Error Code
medium
Hobart LXn/LXGn – LXn/LXGn Will Not Drain
On your HOBART LXn/LXGn SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, a "Machine Will Not Drain"…
Hobart LXn/LXGn - Error 021: Wash Tank Draining Issue - Drain Hose Clogged or Restricted
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 HOBART LXn/LXGn SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, error code 021 indicates that significant water remains in the wash tank due to a clogged or restricted drain hose. This prevents proper draining and can affect wash performance. To resolve this, power down the machine, inspect, and thoroughly clean the drain hose for any obstructions or kinks.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Safety First: Power Down and Cool. Before any inspection or service, always ensure the dishwasher’s main power switch is turned OFF at the circuit breaker or wall outlet. Allow the wash water to cool completely to prevent burns.
- Inspect Wash Tank for Debris. Open the dishwasher door and carefully remove the rack, wash arms, and filter screens. Verify the entire bottom of the wash tank, particularly around the drain outlet, is completely free of any food debris, utensils, or foreign objects that could impede drainage. Clean any visible obstructions.
- Inspect and Clean the Drain Hose. Locate the drain hose, typically found at the back or bottom of the unit. First, check for any visible kinks or sharp bends that could restrict water flow. Straighten any kinks. Next, disconnect the drain hose from both the dishwasher and the facility drain connection. Using a suitable brush or a blast of compressed air (from the facility drain side, not into the dishwasher if debris could be pushed back in), thoroughly clean the inside of the hose to remove any accumulated grease, food particles, or mineral deposits.
- Verify Drain System Integrity. While the drain hose is disconnected, inspect the facility drain connection for any blockages. Ensure there’s adequate air gap or proper connection according to local plumbing codes. Reconnect the cleaned drain hose, ensuring it’s securely fastened at both ends without kinks.
- Test and Reset. Restore power to the dishwasher. If the error code 021 persists, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to clear the error, which should initiate a drain cycle and power down the machine. Run a test cycle to confirm proper drainage. If the issue recurs, further inspection of the drain pump or internal drain solenoid may be required by a qualified technician.
Common Questions:
Q: Why does my HOBART drain hose keep clogging?
A: Frequent clogging often results from insufficient pre-scraping of dishes, hard water causing mineral buildup, or the accumulation of grease over time. Ensure staff properly scrape all food debris before loading, and consider regular preventative cleaning of the drain system.
Q: What are the tell-tale signs of a clogged drain hose besides the error code?
A: Beyond the error code, common signs include standing water in the wash tank after a cycle, poor wash performance with food particles redepositing on dishes, or a foul odor emanating from the wash tank due to stagnant water.
Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners to fix a clogged drain hose in my commercial dishwasher?
A: It is generally NOT recommended to use harsh chemical drain cleaners in commercial dishwashers. These chemicals can damage internal components like seals, gaskets, and plastic pipes, potentially voiding warranties. Manual cleaning is always the preferred and safest method for these units.
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.