Owning a Sub-Zero fridge comes with pride and prestige. At Wilshire Refrigeration, we’re proud to offer the best in appliance services to help your unit last. The luxury of owning one of the industry’s leading brands has many facets. One unique feature is a dual compressor design. There’s one Sub-Zero compressor for the refrigerator and one for the freezer.

Most competitors do not employ this highly effective strategy.

What Is Dual Refrigeration?

Dual Refrigeration technology uses two independently-operating compressors. This means a Sub-Zero refrigerator has two different cooling systems. The temperature of the refrigerator and freezer compartments are maintained separately with no airflow between them.

Incorporating two cooling systems helps provide more consistent interior conditions and the following benefits:

  • Foods are effectively preserved even if the fridge door is opened frequently.
  • Cool, moist air is readily available for the storage of produce and dairy.
  • The freezer compressor maintains crisp, dry air to avoid frost buildup.

The air from each compressor circulates only in one compartment. Therefore, food odors from the refrigerator will not get into the freezer, and vice versa. This is often a concern with single-compressor refrigerators, but you’ll never get ice cubes that taste like onion or fish with dual Sub-Zero compressors.

Are Sub-Zero Compressors Efficient?

People often question the efficiency of dual refrigeration systems. Many Sub-Zero refrigerators have an Energy Star rating and are more efficient than standard single-compressor models. And with no excess moisture, food stays fresher longer, meaning you won’t need to replace spoiled dairy, meat, or produce. The refrigerator stays at a constant 32℉ and freezer temperatures rarely fluctuate (preventing freezer burn).

The result is long-term cost savings.

Considerations When Moving a Sub-Zero Refrigerator

The manufacturer recommends removing custom door panels, interior shelving, and drawers to prevent damage. Also, compressor oils can shift when the unit is tilted. If the unit is turned on too soon after being moved, the compressor can be damaged. It’s advised to keep the appliance upright for 24 hours before plugging it in, no matter how long or how much the unit was tilted (the unit needn’t be on its side or back for compressor oils to shift). 

If the unit does not start cooling within 24 hours of being turned on, the compressor is likely damaged and will need to be replaced.

Other Unique Features of a Sub-Zero Fridge

As unique as a dual compressor design is, Sub-Zero refrigerators have even more great features, such as:

  • Built-In/Integrated Design: Sub-Zero was the first to introduce the counter-depth refrigerator and has built-in models that fit seamlessly into any kitchen. With integrated models (column and over-and-under designs), custom panels can match your cabinets and decor.
  • Air Purification: An air purification system developed by NASA scrubs ethylene gas from the air, slowing down food spoilage (it runs every 20 minutes). It also removes mold and viruses.
  • Magnetic Door Seal: Sub-Zero refrigerators feature magnetic gaskets on all sides of each door. These stop outside air from getting in and lock in cold air even during a power outage.

Sub-Zero fridges are also designed to last 20 years and come with a 12-year warranty. The sealed system, including the compressors, is fully warranted for five years. Therefore, you can get the most out of your investment and the dual Sub-Zero compressor system for quite some time.

Get Factory Certified Service from Wilshire Refrigeration & Appliance

If at any point you need a Sub-Zero compressor or other component fixed, the technicians at Wilshire Refrigeration are trained to address any problem. We can reach customers anywhere in Southern California. For same-day service and repairs, call 800-427-3653 or request service on the web.