Hello
We have A Sub-Zero refrigerator that the (Vacuum condenser) light will come on within 24 hours after resetting. This is A dual compressor system and the unit is running prefect temperatures in the Freezer and refrigerator section. The freezer is at -1 degrees and the refrigerator is +38 degrees consistently. The condenser and condenser fan motor are clean. We even removed the condenser motor and cleaned the condenser with Co2. This condenser is spotless, you can shine A flashlight through it. I know the vacuum condenser light is an inefficient unit operation error. We pulled both evaporator covers in the fresh food and freezer section to verify they both have an even frost patter, we wanted to make sure there was not A starved evaporator before tapping the sealed system. We called the technician line at Sub-zero, they told us to tap the freezer and refrigerator section to check the pressures. We are not going to do that with perfect operating temperatures and even frost patterns on both evaporators. With perfect cooling temperatures in both sections is there any other suggestions before moving to the display board? Thanks in advance
- David Sutton asked 7 years ago
- last edited 7 years ago
Hello
That error will pop up when the unit took too long to reach operating temp. That being said, think of all of the components that this unit looks at…if the freezer or fridge section has a thermistor out of tolerance, for example. If the unit has an “inefficient” compressor, caused by valve failure, then this, too, will create a long rise to reach the desired setting.
You better grab an a-1 tap valve and diagnose the sealed system properly. Not because Sub Zero suggested it, but because it is the next logical step in diagnosis. If you don’t feel like you should get into a possible compressor replacement on the unit, then have them call an authorized service. I have had to bite the bullet a few times before I knew when to draw the line.
I have also seen this very same issue a number of times and unfortunately, in some cases, you will have pull the Refrigerator out of the cabinet to see if this box has saturated insulation. You can see tell-tale signs in other places like pulling the vegetable drawers to see if you have ice forming on the Refrigerator floor. Also, pull the bottom kick plate and pull the drain pan to see if you have sweating under the freezer. If you pull it out you will find the back wall sweating, Black mold and rust. This is an issue that happens because of the unsealed area where the condensate drains through the insulation. Mostly happens to the 550 and 650 models but I’ve seen it on the early 500 series side by sides. There is no repair.
Go to section 3-19 in the manual link below. This will show you how to troubleshoot and reset the light. Matt Ace technician
- AV Repair Help answered 7 years ago
- last edited 7 years ago
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