Sub Zero Fridge Troubleshooting Tips
The average lifespan of a sub zero fridge is 10 to 13 years. If you find that your refrigerator isn’t running the way you expect, then it may be time to perform some sub zero fridge troubleshooting.
There are some basic checks that you can do on your own for common problems. This guide will walk you through steps you can take before calling a professional technician.
Start your sub zero fridge troubleshooting to get it running again!
1. Fridge Isn’t Getting Cold
If your refrigerator isn’t getting down to the ideal temperature, then your food is getting too warm. This could result in dangerous mold and the growth of mold.
Does the light turn on when you open the door? Then you know it’s getting power. If it doesn’t, make sure it’s plugged in properly to the electrical outlet and check to ensure the circuit breaker has not blown.
Next, adjust the thermostat and check that the vents aren’t blocked. Then vacuum the coils under and behind the fridge to improve the cooling performance. When all of this fails, you’ll need to call a professional Sub Zero repair technician to look at the evaporator or condenser fan.
2. Everything Is Freezing
Check Temperature Setting
Start by checking the temperature control to make sure it is set at the correct setting. It may be set too low.
Door Seal Damage
If you see ice appearing on the refrigerator door or along the door seal, the seal may be damaged. When room temperature air gets in, the fridge will have a problem maintaining the correct pressure and temperature.
Condenser Dirty or Worn
The condenser may be dirty and worn. If this is the case, the refrigerant will not cycle properly, which will lead to excess cold.
Defrost Drain Clogged
Sub Zero refrigerators have a defrost cycle feature where the fridge gets rid of excess frost and moisture through a defrost drain. If the defrost drain is dirty or clogged, ice will begin to form.
Is your refrigerator freezing? It is highly recommended to enlist the help of a professional to perform a multimeter test or possibly replace the temperature control board. When the fridge fails to maintain the proper temperature, it can lead to the refrigerator leaking.
3. How to Fix a Leaking Fridge
Sub Zero Refrigerator Leaking
The most common reason fridges leak is because the defrost drain is clogged or frozen shut. You need to thaw out the drain and flush it with hot water. This will clear the drain and allow the water to flow correctly.
There are a few other places your fridge could leak:
- The water tank assembly is leaking.
- The water inlet valve is faulty.
- The water filter housing is cracked.
If you’re struggling to locate the leak, a professional technician can help you troubleshoot your sub zero fridge.
4. Sub Zero Refrigerator Temperature Fluctuates

Groceries in the refrigerator can impact the temperature of the fridge. Adding new groceries will raise the temperature, and packing the food tight will not allow the required air to circulate to maintain the proper temperature.
5. Sub Zero Refrigerator Won’t Turn On
There are several things to check if your refrigerator won’t turn on.
If you have recently moved your fridge, you could be struggling with it not turning on. Remember, there’s a lubricant in your fridge that needs to stay in the compressor. If you didn’t keep it upright during the move, the lubricant could have leaked into the coils. You need to let the fridge sit for a while after moving. This enables the lubricant to drain back to where it’s supposed to be. You can then turn it on, and it should run smoothly.
Check to make sure the unit door or drawer was not left open for an extended period of time, make sure the light switch is operational and check to see if the unit is not in Sabbath mode.
Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the electrical outlet, and the electrical outlet has power. Turn the circuit breaker off for ten seconds then turn the breaker back on. Also, make sure the unit is not connected to a GFCI.
Are you still struggling to fix, if so, it’s time to call a Sub Zero repair professional?
6. Sub Zero Freezer Temperature Problems
Freezer is Warm But Fridge is Cold
Make sure the door has not been left open for an extended period of time. Remove anything that may be blocking the door from closing.
Check the gasket for cracks, rips or tears.
The cleaning condenser should be cleaned every three months. This is vital to help maintain the unit’s temperature.
Stop the Excess Frost in the Freezer

Older refrigerators are more likely to have the problem of excess frost building up in the freezer. It’s typically a result of warm water getting in the freezer. Check and replace the seal around the door.
If this isn’t the problem, then it could be the defrost sensor. You’ll need a Sub Zero technician to help you repair this.
Try These Sub Zero Fridge Troubleshooting Tips
We hope you have learned a few important tips reading our article “Sub Zero Fridge Troubleshooting: 5 Typical Problems”.
If you find that your fridge isn’t running like it used to, then these sub zero fridge troubleshooting tips can help.
As you can see, it’s best to seek the help of a professional technician because a minor problem can become a major problem without the proper fix.
Contact HR Appliance today and let us help you troubleshoot and repair your sub zero refrigerator.