Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 015: Booster Pressure Sensor Failure
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 015 indicates that the minimum booster water level required for operation has not been reached, preventing the wash cycle. Initially, try clearing the error by pressing and holding the power button for 5 seconds to drain and power off the machine. If the error persists after a restart, thorough investigation of the water supply, booster fill components, and associated sensors is required.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Initial Power Cycle and Reset: Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to clear the error. The machine will drain and power off. Restart the machine to see if the error clears. This can sometimes resolve transient sensor readings or minor level discrepancies.
- Verify Water Supply and Inlet: Ensure the main water supply valve to the dishwasher is fully open and that there is adequate water pressure to the unit. Check the unit’s internal inlet screen for any debris or blockages that might restrict water flow to the booster heater.
- Inspect Booster Heater Fill and Level: Access the booster heater compartment. Visually inspect for proper water filling. If the tank is empty or very low, examine the booster fill valve (solenoid). Check for proper voltage to the fill valve and its functional operation. A faulty fill valve will prevent the booster from reaching its minimum level.
- Examine Booster Level Sensor: The error description directly relates to water level. Locate the booster level sensor (often a probe or float switch). Inspect its wiring for any damage, disconnections, or corrosion. Clean the sensor probe/float of any scale or debris that could impede its proper function. Test the sensor for continuity or resistance changes as the water level fluctuates (if accessible).
- Test Booster Pressure Sensor: While the original title mentions “Booster pressure sensor failure,” the description points to a level issue. However, a pressure sensor might indirectly monitor the presence of water or confirm the booster is full. Locate the booster pressure sensor and inspect its connections for integrity. A faulty pressure sensor could erroneously report low pressure, leading the control to believe the booster level is insufficient. If possible, test its output signal with a multimeter or pressure gauge.
- Check for Drain Issues: Ensure that the booster tank drain valve (if separate from the main drain) is fully closed and not allowing water to prematurely drain from the booster. A partially open or leaking drain valve would prevent the booster from maintaining its minimum water level.
- Evaluate Control Board (Last Resort): If all other components (water supply, fill valve, level sensor, pressure sensor, wiring) have been thoroughly checked and confirmed operational, the issue may lie with the main control board. A faulty input circuit on the board could misinterpret sensor readings, leading to a persistent 015 error. This is typically a last resort troubleshooting step after eliminating all other possibilities.
Common Questions:
Q: Why is the booster water level critical on a HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS?
A: The booster heater elevates water to the precise sanitizing temperature (typically 180°F/82°C) required by health codes to effectively kill bacteria. Without the minimum level, proper heating cannot occur, compromising sanitation and potentially damaging the heating elements.
Q: Can I bypass the booster level sensor to operate the machine?
A: No, bypassing safety interlocks like the booster level sensor is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited. It would result in non-sanitized dishes and could cause severe damage to the heating elements, leading to costly repairs or a fire hazard.
Q: How often should I check the booster level sensor and related components for maintenance?
A: Regular preventive maintenance, ideally quarterly or bi-annually, should include inspecting the booster level sensor, fill valve, and heating elements for scale buildup or wear. This proactive approach helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensures consistent sanitization.
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.