GE TOP-FREEZER 17 Operating instructions

GEAppliances.com
Refrigerators
Top-Freezer
197D8622P001 49-60655-4 06-14 GE
Safety Instructions..........2–4
Operating Instructions
Temperature Controls ..............5
Shelves .........................5, 6
Storage Drawers ................6, 7
Automatic Icemaker................7
Care and Cleaning .................8
Installation Instructions
Preparing to Install
the Refrigerator ....................9
Water Line Installation ........10–12
Reversing the Door Swing .....13–16
Troubleshooting Tips
Normal Operating Sounds ........17
Before You Call For Service ......18, 19
Consumer Support
Refrigerator Warranty .......... 23
Consumer Support ...... Back Cover
Write the model and serial
numbers here:
Model # ____________________
Serial # _____________________
You can nd them on a label on
the upper left side of the fresh food
compartment.
Models 16, 17, 18
Owner’s Manual and
Installation Instructions

2
DESECHE EL REFRIGERADOR CORRECTAMENTE
El encierro o sofocación de niños no es un problema
del pasado.Los refrigeradores desechados o
abandonados son todavía peligros, incluso si
sólo van a permanecer “unos pocos días”. Si va
a desechar su refrigerador, por favor siga las
siguientes instrucciones para ayudar a evitar
accidentes.
Antes de desechar su viejo refrigerador o
congelador:
nRetire las puertas y deséchelas de forma
separada.
nDeje los estantes en su lugar de manera que los
niños no puedan subir fácilmente.
nSi el refrigerador tiene una llave, póngala en uso.
Refrigerantes
Todos los aparatos de refrigeración contienen
refrigerantes, los cuales se deben retirar antes de
la eliminación del producto de acuerdo con la ley
federal.Si va a desechar algún aparato antiguo de
refrigeración, consulte con la compañía a cargo
de desechar el aparato para saber qué hacer.
¡PELIGRO! RIESGO DE ENCIERRO DE NIÑOS
PROPER DISPOSAL OF THE REFRIGERATOR
Child entrapment and suocation are not problems of
the past. Junked or abandoned refrigerators are still
dangerous…even if they will sit for “just a few days.” If
you are getting rid of your old refrigerator, please follow
the instructions below to help prevent accidents.
Before You Throw Away Your Old
Refrigerator or Freezer:
nTake o the doors.
nLeave the shelves in place so that children may not
easily climb inside.
n If the refrigerator has a lock make it unusable
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.
DANGER! RISK OF CHILD ENTRAPMENT
USO DE CABLES DE EXTENSIÓN
Debido a peligros potenciales de seguridad bajo ciertas condiciones, nos oponemos al uso de cables de extensión.
Sin embargo, si debe usar un cable de extensión, es absolutamente necesario que sea un tipo de cable de
extensión para aparatos con conexión a tierra de tres cables, que esté en la lista de UL (en los Estados Unidos) o en
la lista CSA (en Canadá), que tenga un enchufe de tipo conexión a tierra y salida y que el grado eléctrico del cable
sea de 15 amperios (mínimo) y 120 voltios.
USE OF EXTENSION CORDS
Because of potential safety hazards under certain conditions, we strongly recommend against the
use of an extension cord.
However, if you must use an extension cord, it is absolutely necessary that it be a UL-listed, 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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
IMPORTANTE INFORMACIÓN DE SEGURIDAD.
LEA TODAS LAS INSTRUCCIONES ANTES DE SU USO.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING. GEAppliances.com
WARNING!
Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as described in this Owner’s Manual.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should be followed, including the following:
n This refrigerator must be properly installed and located
in accordance with the Installation Instructions before
it is used.
n Do not attempt to or allow children to climb, stand
or hang on the shelves in the refrigerator.They
could damage the refrigerator and seriously injure
themselves.
nDo not touch the cold surfaces in the freezer
compartment when hands are damp or wet.Skin may
stick to these extremely cold surfaces.
n Do not store or use gasoline or other ammable
vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.
n Keep ngers 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.
n Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning and making
repairs.
NOTE: We strongly recommend that any servicing be
performed by a qualied individual.
nIn refrigerators with automatic icemakers, avoid
contact with the moving parts of the ejector
mechanism, or with the heating element (located on
the bottom of the icemaker) that releases the cubes.
Do not place ngers or hands on the automatic
icemaking mechanism while the refrigerator is
plugged in.
nTurning the temperature control to the OFF position
does not remove power to the light circuit.
nDo not refreeze frozen foods which have thawed
completely.
nBefore replacing a burned-out light bulb, the
refrigerator should be unplugged in order to avoid
contact with a live wire lament. (A burned-out light
may break when being replaced.)
IMPORTANTE INFORMACIÓN DE SEGURIDAD.
LEA TODAS LAS INSTRUCCIONES ANTES DE SU USO.
¡ADVERTENCIA!
Use este aparato sólo con el n para el cual fue diseñado como se describe en este Manual del propietario.
MESURES DE SÉCURITÉ
Al usar aparatos eléctricos, se deben seguir precauciones básicas de seguridad, incluyendo las siguientes:
n No intente ni permita que los niños se trepen, paren
o cuelguen de los estantes del refrigerador.Este
refrigerador debe instalarse y ubicarse correctamente
según las Instrucciones de instalación antes de su
uso.
n No intente ni permita que los niños se trepen, paren
o cuelguen de los estantes del refrigerador. Podrían
dañar el refrigerador y sufrir graves daños.
n No toque las supercies frías en el compartimiento
del congelador con las manos húmedas o
mojadas. La piel se puede pegar a estas supercies
extremadamente frías.
n No almacene o use gasolina u otros vapores y
líquidos inamables en las áreas cercanas a este o a
cualquier otro aparato.
n Mantenga los dedos alejados de las áreas estrechas;
los espacios entre las puertas y entre las puertas y
los gabinetes son necesariamente pequeños. Tenga
cuidado al cerrar las puertas cuando haya niños en el
área.
n Desconecte el refrigerador antes de limpiar y hacer
reparaciones.
NOTA: Recomendamos enfáticamente que cualquier
servicio sea realizado por un individuo calicado.
n En los refrigeradores con máquinas de hielo
automáticas, evite el contacto con las partes en
movimiento del mecanismo eyector, o con el
elemento de calefacción (ubicado en la parte inferior
de la máquina de hielos) que expulsa los cubos. No
coloque los dedos o las manos en el mecanismo de
la máquina de hielos mientras el refrigerador esté
conectado.
n Girar el control de temperatura a la posición apagado
no retira la corriente del circuito de luz.
n No vuelva a congelar alimentos que se han
descongelado por completo.
n Antes de reemplazar una lámpara de luz quemada,
se deberá desenchufar el refrigerador a n de evitar
el contacto con el lamento que aún tiene corriente.
(Una lámpara de luz quemada se puede quebrar al
ser reemplazada).
3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
WARNING!
HOW TO CONNECT ELECTRICITY
Do not, under any circumstances, cut or remove the third (ground) prong from the power cord.
For personal 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 qualied
electrician to make sure the outlet is properly grounded.
Where a ungrounded 2-prong wall outlet is encountered,
it is your 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, wattage and
frequency that match the rating plate.
This provides the best performance and also prevents
overloading house wiring circuits which could cause a re
hazard from overheated wires.
Never unplug your refrigerator by pulling on the power cord.
Always grip plug rmly 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.
IMPORTANTE INFORMACIÓN DE SEGURIDAD.
LEA TODAS LAS INSTRUCCIONES ANTES DE SU USO.
¡ADVERTENCIA!
CÓMO CONECTAR LA ELECTRICIDAD
Bajo ninguna circunstancia, no corte ni retire la tercera pata (conexión a tierra) del cable de electricidad. Por
seguridad personal, este aparato debe estar correctamente conectado a tierra.
El cable eléctrico de este aparato está provisto de un
enchufe de tres patas (conexión a tierra) que encaja
en un tomacorriente estándar de 3 oricios (conexión
a tierra) para minimizar la posibilidad de peligro de un
choque eléctrico de este aparato.
Haga que el tomacorriente de la pared y el circuito
sean revisados por un electricista calicado para
asegurar que el tomacorriente tiene la conexión a tierra
apropiada.
En caso de contar con un tomacorriente de pared
de 2 clavijas, es su responsabilidad y obligación
reemplazarlo por un tomacorriente de pared de 3
clavijas correctamente conectado a tierra.
El refrigerador debería estar siempre conectado a un
enchufe especíco con un índice de voltaje, vataje y
frecuencia equivalentes los que guran en su etiqueta
de características técnicas.
Esto ofrece el mejor desempeño y también evita
sobrecargar los circuitos eléctricos de la casa que
podrían causar un incendio a partir de los cables
recalentados.
Nunca desconecte su refrigerador halando del cable
eléctrico. Siempre tome el enchufe rmemente y hálelo
directamente del tomacorriente.
Repare o reemplace de inmediato todos los cables
eléctricos que se hayan desgastado o dañado.No use
un cable que tenga grietas o daños de abrasión en su
longitud o en cualquier extremo.
Al retirar el refrigerador de la pared, tenga cuidado de no
enrollar o dañar el cable eléctrico.
LEA Y SIGA CUIDADOSAMENTE ESTA INFORMACIÓN DE SEGURIDAD.
CONSERVE ESTAS INSTRUCCIONES
READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
4

About the fresh food compartment shelves.
About the temperature control dial. GEAppliances.com
Shelf supports at various levels allow you to custom-space your shelves.Not all features are on all models.
Full-Width Shelves
Some models have a stationary tempered
glass shelf, a spillproof shelf, or two steel
wire stationary shelves.These shelves can
be moved to another place in the fresh food
compartment.
When placed correctly on the shelf supports,
the shelf will stop before coming completely
out of the refrigerator and will not tilt when
you place food on it or remove food from it.
Half-Width Shelves
One end of the shelf rests on a molded side-wall
support; a bracket on the other end hooks into
a track on the rear cabinet wall.
To remove, lift the shelf up at front, then o the
support and out of the track.
To replace, select desired shelf height.With
shelf front raised slightly, hook the bracket’s top
lug into the track, then lower the shelf onto the
support.
NOTE: The shelf to the right of the track is
designed to hook into the right-hand slot; the
shelf to the left is designed
to hook into the left-hand
slot.
2Lift up and out
1Tilt up
To remove a full-width shelf when the
fresh food compartment door cannot
be opened fully
Lift rear
Pull forward and down
Lift rear
Pull forward
To remove the full-width shelves
5
Turning the dial to OFF stops cooling in both compartments—fresh food and freezer. It does not shut o power to
the refrigerator.
Temperature Control Dial (on some models)
The temperature control dial adjust refrigerator from warmest to coldest.
The recommended factory setting is shown in illustration to the left.For colder
temperature turn dial clockwise toward snowake. For warmer temperature turn
dial counter clockwise away from snowake. allow 24 hours for adjustment.
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
Recommened
factory setting Coldest setting Warmest setting
OFF
OFF
OFF

Adjustable Humidity Drawer (on some models)
Slide the control all the way to the
HIGH setting to provide high humidity
recommended for most vegetables.
Slide the control all the way to the LOW
setting to provide lower humidity levels
recommended for most fruits.
The snacks drawer can be moved to the
most useful location for your family’s needs.
Snacks Drawer
Not all features are on all models.
About the storage drawers.
6
Fruit and Vegetable Drawers
Excess water that may accumulate in the
bottom of the drawers should be emptied
and the drawers wiped dry.
About the freezer compartment shelves.
Step Shelf (on some models)
To remove the step shelf:
1Lift left side of shelf slightly.
2Move shelf to the left to free its right ends
from holes in the cabinet wall.
3Lower right side of shelf, move shelf to the
right and take it out.
To replace the step shelf:
1 With shelf tilted as shown, t left ends of
shelf into holes in cabinet wall. 2Lift left side of shelf slightly, swing shelf up, t right ends of shelf into holes in cabinet
wall, and lower shelf into place.
123
Ice Trays (on some models)
Ice trays are designed to release ice cubes
easily. Hold tray upside-down over a
container and twist both ends to release
cubes.
For only one or two ice cubes, leave the tray
right-side up, twist both ends slightly and
remove desired number of cubes. Wash ice
trays and storage bin in lukewarm water
only. Do not put them in an automatic
dishwasher.

About storage drawer and cover removal. GEAppliances.com
Not all features are on all models.
Twin Drawer Shelf
To remove:
1Remove the drawers.
2Reach in, push the front of glass cover up,
and at the same time, pull it forward as far
as it will come.
Tilt it and take it out.Avoid cleaning the cold
glass cover with hot water because the
extreme temperature dierence may cause it
to break.
3 Remove the drawer frame. (Always remove
the glass cover before you take out the
drawer frame.)
Lift the frame o the supports at each side
and back, pull it forward, tilt it and take it out.
To replace:
1Lower the frame until it rests on the
supports at each side and back.
2Replace the glass cover, pushing its rear
edge rmly into the rear frame channel
and gently lowering the front into place.
3Replace the drawers.
Drawer and Cover Removal
Drawers can be removed easily by grasping
the sides and lifting up slightly while pulling
drawers past the stop location.
To remove the cover, lift it o its supports,
pull it forward, tilt it and take it out.
About the automatic icemaker.
A newly-installed refrigerator may take 12 to 24 hours to begin making ice.
Automatic Icemaker (on some models)
The icemaker will produce approximately
70-100 cubes in a 24-hour period, depending
on the freezer compartment temperature, room
temperature, number of door openings and other
use conditions.
If the refrigerator is operated before the water
connection is made to the icemaker, set the switch
to OFF or move the feeler arm to the STOP (up)
position.
When the refrigerator has been connected
to the water supply, set the switch to the ON
position or move the feeler arm to the ON
(down) position.
The icemaker will ll with water when it cools to
15°F.A newly-installed refrigerator may take 12 to
24 hours to begin making ice cubes.
Once the icemaker starts to make ice, it may
take up to 48 hours to ll the bin, depending on
the temperature settings and number of door
openings.
You will hear a buzzing sound each time the
icemaker lls with water.
Throw away the rst few batches of ice to allow
the water line to clear.
Be sure nothing interferes with the sweep of the
feeler arm.
When the bin lls to the level of the feeler arm,
the icemaker will stop producing ice.
It is normal for several cubes to be joined
together.
If ice is not used frequently, old ice cubes will
become cloudy, taste stale, shrink or fuse
together.
Icemaker Accessory Kit
If your refrigerator did not already come equipped
with an automatic icemaker, an icemaker
accessory kit is available at extra cost.
Check the back of the refrigerator for
the specic icemaker kit needed for
your model.
Feeler Arm
in the STOP
(up) position
Feeler Arm in
the ON (down)
position
7
There are 2 types of icemakers:
Power switch model
Feeler arm model
ON OFF
Ice maker
Feeler Arm
Power Switch

Care and cleaning of the refrigerator.
8
Cleaning the Outside
The door handles and trim (on some models). Clean with a
cloth dampened with soapy water.Dry with a soft cloth.
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.
The stainless steel panels and door handles (on some
models) can be cleaned with a commercially available
stainless steel cleaner. Cleaners with oxalic acid such as
Bar Keepers Friend®Soft Cleanser will remove rust, tarnish
and small blemishes. Use only a liquid cleanser free of grit
and rub in the directrion of the brush lines with a damp soft
sponge. Do not use appliance wax or polish on the stainless
steel.
Do not wipe the refrigerator with a soiled 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 either bleach or ammonia because these
products can scratch and weaken the paint nish.
Cleaning the Inside
To help prevent odors, leave an open box of baking soda in
the fresh food 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 warm water and baking soda 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 (on some models) with
hot water because the extreme temperature dierence
may cause them to break. Handle glass shelves carefully.
Bumping tempered glass can cause it to shatter.
Do not wash any plastic refrigerator parts in the dishwasher.
Condenser
There is no need for routine
condenser cleaning in normal
home operating environments.
However, in environments that
may be particularly dusty or
greasy, the condenser should
be cleaned periodically for
ecient refrigerator operation.
To clean the condenser, turn the temperature control dial to
OFF.Sweep away or vacuum up dust.
For best results, use a brush specially designed for this
purpose. It is available at most appliance parts stores.
Moving the Refrigerator
Be careful when moving the refrigerator away from
the wall. All types of oor coverings can be damaged,
particularly cushioned coverings and those with embossed
surfaces.
Turn the leveling legs at each front corner of the refrigerator
counterclockwise until the rollers support 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 oor covering or refrigerator.
When pushing the refrigerator back, make sure you don’t
roll over the power cord or icemaker supply line (on some
models).
After rolling the refrigerator back into place, turn the
legs clockwise until the legs again bear the weight of the
refrigerator.
Light Bulb Replacement
To replace a burned-out bulb, unplug the refrigerator from
its electrical outlet, unscrew the bulb when cool and replace
it with an appliance bulb of the same or lower wattage.
Turning the control to the OFF position does not remove
power to the light circuit.
Preparing for Vacation
For long vacations or absences, remove food and unplug
the refrigerator.Move the temperature control dial to the
OFF position, and 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.
Move the feeler arm to the STOP (up) position, or move the
switch to the OFF position on the slide switch model and
shut o the water supply to the refrigerator.
If the temperature can drop below freezing, have a qualied
servicer drain the water supply system (on some models) to
prevent serious property damage due to ooding.
Preparing to Move
Secure all loose items such as grille, shelves and drawers by
taping them securely in place to prevent damage.
Be sure the refrigerator stays in an upright position during
moving.
Cleaning the condenser coils.

CLEARANCES
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Read these instructions completely and carefully.
•IMPORTANT – Save these instructions
for local inspector’s use.
•IMPORTANT – Observe all governing
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
15 minutes
Reversing the Door Swing
1 hour
• Proper installation is the responsibility of the installer.
•Product failure due to improper installation is not
covered under the Warranty.
• 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.
• Install it on a oor strong enough to support it fully
loaded.
REFRIGERATOR LOCATION
Allow the following clearances for ease of installation,
proper air circulation and plumbing and electrical
connections.
• Sides 3/4” (19 mm)
• Top 1” (25 mm)
• Back 2” (50 mm)
Leveling legs near each front corner of the refrigerator
are adjustable. They rmly position the refrigerator
and prevent it from moving when the doors are
opened. Leveling legs should be set so the front of the
refrigerator is raised just enough that the doors close
easily when opened about halfway.
Turn the leveling legs clockwise to raise the refrigerator,
counterclockwise to lower it.
Rollers next to the leveling legs allow you to move the
refrigerator away from the wall for cleaning.
Turn the legs counterclockwise until the weight of the
refrigerator is transferred from them to the rollers.After
rolling the refrigerator back into place, turn the legs
clockwise until the legs again bear the weight of the
refrigerator.
ROLLERS AND LEVELING LEGS
If the refrigerator has an icemaker, it will have to be
connected to a cold water line.A water supply kit
(containing copper tubing, shuto valve, ttings and
instructions) is available at extra cost from your dealer,
by visiting our Website at GEAppliances.com or from
Parts and Accessories, 1.877.959.8688.
WATER SUPPLY TO THE ICEMAKER (on
some models)
9
Installation Instructions Models 16, 17, 18
If you have questions, call 1.800.GE.CARES or visit our Website at: GEAppliances.com

10
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
• Copper or GE SmartConnect™Refrigerator Tubing kit,
1/4” outer diameter to connect the refrigerator to the
water supply. If using copper, be sure both ends of the
tubing are cut square.
To determine how much tubing you need: measure
the distance from the water valve on the back of the
refrigerator to the water supply pipe. Then add 8’ (2.4
m). Be sure there is sucient extra tubing (about 8’ [2.4
m] coiled into 3 turns of about 10” [25 cm] diameter) to
allow the refrigerator to move out from the wall after
installation.
INSTALLING THE WATER LINE (ON SOME MODELS)
Installation Instructions
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Recommended copper water supply kits are WX8X2,
WX8X3 or WX8X4, depending on the amount of tubing
you need.Approved plastic water supply lines are GE
SmartConnect™ Refrigerator Tubing (WX08X10006,
WX08X10015 and WX08X10025).
When connecting your refrigerator to a GE Reverse
Osmosis Water System, the only approved installation is
with a GE RVKit.For other reverse osmosis water systems,
follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
This water line installation is not warranted by the
refrigerator or icemaker manufacturer.Follow these
instructions carefully to minimize the risk of expensive
water damage.
Water hammer (water banging in the pipes) in house
plumbing can cause damage to refrigerator parts and
lead to water leakage or ooding. Call a qualied plumber
to correct water hammer before installing the water
supply line to the refrigerator.
To prevent burns and product damage, do not hook up
the water line to the hot water line.
If you use your refrigerator before connecting the water
line, make sure the ice maker power switch is in the OFF
position (on power switch models) or the feeler arm in the
STOP (up) position (on feeler arm models).
Do not install the icemaker tubing in areas whe re
temperatures fall below freezing.
When using any electrical device (such as a power drill)
during installation, be sure the device is double insulated
or grounded in a manner to prevent the hazard of electric
shock, or is battery powered.
All installations must be in accordance with local
plumbing code requirements.
WARNING! Connect to potable water
supply only.
¡ADVERTENCIA! Conecte al
suministro de agua potable solamente.
1
WHAT YOU WILL NEED (Cont.)
GE SmartConnect™ Refrigerator Tubing Kits are available
in the following lengths:
6’ (1.8 m) – WX08X10006
15’ (4.6 m) – WX08X10015
25’ (7.6 m) – WX08X10025
Be sure that the kit you select allows at least 8’ (2.4 m) as
described above.
NOTE: The only GE approved plastic tubing is that
supplied in GE SmartConnect™Refrigerator Tubing kits.
Do not use any other plastic water supply line because
the line is under pressure at all times. Certain types of
plastic will crack or rupture with age and cause water
damage to your home.
• A GE water supply kit (containing tubing, shuto valve
and ttings listed below) is available at extra cost from
your dealer or from Parts and Accessories.
• A cold water supply. The water pressure must be
between 20 and 120 p.s.i. (1.4–8.1 bar).
• Power drill.
• 1/2”or adjustable wrench.
• Straight and Phillips
blade screwdriver.
• Two 1/4”outer diameter
compression nuts and
2 ferrules (sleeves)—to connect
the copper tubing to the shuto
valve and the refrigerator water
valve.
OR
• If you are using a GE SmartConnect™Refrigerator
Tubing kit, the necessary ttings are preassembled to
the tubing.
• If your existing copper water line has a ared tting
at the end, you will need an adapter (available at
plumbing supply stores) to connect the water line to the
refrigerator OR you can cut o the ared tting with a
tube cutter and then use a compression tting. Do not
cut formed end from GE SmartConnect™Refrigerator
tubing.
• Shuto valve to connect to the cold water line.The
shuto valve should have a water inlet with a minimum
inside diameter of 5/32” at the point of connection to
the COLD WATER LINE. Saddle-type shuto valves are
included in many water supply kits.Before purchasing,
make sure a saddle-type valve complies with your local
plumbing codes.

Installation Instructions
Install the shuto valve on the nearest frequently used drinking water line.
1SHUT OFF THE MAIN WATER SUPPLY
AND UNPLUG REFRIGERATOR
Turn on the nearest faucet (counterclockwise) long
enough to clear the line of water.
11
Choose a location for the valve that is easily
accessible. It is best to connect into the side of a
vertical water pipe.When it is necessary to connect
into a horizontal water pipe, make the connection to
the top or side, rather than at the bottom, to avoid
drawing o any sediment from the water pipe.
Drill a 1/4” hole in the water pipe (even if using a self-
piercing valve), using a sharp bit. Remove any burrs
resulting from drilling the hole in the pipe. Take care
not to allow water to drain into the drill. Failure to
drill a 1/4” hole may result in reduced ice production
or smaller cubes.
DRILL THE HOLE FOR THE VALVE
2
Fasten the shuto valve to the cold water pipe with the
pipe clamp.
Tighten the clamp screws until the sealing washer
begins to swell.
NOTE: Do not overtighten or you may crush the tubing.
NOTE: Commonwealth of Massachusetts Plumbing
Codes 248CMR shall be adhered to. Saddle valves
are illegal and use is not permitted in Massachusetts.
Consult with your licensed plumber.
FASTEN THE SHUTOFF VALVE
3
Washer
Inlet End
Clamp
Screw
Vertical Cold
Water Pipe
Saddle-Type
Shuto Valve
Pipe Clamp 6FLUSH OUT THE TUBING
Turn the main water supply on (counterclockwise) and
ush out the tubing until the water is clear.
Shut the water o at the water valve after about
one quart (1 liter) of water has been ushed through
the tubing.
5CONNECT THE TUBING TO THE VALVE
Place the compression nut and ferrule (sleeve) for
copper tubing onto the end of the tubing and connect
it to the shuto valve.
Make sure the tubing is fully inserted into the valve.
Tighten the compression nut securely.
For plastic tubing from a GE SmartConnect™
Refrigerator Tubing kit, insert the molded end of the
tubing into the shuto valve and tighten compression
nut until it is hand tight, then tighten one additional
turn with a wrench.Overtightening may cause leaks.
NOTE: Commonwealth of Massachusetts Plumbing
Codes 248CMR shall be adhered to. Saddle valves
are illegal and use is not permitted in Massachusetts.
Consult with your licensed plumber.
Saddle-Type
Shuto Valve
Compression
Nut
SmartConnect™
Tubing
Packing Nut
Outlet Valve Ferrule (sleeve)
4ROUTE THE TUBING
Route the tubing between the cold water line and the
refrigerator.
Route the tubing through a hole drilled in the wall or
oor (behind the refrigerator or adjacent base cabinet)
as close to the wall as possible.
NOTE: Be sure there is sucient extra tubing (about 8
feet [244 cm] coiled into 3 turns of about 10” [25 cm]
diameter) to allow the refrigerator to move out from
the wall after installation.

Installation Instructions
12
INSTALLING THE WATER LINE (CONT.)
1
7CONNECT THE TUBING TO THE
REFRIGERATOR
NOTES:
• Before making the connection to the refrigerator, be
sure the refrigerator power cord is not plugged into
the wall outlet.
• We recommend installing a water lter if your water
supply has sand or particles that could clog the screen
of the refrigerator’s water valve. Install it in the water
line near the refrigerator.If using GE SmartConnect™
Refrigerator Tubing kit, you will need an additional tube
(WX08X10002) to connect the lter. Do not cut plastic
tube to install lter.
Remove the access cover.
Remove the plastic exible
cap from the water valve
(refrigerator connection).
Place the compression nut and ferrule (sleeve) onto
the end of the tubing as shown. On GE SmartConnect™
Refrigerator Tubing kit, the nuts are already assembled
to the tubing.
Insert the end of the tubing into the water valve
connection as far as possible. While holding the tubing,
tighten the tting.
For plastic tubing from a GE SmartConnect™
Refrigerator Tubing kit, insert the molded end of the
tubing into the shuto valve and tighten compression
nut until it is hand tight, then tighten one additional
turn with a wrench.Overtightening may cause leaks.
Fasten the tubing into the clamp provided to hold it in a
vertical position.You may need to pry open the clamp.
8TURN THE WATER
ON AT THE
SHUTOFF VALVE
Tighten any connections
that leak.
Tubing
Clamp
1/4”Compression
Nut
Ferrule
(sleeve)
SmartConnect™
Tubing
Refrigerator Connection
1/4”
Copper
Tubing
9INSTALLING THE REFRIGERATOR
Plug in the refrigerator.
Arrange the coil of tubing so
that it does not vibrate against
the back of the refrigerator
or against the wall.Push the
refrigerator back to the wall.
Reattach the access cover.
ON OFF
On power switch models, set the icemaker power
switch to the 0N position.On feeler arm models,
move the feeler arm to the ON (down) position. The
icemaker will not begin to operate until it reaches its
operating temperature of 15°F (–9°C) or below. It will
then begin operation automatically.
NOTE: In lower water pressure conditions, the water
valve may turn on up to 3 times to deliver enough
water to the icemaker.
START THE ICEMAKER
Power
switch
Power switch model
Feeler Arm in the
STOP (up) position
Feeler Arm in
the ON (down) position
Feeler arm model
10

13
Installation Instructions
REVERSING THE DOOR SWING
2
When reversing the door swing:
• Read the instructions all the way through before starting.
• Handle parts carefully to avoid scratching paint.
• Set screws down by their related parts to avoid using
them in the wrong places.
• Provide a non-scratching work surface for the doors.
IMPORTANT: Once you begin, do not move the cabinet until
door-swing reversal is completed.
These instructions are for changing the hinges from the
right side to the left side—if you ever want to change the
hinges back to the right side, follow these same instructions
and reverse all references to left and right.
IMPORTANT NOTES
Phillips screwdriver
TOOLS REQUIRED
Masking tape
T20 or T25 Torxdriver
(needed for some
models)
5/16” hex-head
socket driver
5/16”open-end
wrench
Putty knife or thin-
blade screwdriver
2.1 Tape the door shut with masking tape.
2.2 With a 5/16” hex-head socket driver, remove the
screws that hold the top hinge to the cabinet.
REMOVE THE FREEZER DOOR
2
2.3 Lift the hinge straight up to free the hinge pin
from the socket in the top of the door and set it
aside, along with its screws.
2.6 Transfer the 2 screws from the opposite side of
the cabinet to the screw holes vacated by the top
hinge removal.
2.5 Set the door on a non-scratching surface with
the outside up.
2.4 Remove the tape and tilt the door away from the
cabinet. Lift it o the center hinge pin.
Top Hinge
1.1 Unplug the refrigerator from its electrical outlet.
1.2 Empty all door shelves, including the dairy
compartment.
CAUTION: Do not let either door drop to the oor. To
do so could damage the door stop.
BEFORE YOU START
1

Installation Instructions
3.1 Tape the door shut with masking tape.
REMOVE THE FRESH FOOD DOOR
3
3.4 Set the door outside-up on a non-scratching surface.
3.3 Remove the tape and tilt the door away from the
cabinet. Lift the door from the pin in the bottom
hinge bracket. (If the plastic washer sticks to the door
bottom, put it back on the hinge.)
3.2 Using a 5/16” hex-head socket screwdriver and a
5/16”open-end wrench, remove the two screws
holding the center hinge to the cabinet. Lift the
center hinge to free its pin from the socket in the
top of the door, and set hinge and screws aside.
Be careful not to lose the center hinge spacer and
washer.
3.7 Take one of the screws removed in step 2 and start
it in the outermost screw hole on the opposite side.
Do not drive it all the way down—leave enough space
under the screw head for thickness of the bracket.
14
REVERSING THE HARDWARE
4
REVERSING THE DOOR SWING (CONT.)
2
3.5 Transfer the two screws from the opposite side of the
cabinet to the screw holes vacated by the center hinge
removal.
3.6 Transfer the washer (if your model has one) to the
opposite side.
3
REMOVE THE FRESH FOOD DOOR (CONT.)
4.1 Move the bottom hinge bracket and plastic washer from
the right side to the left side.
Plastic
Washer
Hinge
Bracket
Switch the hinge pin to the
opposite side of the bracket.

Installation Instructions
REVERSING THE DOOR HANDLES
5
5.1.2 Remove the handle.
Top
4.2 Interchange hinge and screws at top right with
screws at top left of cabinet. Do not tighten screws
on hinge side at this time.
NOTES:
•Some hinges have four holes.Which holes you use
for installing the hinge depends on which side you
install the hinge.
• The outer edge of the hinge should be parallel to
the edge of the case for correct installation.
Installing the hinge on
the left.Installing the hinge on
the right.
Plug
15
5.3 Reinstall the fresh food door handle
5.3.1 Attach the handle to the right side of the
door with screws at the top
and under the handle plug.
5.3.2 Reinstall the handle plug.
REVERSING THE HARDWARE (CONT.)
4
5.1 Transfer fresh food door handle
5.1.1 Remove the handle plug using a tape-tipped
putty knife under the edge, and remove the
screw underneath.Remove the two screws
holding the handle to the top of the door.
5.1.3 Remove plug button from the top hinge hole on the
left side of the door and insert it into the hole on the
opposite side that was vacated by removal of the top
hinge.
Plug Button
5.1.4 Pull the plug button from the front of the door and
transfer it to the opposite side.
5.2 Transfer door stop
5.2.1 Move the plastic door stop and screws from
the right side to the left side.
To reattach the
handle on the
opposite side.
Plug Button
REVERSING THE DOOR HANDLES (CONT.)
5
Plastic Door Stop
Left Side
Right Side

5.4 Transfer Freezer Door Handle
5.4.1 Remove the screw
holding the handle
to the top of the
door and the two
screws holding the
handle to the bottom
of the door.
5.4.2 Remove the handle.
Installation Instructions
TOP
BOTTOM
Top
Bottom
16
6.1.2 Insert the pin on the center hinge into the socket in the
top of the door.Place the spacer, then the washer, on
the hinge pin.
NOTE: The center hinge must
be turned over as shown when
mounted on the left side.
Plastic Washer
and Spacer
Hinge Pin
6.2 Re-hang the freezer door
6.2.1 Lower the freezer door
onto the center hinge
pin. Be sure the
washer and spacer
are in place on the pin.
RE-HANGING THE DOORS (CONT.)
6
Center Hinge Pin
Plastic Washer
and Spacer
REVERSING THE DOOR SWING (CONT.)
2
6.1.3 Tilt the door toward the cabinet. As the door is brought
into position, slide the hinge under the head of the screw
which earlier had been partly driven into the outermost
hole. Insert the remaining screw, then tighten both
screws securely.
5.4.3 Remove the screw from the
right top edge of the door
and insert it into the handle
screw hole on the left side.
5.4.4 Transfer the door stop as shown in preceding
section 5.2.
5.4.5 Attach the handle to the
right edge of the door with
screws at top and bottom,
using bottom holes vacated
by removal of the door stop
screws.
6.1 Re-hang the fresh food door
6.1.1 Lower the fresh food door onto the bottom
hinge pin. Be sure the washer is in place on
the pin.
RE-HANGING THE DOORS
6
Plastic
Washer
Hinge
Bracket
6.2.2 Tilt the door toward the cabinet, lifting the top hinge so
the pin ts into the socket on the top of the door.
6.2.3. Make sure the door is slightly above the top of the
cabinet and the gap between the doors is even
across the front.Tighten the top hinge screws.Do not
overtighten these screws–tighten them until they are
just snug, then turn them another one-half turn.
REVERSING THE DOOR HANDLES (CONT.)
5

17
n
The new high eciency
compressor may run
faster and longer than
your old refrigerator and
you may hear a high-pitched hum or pulsating sound
while it is operating.
n
You may hear a whooshing sound when the doors close.
This is due to pressure equalizing within the refrigerator.
Normal operating sounds. GEAppliances.com
Newer refrigerators sound dierent from older refrigerators. Modern refrigerators have more features
and use newer technology.
n
You may hear the fans spinning at high
speeds.
This happens when the refrigerator is
rst plugged in, when the doors are
opened frequently or when
a large amount of food is added to the refrigerator or
freezer compartments.The fans are helping to maintain
the correct temperatures.
CLICKS, POPS,
CRACKS and CHIRPS
n
You may hear cracking or popping sounds when the
refrigerator is rst plugged in. This happens as the refrigerator
cools to the correct temperature.
n
The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping sound when
attempting to restart (this could take
up to 5 minutes).
n
Expansion and contraction of cooling coils during and after
defrost can cause a cracking or popping sound.
n
On models with an icemaker, after an icemaking cycle, you
may hear the ice cubes dropping into the ice bucket.
WATER SOUNDS
n
The ow of refrigerant through the freezer cooling coils may
make a gurgling noise like boiling water.
n
Water dropping on the defrost heater can cause a sizzling,
popping or buzzing sound during the defrost cycle.
n
A water dripping noise may occur during the defrost cycle as ice
melts from the evaporator and flows into the drain pan.
n
Closing the door may cause a gurgling sound due to pressure
equalization.
Do you hear what I hear? These sounds are normal.
For additional information on normal
icemaker operating sounds, see the
About the automatic icemaker section.
HUMMM...
WHOOSH...

18
Before you call for service…
Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and money! Review the charts on the following
pages rst and you may not need to call for service.
Problem Possible Causes What To Do
Refrigerator does not
operate Refrigerator in defrost cycle. Wait about 30 minutes for defrost cycle to end.
Temperature control dial in OFF
position. Move the temperature control dial to a temperature setting.
Refrigerator is unplugged. Push the plug completely into the outlet.
The fuse is blown/circuit breaker is
tripped.
Replace fuse or reset the breaker.
Vibration or rattling (slight
vibration is normal) Roller screws or leveling legs need adjusting. See Rollers and Leveling Legs.
Fresh food or freezer
compartment too warm Temperature control dial not set cold enough. See About the temperature control dial.
Warm weather or frequent door
openings. Set the temperature control dial one step colder.See About the temperature control dial.
Door left open. Check to see if package is holding door open.
Package blocking air duct in freezer
compartment. Check to see if package is blocking air duct in freezer compartment.
Motor operates for
long periods or cycles
on and o frequently.
(Modern refrigerators
with more storage space
and a larger space and
a larger freezer require
more operating time.
They start and stop
often to maintain even
temperatures.)
Normal when refrigerator is rst
plugged in. Wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to completely cool down.
Often occurs when large amounts of
food are placed in refrigerator. This is normal.
Door left open. Check to see if package is holding door open.
Hot weather or frequent door
openings. This is normal.
Temperature control dial set at the
coldest setting. See About the temperature control dial.
Grille and condenser need cleaning. See Care and cleaning.
Frost or ice crystals on
frozen food (frost within
package is normal)
Door left open. Check to see if package is holding door open.
Too frequent or too long door
openings.
Automatic icemaker does
not work (on some models) Icemaker is not on. Move the feeler arm to the ON (down) position, or move the power switch to the ON position
Water supply turned o or not
connected. See Installing the water line.
Freezer compartment too warm. Wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to completely cool down.
Piled up cubes in the storage bin
cause the icemaker to shut o.
Level cubes by hand.
Frequent “buzzing” sound
supply to the refrigerator
has not been connected
Icemaker is on but the water Move the feeler arm to the STOP (up) position, or move
the power switch to the OFF position, Keeping it on will
damage the water valve..
Cubes too small Water shuto valve connecting
refrigerator to water line may be
clogged.
Call the plumber to clear the valve.
Slow ice cube freezing Door left open. Check to see if package is holding door open.
Temperature control dial not set cold
enough. See About the temperature control dial.

Problem Possible Causes What To Do
Ice cubes have odor/taste Ice storage bin needs cleaning. Empty and wash bin. Discard old cubes.
Food transmitting odor/taste to ice cubes. Wrap foods well.
Interior of refrigerator needs cleaning See Care and cleaning.
Moisture forms on cabinet
surface between the doors Not unusual during periods of high humidity. Wipe surface dry and reset temperature control dial one setting colder.
Moisture collects inside (in
humid weather, air carries
moisture into refrigerator
when doors reopened)
Too frequent or too long door openings.
Refrigerator has odor Foods transmitting odor to refrigerator. Foods with strong odors should be tightly wrapped.
Keep an open box of baking soda in the
refrigerator; replace every three months.
Interior needs cleaning. See Care and cleaning.
Troubleshooting Tips
GEAppliances.com
19

Notes.
20