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 038: Incoming power to is too high. has powered down
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 038 indicates that the incoming power supply voltage is too high for the machine's specifications, causing it to shut down. This is a critical electrical safety issue. Immediately verify the main power supply voltage matches the machine's data plate requirements and ensure correct wiring before attempting to reset.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Safety First: Turn off the main circuit breaker supplying power to the dishwasher. Confirm zero voltage with a multimeter before proceeding.
- Verify Machine Data Plate: Locate the machine’s data plate (usually on the back or inside a service panel) to identify the exact voltage requirements (e.g., 208-240V, 3-phase).
- Measure Incoming Voltage: With the circuit breaker off, use a qualified electrician and a multimeter to accurately measure the voltage at the main electrical disconnect or breaker panel that feeds the dishwasher.
- Compare Voltages: Compare the measured incoming voltage to the specifications on the machine’s data plate. If the incoming voltage is significantly higher than the maximum allowed, this confirms the error cause.
- Identify Power Source Issue: If the incoming voltage is indeed too high, the problem is with the building’s electrical supply, not the dishwasher itself. A qualified electrician must assess and correct the building’s electrical system (e.g., incorrect transformer tap settings, miswired circuit).
- Check Wiring & Connections: Inspect all wiring connections from the main disconnect to the dishwasher’s terminal block for any loose, corroded, or incorrectly wired connections. Ensure correct phase sequence if applicable for 3-phase units.
- Internal Component Check (Advanced): If the incoming voltage is verified to be correct and within specification, but error 038 persists, there might be an issue with the machine’s internal voltage sensing circuit or main control board (PCB). This requires specialized diagnostics and replacement by a Hobart certified technician.
- Reset Error: Once the voltage supply issue has been resolved and verified correct, restore power to the dishwasher and press “Enter” or the designated clear button on the control panel to clear the error.
Common Questions:
Q: Why is my dishwasher showing an overvoltage error if it was working fine before?
A: Sudden overvoltage can occur due to fluctuations in your building’s power grid, issues with the main electrical service, or incorrect wiring changes made upstream from the dishwasher. It’s crucial to check your building’s supply.
Q: Can I just ignore error 038 and try to run the dishwasher?
A: No, attempting to operate the dishwasher with excessive incoming voltage can cause severe damage to internal electrical components like the control board, heating elements, or motors, and poses a serious safety hazard including fire risk.
Q: Who should I call to fix an overvoltage problem for my Hobart dishwasher?
A: For incoming power supply issues, you should first contact a licensed electrician to diagnose and rectify the building’s electrical system. If the building’s power is confirmed correct, then contact a certified Hobart service technician to inspect the dishwasher itself.
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.