Hobart LXn/LXGn - Dishes Not Clean

⚠️ 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 LXn/LXGn SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, dishes not being clean indicates a problem with the wash process, which can stem from insufficient water supply, clogged wash arms, or incorrect water temperature. It is crucial to verify proper water flow and detergent dispensing. Address these issues by systematically checking and cleaning the dishwasher's internal components, and confirming water and power connections.

Can't fix it yourself?

Our certified technicians can help you on-site.

Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Inspect and Clean Strainers and Filters: Regularly check and thoroughly clean all tank strainers, wash pump intake screens, and any accessible filters in your HOBART LXn/LXGn dishwasher. Clogged strainers are a primary cause of inadequate water supply to the wash pump, directly impacting cleaning effectiveness.
  2. Examine Wash and Rinse Arms for Obstructions:
    • Obstruction Check: Carefully remove the wash and rinse arms. Inspect all spray nozzles for food debris, mineral buildup, or foreign objects that may be obstructing water flow. Use a small brush or toothpick to clear any blockages.
    • Free Rotation: After cleaning, reinstall the arms and manually spin them to ensure they rotate freely without any binding or obstruction. Impeded rotation prevents water from reaching all dishes.
  3. Verify Incoming Water Supply and Temperature:
    • Water Supply: Confirm that the main water supply valve to the dishwasher is fully open. Check for sufficient water pressure and that the machine fills to the correct operating level. Low water levels will significantly reduce wash efficacy.
    • Water Temperature: Monitor the wash temperature displayed on the control panel during a cycle. For chemical sanitizing machines, the wash temperature should be above 120°F (49°C), and for high-temperature sanitizing machines, it must exceed 150°F (66°C) for proper cleaning and sanitation. If the temperature is consistently low, investigate the heating elements or thermostat.
  4. Evaluate Detergent Dispenser System:
    • Dispenser Clogs: Inspect the detergent dispenser nozzle and chemical supply lines for any clogs caused by dried detergent or mineral deposits. Clean as necessary to ensure a clear path for detergent delivery.
    • Detergent Levels and Pump Function: Verify that the detergent concentrate container is not empty and that the dispenser pump is operating correctly. Check for air in the suction line, which can prevent proper priming and dispensing.

Common Questions:

Q: Why are my dishes not clean even after running a cycle?

A: The most common reasons include clogged wash arm nozzles or strainers, insufficient water pressure, incorrect wash water temperature, or issues with the detergent dispenser not supplying enough chemical.

Q: How do I check the water temperature on my HOBART LXn/LXGn dishwasher?

A: During a wash cycle, most HOBART LXn/LXGn models display the current wash temperature on the control panel. Confirm it meets the required standards: above 120°F for chemical sanitizing and above 150°F for high-temperature machines.

Q: How frequently should I clean the strainers and wash arms?

A: For optimal performance and hygiene, it’s recommended to inspect and clean the main tank strainers and filters daily. Wash and rinse arms should be checked and cleaned regularly, ideally weekly, or immediately if you notice a decline in cleaning quality.

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.

Need Professional Help?

Our certified technicians can help you on-site.