Error Code
high
Hobart LXe – LXe Will Not Drain
On your LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "machine will not drain" issue…
Hobart LXe - LXe: Low Rinse Temperature (10 In A Row) Error
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 Temperature (10 In A Row)" error indicates the final rinse temperature consistently falls below the setpoint for 10 consecutive cycles, impacting sanitation effectiveness. This typically points to issues with the incoming hot water supply, the internal booster heater's operation, or inaccurate temperature sensing. Prompt investigation is crucial to ensure proper sanitization and maintain health code compliance.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Verify Incoming Hot Water Supply: Ensure the hot water supply to the dishwasher is adequate in both temperature and pressure. Check that the building’s water heater is functioning correctly and set to an appropriate temperature (typically 120-140°F / 49-60°C for the machine’s inlet).
- Inspect the Booster Heater System: The LXe Series utilizes an internal booster heater to elevate rinse water to the required sanitizing temperature (typically 180°F / 82°C).
- Check for continuity of the booster heater element(s). A burned-out element will prevent proper heating.
- Examine the booster heater contactor for proper operation. Ensure it’s engaging when the heater is called to activate.
- Verify the functionality of the high-limit thermostat and operating thermostat for the booster heater. These regulate and prevent overheating; a tripped or faulty thermostat can disrupt heating.
- Test Temperature Sensors/Probes: The machine relies on accurate temperature readings for both the wash and rinse cycles.
- Locate and test the rinse tank temperature probe/sensor. Verify its resistance or voltage readings against the manufacturer’s specifications. A faulty sensor can provide incorrect readings, leading the machine to believe the water is hotter than it is, or not hot enough.
- Inspect wiring connections to the sensor for corrosion or looseness.
- Check Rinse Pressure and Flow: Insufficient water pressure or flow during the rinse cycle can lead to a perceived low temperature, as the water may not remain in the booster heater long enough or may cool rapidly.
- Ensure the fill valve and rinse solenoid valve are opening fully and providing adequate water flow.
- Inspect the rinse arms and nozzles for any blockages or mineral buildup that could impede water distribution and heat transfer. Clean thoroughly if necessary.
- Review Machine Settings: Access the service menu (if available and safe to do so) to confirm that the programmed rinse temperature setpoint is correct for your operational requirements and local health codes. Accidental changes could trigger this error.
- Examine Detergent/Rinse Aid Dispenser Operation: While less direct, an issue with rinse aid not being dispensed properly can sometimes affect water sheet formation and perceived temperature. Ensure these systems are working as intended, although this is usually a secondary check.
- Consult Wiring Diagrams and Service Manual: For detailed electrical diagnostics, always refer to the specific Hobart LXe Series wiring diagrams and service manual for component locations, expected values, and advanced troubleshooting procedures.
Common Questions:
Q: Why is a specific rinse temperature important in a commercial dishwasher?
A: A specific rinse temperature, typically 180°F (82°C), is critical for proper sanitization. The high heat effectively kills bacteria and pathogens, ensuring dishes are safe for use and compliant with health regulations.
Q: Can I continue to use my Hobart LXe dishwasher if it’s showing a “Low Rinse Temperature” error?
A: While the machine may continue to run cycles, its ability to sanitize dishes is compromised. Continued use without addressing this error can lead to unsanitary dishes and potential health code violations. It’s recommended to stop using the machine for sanitizing until the issue is resolved.
Q: What is a booster heater and how does it relate to rinse temperature?
A: A booster heater is a secondary heating element within the dishwasher (or external to it) specifically designed to raise the incoming hot water temperature to the elevated levels required for sanitization during the final rinse cycle. It ensures the water reaches the critical temperature even if the building’s hot water supply is not consistently hot enough on its own.
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.