Sub-Zero error code · 15 8 01
Sub-Zero Code 15 8 01: Ice Maker Relay Stuck Closed
Sub-Zero code 15 8 01 means the icemaker relay is stuck closed, sending power to the icemaker at all times. The fix is verifying and replacing the control.
Sub-Zero code 15 8 01 means the icemaker relay on the control board is stuck closed, so the icemaker receives power at all times instead of cycling on demand. Because the relay is part of the control board, the fix is to verify the fault and replace the control board.
The meaning of 15 8 01
The control board switches the icemaker on and off through a dedicated relay during the ice-making cycle. Code 15 8 01 is set when the board detects that relay stuck closed, meaning the icemaker is powered continuously rather than only when it should run. On built-in units this relay is integral to the control board, so the board reports the stuck-closed fault.
Root causes behind 15 8 01
Relay contacts stick closed when they weld from repeated switching, from a voltage surge, or from excess current through the icemaker circuit overheating the points. Years of cycling and ordinary contact wear gradually fuse the surfaces. Moisture and corrosion around ice-system wiring can also stress the relay.
Signs of 15 8 01
- Icemaker running or attempting to cycle continuously
- Overfilling, jamming, or excess ice production
- Icemaker components staying warm or active when they should be idle
- Code 15 8 01 stored in diagnostics
- No SERVICE light, since this code does not trigger one
Most-likely causes
- Welded or fused icemaker relay contacts on the control board
- Voltage surge or spike damaging the relay
- Repeated switching wearing the contact points over time
- Excess current in the icemaker circuit overheating the relay
- Corrosion or moisture stress on the board near the relay
The part usually behind 15 8 01
- Control board — Primary repair; the stuck icemaker relay is integral to the board and corrected by board replacement after verification
- Icemaker module — Inspected only if it is found drawing abnormal current that contributed to the relay sticking
Safe owner checks
- Note the code and any signs of the icemaker running nonstop
- Turn the icemaker off at its switch if accessible to limit overfilling
- Power-cycle the unit at the breaker for two minutes and watch for the code to return
- Do not open the control housing or test the relay yourself
When professional service is needed
A stuck-closed icemaker relay is on the control board and is corrected by verifying the fault and replacing the board, which requires diagnostic confirmation and board service by a technician.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Sub-Zero 15 8 01
What does Sub-Zero code 15 8 01 mean?
Code 15 8 01 means the icemaker relay on the control board has stuck closed, so the icemaker is powered continuously instead of running only on demand during its cycle. The board detects the welded contacts and logs 15 8 01. Notably this code does not turn on a SERVICE light, so it is often spotted by an icemaker that overfills or runs constantly.
Can I fix 15 8 01 myself?
No. The stuck icemaker relay is built into the control board, and the repair requires verifying the fault and replacing the board, which is technician work. What you can do as the owner is turn the icemaker off at its switch if you can reach it to limit overfilling, note that it seems to run nonstop, and leave the control housing closed.
How do I clear code 15 8 01?
Power-cycle the unit at the breaker for about two minutes and watch whether 15 8 01 returns in diagnostics. Because the relay contacts are physically welded, a reset will not fix it, the icemaker keeps getting continuous power and the code comes back. The lasting fix is board replacement, not repeated resets.
Is it safe to keep using the unit with code 15 8 01?
The refrigerator and freezer keep cooling, so this is medium severity, but the icemaker side is the concern: with the relay stuck closed it can overfill, jam, or overproduce ice and components stay warm or active when they should be idle. Turning the icemaker off at its switch until service is the safest interim step.
Which part is involved in 15 8 01 and what does it cost to fix?
The failed part is the icemaker relay, which is integral to the control board, so the board is the primary repair after verification. The icemaker module is inspected only if it was drawing abnormal current that contributed to the relay sticking. Diagnosis is a flat $89, repairs carry a 365-day warranty, and you can book at (650) 668-1554.
How is 15 8 01 different from the ice accessories relay codes?
Code 15 8 01 is the main icemaker relay stuck closed, which energizes the icemaker itself continuously. The ice accessories relay codes, 15 8 10 and 15 8 11, instead involve the fill tube and mullion heaters. So while all three are ice-related relay faults on the control board, 15 8 01 specifically causes the icemaker to run or cycle nonstop rather than affecting the anti-freeze heaters.
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