Error Code
medium
Hobart AM16 – Not Dispensing Chemicals
On your HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, chemicals not dispensing typically indicates issues…
Hobart AM16 - Error 018: Wash Tank Water Level Is Too High
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 HOBART AM16 DISHWASHERS unit, error code 018 indicates the wash tank water level has exceeded its upper limit. This critical condition prevents proper washing and often points to a faulty water inlet valve, a malfunctioning level sensor, or a partially blocked drain system. Initial resolution involves manually draining and power cycling the machine to clear the error.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Clear the Error: If “ENTER” is displayed, press it to clear the error. If not, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds. The machine will drain and power off. This often resolves a temporary overfill condition.
- Inspect the Drain System: Check the wash tank filter, drain pump impeller, and drain hose for any physical obstructions or clogs. Ensure the drain hose has a proper air gap and is not kinked or restricted, which could prevent complete drainage or lead to siphoning.
- Verify Water Inlet Valve Operation: Power off the machine and manually check the water inlet valve. Ensure it closes completely and is not sticking open, allowing water to continuously enter the tank even when it shouldn’t. You may need to disconnect the water supply to confirm it’s not passing water.
- Examine Water Level Sensor/Probes: Locate the water level sensor (often probes or a pressure switch) inside the wash tank. Inspect for scale buildup, damage, or loose connections. Clean the probes thoroughly with a descaling agent if scaled, or replace if visually damaged.
- Check Pressure Switch/Transducer (if applicable): Some models use a pressure switch or transducer to monitor water levels. Inspect the hose connecting it to the wash tank for clogs, kinks, or leaks. Test the switch for continuity or proper resistance if you have the appropriate diagnostic tools.
- Test Control Board Relays: A less common but possible cause is a faulty relay on the Control Board that is continuously energizing the water inlet valve. This usually requires advanced diagnostics or replacement of the control board.
- Monitor for Recurrence: After performing any of these steps, restart the machine and run a test cycle. Monitor closely for the error to reappear. If the error persists despite these checks, professional service from a Hobart technician is recommended.
Common Questions:
Q: What causes a Hobart AM16 dishwasher to overfill and display error code 018?
A: Error code 018 on a Hobart AM16 typically indicates an overfill condition due to a faulty water inlet valve that is failing to close, a malfunctioning or scaled-up water level sensor providing incorrect readings, or a partially blocked drain system preventing proper water evacuation.
Q: How do I immediately clear error code 018 on my Hobart AM16 dishwasher?
A: To immediately clear error code 018, press the ENTER button if it is displayed on the control panel. If not, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds; the machine will initiate a drain cycle and then power off. This action resets the control and may temporarily resolve the overfill.
Q: Can a dirty water level sensor cause an AM16 dishwasher to overfill?
A: Yes, absolutely. Scale buildup or debris on the water level sensor probes can cause inaccurate readings, leading the control board to believe the tank is not full, thus continuing to fill and causing an overfill condition and triggering error code 018.
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.