Description
Sub-Zero 7042798 Air Purification Cartridge
Product Description
The Sub-Zero 7042798 is the genuine OEM air purification cartridge for Sub-Zero Classic Series, Designer Series, and PRO Series refrigerators equipped with Sub-Zero's Pure Air System. Based on technology developed by NASA, this cartridge continuously scrubs the air inside your refrigerator every 20 minutes — removing ethylene gas, odors, mold spores, bacteria, and other airborne contaminants that affect food freshness and quality.
Unlike a standard water filter, this cartridge works entirely within the refrigerator's air circulation system. It targets the invisible compounds that cause food to ripen too quickly and odors to transfer between foods. Replacing it on schedule is one of the most effective ways to extend the shelf life of your produce and keep your refrigerator smelling fresh.
The cartridge comes in a sleek black finish and snaps easily into the air purification housing inside the refrigerator — no tools required.
Key Features
- NASA-Developed Technology: Based on air purification technology originally developed by NASA — the same system used in Sub-Zero's flagship Pure Air System
- Scrubs Air Every 20 Minutes: The system continuously circulates and purifies the air inside your refrigerator, refreshing it every 20 minutes
- Ethylene Gas Removal: Reduces ethylene gas emitted by fruits and vegetables — the primary cause of premature ripening and spoilage
- Odor Elimination: Neutralizes strong food odors from items such as onions, garlic, fish, and cheeses, preventing flavor transfer between foods
- 12-Month Lifespan: Designed to last up to one year before replacement is needed
- Genuine Sub-Zero OEM Part: Authentic factory-certified cartridge manufactured to Sub-Zero's specifications
- Tool-Free Snap-In Installation: Simple snap-in design — replaces in seconds with no tools required
- Black Finish: Sleek black cartridge complements the interior aesthetics of Sub-Zero refrigerators
- Dimensions: Approximately 3.43" W x 4.61" H x 2.17" D
This Air Cartridge vs the Water Filter — What's the Difference?
| Feature | 7042798 (This Product — Air Cartridge) | 4204490 (Water Filter) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Air purification cartridge | Water filter cartridge |
| Function | Purifies interior air — removes odors, ethylene gas, mold, bacteria | Filters water and ice — reduces chlorine, sediment, scale |
| Location | Inside the refrigerator compartment (snap-in housing) | Behind the front kick grille at the base of the refrigerator |
| Replacement Cycle | Every 12 months | Every 12 months |
| Interchangeable? | No — completely different products, different housings, different functions | |
Compatible Refrigerator Models
The 7042798 air purification cartridge is compatible with all Sub-Zero refrigerators, freezers, and wine storage units equipped with the Sub-Zero Pure Air System. Only Classic Series (BI prefix), Designer Series (IC, IT, and select ID prefix), and PRO3650/PRO4850 models include the air purification system.
Sub-Zero Classic Series (BI prefix)
Sub-Zero Designer Series — Over-and-Under (IT prefix)
Sub-Zero Designer Series — Column & Integrated (IC, ID prefix)
Sub-Zero PRO Series
Compatibility Tip: If your Sub-Zero refrigerator came with an air purification system, the 7042798 (or its predecessor 7007067) is the correct and only replacement cartridge — all models with the Pure Air System use the same cartridge. Refer to your refrigerator's Use and Care Guide to confirm your model includes the Pure Air System.
Alternate Compatible Part Numbers
7042798, 7007067, 7007076
Installation Instructions
- Before Installing: Wipe the exterior of the new cartridge with a paper towel to remove any carbon residue from shipping. This is normal and does not affect filter performance
- Locate the Air Purification Housing: The cartridge housing is located inside the refrigerator compartment. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact location in your specific model
- Remove Old Cartridge: Press the release tab or pull the old cartridge from the housing. No tools are required
- Install New Cartridge: Align the new cartridge with the housing and push it firmly until it snaps into place
- Reset the Indicator: Reset the air filter replacement reminder on your Sub-Zero control panel per your owner's manual
Replacement Schedule
| Condition | Action |
|---|---|
| Every 12 Months | Sub-Zero's recommended standard replacement schedule |
| When Indicator Activates | Replace immediately — your Sub-Zero has signalled the cartridge is due for replacement |
| If Odors Persist | Replace if noticeable food odors develop inside the refrigerator despite the system running |
| After Extended Shutdown | Replace after any long period of inactivity |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a water filter or an air filter?
This is an air purification cartridge — not a water filter. It purifies the air inside your refrigerator compartment, removing ethylene gas, odors, and airborne contaminants. It does not filter water or ice. For the Sub-Zero refrigerator water filter, you need the 4204490 model. These are two separate maintenance items that should both be replaced on a 12-month schedule.
What is the difference between 7042798 and 7007067?
They are the same cartridge. Sub-Zero updated the part number from 7007067 to 7042798. The cartridge itself is identical — same design, same technology, same compatibility. If your refrigerator currently has a 7007067 installed, the 7042798 is the correct current replacement.
Does my Sub-Zero refrigerator have an air purification system?
All Sub-Zero Classic Series (BI prefix), Designer Series (IC, IT, and ID-30RP/ID-36RP), and PRO3650/PRO4850 models include the Pure Air System. Note that Designer Drawer models ID-30R and ID-36R do not have an air purification system — only the panel-ready RP versions do. Check your owner's manual or look inside your refrigerator for the air purification housing to confirm.
Can I add an air purification system to my Sub-Zero if it didn't come with one?
No. The air purification system is factory-installed and cannot be added to a Sub-Zero refrigerator that did not originally come with one. If your model does not have the system, the 7042798 cartridge will not apply to your appliance.
How does the Sub-Zero air purification system work?
Sub-Zero's Pure Air System uses technology originally developed by NASA. The system continuously draws air through the cartridge every 20 minutes, where an activated carbon filter captures ethylene gas and odor-causing compounds. The cleaned air is then recirculated back into the refrigerator compartment. This cycle helps slow the ripening of produce and prevents strong-smelling foods from affecting other items stored nearby.