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Error code · Refrigerator

Sub-Zero Classic BI Code 90-A-38: Air filter fan output error

Classic Built-In units with electronic control, such as the BI-36U/S, use a small fan to move air through the air purification filter. 90-A-38 means the FET power output on the control board that runs that air…

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Code
90-A-38
Appliance
Refrigerator
Brand
Sub-Zero
Warranty
30-day workmanship

What 90-A-38 means

Classic Built-In units with electronic control, such as the BI-36U/S, use a small fan to move air through the air purification filter. 90-A-38 means the FET power output on the control board that runs that air filter fan reported an error. The filter fan stops, so odors may linger longer inside the cabinet, though cooling is generally unaffected for now and temperatures usually hold.

Common causes of 90-A-38

  • Air filter fan output on the main board failed
  • Air filter fan motor shorted or seized
  • Wiring damage on the air filter fan circuit
✓ One safe check you can try

1. Note 90-A-38. 2. Check that the air filter is seated correctly in its housing. 3. Turn off the dedicated breaker, wait a couple of minutes and power back up. 4. Listen near the filter for the fan running. 5. Call us if the code returns, and leave the filter in place meanwhile.

! Why to stop there
  • A shorted fan must be found before replacing the board.
  • The fan sits behind interior trim.
  • Board outputs are tested with power on.
Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.
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Other Refrigerator codes

90-A-3890-A-38 questions
What does the air filter fan do?

It pushes cabinet air through the purification filter so stale odors are reduced. When its board output fails, as with 90-A-38, the filter only works passively and smells can build up.

Is my food at risk?

Not from this code alone. Cooling continues, though odors may spread between foods faster. Covering strong-smelling items such as onions, cheese and fish helps until the repair is done.

Is it the fan or the board?

Either can cause it. A seized or shorted fan can overload the output, or the output can fail by itself. We measure both and quote in writing for the part that tested bad.

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Still seeing 90-A-38?

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