Sub-Zero · Owner guide
Sub-Zero error codes and display messages, in plain English.
What the common Sub-Zero display messages mean and the safe steps Sub-Zero gives owners. Codes differ between Classic, 600, 700 and Designer Series, so check your model on the serial tag first.
Safe owner checks only. Turn the unit off before touching the grille or the ice maker, and stop if anything looks damaged.
Display messages and what to do
| On the display | What it means | Safe owner step |
|---|---|---|
| "Service" flashing between temperatures | Sub-Zero lists excessive compressor run or a possible cooling issue. | If temperatures are high, call for service. If they are near normal: turn the unit off and clean the condenser, make sure nothing blocks the door, then switch the home circuit breaker for the unit off for 30 seconds and back on. If "Service" comes back or temperatures rise, call. |
| "Service" and "Ice" flashing (600 and 700 Series) | The ice maker water valve stayed on longer than 15 seconds, so the ice maker turned itself off. | Turn the unit off for 10 seconds, then back on. Ice production resumes shortly after. If it happens again soon, call. |
| "EE" with "Service" flashing (700 Series) | Sub-Zero's service manual lists a compartment temperature sensor (thermistor) or its wiring fault. | No owner fix. Call for service. |
| "40" or "50" with "EC" and "Service" (700 Series) | Sub-Zero's service manual lists error code 40 (freezer) and 50 (refrigerator) as a compressor that ran nonstop for a long period. | Clean the condenser and check the door, then call. Codes are cleared after the cause is fixed. |
| Service indicator lit, not flashing (Classic Series) | The control found a temperature issue or the condenser needs cleaning. | Touch POWER to turn the unit off, make sure the condenser area is clean, then touch POWER to turn it on. If the indicator stays on, call. |
| Service indicator flashing, with or without a chime (Classic Series) | A fault the control cannot clear. | Call for service. |
| Double dashes (--) | That section has been turned off (disabled). | On Classic, 600 and 700 Series units with a Unit On/Off button: touch POWER to turn the unit off, hold the WARMER key of that section and press POWER, then release both. Repeat to turn it back on. If the control does not respond, switch the breaker off and back on. |
| "Sh r" or "Showroom" | Showroom mode. Lights and display work but the unit does not cool. | On Classic and 600 Series: touch POWER to turn the unit off, press and hold a WARMER and COLDER pair, then press POWER and release all three. Repeat the same steps to exit. Other series: see Sub-Zero's showroom mode guide for your model. |
| "SAb" | Sabbath mode (Classic Series). Lights, ice maker, door alarm and dispenser are disabled. There is no harm in leaving it on. | Touch POWER to return to normal operation. |
| Filter indicator lit, or air purification indicator flashing (Classic Series) | The water filter or the air purification cartridge is due for replacement. | Replace the filter or cartridge as shown in the use and care guide. |
When to stop and call
If a code comes back after the reset, if the unit is warm, or if you are not sure what you are looking at, take a photo of the display and the serial tag and call +1 (949) 610-7897 or text us the photo. Error codes stored in diagnostic mode are read and cleared by a technician once the cause is fixed.
Sources
Checks on this page are taken from Sub-Zero's published owner guidance. Steps and codes vary by series, so find your model on the serial tag first. Sub-Zero's own pages refer you to Factory Certified Service; A.A. Repairs is an independent repair company, not a Sub-Zero factory-authorized or certified service center.
- Sub-Zero: Service flashing
- Sub-Zero: 600 Series Service and Ice flashing
- Sub-Zero: Control shows double dashes
- Sub-Zero: Classic Series showroom mode
- Sub-Zero: 600 Series showroom mode
- Sub-Zero: Classic Series Sabbath mode
- Sub-Zero Classic Series Use and Care Guide (PDF)
- Sub-Zero 700 Series service manual (PDF)
Ready when you are
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Our $75 service call in Orange County is waived if you go ahead with the repair. We quote before any work starts.