Miele vs Sub-Zero

[johnd]

I am planning the remodel of our kitchen and would like your expert opinions. We will install a built-in refrigerator and are considering a 36" Miele or a Sub-Zero, both with bottom freezer. Does anyone have experience with either of these? Is one more reliable than the other? Advantages, disadvantages, or any words of wisdom?
Thanks in advance.
John.

 

[bajaespuma]

Well, if you have that much money to spend...

I would buy a couple of different smaller units and place them around the kitchen where they would be most handy. I've used the Sub Zero drawer units and although they're expensive, they're what I consider a useful luxury. I first got to use them at James Beard house in NYC, where they had a reach-in in the main kitchen and a fridge and freezer drawer in a butler's pantry. I would also check with my local appliance dealer and find out who is best at service, who comes when called and if there are any new brands/models out there (like Traulsen) as everything is changing so fast. I love the Miele brand, but I know that Sub-Zero has more experience with high tech refrigeration( I think the US is still ahead of everybody else when it comes to refrigeration, we have and use more of them).

If it were me, I'd select a couple of small/different NON-built in units and place them where I needed them. These days, refrigerators are always needing service and I don't want to deal with the headache of Un-building in my appliances. For the price of one big Sub-Zero you can get quite a few different refrigerators and freezers. I know a lot of people who've bought GE Monogram built-ins and like them.

 

[dj-gabriele]

headache of Un-building in my appliances

Pardon me but what's the problem? built-in appliances simply slide out of their counter ...et voiltà! you're done!

 

[maytagbear]

Not that Consumer Reports is infallible,

but in their reader-reported repair survey, (which I take pretty seriously, because it IS reader-reported,) Sub-Zero has a rather dismal repair record. Yes, there can be sample variations, and I am sure some Sub-Zero's have run flawlessly for years, but if there is a preponderance of evidence......

I would consider a freestanding (non-built in) refrigerator, in the newer "counter depth" style. Most of the American labels offer one or several, even in bottom freezer.

Just my deux centimes.

Lawrence/Maytagbear

 

[johnd]

All great suggestions! Anyone have long term experience with

Thanks for all the feedback so far. Let me explain a little further. My spouse and I are blessed with the opportunity to build our dream kitchen, and we're going for it. I love the look of built-ins, where the fridge is indistinguishable from a cabinet. The same will apply to the dishwasher(s). I like quiet appliances, so the quietness of the Miele is pushing me in that direction.

I just wonder about repair frequency. Our current Miele dishwasher, washer, and dryer have given us almost no trouble in nearly 10 years of use, so I would characterize the brand as reliable, but I'm wondering if anyone out there has had experience with a Miele fridge for a length of time.

Another friend has also suggested that we consider refrigerator drawers, but I still think I prefer one unit that will be located next to the prep area.

Thanks for all your suggestions so far, and please keep them coming. I'm sure I'll be back with more requests for comment. Ovens are next. And Merci pour les renseignements Lawrence.

 

[johnd]

And a shout out to DJ

I spent nearly two years working in Siena and living nearby in Costalpino, so I have been completely influenced by the beautiful look, feel, and functionality of Italian kitchens.
Giovanni.

 

[Hometechdoc]

I have Miele and I love them

When we bought our house last year, one of the first things I did was add a built-in Refrigerator. I only had 48 inches so I selected two units, a 30" bottom mount and an 18" freezer with ice and water. I choose the integrated stainless steel models with the large Progessional handles. I love them and food does keep longer in the program controlled drawers. I will post pictures eventually. I have had subzero in the past and they are good units, but I believe the engineering in the Miele is superior.

 

[dj-gabriele]

Beautiful Tuscany!

Oh John! Then I'm going to post the photos of our "vintage" remodeled kitchen as soon as the carpenter has finished his job!

Anyway I'd go for Miele (or SMEG!!!!) If you liked Italian style in the kitchens you really should choose a freestanding SMEG fridge, they're awesome! The most "posh" appliances ever made ehhehe
And very high quality in my opinions, my parent changed they (still running) SMEG appliances last year after 30 years of service and re-put in SMEG ones, just marvelous!

 

[foraloysius]

Many of the Miele fridges are made by Liebherr. Before you buy a Miele fridge check if there is a similar Liebherr model available. It might be cheaper than the Miele equivalent.

Liebherr - international Group & family-run company - Liebherr

The Liebherr Group is one of the largest construction machine manufacturers in the world. It is also among the leading providers of technology in many

www.liebherr.us

 

[omomatic]

It may just come down to features

Hi John

Recently here in Australia, Sub Zero refrigeration was made available to our market. Then only 2 months ago, Miele introduced the new MasterCool Collection which is also made in the US (not by Sub Zero). In this MasterCool Collection there are only a few models available but they are larger than the Liebbher models, about 25” to 35” wide for each unit. (The Miele re-badged refrigeration models, made by Liebherr are still available for smaller areas.) On appearance they are very similar to Sub Zero in features, finish and detail.

I design kitchens for clients, and have had a good look at both and it is a close call in what sets them apart. What I would say to clients is to look at the features and determine what would suit best in both size of space and budget. On the other hand though, I would select Sub Zero and have the option where the compressor is accessible above the units with the stainless steel grill cover. The other reason would be that there are more models to choose from Sub Zero and they have been making refrigeration units for over 50 years. My favourite is the Pro 48 model.

Good luck & have fun in designing your new dream kitchen and we look forward to seeing it unfold. I’m looking forward to doing mine in a few years.

Bruce