Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 079: Sanitizer Empty. Locked
Critical / Stop Operation
Warning: The information provided here is for educational purposes only.
Working with commercial kitchen equipment involves high voltage, gas, and high temperatures.
We strongly recommend contacting a certified service technician for any repairs.
We are not responsible for any damage or injuries resulting from DIY repair attempts.
This information is provided 'as is' without any guarantees of completeness or accuracy.
TLDR
On your AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, error code 079 indicates that the sanitizer has not been sensed for three consecutive cycles, leading to a complete machine lockout. This prevents unsanitary operation. To resolve this, ensure the sanitizer bottle is full, correctly connected, and then prime the sanitizer pump.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Verify Sanitizer Bottle Status: First, confirm that the sanitizer bottle is not empty. If it is, replace it with a full bottle of approved sanitizer for your HOBART AM16.
- Inspect Cap and Tube Connection: Carefully check that the cap is securely fastened to the sanitizer bottle and that the pickup tube is properly inserted and seated. A loose connection can introduce air and prevent chemical draw.
- Prime the Sanitizer Pump: After ensuring the sanitizer supply and connections are correct, press the ENTER button on the dishwasher’s control panel. This action primes the sanitizer pump, forcing chemical through the line. You may need to repeat this step a few times until sanitizer is sensed.
- Check for Blockages or Kinks: Examine the sanitizer tubing from the bottle to the pump and into the machine for any visible kinks, blockages, or damage. Clear any obstructions or replace damaged tubing.
- Inspect Sanitizer Pump Functionality: If the issue persists after priming, listen for the pump operating when priming is initiated. If there’s no sound or very weak operation, the pump may be faulty and require professional service or replacement.
- Verify Sanitizer Sensor: The machine relies on a sensor to detect sanitizer. If the pump and chemical supply are verified good, the sensor itself may be faulty or obstructed, requiring inspection and potential replacement by a qualified technician.
- Reset the Machine: After performing the above steps, you may need to cycle the power to the dishwasher (turn off, wait 30 seconds, then turn on) to clear the lockout condition, in addition to successfully priming the pump.
Common Questions:
Q: Why does my HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit lock out when the sanitizer is empty?
A: The machine locks out as a critical safety and hygiene measure. Without proper sanitizer levels, the dishwasher cannot guarantee that dishes meet health code standards, preventing unsanitary operation.
Q: How do I prime the sanitizer pump on my AM16 DISHWASHERS?
A: After ensuring your sanitizer bottle is full and correctly connected, simply press the ENTER button on the dishwasher’s control panel. The machine will attempt to draw sanitizer into the system.
Q: What should I do if replacing the sanitizer and priming the pump doesn’t clear the 079 error?
A: If the error persists, inspect the sanitizer lines for blockages or damage. The sanitizer pump itself or the sensor responsible for detecting the sanitizer may be faulty. Professional diagnostic and repair service is recommended at this stage.
When to call a technician
For this error, we recommend calling a certified technician. Do not continue operation or attempt repair yourself.
- Equipment shows a critical or stop-operation fault.
- You smell gas, burning, or see smoke or sparks.
- Error returns after following the steps above.
- You are not trained to work on this equipment.
- Warranty or safety could be affected by DIY repair.