Error Code
high
Hobart LXe – LXe Will Not Drain
On your LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "machine will not drain" issue…
Hobart LXe - Error LOW RINSE TEMP: Low Rinse Temperature
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 LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a LOW RINSE TEMP error indicates that the rinse water temperature has fallen below the acceptable threshold for two consecutive cycles. This often points to issues with the rinse heater, temperature sensor, or incoming water supply. Prompt diagnosis and repair are crucial to ensure proper sanitization and comply with health standards.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Check Incoming Water Supply and Pressure: Ensure the hot water supply to the dishwasher is adequate in both temperature (typically 120-140°F / 49-60°C for initial fill) and pressure. Low incoming water temperature can overwhelm the booster heater. Verify the machine’s water inlet valve is fully open and free of obstructions.
- Inspect the Rinse Booster Heater: Locate the rinse booster heater element and check its continuity using a multimeter. A lack of continuity indicates a burnt-out element that requires replacement. Also, verify that the heater’s contactor or relay is engaging properly and supplying power when needed.
- Verify the Rinse Temperature Sensor/Thermostat: The temperature sensor (thermistor or RTD) or thermostat responsible for monitoring rinse temperature may be faulty. Test its resistance values against the manufacturer’s specifications. A sensor providing inaccurate readings can cause the control board to incorrectly detect low temperatures or fail to activate the heater. Replace if faulty.
- Examine the Drain and Overflow Components: An improperly closing drain valve or a blocked overflow can lead to cold water continuously entering the rinse cycle, overwhelming the heater. Ensure these components are functioning correctly and are free from debris.
- Check for Limescale Buildup: Significant limescale accumulation on the heater element or inside the booster tank can drastically reduce heating efficiency. Descale the unit using appropriate commercial descaling agents if buildup is present.
- Inspect the Control Board Output: If all components appear functional, use a multimeter to check for proper voltage output from the main control board to the rinse heater contactor and solenoid valves during the rinse cycle. A faulty control board might not be signaling these components correctly.
Common Questions:
Q: What does the “LOW RINSE TEMP” error on my HOBART LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS signify?
A: This error means your dishwasher’s rinse water temperature has dropped below the required sanitation level for two consecutive cycles, indicating a potential problem with the heating system or water supply.
Q: Can I continue to use the dishwasher if the LOW RINSE TEMP error is displayed?
A: While the machine may continue to run, the dishes will not be properly sanitized. It’s recommended to address the issue immediately to meet health code standards and ensure effective cleaning.
Q: How can I prevent low rinse temperature issues in the future?
A: Regularly monitor your incoming hot water supply temperature, perform routine descaling of the booster heater, and schedule preventive maintenance checks on heating elements and sensors to maintain optimal performance.
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.