Error Code
high
Hobart LXe – LXe Will Not Drain
On your LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "machine will not drain" issue…
Hobart LXe - DRAIN 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 LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a DRAIN ERROR indicates that the machine cannot establish the correct water level for operation, often due to an issue with the draining system preventing proper filling. This could involve a faulty drain valve, a continuously running drain pump, or a problematic water level sensor. Immediate inspection of the drain line, valve, and associated sensors is required as the unit will not operate until resolved.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Safety First: Always unplug the dishwasher from its power source before performing any inspection or maintenance to prevent electrical shock.
- Inspect Drain Line and Sump Filter: Carefully check the dishwasher’s drain hose for any kinks, blockages, or obstructions. Also, remove and clean the internal sump filter thoroughly, as debris can impede draining or create false level readings.
- Examine the Drain Valve Operation: Power the unit briefly (if possible, without error, or manually actuate if accessible). Listen for the drain valve. It should be fully closed during the fill cycle. If it’s stuck open, leaking, or fails to close, water will continuously drain, preventing the water level from rising. Check for debris preventing it from sealing properly.
- Check Drain Pump Status: Confirm the drain pump is not running continuously when it shouldn’t be. A continuously operating drain pump would immediately remove any incoming water, leading to the “water level will not come up” symptom. Test its electrical connections and ensure it deactivates when commanded.
- Evaluate Water Level Sensor (Float Switch): Locate the water level sensor, typically a float switch at the bottom of the wash tank. Ensure it moves freely, is not obstructed by food particles or scale, and its electrical contacts are clean and secure. A faulty or stuck-open float switch might incorrectly signal an empty or draining state, preventing the machine from filling.
- Verify Water Supply and Inlet Valve: Although a “DRAIN ERROR,” a lack of incoming water from a closed supply valve or a faulty water inlet valve could also contribute to the water level not rising. Confirm the water supply tap is fully open and test the inlet valve for proper operation (it should open and close electrically).
- Inspect Control Board and Wiring: If all mechanical and electrical components mentioned above appear functional, the issue may lie with the main control board or damaged wiring leading to these components. A faulty board could misinterpret sensor signals or incorrectly actuate drain components. Professional diagnosis is recommended for control board issues.
Common Questions:
Q: Why does a “DRAIN ERROR” prevent the machine from filling?
A: The “DRAIN ERROR” in this context often indicates that the machine’s draining system (e.g., drain valve stuck open, drain pump running continuously) is active or faulty, preventing any incoming water from establishing a proper wash level. The system detects a condition where water cannot be retained.
Q: Can I clear this DRAIN ERROR myself, or do I need a technician?
A: Many common causes like clogged drain lines or sump filters can often be resolved with basic troubleshooting. However, issues involving faulty drain valves, pumps, level sensors, or control boards usually require a qualified technician for proper diagnosis and replacement.
Q: What is the most common cause for the DRAIN ERROR when the water level won’t come up?
A: A very common cause is the drain valve failing to close completely, allowing water to continuously drain as it tries to fill. Another frequent culprit is a malfunctioning water level sensor (float switch) that incorrectly signals an empty or draining state, preventing the fill cycle from progressing.
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.