Every six months
Clean the condenser. On most built-ins (Sub-Zero, Viking, Thermador, Monogram, KitchenAid and JennAir built-ins), the condenser is on top, behind the grille above the doors. Tilt or unclip the grille, then brush the coil gently in the direction of the fins and vacuum the dust. Keep fingers away from the condenser fan. Integrated columns (Miele, Gaggenau, Liebherr and Thermador Freedom) usually breathe through the toe-kick — vacuum that grille and make sure it is never blocked by rugs.
Replace the water filter. Las Vegas hard water clogs filters faster than the manufacturer's average.
Every year
Inspect the door gaskets. Clean them with warm soapy water, check for tears, and test the seal with a dollar bill at several points. Heavy custom-panel doors can sag over time; a hinge adjustment restores the seal.
Check the doors close on their own. Built-ins use closers and hinges designed to pull the door shut. If a door stays open an inch, have it adjusted.
Flush the defrost drain if you have ever seen water inside the cabinet.
Check the ice maker. Empty and wash the ice bin, check cube size, and listen for buzzing during fills.
Signs to call a technician
- The compressor runs constantly or the top grille area feels very hot
- Temperatures drift above 40°F or 0°F
- Frost on the back wall of the freezer
- New fan noise
- Condensation on the outside of the doors or the cabinet face
Frequently asked questions
How long should a Sub-Zero last?
Sub-Zero designs its refrigerators to last 20 years or more with regular maintenance. Many in Las Vegas run well past that with periodic repairs.
Can I hire you just for maintenance?
Yes. Our maintenance visit includes condenser cleaning, a full inspection and a written report.