Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 085: Wash Tank Overtemperature Tripped
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 085 indicates the wash tank has exceeded its safe operating temperature and tripped a thermal cutout. This prevents machine operation until manually reset. Investigate potential causes like a faulty heating element, sticking contactor, inadequate water level, or impaired circulation, then reset the safety thermostat.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Safety First: Immediately disconnect the dishwasher from the main power supply at the circuit breaker. Allow the unit to cool down completely before proceeding.
- Locate & Reset Overtemperature Device: The AM16 often features a manual reset overtemperature device (often a small red or black button) located near the wash tank heating element or on a high-limit thermostat. Press this button firmly to reset the thermal cutout. If it immediately trips again or does not click, there is still an underlying issue or the device itself is faulty.
- Check Water Level & Fill System: Verify that the wash tank is filling to the correct operating level. A low water level can expose the heating element, causing it to overheat rapidly. Inspect the fill valve and water level sensor/switch for proper function.
- Inspect Heating Element: Visually examine the heating element for any signs of damage, heavy scale buildup, or scorching. Excessive scale acts as an insulator, making the element work harder and potentially leading to localized overheating. Use a multimeter to check the continuity of the heating element; a reading of infinite resistance indicates an open circuit and a failed element.
- Examine Heating Contactor/Relay: With power disconnected, access the electrical panel and locate the heating element contactor or relay. Manually press the contactor to check if it’s mechanically sticking. If the contacts are fused shut, the element would receive continuous power, causing overheating. Test the coil for proper resistance.
- Test Temperature Sensor/Thermostat: Locate the wash tank temperature sensor (RTD or NTC thermistor) or thermostat. Check its wiring for any damage or loose connections. You may need to test the sensor’s resistance values at various temperatures (if possible) or compare readings to specifications if a diagnostic port is available. A faulty sensor could provide incorrect readings, leading to over-firing of the element.
- Inspect Wash Pump and Circulation: A malfunctioning wash pump or blocked spray arms can lead to poor water circulation and localized hot spots within the tank, contributing to an overtemperature condition. Inspect the pump impeller for obstructions and ensure all spray arms are clear and rotating freely. Check the pump’s electrical connections and motor operation.
- Clear Drain and Filters: Ensure the main drain and all internal filters (strainer pans) are completely clear of food debris. Blocked drains can affect water levels and circulation dynamics, contributing to heating issues.
- Restore Power & Test: After inspecting and addressing any potential issues, restore power to the dishwasher. Run a short cycle while closely monitoring the wash tank temperature and observing for normal operation. If the error persists, further diagnostic testing by a qualified technician is required.
Common Questions:
Q: What are the most common causes for a Hobart AM16 wash tank to overheat?
A: The most frequent causes include a faulty heating element, a sticking heating element contactor/relay, insufficient water level in the wash tank, a malfunctioning temperature sensor providing incorrect readings, or poor water circulation due to a failing wash pump or blocked spray arms/filters.
Q: Where can I find the overtemperature reset button on my AM16 DISHWASHERS?
A: The manual reset overtemperature device on a Hobart AM16 DISHWASHERS is typically a small, prominent button (often red or black) usually located on the heating element assembly itself, or directly on the high-limit thermostat mounted to the wash tank. You’ll need to locate and firmly press it to reset the safety circuit.
Q: Is it safe to continue using the dishwasher if the wash tank overtemperature keeps tripping?
A: No, it is not safe. An overtemperature trip indicates a serious fault that could lead to damage to the machine, fire hazards, or scalding injuries. The machine should not be operated until a qualified technician has identified and fully rectified the root cause of the overheating.
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.