My new fridge is rubbish!

Snakey

Do I go to the manufacturer first, or to the retailer first?

Do they have to repair/replace it completely free, or can I expect some hidden charges?

In case it matters: It's a cheap LEC one which I bought because of its small size and promise of low energy consumption. But the flimsy freezer door doesn't shut properly - it clicks, so it's as "shut" as it gets, so its either warped or there's a design flaw or something - with the result that there's frost/ice all over the freezer and the freezer door (I have been clearing it off in case it was just this that was stopping the seal from working effectively, but it just comes back the same as it was within a few hours), and it's on all the time (certainly not the low energy use I was hoping for!) and the fridge is too cold even though I turned it all the way down to 1.

huckster

Go back to the retailer in the first instance, as they are the responsible party under the sale of goods act. It would be wise to make the complaint in writing stating what is wrong with the product. Don't start talking about design faults as they will go down the manufacturer route, asking for reports to be done. Just state that the door is not closing properly and there is a problem with the thermostat

Before you contact the retailer, call the Citizens Advice helpline on 03454 04 05 06 and they will advise you what to say, which is going to help you.

Newly_retired

Had similar problem with my Hoover fridge freezer bought from Curry's less than 12m ago. Thought the seal had gone maybe?
Just rang them and they sent a Hoover technician out, who said the door was not hanging straight, fixed it, no problem. No charge.
Under the Sale of Goods Act 1979 as amended, an item should be fit for purpose, of satisfactory quality and as described. The retailer has a responsibility within the first 12 m, but even after that it is worth contacting them first as many will agree that the item should last longer than 12m.

sniggings

sounds the same LEC as I have, but mine is the opposite, on 5 and it's just the right temp...sounds as if it's a quality control issue, have to say it's worth the £130 I paid, it's very quiet.