Hobart LXn/LXGn - Error 016: Wash Tank Pressure Sensor Failure

🛑 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 016 indicates the maximum wash tank water level has been exceeded, preventing operation. This often stems from a faulty wash tank pressure sensor or a continuously filling water inlet valve. Perform the initial power cycle reset; if the problem persists, further diagnostics are needed to prevent overfilling and potential damage.

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Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Perform Initial Reset: As instructed by the machine, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds. The machine should drain and power off. Allow it to fully power cycle and attempt to restart. This may clear a temporary sensor glitch.
  2. Inspect Drain System for Blockages: A common cause of overfilling, especially if the fill valve isn’t stuck, is a slow or blocked drain. Open the dishwasher and check the wash tank strainer, scrap basket, and drain hose for any food debris, grease, or foreign objects that could impede proper drainage. Clean thoroughly.
  3. Check Water Inlet Valve (Solenoid Valve): Locate the water inlet solenoid valve (fill valve). With the machine powered off, inspect it for physical damage or signs of constant water flow when it should be closed. A common issue is the valve sticking in the open position, causing continuous filling. You may need to disconnect the water supply line to confirm it’s not letting water past when de-energized.
  4. Verify Wash Tank Pressure Sensor/Level Sensor: This error directly points to a wash tank pressure sensor failure, which is responsible for monitoring the water level. Visually inspect the sensor and its connected tube for any blockages, kinks, or disconnections. The sensor itself could be faulty; testing it for continuity or resistance (if applicable to the sensor type) may be required.
  5. Examine Wiring and Connections: Trace the wiring from the wash tank pressure sensor and the water inlet valve back to the main control board. Look for any loose connections, corroded terminals, or damaged wires. Secure all connections and repair any compromised wiring.
  6. Inspect Control Board: If all other components appear functional, the main control board might be failing to correctly interpret the sensor signal or command the fill valve. Look for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt components or corrosion, although this often requires a trained technician for full diagnosis and replacement.

Common Questions:

Q: What does Hobart Error Code 016 specifically mean for LXn/LXGn dishwashers?

A: Error Code 016 indicates that the water level in the wash tank has exceeded its maximum allowable limit, triggering a safety shutdown to prevent overflow. The machine will not operate in this state.

Q: Why would my Hobart dishwasher’s wash tank overfill?

A: Overfilling typically occurs due to a faulty wash tank pressure sensor providing incorrect level readings, a water inlet (fill) valve that is stuck open allowing continuous water flow, or a severely blocked drain system preventing proper water evacuation.

Q: Can I continue to use my Hobart LXn/LXGn dishwasher with Error Code 016?

A: No, the machine is designed to stop operating when Error Code 016 is present due to the critical overfill condition. Attempting to bypass this error could lead to flooding and potential damage to the machine or your facility.

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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