Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 082: Final Rinse Temperature Too Low
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 082 indicates the final rinse temperature is critically low, falling to 32°F/0°C or lower. This prevents proper sanitization and machine operation, requiring immediate attention. The issue typically points to a failure in the rinse booster heater system, the primary rinse tank heater, or associated temperature sensing components.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Initial Reset and Observation:
- Clear the error by pressing and holding the power button for 5 seconds as per the description. The machine will drain and power off.
- Restart the dishwasher and run a short cycle while carefully monitoring the temperature display. Listen for any sounds from the booster heater contactor engaging.
- If the error immediately returns, proceed with further diagnostics.
- Verify Water Supply and Pressure:
- Ensure the dishwasher has adequate hot water supply (if applicable) and proper water pressure, as low pressure can affect fill levels and heating efficiency.
- Check for any kinks or blockages in the incoming water lines.
- Inspect Booster Heater and Rinse Tank Heating Elements:
- Safety First: Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the main circuit breaker.
- Locate the booster heater (if external) and the heating elements within the main rinse tank.
- Visually inspect the elements for signs of burning, corrosion, or damage.
- Using a multimeter, check the continuity of each heating element. A lack of continuity indicates a failed element that needs replacement.
- Also, check for any shorts to ground by testing resistance between the element terminals and the element sheath.
- Examine Over-Temperature Thermostats/Limit Switches:
- Many commercial dishwashers have safety thermostats (high-limit switches) to prevent overheating.
- Locate these thermostats (often found near the heating elements in the booster or rinse tank) and check for continuity. If an open circuit is found, the thermostat may have tripped or failed. Some are resettable; if so, attempt to reset.
- Test Temperature Sensors (Thermistors/RTDs):
- Identify the temperature sensor(s) responsible for monitoring the final rinse temperature. These are typically NTC thermistors or RTD probes.
- Safety First: Disconnect power.
- Carefully remove the sensor and test its resistance using a multimeter, referencing the manufacturer’s resistance-to-temperature chart (if available) at ambient temperature. A completely open or shorted circuit indicates a faulty sensor.
- Alternatively, use a known good sensor for testing, if available.
- Check Contactor(s) for Heating Elements:
- The heating elements are controlled by contactors.
- With power disconnected and locked out, manually depress the contactor plunger to check for smooth mechanical operation.
- With power restored (and extreme caution), verify that the coil is energizing and the contacts are closing when the machine calls for heat (e.g., during the rinse cycle). A humming sound without engaging, or no voltage output across the load side, suggests a faulty contactor.
- Inspect Wiring and Connections:
- Thoroughly inspect all wiring and electrical connections related to the heating elements, thermostats, and temperature sensors. Look for loose connections, burnt wires, or damaged insulation.
- Ensure all terminals are clean and secure.
- Evaluate Main Control Board Output:
- If all components (elements, sensors, thermostats, contactors) test good, the issue may lie with the main control board’s inability to send the correct voltage signal to the heating element contactors.
- This step requires advanced electrical troubleshooting and should ideally be performed by a qualified Hobart service technician.
Common Questions:
Q: What exactly causes the 082 error on a HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS?
A: The 082 error indicates the final rinse water temperature is critically low (32°F/0°C or below). Common causes include a failed booster heater, a faulty heating element in the rinse tank, a tripped or defective over-temperature thermostat, or a malfunctioning temperature sensor not accurately reporting the rinse water temperature.
Q: Can I continue to use my AM16 DISHWASHERS if the 082 error persists?
A: No, it is strongly advised not to use the dishwasher with a persistent 082 error. The low final rinse temperature compromises sanitation, meaning dishes will not be properly sanitized and may pose a health risk. The machine also automatically drains and shuts off, preventing normal operation.
Q: How can I prevent the final rinse temperature from being too low in the future?
A: Regular preventive maintenance is key. This includes descaling the rinse tank and booster heater to ensure elements heat efficiently, regularly inspecting heating elements for wear, and testing temperature sensors for accuracy during routine service. Ensuring adequate hot water supply to the machine also helps.
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.