Sub-Zero error code · 15 2 01
Sub-Zero Code 15 2 01: Freezer Compressor Relay Stuck Closed
Sub-Zero code 15 2 01 means the freezer compressor relay is stuck closed, powering the compressor at all times.
Sub-Zero code 15 2 01 means the freezer compressor relay on the control board is stuck closed, so the freezer compressor receives power at all times and never cycles off. Because the relay is built into the control board, the fix is to verify the fault and replace the control board.
What 15 2 01 indicates
The control board switches the freezer compressor on and off through a relay as freezing demand changes. Code 15 2 01 is logged when the board detects this relay stuck closed, meaning the freezer compressor stays energized continuously. On built-in models the relay is part of the control board, so the board flags the stuck-closed condition and flashes the SERVICE light with a chime.
Likely causes
- Welded or fused freezer compressor relay contacts on the control board
- Voltage surge or spike damaging the relay
- Repeated high inrush current stressing the contacts
- A failing compressor pulling excess amperage
- Age-related wear of the relay contact surfaces
What causes 15 2 01
Compressor relay contacts weld closed after long-term switching of high startup current, from voltage surges, or when the compressor draws excessive amperage and overheats the contacts. Accumulated heat and electrical wear degrade the contact points until they fuse and no longer open. A compressor that is itself failing can hasten the relay damage.
Symptoms you may notice
- SERVICE light flashing with an audible chime
- Freezer compressor running nonstop without cycling off
- Freezer running colder than the set point
- Compressor that never goes quiet between cycles
- Increased energy consumption
Parts typically replaced for 15 2 01
- Control board — Primary repair; the stuck freezer compressor relay is integral to the board and corrected by board replacement after verification
- Compressor — Inspected only if found drawing abnormal current that welded the relay
Owner-safe checks for 15 2 01
- Note the code and that the freezer compressor will not shut off
- Power the unit off at the breaker to stop continuous operation until service
- Observe whether the compressor cycles off at all after a power-cycle
- Do not open the control housing or attempt to test the relay
When to call a technician
A stuck-closed freezer compressor relay keeps the compressor energized continuously and is corrected by verifying the fault and replacing the control board, work that requires line-voltage diagnosis and board service by a technician.
Frequently asked
Sub-Zero 15 2 01: people also ask
What does Sub-Zero code 15 2 01 mean?
Code 15 2 01 means the freezer compressor relay on the control board has stuck closed, so the freezer compressor gets power continuously and cannot cycle off. The board sees the welded contacts and flashes the SERVICE light with a chime. Since the relay is part of the control board on built-in models, the board is what gets replaced after the fault is verified.
Can I repair 15 2 01 on my own?
No. The welded freezer compressor relay is built into the control board, and fixing it requires line-voltage diagnosis and board replacement by a technician. As the owner, the useful step is to switch the unit off at the breaker to stop the freezer compressor from running nonstop, and to note whether the compressor ever cycled off after a power-cycle for the technician.
How do I clear code 15 2 01?
A breaker power-cycle lets you check whether the freezer compressor will shut off at all, but a welded relay keeps it energized and 15 2 01 comes right back. This code is not resolved by resetting, the fused contacts must be replaced by swapping the control board. Repeatedly resetting it just leaves the freezer overcooling in the meantime.
Is it safe to keep using the freezer with code 15 2 01 active?
No, this is high severity. With the relay stuck closed the freezer compressor runs continuously, so the freezer drops below its set point, the compressor stays hot and never quiets, and energy use rises. The recommended action is to power the unit off at the breaker until a technician can replace the board.
What part is at fault in 15 2 01 and what is the cost?
The freezer compressor relay is the failed component, and because it is integral to the control board, the board is the primary repair. The compressor is checked only if it was pulling abnormal current that welded the relay. We charge a flat $89 to diagnose, back the repair with a 365-day warranty, and take calls at (650) 668-1554.
How does 15 2 01 differ from 15 1 01?
Both are stuck-closed compressor relays on the control board, but 15 2 01 is the freezer compressor relay while 15 1 01 is the refrigerator compressor relay. The freezer code 15 2 01 means the freezer runs colder than its set point, whereas 15 1 01 affects the fresh-food side. On a dual-compressor built-in, identifying it as 15 2 01 tells the technician the freezer circuit relay is the welded one.
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