Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 002: Booster Temperature Error
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 002 indicates the booster heater temperature is 32°F/0°C or below, preventing proper sanitization. This often points to a faulty booster heater, a defective temperature sensor, or an issue with the heating circuit. Initially, reset the machine; if the error persists, professional diagnostics are required.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Perform Initial Reset: Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds as indicated by the machine’s instructions. This will clear the error, drain the machine, and power it off. Power the machine back on and observe if the error code 002 reappears.
- Verify Water Supply and Level: Ensure the dishwasher has an adequate hot water supply and that the sump is filling to the correct operating level. Low water levels in the booster tank can prevent heating or cause false temperature readings.
- Inspect Booster Heater Element: With power disconnected, access the booster heater element. Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the element terminals. A reading of infinity (open circuit) or very low resistance (short to ground) indicates a faulty element requiring replacement. Also, visually inspect for signs of corrosion or damage.
- Test Booster Temperature Sensor: Locate the booster temperature sensor (often an RTD or thermistor). Disconnect it and test its resistance using a multimeter, comparing the reading to the manufacturer’s specified resistance-temperature chart for the ambient temperature. A reading outside the expected range indicates a faulty sensor.
- Check Wiring and Connections: Carefully examine all wiring harnesses and electrical connections leading to the booster heater element, the temperature sensor, and the main control board. Look for any loose, corroded, burnt, or damaged wires. Repair or replace as necessary.
- Evaluate High-Limit Thermostat: Some booster heaters include a resettable high-limit thermostat. Check if this thermostat has tripped. If it has, it indicates an overtemperature condition occurred previously, possibly due to low water. Reset it, but investigate the root cause of the trip.
- Inspect Control Board Output: With appropriate safety precautions, monitor the voltage output from the main control board to the booster heater circuit when the machine is demanding heat. If the element and sensor test good, but no voltage is supplied, the issue may lie with a faulty relay or component on the control board itself.
- Consider Pressure Switch (if applicable): On some models, a pressure switch might monitor water flow or presence in the booster. A faulty pressure switch could prevent the booster from activating. Consult the wiring diagram for its location and testing procedure.
Common Questions:
Q: Why is a low booster temperature critical?
A: The booster heater elevates water temperature to 180°F (82°C) or higher for final rinse sanitization. If this temperature isn’t met, the machine cannot effectively sanitize dishes, potentially violating health codes.
Q: Can I fix a 002 error myself?
A: Initial steps like resetting the machine and checking water supply can be done. However, troubleshooting electrical components like heating elements, sensors, and control boards requires specialized tools and expertise due to high voltage, so it’s best handled by a qualified technician.
Q: What are the most common parts to fail for this error?
A: The most common culprits are typically the booster heater element itself, the temperature sensor that monitors the booster tank, or a tripped high-limit thermostat. Less commonly, wiring issues or a faulty relay on the control board can be the cause.
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.