Came home tonight to a very wet kitchen floor. Freezer has stopped working and everything has defrosted. It's an integrated fridge/freezer and the fridge part appears to be working fine. Have emptied the freezer contents into a black bag ready to go to the tip - absolutely hate waste but could only salvage a couple of things. Chicken in the slow cooker and have browned mince and put it in the fridge. Will try to claim on my insurance but won't hold my breath. Job for tomorrow is to find out if it can be repaired or do I have to contemplate a very expensive replacement. Ah well, kitchen floor is spotless and I've had enough excitement for one day so off to bed. Night all.
My Hotpoint upright self defrost has rumbled on for 20+years without a moments problem. I dont have to clean it but only clear old forgotten foods to make room for ice cream at present ;)