Topics:

• How to ready a Sub-Zero when home is not heated during winter
• What to do with products in outdoor kitchens in areas with below freezing winters
• Should products be moved indoors, or can they be left outside with proper preparation?
• Can a product be stored outside?

Answer:

Except for outdoor models, Sub-Zeros are designed to run in a 60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C) environment.

• A Sub-Zero in a vacated home or one that is not heated should be winterized. 
• Outdoor units can be left installed outdoors as long as winterization procedures have been followed.

To winterize indoor and outdoor Sub-Zero Refrigerator, Freezer, or Wine Storage products:

1. Turn the unit off.
   • Nothing specific needs to be done to the dispenser.
   • Indoor product mechanical and electrical components are not rated to withstand cold temperatures, even when the unit is off.
2. Leave doors open long enough for the unit to warm to room temperature.
   • Adding baking soda or other drying agents may help, but make sure to completely wipe-down after the unit warms to room temperature.
3. Thoroughly wipe down and dry the inside of the unit.
4. Close (and if there is a lock, also lock) the doors.
   • Doors may also be left open. No damage will occur to the hinges.
5. For units with an ice maker or stand-alone ice makers, the water line leading from the water valve to the ice maker must be disconnected, drained, and then reconnected. This removes most water remaining in the line, so damage from freezing should not occur.
   • For Classic Series (BI, CL), UC 24, UC15I, 315I, and 600 Series units starting with serial number 2608905:
     • Water valve servicing should be done by Factory Certified Service. Use locator to find a Factory Certified Service Company.
     • See also, Sub-Zero Model UC-15I Prolonged Shutdown and Winterization Procedure.    
   • For 200, 300, 500, 600, and 700 Series units made prior to 2005:
     • The disconnect point should be the side opposite of the garden fitting side (inlet).
     • This will drain the water trapped in the line between the valve and the fill tube.
     • Not draining can result in damage to the line and possible water flooding.
     • Note that water valve locations may be difficult to access.

Notes:

• If unit is left on, turning off the water and draining the water line is not enough. Some water may remain in the unit and could freeze, causing damage.
• Do not use antifreeze to winterize the ice maker or water line.
• Install a new water filter (if applicable) when the unit is placed back in service.