User Manual GE® GDE21EGKWW ENERGY STAR® 21.0 Cu. Ft. Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator

• User Manual - (English, French, Spanish)

• ENERGY GUIDE - (English)

• QUICK SPEC - (English)

Table of contents

• Operating Instructions
• Care and Cleaning
• Troubleshooting Tips

OWNER’S MANUAL & INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS Bottom Freezer Refrigerators

Operating Instructions

Features

French Door Models

1. Space-saving icemaker (on some models)
   Ice maker and bin are located on the door creating more usable storage space.
2. LED lighting
   LED lighting in the fresh food compartment are located at the top center and on the left and right sides of climate zone pans. LED lights are also located in the freezer.
3. Full-width drawer
   A full-width drawer that can accommodate larger items is located at the bottom of the fresh food compartment.
4. QuickSpace™ shelf (on some models)
   Functions as a normal full-sized shelf when needed and easily slides back to store tall items below.
5. Removable/adjustable door bins
   Can be moved up or down to accommodate your needs.
6. Climate zone drawers
   Separate pans for produce storage.
7. Water filter
   Accessible for easy replacement.

Single Door Models

1. Floating snack pan
   Can be moved to different locations to best serve your needs.
2. LED lighting
   LED lighting in the fresh food compartment are located at the top center and on the left and right sides of climate zone pans. LED lights are also located in the freezer.
3. Full-width shelver
   A full-width shelver that can accommodate larger items.
4. Full-width gallon door bins
   Nonadjustable full-width door bins that will hold gallon containers.
5. Climate zone pans
   Separate bins for produce storage.
6. Water filter (on some models)
   Accessible for easy replacement.
7. Adjustable door bins
   Can be moved up or down to accommodate your needs.
8. Icemaker (on some models)
   Icemaker is located in the freezer on some models. Icemaker Kit IM4 is available for models that are icemaker-ready. For installation instructions see the IM4D owner's manual found at GEAppliances.com.

Controls

GBE21D, GBE21A , Internal Control

1. Freezer Compartment Temperature Control
   Adjust freezer compartment temparature. The freezer temperature is preset in the factory at the colder position. Allow 24 hours for temparature to stabilize to the preset recommended setting.
2. Fresh Food Compartment Temperature Control
   Adjust fresh food compartment temperature. The fresh food temperature is preset in the factory at the Colder position. Allow 24 hours for temperature to stabilize to the preset recommended setting.
   NOTE: Power to the refrigerator cannot be disconnected by any setting on the control panel.

GDE21D, GDE21E, PDE21K, GDE25E, GNE21D, GNE21F, PNE21K, PNE21N, GWE19J, GNE25D, GNE25J, PNE25J, CNE25S, PNE25N, GNE27J, GNE27E Top Control

1. Freezer Compartment Temperature Control
   Adjust freezer compartment temperature. The freezer temperature is preset in the factory at 0F.Allow 24 hours for temparature to stabilize to the preset recommended setting.
2. Fresh Food Compartment Temperature Control
   Adjust fresh food compartment temperature. The fresh food temperature is preset in the factory at 37°F (2.8°C). Allow 24 hours for temperature to the preset recommended setting.
3. Water Filter
   Press and hold 3 seconds to reset the Water Filter.
4. Turbo Cool
   To set the TurboCool™, press the Turbo Cool pad for 3 seconds. The display will show tc. TurboCool™ rapidly cools the refrigerator compartment in order to more quickly cool foods. Use TurboCool™ when adding a large amount of the food to the refrigerator compartment, putting away foods after they have been sitting out at room temparature, or when putting away warm leftovers. It can also be used if the refrigerator has been without power for an extended period.
   NOTE: The refrigerator temperature cannot be changed during TurboCool™. The freezer temperature is not affected during Turbo Cool. When opening the refrigerator door during TurboCool™, the fans will continue to run if they have cycled on.
5. Door Alarm
   To set the alarm, press the Door Alarm pad. This alarm will sound if either door is open for more than 2 minutes. The beeping stops when you close the door.

NOTE: To put the refrigerator control in the OFF position, simultaneously touch the words Freezer and Fridge for 3 seconds. Power to the refrigerator cannot be disconnected by any setting on the control panel.

Changing °F to °C or °C to °F: Press and hold the “DOOR ALARM” and “FREEZER” buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to set °C to °F or °F to °C.

GYE18J, PYE18H, GFE24J, PFE24J, CFE24S, PFE24H, GFE26J External Control

1. Freezer Compartment Temperature Control
   Adjust freezer compartment temperature. The freezer temperature is preset in the factory at 0F.Allow 24 hours for temparature to stabilize to the preset recommended setting.
2. Fresh Food Compartment Temperature Control
   Adjust fresh food compartment temperature. The fresh food temperature is preset in the factory at 37°F (2.8°C). Allow 24 hours for temperature to to stabilize to the preset recommended setting.
3. Water Filter
   Press and hold 3 seconds to reset the Water Filter.
4. Turbo Cool
   To set the Turbo Cool™, press the Alarm pad for 3 seconds. The display will show tc Turbo Cool™ rapidly cools the refrigerator compartment in order to more quickly cool foods. Use Turbo Cool™ when adding a large amount of the food to the refrigerator compartment, putting away foods after they have been sitting out at room temparature, or when putting away warm leftovers. It can also be used if the refrigerator has been without power for an extended period.
   NOTE: The refrigerator temperature cannot be changed during Turbo Cool™. The freezer temperature is not affected during Turbo Cool. When opening the refrigerator door during Turbo Cool™, the fans will continue to run if they have cycled on.
5. Alarm
   Press the Alarm pad to toggle the door alarm between off and on. The alarm will sound if either door is left open for more than 2 minutes. The beeping stops when you close the door.
6. Lock
   Press and hold the Lock pad for 3 seconds to lock out ice and water dispenser and all other controls. Press and hold to unlock the controls.
7. LED dispenser Light
   Press the Light pad to turn your dispenser light on and off.
   NOTE: To put the refrigerator control in the OFF position, simultaneously touch the words Freezer and Fridge for 3 seconds. Power to the refrigerator cannot be disconnected by any setting on the control panel.

Changing °F to °C or °C to °F: Press and hold the “DOOR ALARM” and “FREEZER” buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to set °C to °F or °F to °C.

Sabbath Modes

Models with Figure B controls

• Press and hold the “DOOR ALARM” and “WATER FITLER” buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to enter/exit Sabbath Mode.

Models with Figure C controls

• Press and hold the “LOOK” and “LIGHT” buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to enter/exit Sabbath Mode.

Dispenser

Water & Ice Dispenser

Press the glass gently against the dispenser cradle. The spill shelf is not self-draining. To reduce water spotting, the shelf should be cleaned regularly.

If no water is dispensed when the refrigerator is first installed, there may be air in the water line system. Press the dispenser paddle for at least five minutes to remove trapped air from the water line and to fill the water system. To flush out impurities in the water line, throw away the first six full glasses of water

Door Ice Bin

1. Open left fresh food door.

2. Pull down latch to release bin door.

3. Using handhold, lift ice bucket up and out to clear locators in bottom of bin.

4. To replace the ice bucket, set it on the guide brackets and push until the ice bucket seats properly.

5. If bucket cannot be replaced, rotate the Ice Bucket Fork 1/4 turn clockwise.

Internal Water Dispenser (on some models)

The water dispenser is located on the left wall inside the refrigerator compartment.

To dispense water:

1. Hold the glass against the recess.
2. Push the water dispenser button.
3. Hold the glass underneath the dispenser for 2–3 seconds after releasing the dispenser button. Water may continue to dispense after the button is released.

If no water is dispensed when the refrigerator is first installed, there may be air in the water line system. Press the dispenser button for at least 5 minutes to remove trapped air from the water line and to fill the water system. During the process, the duspenser noise may be loud as the air is purged from the water line system. To flush out impurities in the water line, throw away the first 6 glassfuls of water.

NOTE: To avoid water deposits, the dispenser should be cleaned periodically by wiping with a clean cloth or sponge

Important Facts About Your Dispensers

• Do not add ice from trays or bags to the door icemaker bucket. It may not crush or dispense.
• Avoid overflilling glass with ice and use of narrow glasses. Backed-up ice can jam the chute or cause the door in the chute to freeze shut. If ice is blocking the chute remove the ice bucket, poke it through with a wooden spoon.
• Beverages and foods should not be quick chilled in the door icemaker bin. Cans, bottles or food packages in the storage drawer may cause the icemaker or auger to jam.
• To keep dispensed ice from missing the glass, put the glass close to, but not touching, the dispenser opening.
• Some crushed ice may be dispensed even though you selected CUBED ICE. This happens occasionally when a few cubes accidentally get directed to the crusher.
• After crushed ice is dispensed, some water may trip from the chute.
• Sometimes a small mound of frost will form on the door in the ice chute. This condition is normal and usually occurs when you have dispensed crushed ice repeatedly.

Water Filter Cartridge - MWF (on some models)

Water Filter Cartridge

The water filter cartridge is located in back upper right corner of the refrigerator compartment.

When to replace the filter on models with a replacement indicator light

There is a replacement indicator light for the water filter cartridge on the dispenser. A red light will start blinking 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.

When to replace the filter on models without a replacement indicator light

The filter cartridge should be replaced every six months or earlier if the flow of water to the dispenser or icemaker decreases.

Removing the filter cartridge

If you are replacing the cartidge, first remove the old one by slowly turning it to the left. Do not pull down on the cartridge. A small amount of water may drip down.

NOTE: To reduce the risk associated with property damage due to water leakage, read and follow instructions before installation and use of this system. Installation and use MUST comply with all sate and local plumbing codes.

Installing the Filter Cartridge

1. Fill the replacement cartidge with water from the tap to allow for better flow from the dispenser immediately after installation.
2. Line up the arrow on the cartridge and the cartridge holder. Place the top of the new cartridge up inside the holder. Do not push it up into the holder.
3. Slowly turn it to the right until the filter cartridge stops. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN. As you turn the cartridge,cartridge, it will automatically raise itself into position. The cartridge will move about a 1/2 turn.
   
4. Run water from the dispenser for 1-1/2 gallons (about three minutes) to clear the system and prevent sputtering.
5. Press and hold the RESET WATER FILTER pad (some models) on the dispenser for three seconds.

NOTE: 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 dispenser and the icemaker will not operate without the filter or filter bypass plug.

Water Filter Cartridge - XWF (on some models)

Water Filter Cartridge

The water filter cartridge holder is located in the back upper-right corner of the fresh food refrigerator compartment.

When to Replace the Filter

If there is a replacement indicator light for the water filter cartridge on the dispenser, the red filter light will start blinking to tell you that you need to replace the filter soon.

- For external control models, the filter light will blink while you are dispensing until the filter is replaced.
- For top control models, the filter light will blink while the door is open until the filter is replaced.

For models that don't have the indicator light, the filter cartridge should be replaced every six months, or earlier if the flow of water to the dispenser or icemaker decreases.

Removing the Filter

If you are replacing the filter, first remove the previous one:

1. Open the filter cartridge housing by squeezing the 2 front tabs and gently pulling down.
2. Rotate the filter down.
3. Gently grasp the filter and slowly turn it counterclockwise about a ¼ turn. The filter should automatically release itself when you have rotated it far enough to the left. A small amount of water may drip down.

CAUTION: If air has been trapped in the system, the filter cartridge may be ejected as it is removed. Use caution when removing.

Filter Bypass Plug

To reduce the risk of property damage due to water leakage, you MUST use the filter bypass plug when a replacement filter cartridge is not available. Some models do not come equipped with the filter bypass plug. In Canada, call 800.561.3344. The dispenser and icemaker will not operate without either the filter or bypass plug installed. The bypass plug is installed in the same way as a filter cartridge

Installing the Filter in a Bottom Freezer Refrigerator

1. Open the filter cartridge housing by squeezing the 2 front tabs and gently pulling down.
   
2. Line up the ports on the filter with the ports on the filter cartridge holder, and gently insert the filter.
3. Slowly turn the filter to the right until it stops. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN. As you turn the filter, it will automatically adjust itself into position. The filter will move about a ¼ turn or 90 degrees, until the arrow on the filter aligns with the arrow on the filter cartridge holder.
   
4. Slowly push the filter up into the clips.
5. Close the filter cartridge housing by gently pushing the lid upwards until the tabs lock into place.
6. Run water from the dispenser for 2 gallons (7.6 liters) or approximately 5 minutes to clear the system. Water may spurt out and air bubbles may be visible during this process. If water is not flowing, check to make sure the filter has been fully rotated to the right.
7. Press and hold the WATER FILTER pad ( only on select models) on the dispenser for three seconds.

Shelves and Bins

Rearranging the Refrigerator Shelves

Shelves in the refrigerator compartment are adjustable.

To remove the shelves:

1. Remove all items from the shelf.

2. Tilt the shelf up at the front.

3. Lift the shelf up at the back and bring the shelf out.

To replace the shelves:

1. While tilting the shelf up, insert the top hook at the back of the shelf in a slot on the track.

2. Lower the front of the shelf until the bottom of the shelf locks into place.

Quick Space Shelf (on some models)

This shelf splits in half and slides under itself for storage of tall items on the shelf below. This shelf can be removed and replaced or relocated.

NOTE: The back half of the Quick Space Shelf is not adjustable.

Adjustable Door Bins (on some models)

To remove: Lift the bin straight up; the pull out.

To replace: Engage the bin in the molded supports on the door and push down to lock in place

Non-Adjustable Gallon Door Bins (on some models)

To remove:Lift the bin straight up; the pull out.

To replace: Engage the bin in the molded supports on the door and push down to lock in place.

Pans

Climate Zone Pans

Keep fruits and vegetables organized in seperate compartments for easy access. Excess water that may accumulate in the bottom of the drawers or under the drawers should be wiped dry.

To remove pan:

Slide the pan out to the stop position, lift the pan up and past the stop position and pull forward

Full -Width Pan (on some models)

To remove pan:

1. Pull the pan out to the stop position.

2. Lift the front of the drawer up and out.

To replace pan:

1. Place back of the drawer in first and rotate drawer front down to seat it on the slides.

2. Push the drawer in to the closed position.

How to Remove and Replace Drawer Divider

To remove:

1. Pull the drawer out to the stop position.

2. Slide pan divider to right to release it from pan.

To replace:

Reverse steps 1 and 2 to replace drawer divider

Floating Snack Pan (on some models)

This pan can be moved to the most useful location for your family’s needs.

To remove, slide the pan out to the stop position, lift the pan up and past the stop position and lift it out.

Freezer Drawer (on some models)

FREEZER BASKETS

1. An ice bucket in the top basket (on some models).
2. A top full-width basket.
3. A bottom full-width basket (with divider - in some models).

NOTE: Do not fill baskets higher than the rim of the basket. This may cause baskets to stick or jam when opening or closing.

Top Basket Removal

To remove the top full-width basket on freezer drawer models:

1. Pull the basket out to the stop location
2. Lift basket up to release it from the slides.

When replacing the basket, make sure that the basket remains mounted on the side rails and over the slides of the bottom basket.

NOTE: Always be sure to fully close this basket.

Bottom Basket Removal

To remove the bottom full-width basket on freezer drawer models:

1. Open the bottom freezer until it stops

2. Remove the top freezer basket.

3. The bottom freezer basket rests on the inside tabs on the drawer slides.

4. Lift the front of the basket and pull forward.

5. Release the pin from the slot to remove the basket.

When replacing the bottom full-width basket, tilt the basket back and lower it into the drawer. Rotate the basket to a horizontal position and press down. Make sure to place the pin back into the slot.

NOTE: Always be sure that the basket is seated on the bracket tabs before sliding the drawer back into the freezer.

Freezer Compartment

FREEZER SHELF AND BASKET

1. A full-width fixed wire shelf
2. A full-width sliding plastic basket

NOTE: Do not fill baskets higher than the rim. This may cause basket to stick or jam when opening or closing

Basket Removal

To remove the full-width sliding basket on freezer door models:

1. Open the basket out to its full extension.

2. Lift up the front of the basket and pull straight out to remove.

When replacing the basket, insert the plastic basket into the lower liner rails and push back into place.

Fixed Shelf Removal

NOTE: The full-width wire shelf is not intended to slide.

To remove for cleaning, push the shelf to one side while then pull up on the opposite side and out to remove.

To replace the full-width wire shelf, insert one side of the shelf into the supports, pushing the shelf to that side until the opposite side will fit into its supports.

Automatic Icemaker

Automatic Icemaker (on some models)

The icemaker will produce seven cubes per cycle approximately 100–130 cubes in a 24-hour period, depending on freezer compartment temparature, 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 power switch in the OFF position.

When the refrigerator has been connected to the water supply, set the power switch to the ON position.

The icemaker wil fill with water when it cools to (–10°C). A newly installed refrigerator may take 12 to 24 hours to begin making ice cubes.

Throw away the first 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 fills 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 and shrink.

NOTE: In homes with lower-than-average water pressure, you may hear the icemaker cycle multiple times when making one batch of ice.

For Refrigerator Models with Icemaker in the Door Ice Bucket and Dispenser

• Open the ice box door on inside of the left door.

• Pull up and out on the ice bucket in the left hand door to remove it from the compartment .

• To replace the ice bucket, set it on the guide brackets and push until the ice bucket seats properly.

• If bucket connot be replaced, rotate the ice bucket fork 1/4 turn clockwise.

• Icemaker can be turned on and off using this dislay

For Refrigerator Models with Icemaker in the Freezer Compartment

There is ice stoage in the freezer compartment located on the left side of the upper basket. Pull the upper basket forward to remove the ice bucket.

Care and Cleaning

IMPORTANT: The use of incorrect products may damage the outer finish og Fingerprint Resistant Syainless and Black Stainless models. Please follow these instructions and use only the appropriate items below to clean your appliance surfaces.

• Clean interior/ex surfaces with warm water, mild soap or detergen, and a soft or microfiber cloth to avoid damgae
• Wipe the appliance surface dry with a soft clean cloth or microfiber towel to avoid streaking or water spotting

STAINLESS STEEL - Outside surfaces, door handles, and trim

Cleaning the Inside

Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.

If this is not practical, wring excess moisure 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 warm water and baking soda solution—about a tablespoon (15 ml) of baking soda to a quart (1 liter) of water. This both leans and neutralizes odors. Rinse and wipe dry.

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.

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.

If the temparature can drop below freezing, have a qualified service technician drain the water supply system to prevent serious property damage due to flooding.

1. Turn refrigerator off (pages 7 and 8) or unplug the refrigerator.
2. Empty ice bucket
3. Turn water supply off

If you cut the water supply off, turn off the icemaker (pg. 16).

Upon returning from vacation:

1. Replace the water filter.
2. Run 2 gallons of water through the cold water dispenser (about 5 minutes) to flush the system.

Preparing to Move

Secure all loose items such as 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 stays in an upright position during moving

Replacing the Lights

There is LED lighting in the fresh food compartment at the top center and on the left and right sides above the climate zone pans on the fresh door models. LED lighting is located at the top of the fresh food compartment on the single door models.

LED lights are also located at the top of the left and right sides of the freezer in all models.

An authorized technician will need to replaced, call GE Appliances Service.

Troubleshooting Tips