GE GTE21GTHBB Owner's manual

ENGLISH/FRANÇAIS/

ESPAÑOL

Write the model and serial

numbers here:

Model # _________________

Serial # _________________

Find these numbers on a label

inside the fresh food compartment.

49-60726-3 09-18 GEA

GTE21

GIE21

OWNER’S MANUAL &

INSTALLATION

INSTRUCTIONS

REFRIGERATORS

Top Freezer

GE is a trademark of the General Electric Company. Manufactured under trademark license.

SAFETY INFORMATION .........3

USING THE REFRIGERATOR

Controls ..............................5

Shelves and Bins .......................6

Crispers and Pans ......................7

Automatic Icemaker ....................8

CARE AND CLEANING ...........9

Cleaning the Outside ...................9

Cleaning the Inside ....................9

Condenser ............................9

Moving the Refrigerator ...............10

Preparing for Vacation ................10

Preparing to Move ....................10

Replacing the Light Bulb ..............10

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Preparing to Install the Refrigerator ..... 11

Installing the Water Line ...............12

Icemaker Installation ..................16

Reversing the Door Swing .............17

TROUBLESHOOTING

Normal Operating Sounds .............22

Troubleshooting Tips ..................23

LIMITED WARRANTY .............25

CONSUMER SUPPORT ......... 26

2 49-60726-3

THANK YOU FOR MAKING GE APPLIANCES A PART OF YOUR HOME.

Whether you grew up with GE Appliances, or this is your first, we’re happy to have you in the family.

We take pride in the craftsmanship, innovation and design that goes into every GE Appliances

product, and we think you will too. Among other things, registration of your appliance ensures that we

can deliver important product information and warranty details when you need them.

Register your GE appliance now online. Helpful websites and phone numbers are available in the

Consumer Support section of this Owner’s Manual. You may also mail in the pre-printed registration

card included in the packing material.

49-60726-3 3

CAUTION

To reduce the risk of injury when using your refrigerator, follow these basic safety

precautions.

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water when they are cold. Glass shelves and

covers may break if exposed to sudden temperature

changes or impact, such as bumping or dropping.

Tempered glass is designed to shatter into many

small pieces if it breaks.

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clearances between the doors and between the

doors and cabinet are necessarily small. Be careful

closing doors when children are in the area.

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compartment when hands are damp or wet, skin

may stick to these extremely cold surfaces.

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completely.

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contact with the moving parts of the ejector

mechanism, or with the heating element that

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on the automatic ice making mechanism while the

refrigerator is plugged in.

SAFETY INFORMATION

READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, electric shock, or injury when using your

refrigerator, follow these basic safety precautions:

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,QVWUXFWLRQVEHIRUHLWLVXVHG

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replacing a light bulb, or cleaning.

NOTE: Power to the refrigerator cannot be

disconnected by any setting on the control panel.

NOTE: Repairs must be performed by a qualified

Service Professional.

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vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other

appliance.

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cans with a flammable propellant in this appliance.

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WRFKLOGUHQUHPRYHWKHIUHVKIRRGDQGIUHH]HU

doors from any refrigerator before disposing of it or

discontinuing its use.

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stand on, or play in or with the appliance.

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or mental capabilities or lack of experience and

knowledge can use this appliance only if they are

supervised or have been given instructions on safe

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and similar applications such as: staff kitchen areas

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IDUPKRXVHVE\FOLHQWVLQKRWHOVPRWHOVEHG

EUHDNIDVWDQGRWKHUUHVLGHQWLDOHQYLURQPHQWV

catering and similar non-retail applications.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE

INSTALLATION

WARNING

EXPLOSION HAZARD

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explosion, or death.

4 49-60726-3

WARNING

SUFFOCATION AND ENTRAPMENT HAZARD

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IMPORTANT: Child entrapment and suffocation

are not problems of the past. Junked or abandoned

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ZLOOVLWIRU³MXVWDIHZGD\V´,I\RXDUHJHWWLQJULGRI\RXU

ROGUHIULJHUDWRURUIUHH]HUSOHDVHIROORZWKHLQVWUXFWLRQV

below to help prevent accidents.

Before You Throw Away Your Old Appliance

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Ŷ Leave the shelves in place so that children may not

easily climb inside.

Refrigerant and Foam Disposal:

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requires special disposal procedures. Contact your local authorities for the environmentally safe disposal of your

appliance.

PROPER DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD REFRIGERATOR

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

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SRVVLELOLW\RIHOHFWULFVKRFNKD]DUGIURPWKLVDSSOLDQFH

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

is your personal responsibility and obligation to have it

replaced with a properly grounded 3-prong wall outlet.

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The refrigerator should always be plugged into its own

individual electrical outlet which has a voltage rating

that matches the rating plate.

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electrical supply is required. This provides the best

performance and also prevents overloading house

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overheated wires.

Never unplug your refrigerator by pulling on the power

cord. Always grip plug firmly and pull straight out from

the outlet.

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FRUG,IWKHVXSSO\FRUGLVGDPDJHGLWPXVWEH

replaced by a qualified service professional with an

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When moving the refrigerator away from the wall, be

careful not to roll over or damage the power cord.

CONNECTING ELECTRICITY

WARNING

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD

Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet

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'RQRWXVHDQDGDSWHU

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SAFETY INFORMATION

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE

READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

49-60726-3 5

Control Settings

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Several adjustments may be required. Adjust the

refrigerator control one increment at a time and allow 12

hours after each adjustment for the refrigerator to reach

the temperature you have set.

Setting the refrigerator control to Off stops cooling in

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not shut off electrical power to the refrigerator.

Control settings will vary based on personal preferences,

usage and operating conditions, and may require more

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LQFOXGHWKHDPRXQWRIIRRGLQWKHUHIULJHUDWRURUIUHH]HU

the frequency of door opening and the temperature of

food when it is placed in the refrigerator.

Controls

USING THE REFRIGERATOR: Controls

The controls on your refrigerator will look like the following:

6 49-60726-3

Shelves and Bins

USING THE REFRIGERATOR: Shelves and Bins

Rearranging the Shelves

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REFRIGERATOR COMPARTMENT

Full Width Shelves

The shelf rests on a molded side-wall support and locks

into a track on the rear cabinet wall on each side.

To remove:

1. Lift the shelf up through the space in the track.

2. Slide the shelf forward along the track.

3. Pull the shelf out of the unit.

To replace:

Reverse removal steps above.

CAUTION

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when they are cold. Glass shelves and covers may

break if exposed to sudden temperature changes or

impact such as bumping or dropping. Tempered glass is

designed to shatter into many small pieces if it breaks.

'RQRWZDVKDQ\SODVWLFUHIULJHUDWRUSDUWVLQWKH

dishwasher.

FREEZER COMPARTMENT

To remove:

1. Lift up both sides of the shelf and slide it left into the

center of the shelf supports.

2. Rotate the right side of the shelf up and out of the

shelf supports.

To replace:

1. Holding the shelf diagonally, insert the left end of the

shelf into the top of the shelf supports on the side wall.

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on the side wall. Rest each end of the shelf on the

bottom of the shelf supports.

Not all features are on all models.

Slide

forward

Lift up

Track

49-60726-3 7

Crispers and Pans

Not all features are on all models.

Fruit and Vegetable Crispers

Excess water that may accumulate in the bottom of the

drawers or under the drawers should be wiped dry.

Adjustable Humidity Crisper

Slide the control all the way to the Vegetables setting

to provide high humidity recommended for most

vegetables.

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provide lower humidity levels recommended for most

fruits.

Snack Pan

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 out.

Crisper Removal

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storage drawers.

To remove:

Lift the drawers up slightly while pulling them past the

stop location.

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clearance, the refrigerator will need to be rolled forward

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some cases, when you roll the refrigerator out, you will

need to move the refrigerator to the left or right as you

roll it out.

To remove the glass cover:

Remove the glass, then the frame. When replacing the

glass, push the front edge firmly into the frame.

1. Push up the glass cover at

the rear.

2. Slide the glass cover

backwards until the front

edge comes out of the

frame.

3. Rotate the side of the glass

cover up.

4. Remove the glass cover.

To remove the frame:

1. Lift up the front of the

frame using both hands.

2. Slide the frame forward.

3. Rotate the side of the

frame up.

4. Remove the frame.

Removing the glass cover

Removing the frame

USING THE REFRIGERATOR: Crispers and Pans

8 49-60726-3

Automatic Icemaker

USING THE REFRIGERATOR: $XWRPDWLF,FHPDNHU

Automatic Icemaker (on some models)

CAUTION

Avoid contact with the moving parts of the ejector

mechanism, or with the heating element (located on the

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not place fingers or hands on the automatic ice making

mechanism while the refrigerator is plugged in.

The icemaker will produce approximately 3 to 3-1/2 lbs.

(1.36 to 1.59 kg) of ice in a 24-hour period, depending on

WKHIUHH]HUFRPSDUWPHQWWHPSHUDWXUHURRPWHPSHUDWXUH

number of door openings and other use conditions.

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LVPDGHWRWKHLFHPDNHUPRYHWKHSRZHUVZLWFKWR2))

When the refrigerator has been connected to the water

supply, set power switch to ON

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(-9°C). 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 fill the bin, depending on the temperature

settings and number of door openings.

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fills with water.

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.

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cloudy, taste stale, shrink or fuse together.

NOTE: ,QKRPHVZLWKORZHUWKDQDYHUDJHZDWHU

pressure, you may hear the icemaker cycle multiple

times when making one batch of ice.

Icemaker Accessory Kit

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an automatic icemaker, an icemaker accessory kit is

available at extra cost.

Check the back of the refrigerator for the specific ice

maker kit needed for your model.

A newly-installed refrigerator may take 12–24 hours to begin making ice.

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Power Switch

49-60726-3 9

CARE AND CLEANING

Care And Cleaning

Cleaning the Outside

The door handles and trim. Clean with a cloth dampened

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dampened with kitchen appliance wax or mild liquid dish

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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

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WDUQLVKDQGVPDOOEOHPLVKHV8VHRQO\DOLTXLGFOHDQVHU

free of grit and rub in the direction of the brush lines with

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on the stainless steel.

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wet towel. These may leave a residue that can erode

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bleach or cleaners containing bleach because these

products can scratch and weaken the paint finish.

Cleaning the Inside

To help prevent odors, leave an open box of baking

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Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.

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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

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wipe dry.

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bleach or ammonia. They may damage the refrigerator.

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

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abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION

'RQRWFOHDQJODVVVKHOYHVRUFRYHUV

with warm water when they are cold. Glass shelves and

covers may break if exposed to sudden temperature

changes or impact such as bumping or dropping.

Tempered glass is designed to shatter into many small

pieces if it breaks.

'RQRWZDVKDQ\SODVWLFUHIULJHUDWRUSDUWVLQWKH

dishwasher.

Condenser

'HSHQGLQJRQWKHPRGHOWKHFRQGHQVHULVHLWKHUORFDWHG

QHDUWKHFRPSUHVVRURUEHKLQGWKHEDFNZDOO)RU

condensers near the compressor, there is no need for

routine condenser cleanings in normal home operating

environments. However, in environments that may be

particularly dusty or greasy, the condenser should be

cleaned periodically for efficient refrigerator operation.

Cleaning the condenser:

Sweep away or vacuum up dust.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of death or

electric shock, you must follow these

instructions:

Ŷ Unplug the refrigerator before removing any

panels.

Ŷ Do not contact or damage any wiring while the

panel is removed.

Ŷ Replace all parts and panels before plugging

the refrigerator back in.

10 49-60726-3

Care and Cleaning

Replacing the Light Bulb

6HWWLQJWKHUHIULJHUDWRUFRQWUROWR2))GRHVQRWUHPRYH

power to the light circuit.

8QSOXJWKHUHIULJHUDWRU

2. Remove the top shelf (if necessary).

3. The bulb is located behind a light lens in the ceiling

of the refrigerator section. Remove the light lens

by removing the single screw using a Phillips head

screwdriver.

4. Replace the bulb with an appliance bulb of the same

or lower wattage.

5. Replace the light lens.

6. Plug the refrigerator back in.

CARE AND CLEANING

Preparing for Vacation

)RUORQJYDFDWLRQVRUDEVHQFHVUHPRYHIRRGDQG

unplug the refrigerator. Move the refrigerator control to

WKH2))SRVLWLRQDQGFOHDQWKHLQWHULRUZLWKDEDNLQJ

soda solution of one tablespoon (15 ml) of baking soda

to one quart (1 liter) of water. Leave the doors open.

6HWWKHLFHPDNHUSRZHUVZLWFKWRWKH2))SRVLWLRQDQG

shut off the water supply to the refrigerator.

,IWKHWHPSHUDWXUHFDQGURSEHORZIUHH]LQJKDYHD

qualified servicer drain the water supply system (on

some models) to prevent serious property damage due

to flooding.

Moving 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.

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 floor covering or refrigerator.

After rolling the refrigerator back into place, turn the legs

clockwise until the legs again bear the weight of the

refrigerator.

Preparing to Move

Secure all loose items such as grille, shelves and

drawers by taping them securely in place to prevent

damage. To prevent the doors from opening while

moving, secure them to the case with tape.

Be sure the refrigerator stays in an upright position

during moving.

WARNING

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD

When pushing the refrigerator back, make sure you

don’t roll over the power cord or icemaker supply line

(on some models).

Screw

49-60726-3 11

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 – .HHSWKHVHLQVWUXFWLRQV

for future reference.

• Skill level±,QVWDOODWLRQRIWKLVDSSOLDQFHUHTXLUHV

basic mechanical skills.

• Completion time±5HIULJHUDWRU,QVWDOODWLRQ

15 minutes

• Proper installation is the responsibility of the

installer.

• Product failure due to improper installation is not

covered under the Warranty.

WATER SUPPLY TO THE

ICEMAKER (On Some Models)

,IWKHUHIULJHUDWRUKDVDQLFHPDNHULWZLOOKDYHWREH

connected to a cold water line. A GE Appliances

water supply kit (containing tubing, shutoff valve,

fittings and instructions) is available at extra cost

from your dealer or by visiting our Website at

GEAppliances.com (in Canada at geappliances.ca)

or from Parts and Accessories, 1.877.959.8688.

REFRIGERATOR LOCATION

• 'RQRWLQVWDOOWKHUHIULJHUDWRUZKHUHWKHWHPSHUDWXUH

ZLOOJREHORZ)&EHFDXVHLWZLOOQRWUXQ

often enough to maintain proper temperatures.

• 'RQRWLQVWDOOWKHUHIULJHUDWRUZKHUHWKH

WHPSHUDWXUHZLOOJRDERYH)&EHFDXVH

it will not perform properly.

• 'RQRWLQVWDOOWKHUHIULJHUDWRULQDORFDWLRQH[SRVHG

to water (rain, etc.) or direct sunlight.

,QVWDOOLWRQDIORRUVWURQJHQRXJKWRVXSSRUWLWIXOO\

loaded.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

CLEARANCES

Allow the following clearances for ease of installation,

proper air circulation and plumbing and electrical

connections.

6LGHV ´PP

7RS ´PP

%DFN ´PP

,IWKHUHIULJHUDWRULVWREHLQVWDOOHGQH[WWRDZDOORQWKH

KLQJHVLGHDOORZƎPPGRRUFOHDUDQFH

ROLLERS AND LEVELING LEGS

Leveling legs near each front corner of the refriger-

DWRUDUHDGMXVWDEOH7KH\¿UPO\SRVLWLRQWKHUHIULJHU-

ator 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 refrigera-

tor, 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.

Installation

Instructions

Refrigerator

Models GTE21 and GIE21

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: GEAppliances.ca

Clockwise to raise

refrigerator

12 49-60726-3

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

INSTALLING THE WATER LINE

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 SmartConnect™ Refrigerator Tubing

(WX08X10002, WX08X10006, WX08X10015 and

WX08X10025).

When connecting your refrigerator to a GE

Appliances Reverse Osmosis Water System, the only

DSSURYHGLQVWDOODWLRQLVZLWKD*($SSOLDQFHV59.LW

)RURWKHUUHYHUVHRVPRVLVZDWHUV\VWHPVIROORZWKH

manufacturer’s recommendations.

,IWKHZDWHUVXSSO\WRWKHUHIULJHUDWRULVIURP

D5HYHUVH2VPRVLV:DWHU)LOWUDWLRQ6\VWHP

$1'WKHUHIULJHUDWRUDOVRKDVDZDWHUILOWHUXVH

WKHUHIULJHUDWRU¶VILOWHUE\SDVVSOXJ8VLQJWKH

refrigerator’s water filtration cartridge in conjunction

with the RO filter can result in hollow ice cubes and

slower water flow from the water dispenser.

This water line installation is not warranted by

WKHUHIULJHUDWRURULFHPDNHUPDQXIDFWXUHU)ROORZ

WKHVHLQVWUXFWLRQVFDUHIXOO\WRPLQLPL]HWKHULVNRI

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 flooding. Call a qualified

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.

,I\RXXVH\RXUUHIULJHUDWRUEHIRUHFRQQHFWLQJWKH

ZDWHUOLQHPDNHVXUHWKHIHHOHUDUPLVLQWKH2))

position.

'RQRWLQVWDOOWKHLFHPDNHUWXELQJLQDUHDVZKHUH

WHPSHUDWXUHVIDOOEHORZIUHH]LQJ

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

KD]DUGRIHOHFWULFVKRFNRULVEDWWHU\SRZHUHG

All installations must be in accordance with local

plumbing code requirements.

WARNING

Connect to potable water

supply only.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

• Copper or SmartConnect™ Refrigerator Tubing kit,

1/4" outer diameter to connect the refrigerator to the

ZDWHUVXSSO\,IXVLQJFRSSHUEHVXUHERWKHQGVRI

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 feet

(2.4 m). Be sure there is sufficient extra tubing (about

8 feet [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.

6PDUW&RQQHFW5HIULJHUDWRU7XELQJ.LWVDUH

available in the following lengths:

2' (.6 m) – WX08X10002

8' (2.4 m) – WX08X10006

15' (4.6 m) – WX08X10015

25' (7.6 m) – WX08X10025

Be sure that the kit you select allows at least 8 feet

(2.4 m) as described above.

NOTE: The only GE Appliances approved

plastic tubing is that supplied in SmartConnect™

5HIULJHUDWRU7XELQJNLWV'RQRWXVHDQ\RWKHUSODVWLF

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 Appliances water supply kit (containing

tubing, shutoff valve and fittings listed below) is

available at extra cost from your dealer or from

Parts and Accessories, 877.959.8688.

• A cold water supply. The water pressure must be

between 20 and 120 p.s.i. (138-827 kilopascals) on

models without a water filter and between 40 and

120 p.s.i. (138-827 kilopascals) on models with a

water filter.

• Power drill.

• 1/2" or adjustable wrench.

• Straight and Phillips blade screwdriver.

49-60726-3 13

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Installation Instructions

INSTALLING THE WATER LINE (Continued)

WHAT YOU WILL NEED (Cont.)

7ZR´RXWHUGLDPHWHUFRPSUHVVLRQ

nuts and 2 ferrules (sleeves)—to

connect the copper tubing to the

shutoff valve and the refrigerator water

valve.

OR

,I\RXDUHXVLQJD6PDUW&RQQHFW5HIULJHUDWRU

Tubing kit, the necessary fittings are preassembled

to the tubing.

,I\RXUH[LVWLQJFRSSHUZDWHUOLQHKDVDIODUHGILWWLQJ

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 off the

flared fitting with a tube cutter and then use a

FRPSUHVVLRQILWWLQJ'RQRWFXWIRUPHGHQGIURP

SmartConnect™ Refrigerator tubing.

• Shutoff valve to connect to the cold water line.

The shutoff valve should have a water inlet with a

PLQLPXPLQVLGHGLDPHWHURI´DWWKHSRLQWRI

FRQQHFWLRQWRWKH&2/':$7(5/,1(6DGGOHW\SH

shutoff valves are included in many water supply

kits. Before purchasing, make sure a saddle-type

valve complies with your local plumbing codes.

1

SHUT OFF THE MAIN WATER

SUPPLY

Turn on the nearest faucet long enough to clear

the line of water.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of electric

shock or injury during installation, you must first

unplug the refrigerator before proceeding.

2

CHOOSE THE VALVE

LOCATION

Choose a location for the

valve that is easily accessible.

,WLVEHVWWRFRQQHFWLQWR

the side of a vertical water

pipe. When it is necessary

WRFRQQHFWLQWRDKRUL]RQWDO

water pipe, make the

connection to the top or side,

rather than at the bottom,

to avoid drawing off any

sediment from the water pipe.

3

DRILL THE HOLE FOR THE

VALVE

'ULOODKROHLQWKHZDWHUSLSHHYHQLIXVLQJ

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.

)DLOXUHWRGULOO a

1/4" hole may

result in reduced

ice production or

smaller cubes.

4

FASTEN THE SHUTOFF

VALVE

)DVWHQWKHVKXWRIIYDOYHWRWKHFROGZDWHUSLSH

with the pipe clamp.

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.

,QVWDOOWKHVKXWRIIYDOYHRQWKHQHDUHVWIUHTXHQWO\XVHG

drinking water line.

Vertical Cold

Water Pipe

Saddle-Type

6KXWRႇ9DOYH

Pipe Clamp

14 49-60726-3

Installation Instructions

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

6

ROUTE THE TUBING

Route the tubing between the cold water line

and the refrigerator.

Route the tubing through a hole drilled in the

wall or floor (behind the refrigerator or adjacent

base cabinet) as close to the wall as possible.

NOTE: Be sure there is sufficient 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.

7

CONNECT 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 shutoff valve.

Make sure the tubing is fully inserted into the

valve. Tighten the compression nut securely.

)RUSODVWLFWXELQJIURPD6PDUW&RQQHFW

Refrigerator Tubing kit, insert the molded

end of the tubing into the shutoff valve and

tighten compression nut until it is hand tight,

then tighten one additional turn with a wrench.

Overtightening may cause leaks.

5

TIGHTEN THE PIPE CLAMP

Tighten the clamp screws until the sealing

washer begins to swell.

NOTE:'RQRWRYHUWLJKWHQRU\RXPD\FUXVKWKH

tubing.

8

FLUSH OUT THE TUBING

Turn the main water supply on and flush out the

tubing until the water is clear.

Shut the water off at the water valve after about

one quart (1 liter) of water has been flushed

through the tubing.

INSTALLING THE WATER LINE (Continued)

Washer

,QOHW(QG

Pipe Clamp

Clamp

Screw

Saddle-Type

6KXWRႇ9DOYH

Compression

Nut

SmartConnect™

Tubing

Packing Nut

Outlet Valve

)HUUXOHVOHHYH

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.

9

CONNECT 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.

,I\RXUUHIULJHUDWRUGRHVQRWKDYHDZDWHUILOWHU

ZHUHFRPPHQGLQVWDOOLQJRQH,I\RXUZDWHU

supply has sand or particles that could clog

the screen of the refrigerator’s water valve.

,QVWDOOLWLQWKHZDWHUOLQHQHDUWKHUHIULJHUDWRU

,IXVLQJ6PDUW&RQQHFW5HIULJHUDWRU

Tubing kit, you will need an additional tube

:;;WRFRQQHFWWKHILOWHU'RQRWFXW

plastic tube to install filter.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of death

or electric shock, you must follow these

instructions:

Ŷ Unplug the refrigerator before removing

any panels.

Ŷ Do not contact or damage any wiring while

the panel is removed.

Ŷ Replace all parts and panels before

plugging the refrigerator back in.

49-60726-3 15

Installation Instructions

11

INSTALLING 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.

12

START THE ICEMAKER

Set the icemaker power switch to the ON

position. The icemaker will not begin to operate

until it reaches its operating temperature

RI)±&RUEHORZ,WZLOOWKHQEHJLQ

operation automatically if the icemaker power

switch is in the ON position.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

9

CONNECT THE TUBING TO

THE REFRIGERATOR

(CONT.)

,I\RXUUHIULJHUDWRU

has an access cover,

remove it.

Remove the plastic flexible cap

from the water valve (refrigerator

connection).

Place the compression nut and

ferrule (sleeve) onto the end

of the tubing as shown. On SmartConnect™

Refrigerator Tubing kit, the nuts are already

assembled to the tubing.

,QVHUWWKHHQGRIWKHWXELQJLQWRWKHZDWHUYDOYH

connection as far as possible. While holding the

tubing, tighten the fitting.

)RUSODVWLFWXELQJIURPD6PDUW&RQQHFW

Refrigerator Tubing kit, insert the molded end of

the tubing into the refrigerator connection and

tighten compression nut until it is hand tight,

then tighten one additional turn with a wrench.

Overtightening may cause leaks.

)DVWHQWKHWXELQJLQWRWKHFODPSSURYLGHGWR

hold it in a vertical position. You may need to pry

open the clamp.

Tubing

Clamp

1/4"

Compression

Nut

SmartConnect

™

Tubing

Refrigerator

Connection

1/4" Tubing

)HUUXOH

(sleeve)

10

TURN THE WATER ON AT THE

SHUTOFF VALVE

Tighten any connections

that leak.

,I\RXUUHIULJHUDWRU

has an access cover,

reattach it.

INSTALLING THE WATER LINE (Continued)

WARNING

ELECTRICAL SHOCK

HAZARD

$WWDFKWXELQJFODPSXVLQJH[LVWLQJKROHRQO\'2

NOT drill into the refrigerator.

16 49-60726-3

Installation Instructions

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

ICEMAKER INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Read each step thoroughly before proceeding.

WARNING

To eliminate the risk of

electric shock or injury during installation,

you must first unplug the refrigerator

EHIRUHSURFHHGLQJ)DLOXUHWRIROORZWKHVH

instructions can result in electrical shock.

TOOLS YOU WILL NEED

)ODWEODGHDQG3KLOOLSV

screwdrivers

Pliers

Sharp knife

1

PREPARE FOR INSTALLATION

• Remove and discard the large white plug

IURPWKHUHDUIUHH]HUZDOO

• Remove the outlet cover with a flat-blade

screwdriver.

2

REPOSITION FREEZER SHELF

0DNHVXUHWKHIUHH]HUVKHOILVLQWKHORZHVW

position.

3

PREPARE FOR INSTALLATION

)RUXQLWZLWKRXWIDFWRU\LQVWDOOHGLFHPDNHUWKHUH

is an installation instruction label on the back of

the unit that indicates which installation method

WRXVH)ROORZWKHLFHPDNHULQVWDOODWLRQPDQXDO

that comes with your icemaker kit carefully to

complete the icemaker installation.

Remove

plug

49-60726-3 17

Installation Instructions

REVERSING THE DOOR SWING

IMPORTANT NOTES

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.

8QSOXJWKHUHIULJHUDWRUIURPLWVHOHFWULFDORXWOHW

NOTE: 'RQRWOHWHLWKHUGRRUGURSWRWKHIORRU7RGR

so could damage the door stop.

CAUTION

Lifting Hazard

7KH)UHVK)RRGDQG)UHH]HUGRRUVDUHKHDY\8VH

both hands to secure the doors before lifting.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

TOOLS YOU WILL NEED

ƎVRFNHWDQGUDWFKHW

Phillips screwdriver

Putty knife or

thin-blade screwdriver

Masking tape

Allen wrench (Stainless

Steel Handle Models)

1

REMOVE FREEZER DOOR

1. Remove all food from the inner door liner.

2. Tape the door shut with masking tape.

 5HPRYHWKHKLQJHFRYHURQWRSRIWKHIUHH]HU

door with a thin-blade screwdriver.

 5HPRYHWKHWKUHHVFUHZVZLWKDƎVRFNHW

and ratchet, then lift the hinge straight up to

free the hinge pin from the socket in the top

of the door.

5. Remove the tape and tilt the door away from

the cabinet. Lift it off the center hinge pin.

6 Remove the hole covers with a putty knife on

the opposite side of the three hinges.

7. Set the door on a non-scratching surface with

the inside up.

Top

Hinge

Hole Cover

Center Hinge

Hole Covers

Bottom Hinge

Hole Covers

WARNING

)ROORZDOOVWHSVZKHQUHYHUVLQJWKH

GRRUVZLQJ)DLOXUHWRIROORZWKHVHLQVWUXFWLRQV

leaving off parts, or overtightening screws, can lead to

the door falling off and result in injury and property

damage.

18 49-60726-3

Installation Instructions

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

REVERSING THE DOOR SWING (Cont.)

2

REMOVE REFRIGERATOR

DOOR

1. Remove all food from the inner door liner.

2. Tape the door shut with masking tape.

3. Remove the center hinge pin with a Phillips

screwdriver.

4. Remove the center hinge by removing two

KLQJHVFUHZVZLWKDƎVRFNHWDQGUDWFKHW

Save the center hinge, hinge pin, screws and

center hinge gasket.

5. Remove the tape and tilt the door away from

the cabinet. Lift the door straight up to free

its bottom socket from the pin in the bottom

hinge bracket.

6. Set the door on a non-scratching surface with

the inside up.

 ,QVWDOOWKHKROHSOXJVIURPWKHRSSRVLWHVLGH

of the cabinet to the screw holes vacated by

the center hinge removal.

3

TRANSFER BOTTOM HINGE

TO THE LEFT

 8VLQJD

Socket and

ratchet, remove

the 2 screws from

the bottom hinge.

2. Move the bottom

hinge pin from the

right to the left side

with a thin-blade

screwdriver until

the shoulder of

the hinge pin

is touching the

hinge.

3. Move the bottom

hinge from the

right to the left

side and tighten

the 2 screws.

 ,QVWDOOWKHKROH

plugs from the

opposite side

of the cabinet

to the screw

holes vacated

by the bottom

hinge removal.

4

TRANSFER DOOR STOP TO

THE LEFT

 2QERWKWKHUHIULJHUDWRUDQGIUHH]HUGRRUV

remove the screws from the door stop on the

right with a Phillips screwdriver.

 ,QVWDOOWKHGRRUVWRSRQWKHOHIWRIHDFKGRRU

Center

Hinge Pin

Center Hinge

Gasket

WARNING

)ROORZDOOVWHSVZKHQUHYHUVLQJWKH

GRRUVZLQJ)DLOXUHWRIROORZWKHVHLQVWUXFWLRQV

leaving off parts, or overtightening screws, can lead to

the door falling off and result in injury and property

damage.

49-60726-3 19

Installation Instructions

REVERSING THE DOOR SWING (Cont.)

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

3

REVERSING DOOR HANDLES –

TRANSFER FREEZER DOOR

HANDLE TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF

THE REFRIGERATOR DOOR

1. Remove the two screws securing the bottom

end of the handle with a Phillips screwdriver

and remove the GE Appliances badge.

2. For Plastic

handles: Pull

handle down and

off of the fastener

on the door.

For Stainless

Steel handeles:

Loosen the set

screw on the

KDQGOHZLWK´

wrench and

remove handle.

3. Remove the fastener from the surface of the

IUHH]HUGRRUDQGFRYHUWKHQHZYDFDQWKROH

ZLWKWKH*($SSOLDQFHV%DGJH)RUDQHZ

unit, the GE Appliances Badge can be found

LQ\RXUKDQGOHNLW,I\RXQHHGDQHZEDGJH

call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737) (in

Canada call 800.561.3344).

3

REVERSING DOOR HANDLES –

TRANSFER FREEZER DOOR

HANDLE TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF

THE REFRIGERATOR DOOR (Cont.)

4. Remove the plug

button from the

surface of the right

side of the refrigerator

door and insert the

fastener with

a Phillips screwdriver.

5. For Plasic handle:

Attach handle to fresh

food door on fastener

and slide downward to

lock in place with the

screws at the top of the

handle.

For Stainless Steel

handle: Attach handle

to fresh food door with

screws at the top of the

KDQGOH8VH´DOOHQ

wrench to tighten the

set screw at the bottom

of the handle.

NOTE:'RQRWRYHU

tighten.

20 49-60726-3

Installation Instructions

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

REVERSING THE DOOR SWING (Cont.)

4

REVERSING DOOR HANDLES –

TRANSFER REFRIGERATOR DOOR

HANDLE TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF

THE FREEZER DOOR

1. Remove the two screws securing the top end

of the handle with a Phillips screwdriver and

remove the GE Appliances badge.

2. For Plactic handle: Pull

handle up and off of the

fastener on the door

For Stainless

Steel handle:

Loosen set

screw on

handle with

´ZUHQFK

and remove

handle.

3. Remove the fastener from the surface of the

refrigerator door, and cover the new vacant

hole with the plug from the opposite side.

4

REVERSING DOOR HANDLES –

TRANSFER REFRIGERATOR DOOR

HANDLE TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE

FREEZER DOOR (Cont.)

4. Remove the plug

button from the surface

of the right side of the

refrigerator door and

insert the fastener with

a Phillips screwdriver.

5. For Plasic handle:

Attach handle to

fresh food door

on fastener and

slide downward

to lock in place

with the screws

at the top of the

handle.

For Stainless Steel handle:

Attach handle

to fresh food

door with

screws at

the top of the

KDQGOH8VH

´DOOHQ

wrench to

tighten the set

screw at the

bottom of the

handle.

NOTE:'RQRWRYHUWLJKWHQ

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GE GTE21GTHBB Owner's manual

GE GTE21GTHBB Owner's manual

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