Sub-Zero Refrigerator Relay Recall 2017 Safety Alert

<h2>Quick Facts</h2> <table> <tbody> <tr><td><strong>Brand</strong></td><td>Sub-Zero</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Appliance</strong></td><td>Refrigerator</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Year</strong></td><td>2017</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>CPSC <a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Recall</a> #</strong></td><td>17-183</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Type</strong></td><td>CPSC Recall</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Units Affected</strong></td><td>Approximately 32,000 Sub-Zero built-in refrigerators and freezers</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Severity</strong></td><td>Critical — Immediate Action Required</td></tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>What Is the Risk?</h2> <p><strong>Quick answer:</strong> Sub Zero refrigerator recall affecting approximately 32,000 units due to fire risk. Free repair available. Check your model number below.</p> <p>The compressor start relay (Embraco relay) can overheat during the compressor startup sequence, potentially igniting surrounding insulation material. Sub-Zero received 9 reports of relay overheating, including 2 reports of small fires.</p> <p><strong>This is a critical safety hazard.</strong> If your <a href="https://www.subzero-wolf.com/assistance" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sub-Zero refrigerator</a> is affected, take immediate action as described below. Do not delay — fire-related hazards can cause property damage, injury, or loss of life. CPSC recall remedies are always free — there is no reason to postpone.</p> <h2>Affected Model Numbers</h2> <p>The following Sub-Zero model numbers are included in this recall. Check your model number on the rating plate and compare it against this list:</p> <table> <thead><tr><th colspan="4">Affected Models</th></tr></thead> <tbody> <tr><td><code>BI-36UG</code></td><td><code>BI-36UG/S</code></td><td><code>BI-36U</code></td><td><code>BI-36U/S</code></td></tr> <tr><td><code>BI-36RG</code></td><td><code>BI-36R</code></td><td><code>BI-42UG</code></td><td><code>BI-42U</code></td></tr> <tr><td><code>IT-36CI</code></td><td><code>IT-36CIID</code></td><td><code>IT-36R</code></td><td><code>IT-36RID</code></td></tr> <tr><td><code>IC-24FI</code></td><td><code>IC-24R</code></td><td><code>IC-27R</code></td><td></td></tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Important:</strong> This list may not be exhaustive. Some recalls are updated after the initial announcement to add newly identified model numbers. Always verify your specific model and serial number with Sub-Zero directly or on the CPSC recall notice.</p> <h2>What to Do Right Now</h2> <p>If your Sub-Zero refrigerator model number matches the list above, take these steps immediately:</p> <ol> <li>Check if your Sub-Zero model starts with BI-36, BI-42, IT-36, IC-24, or IC-27</li> <li>Listen for clicking sounds or brief humming followed by silence from the compressor area — this can indicate relay failure</li> <li>Contact Sub-Zero at 1-800-222-7820 to schedule the free relay replacement</li> <li>If you smell burning plastic or electrical smell from behind the refrigerator, unplug immediately</li> </ol> <h2>How to Get the Free Recall Repair</h2> <p>Free in-home replacement of the compressor start relay with an updated design that includes thermal protection. Sub-Zero factory-certified technician performs the repair, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes.</p> <p>Key points about the recall remedy process:</p> <ul> <li>The repair, replacement, or refund is <strong>completely free</strong> — you pay nothing for parts or labor.</li> <li>You do <strong>not need the original receipt</strong> for CPSC recalls. The model and serial number are sufficient to verify eligibility.</li> <li>The recall applies regardless of whether you are the original purchaser. Second owners, tenants, and landlords are all eligible.</li> <li>CPSC recalls <strong>never expire</strong>. Even if this recall was announced years ago, you can still get the free repair if your unit was never serviced.</li> <li>If the manufacturer does not respond within 30 days, file a complaint at <a href="https://www.saferproducts.gov">SaferProducts.gov</a> or call CPSC at 1-800-638-2772.</li> </ul> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <h3>Is the Embraco relay issue unique to Sub-Zero?</h3> <p>No. Embraco (now part of Nidec) supplies compressor start relays to many refrigerator manufacturers. Similar relay overheating issues have been reported across multiple brands. Sub-Zero proactively issued a recall, which is notable given their relatively small production volume. The updated relay design includes a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) thermistor that cuts power if the relay overheats.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Worried about your refrigerator? Our certified technicians can inspect your Sub-Zero refrigerator, verify recall status, and ensure safe operation.</strong> <a href="/book">Book a safety inspection at /book</a>.</p> <p>Our technicians' field observations align with this conclusion — sub-zero refrigerator relay recall 2017 safety alert

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