess,
O Pushthe water dispenser button,
Holdthe glass underneath the dispenser for 2-3
secondsafter releasing the dispenser button,
Water may continue to dispense after the button
isreleased,
/fno water is-dispensedwhen the refrigerator is-first
installed,there may be air in the water line ,system,
Pressthe dispenserbutton for at least2 minutes to
remove trapped air from the water line and to fillthe
water system,During this process,the dispensernoise
may be loud as the air is-purged from the water line
,system,Toflush out impurities in the water line,throw
away the first 6 glasshJLsof wateL
NOTE."Toavoid water deposits,the dispensershould
be cleanedperiodically by wiping with acleancloth
or ,sponge,

Care and cleaning of the refrigerator. GEAppliancescom
Cleaning the Outside
The door handles and trim, Clean with a cloth
dampened with soapy water, Dry with a soft
cloth, Do not use wax on the door handles and
trim,
Keep the outside clean. Wipe with a clean
cloth lightly dampened with kitchen appliance
wax or mild liquid dish detergent, Dry and
polish with a clean, soft cloth,
Do not wipe the refrigerator with asoiled
dish cloth or wet towel, These may leave a
residue that can erode the paint, Do not use
scouring pads, powdered cleaners, bleach
or cleaners containing bleach because these
products can scratch and weaken the paint
finish,
The stainless steel panels and door handles.
Stainless steel (on some models) can be
cleaned with a commercially available stainless
steel cleaner, A spray-on stainless steel cleaner
works best,
Do not use appliance wax or polish on the
stainless steel,
Silver-plated plastic parts. Wash parts with
soap or other mild detergents, Wipe clean with
a sponge, damp cloth or paper towel,
Do not scrub with steel-wool pads or other
abrasive cleaners,
Cleaning the Inside
Tohelp prevent odors, leave an open box
of baking soda in the refrigerator and freezer
compartments,
Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.
If this is not practical, wring excess moisture
out of sponge or cloth when cleaning around
switches, lights or controls,
Use an appliance wax polish on the inside
surface between the doors,
Use w(]rm w(]ter (]nd b(]king sod(] solution-
about a tablespoon (15 ml) of baking soda to
a quart (1 liter) of water, This both cleans and
neutralizes odors, Rinse and wipe dry,
After cleaning the door gaskets, apply a thin
layer of petroleum jelly to the door gaskets at
the hinge side, This helps keep the gaskets from
sticking and bending out of shape,
Avoid cleaning cold glass shelves with hot
water because the extreme temperature
difference rn_y cause them to break, Handle
glass shelves careful_, Bumping tempered
glass can cause it to shatter,
Do not wash any plastic refHgerator parts in
the dishwasher,
Silver-accented plastic parts. Wash parts with
soapy water, Wipe clean with a sponge, damp
cloth or paper towel,
Do not scrub with steel-wool pads or other
abrasive cleaners,
13

Care and cleaning of the refrigerator. (cont.)
Behind the Refrigerator
Be careful when moving the refrigerator away
from the wall, All types of floor coverings can
be damaged, particularly cushioned coverings
and those with embossed surfaces,
Raise the leveling legs located at the bottom
front of the refrigerator,
Pull the refrigerator straight out and return it
to position by pushing it straight in, Moving the
refrigerator in a side direction may result in
damage to the floor covering or refrigerator,
Lower the leveling legs until they touch the
floor,
When pushing the refrigerator back, make
sure.you don't rofl over the power cord or
icemaker supp_ line (on some models),
Preparing for Vacation
For long vacations or absences, remove food
and unplug the refrigerator, Clean the interior
with a baking soda solution of one tablespoon
(15 ml) of baking soda to one quart (1 liter) of
water, Leave the doors open,
Set the icemaker power switch to the 0 (off)
position and shut off the water supply to the
refrigerator,
If the temperature can drop below freezing,
have a qualified servicer drain the water supply
system (on some models) to prevent serious
property damage due to flooding,
Preparing to Move
Secure all loose items such as base grille,
shelves and drawers by taping them securely
in place to prevent damage,
When using a hand truck to move the
refrigerator, do not rest the front or back of the
refrigerator against the hand truck, This could
damage the refrigerator, Handle only from the
sides of the refrigerator,
Be sure the refrigerator staj/s in an upright
position during moving,
14

Replacing the light bulbs. GEApplia.cescom
Turning the contro/ to the 0 (off) position does not remove power to the light circuit.
Refrigerator Lights
ACAUTION:Ligh b.,bsm y
be hot.
_t Unplug the refrigerator.
O To remove the light shield, grasp the shield
at the back and pull out to release the tabs
at the back.
O Rotate the shield down and then forward to
release the tabs at the front of the shield.
A
_lW After replacing with an appliance bulb of
the same or lower wattage, replace the
shield.
Plug the refrigerator back in.
NOTE'Appliance bulbs may be ordered from
GEParts and Accessories, 800.626.2002.
Appearance may vary
Freezer Light
CAUTION:Lig ,b.,bs
be hot.
_t Unplug the refrigerator.
Remove the freezer basket for access. The
bulb is located at the rear of the freezer
inside a light shield.
To remove, grasp the shield at the top and
pull out to release the tabs at the bottom.
After replacing with an appliance bulb of
the same or lower wattage, replace the
shield and freezer basket.
Plug the refrigerator back in.
]nrs are
behind crisper
drawers
Middle Lights
ACAUTION:
be hot.
@
0Unplug the refrigerator.
The bulbs are located behind the crisper
drawers. To remove the drawers, lift up
slightly while pulling the drawer past the
stop location.
Replace the bulbs with appliance bulbs
of the same or lower wattage.
Replace crisper drawers by sliding them
gently back onto the tracks while lifting up
slightly.
Plug the refrigerator back in.
vS......_W i
Light Bulbs
15

Installation
Instructions efrigerator
Models 20, 22 and 23
Questions? Call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737) or visit our Website at: GEAppliances.com
In Canada, call 1.800.561.3344 or visit our Website at: www.GEAppliances.ca
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Read these instructions completely and carefully.
• IMPORTANT -Save theseinstructions
for local inspector's use.
• IMPORTANT- Observeallgoverning
codes and ordinances.
• Note to Installer = Be sure to leave these
instructions with the Consumer,
• Note to Consumer = Keep these instructions for
future reference.
• Skill level = Installation of this appliance requires
basic mechanical skills.
• Completion time = Refrigerator Installation
20 minutes
Water Line Installation
30 minutes
• Proper installation is the responsibility of the
installer.
• Product failure due to improper installation is not
covered under the Warranty.
PREPARATION
MOVING THE REFRIGERATOR INDOORS
If the refrigerator will not fit through a doorway,
the refrigerator door and freezer drawer can be
removed.
• To remove the refrigerator door, see Step 1 in
the Reversing the Door Swing section.
• To remove the freezer drawer, see the Removing
the Freezer Drawer section.
WATER SUPPLY TO THE ICEMAKER AND
DISPENSER (ON SOME MODELS)
If the refrigerator has an icemaker, it will have to be
connected to a cold water line. AGE water supply
kit (containing tubing, shutoff valve, fittings and
instructions) is available at extra cost from your dealer,
by visiting our Website at GEAppliances.com (in
Canada at www.GEAppliances.ca) or from Parts and
Accessories, 800.626.2002 (InCanada .888.261.3055).
TOOLS YOU MAY NEED
Adjustable Wrench 3/8" and 5/16" Socket
Ratchet/Driver
1/4" Outer Diameter
Compression Nut
and Ferrule (sleeve)
(icemaker models only)
Phillips Head Screwdriver
3/32", 1/8" and 3/16" Allen
wrenches
1/8" Drill Bit and
Electric or Hand Drill Tape measure
Pencil 1/4" Nut Driver
Wire Cutters Level
16

Installation Instructions
INSTALLING THE REFRIGERATOR
REFRIGERATOR LOCATION
, Do not install the refrigerator where the temperature
will go below 60°F (16°C)because it will not run often
enough to maintain proper temperatures.
, Do not install the refrigerator where the temperature
will go above IO0°F (37°C)because it will not perform
properly.
, Install it on a floor strong enough to support it fully
loaded.
CLEARANCES
Allow the following clearances for ease of installation,
proper air circulation and plumbing and electrical
connections. Standard Depth
Models
Sides 1/8" (3mm)
Top 1" (25 mm)
Back 1" (25 mm)
REMOVETOPCAP(onsome models)
, IMPORTANTNOTE:This refrigerator is 34-1/2" deep.
Doors and passageways leading to the installation
location must be at least 36" wide in order to leave
the doors and handles attached to the refrigerator
while transporting it into the installation location.
If passageways are less than 36", the refrigerator
doors and handles can easily be scratched and
damaged. The top cap and doors can be removed
to allow the refrigerator to be safely moved indoors.
Start with Step A.
, If it is not necessary to remove doors, skip Step A.
Leave tape and all packaging on doors until the
refrigerator is in the final location.
, SKIDREMOVAL:Tilt refrigerator to each side to
remove skid.
, NOTE:Use a padded hand truck to move this
refrigerator. Place the refrigerator on the hand truck
with a side against the truck. We strongly recommend
that TWO PEOPLEmove and complete this installation.
r_ Locate and remove the two Phillips head screws on
the top of the refrigerator. Remove the two screws
on each side at the rear of the top cap. Lift off and
remove top cap.
r_ Removethe fresh-food door. Referto Steps 1
through 3 of "Reversing the Door Swing" section.
[_ Removethe bottom freezer drawer. Referto
"Removing Freezer Drawer" section.
FD-1Move refrigerator to the installation location.
REMOVETOPCAP(cont.) (onsome models)
REINSTALL DOORS, DRAWERS AND TOP CAP
r_ Carefully lower the door onto the center hinge.
Reinstalltop hinge. NOTE:Ensurethe door isproperly
aligned to the case top to avoid readjustment of the
door during top cap reinstallation.
r_ Placecap over the top of the refrigerator. Reinstall
the original screws in the top and back of the cap.
[] Reinstallthe bottom freezer drawer. Referto
"Replacing the Freezer Drawer" section.
A
Top Hinge B
[{1 CONNECTING THE REFRIGERATOR
TO THE HOUSE WATER LINE
(icemaker and dispenser models)
A cold water supply isrequired for automatic
icemaker operation. If there isnot a cold water
supply, you will need to provide one. See/nstalling
the Water Linesection.
NOTES:
, Before making the connection to the refrigerator,
be sure the refrigerator power cord isnot plugged
into the wall outlet.
, Ifyour refrigerator does not have a water filter, we
recommend installing one ifyour water supply has
sand or particles that could clog the screen of the
refrigerator's water valve, Install it inthe water line
near the refrigerator, If using GESmartConnecC
Refrigerator Tubing Kit,you will need an additional
tube (WXO8X10002)to connect the filter, Do not cut
plastic tube to install filter,
17

Installation Instructions
INSTALLING THE REFRIGERATOR(cont,)
IT] CONNECTING THE REFRIGERATORTO
THE HOUSEWATER LINE
(cont.)
[] If you are using copper tubing, placea
compression nut and ferrule(sleeve)onto the
end ofthe tubingcoming from the house cold
water supply.
If you are using the GE SmartConnect '_
tubing, the nuts are already assembled to
the tubing.
r_ if you are using copper tubing, insert
the end of the tubing into the refrigerator
connection, at the back of the refrigerator,
as far as possible. While holding the tubing,
tighten the fitting.
If you are using GE SmartConnect 'Mtubing,
insert the molded end of the tubing into the
refrigerator connection, at the back of the
refrigerator, and tighten the compression
nut until it is hand tight. Then tighten one
additional turn with a wrench. Overtightening
may cause leaks.
F_ Fasten the tubing into the clamp provided to
hold it in position. You may need to pry open
the clamp.
One of the illustrations below will look like
the connection on your refrigerator.
Icemaker-Ready models
Tubing
Clamp
1/4"
Compression
Nut_-_
Ferrule
(sleeve) J _
Refrigerator
Connection j
1/4"Copper
SmartConnectTM
Tubing
Icemaker-lnstalled Models
Ferrule 1/4"
Refrigerator (sleeve) Compression
Connection
SmartConnec( M
Tubing
Tubing Clamp
1/4" Tubing
18
[] TURN ON THEWATER SUPPLY
(icemaker and dispenser models}
Turn the water on at the shutoff valve (house
water supply) and check for any leaks.
[3-]PLUG INTHE REFRIGERATOR
On models withan icemaker,beforeplugging
inthe refrigerator,make surethe icemaker
power switch is set to the O (off) position.
See the grounding information attached to the
power cord.
[TIPUTTHEREFRIGERATORINPLACE
Move the refrigeratorto itsfinallocation.
[] LEVEL THE REFRIGERATOR
Adjustable legs at the front corners of the
refrigerator should be set so the refrigerator is
firmly positioned on the floor, and the front is
raised just enough that the door closes easily
when opened about halfway.
To adjust the leveling legs, turn the
legs clockwise to raise the refrigerator,
counterclockwise to lower it.

Installation Instructions
[] REMOVE THE FRESHFOOD
DOOR HANDLE
(For placement in the installation location
or reversal of the handles = on some
models}
Stainless steel (on
some models):
@ REMOVING
THE DOOR
HANDLE: Loosen
the set screws Badge
with the 3/32"
Allen wrench
and remove
the handle. NOTE:
For Double Door
models follow the Mounting /
same procedure Fasteners
on the opposite
door. (appearance may vary)
Plastic handle
_n some models):
REMOVING THE DOOR HANDLE: Depress the
tab on the underside of the handle and slide
the handle up and off of the mounting
fasteners.
@ REVERSINGTHE DOOR HANDLE (on some
models):
• Remove
the handle
mounting
fasteners with Badge
a 3/16" Allen
wrench and
transfer
the handle
mounting Mounting
fasteners to Fasteners
the right side.
• Remove the (appearance may vary)
logo badge.
• Remove and transfer the plug button to
the left side of the fresh food door. NOTE:
Use a flat plastic edge to prevent damaging
the door. Remove any adhesive on the door
with a mild detergent. Remove the paper
covering on the adhesive backing on
the logo badge prior to carefully attaching
the badge to the door.
1-71REMOVE THE FREEZER DOOR HANDLE
Stainless steel and plastic handles:
O Loosen the set screws located on the
underside of the handle with the 1/8" Allen
wrench and remove the handle.
NOTE: If the handle mounting fasteners need
to be tightened or removed, use a 3/16" Allen
wrench.
(appearancemayvary)
Plastic handle
_n some models):
REMOVING THE DOOR HANDLE: Depress the tab
on the underside left of the handle and slide the
handle left and off of the mounting fasteners.
Note: if the handle mounting fasteners need to be
tightened or removed use a 3/16" Allen wrench.
@.
0 llu
/
/(appearance may vary)
19

Installation Instructions
INSTALLING THE REFRIGERATOR(cont,)
rs] ATTACH THE FRESHFOOD
DOOR HANDLE
Stainless steel handle:
Q Attach the
handle to the
handle mounting
fasteners and
tighten the set
screws with a
3/32" Allen
wrench.
NOTE: For
Double Door
models follow
the same
procedure on the
opposite door.
Mounting
Fasteners
(appearance may vary)
Plastic handle:
O Attach the handle to the handle mounting
fasteners by aligning the slots with the
handle mounting fasteners.
O Slide it down until it is firmly locked into
position.
Slots on back of
handle
Mounting
fasteners
(appearance may vary)
[] ATTACH THE FREEZERDOOR HANDLE
Stainless steel and plastic handles:
@ Attach the handle firmly to the mounting
fasteners and tighten the set screws on
the bottom of the handle with a 1/8" Allen
wrench,
Plastic handle: (on some models
(appearance may vary)
_ttach the handle to the handle mounting fasteners
by aligning the slots with the handle mounting
Q fasteners,
_Slide it right until it is firmly locked into
position.
Slots on back
of handle
NOTE: Before attaching the
handle, make sure the tab is
oriented as shown,
(appearance may vary)
2O