Repair of replace 18 year old discontinued Sub Zero Fridge

5 years ago

I have an 18 year old 700tci Sub Zero refrigerator built into my cabinets. The compressor was replaced in 2011 by the previous owners and some sealed system work was done the next year. I've just started experiencing failures with the freezer and may need a new compressor for it.

This model got discontinued in 2015, and it's the only refrigerator I can find that will even fit the small space (27"w 24"d), let alone new panels. However, there are a few dead stock that sub zero will sell me at a good discount.

So my dilemna is: do I continue to fix this fridge and hope It lasts another 10 years and then deal with the cabinet problem then (and the additional costs of that)? Or do I snag one of the last models that fits the space, pay the $6K, and never know if my old fridge would've trucked on for many more years?

I know, it's a gamble. The repair guy says keep repairing it and the sales woman says get a new one. Go figure. Any insights on the longevity of these fridges and the overall cost of keeping them going to 30 years?

Thanks in advance!

Featured Answer

homechef59

5 years ago

I replaced the compressor on a 20 year old SubZero refrigerator. Then, the next year I replaced the compressor on a 20 year old SubZero Freezer. They are still going strong.

This is one of the reasons why you buy a SubZero in the first place. Because you can keep the box forever and simply replace the compressor.

If you plan on doing a renovation, replacing the entire unit might make sense. But, it sounds like you don't want to do that any time in the near future. From a payback standpoint, replacing the compressor makes the most sense.

Use a Subzero technician instead of a jack-of-all trades repairman and you should be very happy.

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Comments (11)

klem1
5 years ago
I wouldn't recommend replacing the compressor even if fridge was only 10 yo and this was the first problem it ever had. Reason? Appliance repairmen are usually jack of all trades working on everything from dishwashers to ranges. Reason 2. A burned out compressor leave's acid in system causing replacement to fail prematurely. As far as fitting a different brand in cabinet,the opening can be easily altered by a trim carpenter. With a little imagination,a door panel can be fabricated to match cabinets but stainless often work's well.
Justine Pojanowski thanked klem1
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Heather
5 years ago
I have 601f and a 601r - and my next door neighbor just replaced her SZ after 30 years - she lost the compressor. She wanted the new filter thingy. Get it fixed, they’re simple machines. No sense tearing up your kitchen.
Justine Pojanowski thanked Heather
cookncarpenter
5 years ago
I say fix it, that $6K will go a long way toward repairs...
Justine Pojanowski thanked cookncarpenter
Rita / Bring Back Sophie 4 Real
5 years ago
Fix it.
Justine Pojanowski thanked Rita / Bring Back Sophie 4 Real
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
If you’re going to live there for an really extended period, go both. Repair that one now, and keep one in storage for 20 years down the road. IF you don’t see yourself ripping apart the then old kitchen by then.
Justine Pojanowski thanked User
dan1888
5 years ago
Repair it.
Justine Pojanowski thanked dan1888
ci_lantro
5 years ago
So, the first compressor lasted only 11 years and second compressor is suspect after only 7 years...

Not a very good track record.

Regardless of whether you repair or replace, personally, I would be looking for ways to increase ventilation around the refrigerator. Compressors pump out a lot of heat. Like a hole thru the wall (covered with return air grill) if there is a room behind the refrigerator wall?
Justine Pojanowski thanked ci_lantro
Justine Pojanowski
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks everyone-sounds like the concensus is to repair. I guess I'm still nervous it will croak in five years and then I'll have missed my opportunity to buy the same model (at a discount no less)! But it's sounds like these things can and should be made to last, so that's heartening. Looks like I'll be replacing the compressor and crossing my fingers. I really appreciate all of you weighing in and sharing your knowledge!
Emily Huber
2 years ago
I'm finding myself in this same situation right now. How did you wind up making out? I see this post is 3 years old. Can I have an update?
selinalf
4 months ago
I got the 700 27” and it’s fail 3 times in the last 6 months. I would love to have an older stock to buy to avoid remodeling the whole kitchen wall to fit the 30” ref. My cabinet maker closed down. So what did you do ? I’ve replaced every part of the refrigerator and it now 24 years old. Past normal life span. Rebuilding the kitchen wall will cost $$$$$

Repair of replace 18 year old discontinued Sub Zero Fridge

homechef59

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klem1

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Repair of replace 18 year old discontinued Sub Zero Fridge

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Justine PojanowskiOriginal Author

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