Hobart LXn/LXGn - Error 002: Booster Temperature Error

🛑 Critical / Stop Operation
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 HOBART LXn/LXGn SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, error code 002 indicates the booster heater temperature is at or below 32°F (0°C). This critical issue prevents proper sanitation and operation. First, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to clear the error; if it persists, it likely points to a faulty booster heater element, a malfunctioning temperature sensor, or a problem with the control board or its relay.

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Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Power Cycle and Initial Check: Immediately press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to clear the error. The machine will drain and power off. Attempt to restart after a few minutes. If the error returns, proceed with further diagnostics.
  2. Verify Power Supply to Booster: Safely disconnect the dishwasher from its main power supply. Access the booster heater compartment, typically located within or near the machine’s frame. Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage (e.g., 208-240V AC) at the booster heater terminals once power is restored (CAUTION: HIGH VOLTAGE). Ensure any external disconnects or circuit breakers supplying the booster are engaged.
  3. Inspect Booster Heater Element: With power disconnected, perform a continuity test on the booster heater element using a multimeter. An open circuit (infinite resistance) indicates a failed heater element that needs replacement. Also, visually inspect the element for any signs of scorching, cracks, or corrosion.
  4. Check Booster Thermostat/Hi-Limit Switch: Locate the booster thermostat and any associated hi-limit switches. Test for continuity across these components. A lack of continuity suggests a tripped or faulty thermostat/switch, which may need to be reset (if applicable) or replaced. Ensure the hi-limit hasn’t tripped due to an actual overheat condition, though unlikely with a low-temperature error.
  5. Evaluate Temperature Sensor (Thermistor/RTD): Identify the booster temperature sensor (usually a thermistor or RTD). Disconnect it and measure its resistance value using a multimeter. Compare this reading against the manufacturer’s specified resistance-to-temperature chart (found in the service manual). A reading significantly out of range indicates a faulty sensor that requires replacement. A shorted or open sensor will provide incorrect temperature data to the control.
  6. Examine Control Board and Relays: Inspect the main control board for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt components, bulging capacitors, or corrosion, particularly around the booster heater relay. If the relay isn’t closing to supply power to the booster, it could be faulty. While board-level repair is often not feasible, verify all connections to the board are secure.
  7. Water Level and Flow: Confirm proper water levels in the wash tank and that the machine is filling correctly. Insufficient water in the booster tank (if separate) or poor water flow through the booster could prevent proper heating or temperature measurement. Check for any clogged screens or blockages in the booster’s water path.
  8. Professional Service: If, after these checks, the error persists or you are uncomfortable performing electrical diagnostics, contact a qualified Hobart service technician. Advanced diagnostics may require specialized tools and expertise to isolate complex electrical or control board issues.

Common Questions:

Q: Why is my booster temperature 32°F (0°C) or lower?

A: This critical error indicates the booster heater is not functioning or not detecting a proper temperature. Common causes include a failed heater element, a faulty temperature sensor, a tripped hi-limit thermostat, or issues with the control board or its associated relays.

Q: Is it safe to use my HOBART LXn/LXGn dishwasher with error 002?

A: No, it is not safe or compliant to use the dishwasher with a booster temperature error. The booster heater is essential for achieving the high rinse temperatures required for proper sanitation, which is mandated for commercial dishwashers. Using the machine without proper sanitization can pose health risks.

Q: Can I fix error 002 myself, or do I need a technician?

A: You can attempt the initial power cycle and visual checks, but diagnosing electrical components like heater elements, sensors, and control boards requires electrical safety knowledge and a multimeter. If you’re not experienced with commercial electrical repairs, it is highly recommended to contact a certified Hobart service technician to prevent further damage or injury.

When to call a technician

For this error, we recommend calling a certified technician. Do not continue operation or attempt repair yourself.

  • Equipment shows a critical or stop-operation fault.
  • You smell gas, burning, or see smoke or sparks.
  • Error returns after following the steps above.
  • You are not trained to work on this equipment.
  • Warranty or safety could be affected by DIY repair.

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