A Sub-Zero refrigerator that isn't cooling most often has a dirty condenser or failed condenser fan, a failed evaporator fan, an iced-over evaporator from a defrost failure, a faulty thermistor or control, or a compressor, inverter or sealed system problem. First check that it isn't in showroom mode, that the set point is correct and that the condenser behind the grille is clean.
A Sub-Zero that stops cooling is the most common call we get, and in Las Vegas the cause is often heat-related. Work through the quick checks below; many cooling problems start with something simple.
Check These First (5 Minutes, No Tools)
- Make sure the display isn't showing showroom mode (lights on, no cooling).
- Confirm the set temperature (38°F refrigerator / 0°F freezer is typical).
- Check the circuit breaker and any GFCI outlet.
- Remove the grille and look at the condenser. If it's covered in dust, clean it.
- With the unit running, confirm the condenser fan behind the grille is spinning.
- Make sure doors close fully and nothing blocks the air vents inside.
- Give it 12–24 hours after any change before judging the result.
Most Common Causes
| Cause | What happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Dirty condenser | Heat can't escape; the compressor runs hot and long but cooling drops. | DIY |
| Condenser fan motor | No airflow across the condenser; the compressor may overheat and cycle on overload. | Pro |
| Evaporator fan motor | The evaporator gets cold but air doesn't circulate into the compartment. | Pro |
| Defrost failure | Frost blocks the evaporator coil; airflow stops. | Pro |
| Thermistor / control | The control reads the wrong temperature or doesn't call for cooling. | Pro |
| Inverter board / start components | The compressor can't start or run at speed. | Pro |
| Sealed system | Refrigerant leak, restriction or worn compressor. | Pro |
How We Fix It
We measure temperatures in each compartment, check condenser and evaporator airflow, test fans, defrost heater and sensors, read stored faults, and test the compressor circuit. Most causes (fans, sensors, defrost parts, boards) are repaired on the first visit with parts from our stock. If the sealed system is at fault, we explain the options and schedule the repair.
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 cleaning & performance tune-up | $189 – $289 |
| Condenser fan motor replacement | $345 – $625 |
| Evaporator fan motor replacement | $345 – $595 |
| Defrost heater / defrost sensor repair | $395 – $745 |
| 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