Brand: HITACHI
Category: Refrigerator
Document Type: Manual
Language: EN
Available Languages: EN , ES
Manual for R-SG38FPH
Uploaded: Nov. 21, 2025, 6:23 p.m.
Warranty Information
Refer to the manual for specific warranty details and contact the retailer or service center for any issues.
Basic Operation Summary
This manual guides you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your HITACHI Refrigerator.
Installation:
- Ensure the refrigerator is placed on a rigid, level floor with adequate ventilation (at least 5 cm at the top and rear, 1 cm at the sides).
- Connect to a grounded, dedicated power outlet.
- Adjust the leveling legs for a stable and balanced unit.
Before Use:
- Clean the interior with a soft cloth.
- Allow sufficient time for cooling (up to 24 hours).
Food Storage:
- Maintain space between food for proper air circulation.
- Cool food before refrigerating.
- Do not block air vents.
- Use wraps or sealed containers to prevent drying.
Control Panel Operation:
- Touch-sensitive panel for temperature adjustments, Quick Freezing, Energy Saving, and Ice Maker functions.
- Refer to specific sections for detailed instructions on each mode.
Automatic Ice Maker:
- Fill the water tank with potable water only.
- Clean the water tank weekly.
- First 24 hours and first few batches of ice cubes may need to be discarded.
Cleaning:
- Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.
- Clean interior and exterior with a soft cloth and mild detergent.
- Clean door gaskets regularly.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or excessive water.
Troubleshooting:
- Consult the troubleshooting table for common issues like cooling problems, odors, or control panel errors.
- Contact the service center if issues persist.
Troubleshooting and error codes
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator does not get cold at all. | Not plugged in; fuse blown/breaker tripped. | Check plug and fuse box. |
| Refrigerator does not get cold enough. | Placed in direct sunlight/near heat sources; temperature setting too low; door opened frequently; door not closed properly. | Relocate refrigerator; adjust temperature setting; ensure door is closed. |
| Food in the refrigerator compartment freezes. | Temperature setting too high; food too close to cold air vent. | Adjust temperature setting; rearrange food. |
| Dew appears (outside). | High ambient humidity. | Wipe with dry cloth. |
| Dew appears (inside). | Door opened too frequently or for too long; humid outside. | Limit door openings; ensure door is closed properly. |
| Inside is smelling. | Storing food without wrapping. | Wrap food or use sealed containers. |
| Refrigerator is noisy. | Not installed firmly; touching wall; flashing indicator (malfunction). | Ensure proper installation; check for obstructions; consult dealer if indicator is flashing. |
| Surface of refrigerator is hot. | Dew prevention and heat radiation tubes. | Normal operation, especially when starting up or with frequent door openings. |
| If a door is shut, other doors may open. | Air pressure change through duct. | Normal phenomenon. |
| Abnormal noises. | Cooling liquid flow; parts friction due to temperature change. | Normal operation sounds. |
| Operation sound lasts long/becomes larger. | Compressor operating at high speed (initial use, frequent openings, high ambient temp.); compressor operating at low speed for energy saving. | Normal operation, sound will decrease as it cools. |
| Control Panel does not respond. | Child Lock activated; door open; water/dirt on panel; touching multiple buttons; wearing gloves/plaster. | Deactivate Child Lock; close door; clean panel; touch one button at a time; remove gloves/plaster. |
| Control Panel is unlit. | Auto-off after ~40 seconds (except eco, Quick Freezing, Energy Saving, Tank Empty, OFF). | Normal operation. |