Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 007: Wash Tank Temperature Below Minimum Threshold
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 007 indicates the wash tank temperature is critically low (32°F/0°C or below). This issue typically arises from failed heating elements, a faulty temperature sensor, or a malfunctioning heating contactor. Begin by performing the recommended power cycle to attempt to clear the error.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Perform a Power Cycle: The control panel instructions recommend pressing and holding the power button for 5 seconds to clear the error. This action will drain the machine and power it off. Allow the unit to cool if it was attempting to heat, then power it back on to see if the error clears.
- Verify Incoming Power and Circuit Breakers: Ensure the dishwasher is receiving adequate power. Check the circuit breaker for the dishwasher’s electrical circuit to confirm it hasn’t tripped. A lack of proper power can prevent heating.
- Inspect Wash Tank Heating Elements: With power disconnected, use a multimeter to check the continuity of each heating element in the wash tank. A lack of continuity indicates a failed element. Also, visually inspect for any signs of physical damage or corrosion.
- Check Heating Element Contactors: The contactors (relays) that supply power to the heating elements can fail. With power on (use caution!), verify that the contactors are engaging when the machine calls for heat and that voltage is passing through them to the elements. If a contactor is not pulling in, its coil may be faulty, or there’s a problem with the control circuit to the contactor.
- Test Wash Tank Temperature Sensor: The temperature sensor (thermistor or RTD) provides the wash tank temperature reading to the control board. Disconnect power, locate the sensor, and measure its resistance. Compare the reading to the manufacturer’s specified resistance chart for ambient temperature. A wildly inaccurate or open circuit reading indicates a faulty sensor.
- Examine High-Limit Thermostat: Many dishwashers have a high-limit thermostat as a safety device. If this thermostat trips or fails in an open state, it will cut power to the heating elements, preventing them from heating. Check its continuity; if it’s open (no continuity), it may need to be reset (if it’s a manual reset type) or replaced.
- Inspect Wiring and Connections: Carefully check all wiring connections related to the heating elements, contactors, temperature sensor, and high-limit thermostat. Look for loose, burnt, or corroded wires that could interrupt the circuit.
- Evaluate the Main Control Board: If all components listed above test good, the issue could reside with the main control board. The board may not be correctly sending signals to the contactors, or it might be misinterpreting the temperature sensor’s input. This is typically a last resort diagnosis after confirming all other components are functional.
Common Questions:
Q: Why is maintaining the correct wash tank temperature critical for my HOBART AM16?
A: The correct wash tank temperature (typically 150-160°F for washing, higher for sanitizing rinses) is absolutely essential for effective cleaning and sanitation. Water that is too cold will not properly dissolve detergents, remove food soil, or sanitize dishes, potentially leading to health code violations and poor wash results.
Q: Can I continue to use my AM16 DISHWASHER if error 007 keeps appearing?
A: No, it is not recommended to continue using the machine if error 007 persists. The low wash tank temperature means the unit cannot achieve proper sanitation, which is its primary function. Operating it under these conditions could compromise hygiene and violate food safety standards.
Q: What are the most common components that fail, causing error 007?
A: The most frequent culprits for a low wash tank temperature error are typically the heating elements themselves, which can burn out, or the temperature sensor, which provides incorrect readings. Malfunctioning heating contactors or a tripped high-limit thermostat are also common causes.
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.