Error Code
high
Hobart LXe – LXe Will Not Drain
On your LXe SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "machine will not drain" issue…
Hobart LXe - Spotting of Silverware, Glasses, or Dishes
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, spotting indicates issues with wash quality due to factors like water temperature, detergent, hard water, or loading. Address these by verifying water supply, checking temperature settings, and ensuring correct detergent usage. Professional evaluation of water quality and softener installation may be necessary.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Inspect Rack Loading: Ensure items are not nesting or obstructing spray arms. Silverware should be placed with handles down in baskets to allow full water impingement.
- Verify Water Temperature: Check the machine’s display for the final rinse temperature, which should meet sanitation requirements (typically 180°F / 82°C for high-temp sanitizing). If low, inspect the booster heater and its power supply.
- Evaluate Detergent and Rinse Aid: Confirm the correct type and concentration of commercial detergent and rinse aid are being used. Contact your chemical representative to verify chemical feed rates and product suitability for your specific water conditions.
- Assess Water Hardness: Hard water is a common cause of spotting. Consider installing a commercial water softener or ensuring an existing softener is functioning correctly and recharged. A qualified plumber or water treatment specialist can test your water.
- Check Water Supply and Fill Level: Ensure the main water supply valve to the dishwasher is fully open and that there’s adequate water pressure. During a cycle, observe the wash tank fill level to ensure it reaches the proper operating height. Insufficient fill can reduce wash effectiveness.
- Clean Wash Arms and Nozzles: Power off the unit, remove the wash and rinse arms, and thoroughly clean all nozzles and ports to ensure unobstructed spray patterns. Reinstall securely.
- Inspect for Limescale Buildup: Limescale can accumulate inside the wash tank, on heating elements, and within plumbing, leading to poor wash quality. Perform a descaling procedure using an approved commercial descaler if buildup is observed.
Common Questions:
Q: Why are my dishes still spotted after cleaning the dishwasher?
A: Even after cleaning, spotting can persist if the underlying issues of water temperature, water hardness, or incorrect chemical concentrations are not fully resolved. Verify all these parameters.
Q: Can water pressure affect spotting?
A: Yes, insufficient water pressure can lead to inadequate spray coverage and reduced impingement force, preventing thorough rinsing and contributing to spotting. Ensure your water supply meets the machine’s requirements.
Q: How often should I check my detergent and rinse aid levels?
A: Levels should be checked daily, especially in high-volume operations. It’s crucial to ensure chemicals are always available and that the dispensing systems are working correctly, delivering the proper concentrations.
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.