Rest assured, selecting a Sub-Zero refrigerator for your kitchen was a prudent decision. Sub-Zero has been on the cutting edge of refrigeration technology for over 70 years. Each unit undergoes vigorous testing before shipment. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t ever without fail. Some of the most common failures on Sub-Zero refrigerators can be solved through “DIY” maintenance, others require a fix by a professional appliance technician.
Common Failures on Sub-Zero Refrigerators
Vacuum condenser light is on. When this light is activated, it indicates that your refrigerator’s compressor has been running for 24 hours straight. This is worrisome because that means your refrigerator is having to work too hard to stay cool.
The first thing to check when this light comes on is the cleanliness of your condenser coils. When they’re dirty, they don’t dissipate heat like they should. On a Sub-Zero refrigerator, these coils are typically found on the top of the unit behind the grille. We recommend cleaning these coils at least once every six months, and even more frequently than that if you own pets.
If your coils are clean, another possibility is that your evaporator coil has developed a tiny hole and is leaking freon. In that case, you should contact a professional technician right away to diagnose and fix the problem. Without prompt service, your refrigerator will eventually fail.
Refrigerator or freezer not cooling/freezing. Sub-Zero units have dual compressors, which means there is a dedicated compressor for both the refrigerator and the freezer. Most refrigerators feature only one compressor for the entire unit, so this is unique for Sub-Zero and a few other high-end refrigerators. It’s not uncommon for us to see one side of the unit failing but the other one operating just fine. Common causes of your Sub-Zero refrigerator or freezer not cooling include (but aren’t limited to):
- Condenser fan motor failure
- Evaporator fan motor failure
- Faulty start relay
Refrigerator leaking water. There are numerous possible causes if your Sub-Zero refrigerator is leaking water. The most common reason for this is a clogged or frozen defrost drain. This is the first place to check if this is happening to you. If it’s a frozen or clogged drain, thaw the ice or clear out the drain of debris by flushing it with hot water. Other common culprits of this problem include:
- Leaky water tank assembly
- Faulty water inlet valve
- Cracked water filter housing
If you’re currently having problems with your Sub-Zero refrigerator and you live in the Greater Palm Desert Area, contact DeserTech Appliance Service today!
