In the world of professional refrigeration, there are two brands that stand out as having not only a great reputation but longevity as well. When we look at built-in refrigeration, True and Sub Zero are the two brands that are really ahead of their competitors. These brands not only have above industry-standard warranties but are known for their reliability and low repair rates.
Sub Zero has been selling refrigeration for over 70 years. This brand is known for its name and quality. The warranty on a Sub Zero is a 3-year part and labor warranty. They will cover the parts when they are proven to be defective for 5 years. The sealed system warranty of 12 years covers the condenser, compressor, evaporator, drier and any tubing used in the installation of the unit. Sub-zero was the first company to use separate compressors in the refrigerator and freezer. This is really important for food freshness as the humidity and is not mixed from the refrigerator and freezer. One of the most impressive options in the Sub Zero is the 648PRO($17965). This refrigerator has three evaporators. The third evaporator is used exclusively for the crisper drawers keeping your fruits and vegetables fresher for a longer period of time. The seal on the doors and drawers are very solid and they do not let any air in or out. The bright lighting allows you to see all of the shelves and drawers very easily. The stainless interior is easy to clean and does not hold food odors. This unit has soft close features on the doors and drawers making it easy to have your hands full and still close them. Some of the most common repairs for this unit are the ice makers, the seals, and water dripping from the gasket. Sub Zero did have some consistent issues with their external ice and water dispensers. In model BI-48SID/O, there were many reported issues of water leaking or ice makers freezing and not dispensing ice.
True has been in the commercial industry for many years. Most of the units you see in restaurants are True refrigeration units. The company began making built-in residential units in 2014. The TR-48SBS- SS($16499) is a similar option to the Sub Zero. It is a traditional side by side, the glass shelves are very sturdy. These residential units are very well made using the commercial style and applying it to a residential design. The True units come in various sizes, but the most impressive option is the colors. You can customize everything from the doors to the handles. The ramp-up LED lighting is truly impressive when you open the door of the unit. The warranty on the True unit is three years for all parts and labor. There is a six-year sealed system warranty that includes the parts that are hermetically sealed such as the compressor and condenser. The stainless steel interior is resistant to odors and easy to clean. True units do not have ice makers in them as the company understands that most of the repairs in refrigeration are due to ice maker issues. Since True has only been around a short period of time, there is not a lot of service history on the units.
Whether you chose a True or a Sub Zero, you can hardly go wrong. Both companies have a history of longevity and quality. Often times, when comparing the units, it can come down to design and personal perspective. The 648PRO gives a configuration that is very user-friendly. The drawers make for optimal space and less chance of losing food. It also gives a commercial look with the pro-style handle. The True side by side gives a more professional look with thick handles that run all the way down the doors. Both units would provide a home with a great look!