Hi, CB.
Thanks for taking a moment in sharing your experience with us.
I understand you’re having some challenges with your new freezer.
Did you know? When the door is closed it creates a vacuum seal, making the door harder to open for a couple of minutes. Try waiting about 2 minutes before opening the door again, to allow the internal pressure to equalize. With usage, the vacuum seal will decrease. Keep in mind, the smaller number of items inside your freezer will make the door harder to open due to more air inside your freezer.
Let’s talk about the loud sounds…
Modern appliances have increased storage capacity and more stable temperatures. They require a high-efficiency compressor. These sounds normally indicate your freezer is operating correctly. Some surfaces on floors, walls, and kitchen cabinets may make these sounds more noticeable. I recommend reviewing “Before You Call” of your freezer’s “Use & Care” guide for a list of sounds and sights your freezer may experience.
Your freezer is a manual defrost model. While your appliance is designed to accumulate frost it is important to defrost and clean freezer when ¼ to ½ inch of frost has accumulated. Frost may tend to accumulate faster on the upper part of the freezer due to warm, moist air entering the freezer when the door is opened.
If the sound becomes louder or if we can assist with the handle, please contact us directly. We can be reached by dialing 800-374-4432, and available Monday through Friday from 8:30 am-8pm EST.
Regards-
Derrick