Error Code
high
Hobart LXe – LXe Will Not Drain
On your LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "machine will not drain" issue…
Hobart LXe - Dishes Not Clean
Caution / Monitor Closely
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 LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, "Dishes not clean" signals issues with water flow, temperature, detergent, or loading. Start by ensuring the water supply is on and cleaning clogged strainers and wash arms. Verify proper wash temperature to resolve poor cleaning performance.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Verify Incoming Water Supply: Ensure the main water supply valve to the dishwasher is fully open. A partially closed or completely shut-off valve will lead to inadequate water for washing.
- Check and Clean Strainers: Locate and remove the primary and secondary strainers in the wash tank. Inspect them for food debris, labels, or other obstructions. Thoroughly clean them under running water according to your HOBART LXe SERIES user manual. Clogged strainers severely restrict water flow to the wash pump.
- Inspect and Clean Wash/Rinse Arms: Open the dishwasher and manually spin the upper and lower wash and rinse arms. They should rotate freely without resistance. Remove the arms (if easily detachable) and inspect all spray nozzles for blockages from food particles or mineral deposits. Use a small wire or toothpick to clear any clogged nozzles. Reinstall securely.
- Evaluate Detergent Dispenser and Supply: Check the detergent dispenser for any clogs or blockages, ensuring detergent is being dispensed effectively. Confirm that the detergent supply lines are clear and that the detergent container isn’t empty.
- Monitor Wash Water Temperature: During a wash cycle, observe the temperature displayed on the control panel. For chemical sanitizing units, the wash temperature should be above 120°F (49°C). For high-temperature sanitizing units, it must be above 150°F (66°C) (and often a final rinse >180°F). If the temperature is too low, investigate the water heater element or incoming hot water supply.
- Ensure Proper Dish Scrape and Loading: Advise staff to thoroughly scrape dishes of large food particles before loading. Improperly scraped dishes can quickly overload the wash system with soil. Also, ensure dishes are loaded correctly into racks, not overlapping, allowing water and detergent to reach all surfaces. Refer to the “PREPARATION” section of your manual for optimal loading techniques.
- Verify Water Level: Confirm that the dishwasher is filling to the appropriate water level during the wash cycle. Low water levels can indicate issues with the fill valve or water level sensor.
Common Questions:
Q: Why are there still food particles on my dishes after a cycle?
A: This often points to clogged strainers, blocked wash arms, insufficient water temperature, or improper pre-scraping and loading of dishes, which prevents effective cleaning.
Q: My HOBART LXe dishwasher seems to be running, but dishes are still dirty. What’s the most common culprit?
A: The most frequent cause for “Dishes not clean” when the machine appears to run is a combination of clogged wash arms and strainers, restricting the powerful spray needed for effective cleaning.
Q: What should I check first if my HOBART LXe isn’t cleaning properly?
A: Always start with the basics: ensure the incoming water supply is fully on, then immediately check and clean the machine’s internal strainers and wash arms for any obstructions.
When to call a technician
Consider calling a certified technician if:
- The error keeps coming back after you've tried the steps above.
- You're not comfortable doing the checks or repairs yourself.
- You notice unusual noise, smell, or behaviour.
- Equipment is under warranty and you want official service.
- You need the unit back in service quickly with minimal downtime.