Error Code
high
Hobart LXe – LXe Will Not Drain
On your LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "machine will not drain" issue…
Hobart LXe - Error WASH ARM ALERT: Clogged/Blocked Wash Arm
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, the WASH ARM ALERT indicates that the wash arm is either blocked or clogged, leading to compromised wash performance. This alert necessitates immediate attention to prevent poor dishware sanitation. You must inspect and clean the wash arm and its nozzles thoroughly to restore optimal washing.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Safety First: Before performing any maintenance, ensure the dishwasher is powered off and disconnected from its electrical supply. Allow the machine to cool down if it has recently completed a hot wash cycle.
- Open the Door: Open the dishwasher door and locate the wash arm(s) inside the wash chamber. The LXe series typically has both upper and lower wash arms.
- Remove the Wash Arm: Carefully unclip or unscrew the wash arm(s) according to your specific LXe model’s instructions. Often, they twist off or clip into place.
- Inspect and Clean the Wash Arm:
- Visually inspect the entire wash arm for any debris, food particles, or mineral deposits.
- Pay close attention to all the spray nozzles on the arm. Use a small brush (like a bottle brush) or a toothpick to clear any blockages from each nozzle opening.
- Rinse the wash arm thoroughly under running water, ensuring water flows freely through all nozzles.
- Check Filters and Strainers: While the wash arm is removed, briefly check the main sump filter and any other strainers for excessive food debris or blockages, as these can contribute to poor water flow to the wash arms. Clean them if necessary.
- Reinstall the Wash Arm: Carefully reattach the cleaned wash arm(s) back into their correct positions. Ensure they are securely clipped or screwed in and can rotate freely without obstruction.
- Close the Door and Test: Close the dishwasher door. Power the machine back on and run a short test cycle to verify the WASH ARM ALERT has cleared and wash performance has improved. If the alert persists, re-inspect the arm and nozzles more thoroughly.
Common Questions:
Q: Why did my HOBART LXe display a WASH ARM ALERT?
A: The alert indicates that the wash arm is blocked or clogged, preventing proper water spray and leading to poor wash results. This is often caused by food debris, scale buildup, or foreign objects.
Q: Can I run the dishwasher with a WASH ARM ALERT?
A: While the machine may still operate, running it with a WASH ARM ALERT will result in poorly cleaned dishes and potentially compromise sanitation. It is highly recommended to address the alert immediately.
Q: How often should I clean the wash arms on my HOBART LXe?
A: Regular inspection and cleaning, ideally daily or weekly depending on usage volume and water quality, will prevent most wash arm blockages. Pay attention to the nozzles during routine cleaning.
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.