Defective Hisense Fridge and Unsatisfactory After-Sales Support

I am writing to express my disappointment and frustration regarding my Hisense refrigerator (Type Number: H700SMI-IDL, Model Number: RC-70WS4S1), which I purchased on 18 September 2021 for R17,999, discounted from the original price of R19,999. On 12 August 2026, I reported to Hisense that the refrigerator had stopped making ice. On 14 August 2026, I received a response informing me that the repair would be treated as an out-of-warranty job. While I understand that warranties have expiration periods, I find it difficult to accept that a major appliance purchased at such a significant cost could experience a serious defect after only a few years, with no meaningful support from the manufacturer. Today, a Hisense technician visited my home to inspect the problem. After examining the appliance, he informed me that the issue is caused by the water supply pipe running through the freezer door, which freezes because it is no longer properly insulated. According to the technician, the only available solution is to replace the entire freezer door at my own expense. What concerns me most is that this appears to be a design or manufacturing defect rather than damage caused by misuse, negligence, or normal wear and tear. A refrigerator of this value should not require the replacement of an entire freezer door due to insulation failure within such a short period of ownership. As a consumer, I expected a durable and reliable product, supported by reasonable after-sales service. Instead, I am now faced with what could be a substantial repair cost for a problem that appears to stem from the product's design. This experience has significantly reduced my confidence in the Hisense brand and its commitment to customer satisfaction. Unfortunately, based on my experience, the lesson I have learned is that consumers should think carefully before investing in expensive Hisense appliances.