When to Rebuild you Sub-Zero?
I would say a rebuild should be performed on a sub zero refrigerator when the unit meets a certain criteria. Please read our article about whether or not your Sub-Zero is worth the repair: Is it worth it to repair my sub zero?
Other than that, rebuild your sub zero when you want the highest probability for it to last a long time. Instead of constant break downs, or changing the next weakest link part, replace the full sealed system and watch the machine last another appliances life-span. Just about any Sub-Zero fridge or freezer can be rebuilt, and its the preferred repair for a lot of these units as they age past the 20 year mark.
Why Rebuild your Sub-Zero?
Rebuilding an aging sub zero is about outlook. How long do you want your machine to last into the future? Sometimes, the cosmetics of your refrigerator and wooden trim outlast the mechanicals. This means that you are perfectly content with your refrigerator and do not feel that it is time to pull the sub-zero from the kitchen and replace with new. There are many benefits to not doing this beyond just cost savings. Sometimes a built in refrigerator just fits the vintage of the kitchen or there are further constraints with de-installing the unit. Most rebuilds we perform are on units at least 15+ years old. After all, the damn things are built in.
What is replaced during a rebuild?
Each rebuild is unit specific however they all start with having the same core components replaced. These core components make up your "sealed system" or the parts inside your machine that circulate the refrigerant. These core parts are considered wearable items and they are as follows.
Compressor- The motor that compresses and circulates the refrigerant.
Heat Exchanger- A tubing component that carries gas around the system.
Evaporator Coil- Where the gas expands and rapidly cools your unit.
Filter Drier- A contamination filter that catches moisture and debris that could restrict the flow of refrigerant.
After the Sealed System is replaced the unit must be evaluated for supporting parts that aid the proper function of the machine. This varies from unit to unit but can include:
- Fan Motors & Blades
- Thermostats & Thermistors
- Door Hardware and Gaskets
- Drain Components
Watch us rebuild a model 550!
Will this last forever?
NO, there will always be hiccups with refrigerators, it is just far less likely it will be a costly repair or a full break down. Breakdowns after a rebuild are usually defective parts or a small component failure. If this happens your machine should be under warranty by the company that did the work. This repair is a one time thing, its rare that the machine is around enough or in good enough condition to do it twice, so if your unit is in good shape, this may be the repair you are looking for.