Repeated clicking from the mechanical compartment of a Sub-Zero, with no cooling, usually means the compressor is trying to start and its overload is shutting it off. Common causes are a failed start relay or overload on older units, an inverter board failure on variable-speed units, a dirty condenser or failed condenser fan, low voltage, or a failed compressor.
A single click when the compressor starts or stops is normal. A click every few minutes with no cooling is not.
Check These First (5 Minutes, No Tools)
- Note the pattern: how often it clicks and whether the compressor hums first.
- Clean the condenser and confirm the condenser fan runs.
- Don't repeatedly power cycle the unit.
- Make sure the unit isn't on an extension cord or shared overloaded circuit.
Most Common Causes
| Cause | What happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Start relay / overload | Compressor can't start on older units. | Pro |
| Inverter board | Variable-speed compressor gets no proper drive signal. | Pro |
| Condenser airflow | Overheated compressor trips its overload. | DIY / Pro |
| Low voltage | Insufficient starting power. | Pro |
| Compressor | Shorted or locked windings, mechanical failure. | Pro |
How We Fix It
We test start components or the inverter board, line voltage under load, condenser airflow and compressor windings. Start components and inverter boards are often in stock. If the compressor itself has failed, we replace it in-house.
When to Call a Technician
If the basic checks above don't solve it within a few hours, or if you hear repeated clicking, see an alarm or service indicator, or notice water under cabinetry, call us at (725) 237-7399. The $75 service call is credited toward your repair, repairs carry a 1-year parts and 180-day labor warranty, and we stock the Sub-Zero parts behind most of these failures.
Typical Cost
| Repair | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Condenser fan motor replacement | $345 – $625 |
| Inverter board replacement | $695 – $1,350 |
| Compressor replacement (incl. filter-drier, vacuum & charge) | $1,895 – $3,450 |
Typical totals for parts and labor in the Las Vegas area. The $75 service call is credited toward your repair, and every repair is backed by a 1-year parts and 180-day labor warranty. Your exact price depends on the model, the part and access, and you approve a firm quote before any work begins. Full price list →
Still Not Working? We Can Help Today.
$75 service call, credited toward your repair · 1-year parts · 180-day labor warranty · EPA 608 certified · Mon–Fri 8am–7pm · Sat–Sun 8am–4pm