If you’ve ever looked into Sub-Zero refrigerators you’re aware that they are not cheap. Base prices start around $7,000 and only go up from there. Certainly they market themselves as as premium appliance for commercial applications and high end kitchens. But are they really worth the price tag? We here at Appliance Doctor, an appliance repair company serving, work on these units fairly frequently. What follows is our take on the value you get for your dollar.
Innovative Design
Sub-Zero was the first appliance manufacturer to build and market a counter depth refrigerator. These are shallower than normal refrigerators, designed so they don’t stick out a distance into your kitchen the way normal fridges do. This sort of innovative thinking is a hallmark of the company.
They are currently the leading manufacturer of integrated refrigeration units. These appliances take the counter depth model to its logical conclusion, replacing the normal fridge door with panels exactly matched to your kitchen cabinets. With a quality unit when it’s closed you can’t tell it’s there. It looks just like a bank of cabinets. If this sort of integrated look is something you like Sub-Zero is a good choice.
Dual Compressors
This was unique to Sub-Zero refrigerators until recently, but as the innovator of the technology Sub-Zero’s designs are arguably better. Most refrigerators have a single compressor for the fridge and freezer portions of the appliance. The problem with this is that the moist air in the fridge mingles with the dry air in the freezer, which can lead to frost problems, particularly if the auto-defrost function in the freezer isn’t working properly. It also tends to migrate strong smells from the fridge into the freezer, which can taint your ice and other items.
Having two compressors, one for the fridge and second for the freezer is much better. With that design no air every crosses between the two halves of the unit.
Integrated Air Purification
Sub-Zero refrigerators include air purifiers that cleanse the air of mold spores, germs, viruses and the gasses given off by spoiling food. This helps keep food fresher longer and prevents that unpleasant moment when you open the fridge and encounter the nasty smell of rotting food.
Active Vacuum Seal
Unlike normal refrigerators, Sub-Zero fridges employ an active vacuum seal to prevent outside air from entering the fridge interior. This works in concert with the air purifiers to extend the life of your food.
Thoroughly Tested
In any given run of refrigerators it’s common for the factory to only test a few units as representatives of the rest, the logic holding that if those are built properly the rest should be, too. By comparison Sub-Zero thoroughly tests each and every unit before it’s shipped. This guarantees that your appliance is built well and functions properly, every-time.
So Are They Worth It?
Sub-Zero is certainly one of the best refrigerators money can buy. Whether they’re right for you, though, is something of a personal question. If you can afford the hefty price tag then by all means put one in your kitchen. Otherwise, consider how long you’ll be in your home. If this is your dream kitchen and you’ll be using it for years, the price may be worth it. Because of Sub-Zero’s quality and name recognition, the appliances feature great resale value. Should you ever sell your home being able to advertise a Sub-Zero fridge could help bring in buyers.
Sub-Zero refrigerators have an excellent performance record, but if you ever do need repairs we can help. We’re an appliance repair company serving Greater Philadelphia, so we can be there quickly to give your refrigerator the TLC it needs.
Are Sub-Zero Refrigerators Worth the Money?
Appliance Doctor, Incorporated is a Corporation offering expert repair services to the Delaware Valley’s residents and businesses. We started in 1964 as a one-man business servicing only washers and dryers. Today, we service more than 110 different brands of refrigeration and appliance equipment across 49 different product types. Our technicians are expected to know so much information! In the 1960’s, our service area was limited to Philadelphia. Today, our service area includes all towns in Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County.