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 052: LXn/LXGn Error - Drain Hose Clogged
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 052 indicates that the wash tank water level has exceeded its upper limit, typically caused by a clogged or obstructed drain hose. To resolve this, ensure the machine is safely powered off and cooled, then thoroughly inspect and clear the drain system. This often involves removing debris from the wash tank and ensuring the drain hose is clear, kink-free, and correctly installed.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Ensure Safety and Preparation: First, switch off the main power supply to the dishwasher and allow the wash water to cool completely. This is critical for preventing burns and electrical hazards during inspection and cleaning.
- Inspect the Wash Tank: Open the dishwasher door and visually inspect the bottom of the wash tank. Look for any food particles, broken dishware, labels, or other debris that might be obstructing the drain opening or the water level sensor. Remove all foreign objects carefully.
- Check and Clean the Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose, typically found at the rear of the machine. Examine it for any visible kinks, bends, or damage that could restrict water flow. Disconnect the drain hose from both the machine and the building’s drain connection, if possible, and thoroughly clean it using a hose brush or by flushing it with water to remove any internal blockages.
- Verify Drain System Integrity: Once the hose is clear, ensure it is installed with the proper slope to allow gravity draining and that it’s not submerged too deeply in the building’s drain standpipe, which can create a siphon effect. Reconnect all drain components securely.
- Drain and Reset the Machine: After clearing any obstructions and reassembling, close the dishwasher door. If the error remains, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds. The machine should initiate a drain cycle and then power down, clearing the error. Power the machine back on and run a test cycle.
Common Questions:
Q: Why does my HOBART LXn/LXGn dishwasher get a drain clog so frequently?
A: Frequent clogs often indicate insufficient pre-scraping of dishes, leading to excessive food debris entering the wash tank. Ensure staff are properly trained to remove all solids before loading dishes into the machine. A failing drain pump or incorrect drain hose installation can also contribute.
Q: Can a faulty water level sensor cause error 052?
A: While error 052 primarily points to a drain obstruction, a malfunctioning water level sensor could potentially misread the water level, causing the machine to overfill or incorrectly report an “above upper limit” condition even if the drain is clear. If clearing the drain doesn’t resolve the issue, sensor calibration or replacement might be necessary.
Q: What preventive maintenance can I do to avoid error 052?
A: Regular preventive maintenance includes daily emptying and cleaning of the scrap baskets and filters. Periodically flush the drain hose with hot water and a mild descaler, especially if you have hard water, to prevent grease and mineral buildup. Ensure the drain air gap (if applicable) is clear and functioning.
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.