Installation Information

Installation Considerations

This section addresses common installation issues encountered by Service Technicians. Improper installation can lead to service calls and may include issues such as unit leveling, unit movement, door misalignment, door sealing problems, internal or external condensation, and incorrect compartment temperatures.

NOTE: For comprehensive installation details, consult the complete Installation Manual or contact the Sub-Zero Service Department.

Site Preparation

Opening Dimensions

Undercounter Models:

Specific opening dimensions are provided for width, depth, and height. For dual unit installations, a dual installation kit may be required. If a custom filler strip is not used, a 2" (51mm) filler strip is recommended between units. Dual installations are only possible with units featuring opposite hinges. Dual installation kits are available through authorized Sub-Zero dealers. For dealer information, visit subzero.com. For installation questions, contact Sub-Zero customer care at 800-222-7820.

Diagrams illustrating side view, top view, and front view with dimensions are referenced.

Dual Installation

When installing two units side-by-side, a dual installation kit might be necessary. If a custom filler strip isn't used, a dual installation kit is required. Alternatively, a 2" (51mm) filler strip can be placed between units. Dual installations are feasible only with units that have opposite hinges. Refer to the provided illustrations for clarification.

Illustrations show units with opposite hinges and units with same-side hinges, with and without filler strips.

Electrical

Installation must adhere to all applicable electrical codes. The electrical supply should be situated within the designated shaded area. A dedicated circuit exclusively for this appliance is mandatory.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The electrical outlet must be positioned so the grounding prong is to the right of the thinner blades. The outlet must be flush with the back wall.

Model UC-24RO is designed for outdoor use and requires a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to mitigate the risk of electrical shock. For other undercounter models, a GFCI is not recommended as it may cause operational interruptions.

WARNING: Do not use an extension cord, a two-prong adapter, or remove the power cord's ground prong.

Diagrams illustrate electrical supply location with dimensions.

Plumbing

Installation must comply with all applicable plumbing codes. For model UC-24CI, the water supply should be located within the shaded area. The water supply line must connect to the house supply via an easily accessible shut-off valve. Avoid using self-piercing valves.

Reverse osmosis systems are permissible if they provide a constant water pressure of 20-100 psi (1.4-6.9 bar). A copper line is not recommended for this application.

Diagrams illustrate water supply location with dimensions.

Preparation

The door must open a minimum of 90° for proper operation. In corner installations, use a minimum 3" (76mm) filler to ensure a 90° door opening.

Uncrate the unit and inspect for any damage. Dispose of packing materials responsibly. Retain the kickplate, anti-tip bracket, hardware, and leveling legs.

Anti-Tip Bracket

WARNING: To prevent the unit from tipping forward, the anti-tip bracket must be installed.

The anti-tip bracket should be secured to the wall behind the unit. The bracket flange should be positioned 1/4" (6mm) above the top of the unit. Proper positioning is crucial for the bracket's effectiveness. Failure to install correctly may hinder proper engagement.

Diagrams show the anti-tip bracket and its placement.

Installation

Leveling

Level the unit before sliding it into its final position. Adjust the four leveling legs by turning them clockwise to raise the unit or counter-clockwise to lower it. Refer to the illustration for guidance.

Diagrams illustrate leveling legs.

Door Adjustment

The top and bottom cabinet hinges are secured with three adjustment screws. To adjust the door, loosen these screws, make the necessary adjustments, and then retighten the screws. Refer to the provided illustrations for hinge adjustment details.

Diagrams show top and bottom door hinges with adjustment screws.

Placement

Connect the power cord to the grounded outlet and carefully slide the unit into its designated position.

It may be necessary to position the unit 1/4" (6mm) forward of adjacent cabinetry to avoid interference when the door opens to 145°. A full-scale template is available on page 2-9 for reference.

Water Line (Model UC-24CI)

Purge the water line before the final connection to the unit to remove any debris from the installation process. For model UC-24CI, connect the plastic tubing from the unit to the house water supply using the provided fitting connection kit. Inspect all water line fittings for leaks.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Ensure water lines are not exposed to freezing temperatures.

Anchoring

Use the optional countertop bracket to secure the unit to the underside of the countertop. If the bracket cannot be used, install shims along the top and sides of the unit for stability. Refer to the illustration.

Diagrams show anchoring and kickplate installation.

Kickplate

Install the kickplate using the two provided screws. The kickplate must be removable for servicing, and the floor should not obstruct its removal. Ensure the louvered section of the kickplate is not covered.

Panel Installation

Custom Door Panel

For overlay applications, a custom door panel must be installed. The panel dimensions are critical for a proper fit. Consult the Sub-Zero design guide at subzero.com/specs for panel requirements and dimensions. Ensure all sides of custom panels are finished, as they may be visible when the door is open or through glass doors.

MODELS UC-24R AND UC-24C(I):

Remove the two panel mounting brackets from the front of the door. Place the custom overlay door panel face down on a protected surface. Position the provided plastic template flush with the lower edge of the panel. Verify the correct orientation for right-hand (RH) or left-hand (LH) door swing. Mark the hole locations, remove the template, and drill pilot holes for the brackets. Secure the mounting brackets with the provided screws.

If the template is unavailable, position the mounting brackets as shown in the illustration.

To install the custom door panel, partially insert screws into the center of each mounting position on the hinge side of the door. Engage the tabbed bracket with the handle side of the door, then slide the hinge side mounting bracket onto the positioning screws. The slotted holes on the mounting bracket should slide under the screw heads to support the panel. The panel can be adjusted approximately 1/4" (6mm) up and down, and side to side. Once the panel is in place and adjusted, attach the remaining screws to the hinge side mounting bracket and install the magnetic decorative caps.

Diagrams illustrate panel mounting brackets and panel installation.

MODEL UC-24BG:

The custom overlay door panel is attached using screws through the door frame. Screw locations are marked on the back of the custom panel using tenon centers inserted into the door frame holes.

With the unit secured and the door closed, hold the custom panel in the desired position. Lightly tap the front of the panel to mark mounting positions. Remove the tenon centers. Refer to the illustration.

The door frame has mounting holes for Sub-Zero accessory handles. If handle mounting holes are not used, attach the handle to the custom panel before mounting. Screw heads may need to be countersunk into the panel for proper alignment.

To mount the custom panel, open the door and use the predrilled holes to position the panel. Drive screws through black tape on the door frame into the panel. Screw holes are concealed behind the door gasket. Use sufficient screws to secure the panel. Refer to the illustration.

Adjustments can be made to the custom panel with a few mounting screws partially tightened. Once the correct position is achieved, install and secure all screws. Cover the holes on the inside of the door frame with the provided cover patches or plugs.

WARNING: Follow all city and state laws regarding the storage, recycling, or disposal of refrigerators and freezers.

Diagrams show tenon centers and door frame cross-section.

Full Scale Template

A full-scale template is provided for reference, illustrating the 145° door opening and clearances with adjacent cabinetry.

Diagram shows a full-scale template with dimensions for door opening and panel placement.