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 081: Final rinse temperature too high
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 081 indicates that the final rinse water temperature has exceeded 239°F/115°C. This is a critical safety shutdown. Immediately press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to clear the error and allow the machine to drain and power off. If the high temperature persists after restarting, the issue requires professional diagnosis of the heating and temperature control systems.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Acknowledge and Clear Error: Immediately press and hold the machine’s Power button for 5 seconds to clear the 081 error. The dishwasher will initiate a drain cycle and power off. This is a mandatory safety step.
- Allow Cooling and Restart: Wait for a few minutes for any residual heat to dissipate. Power the machine back on and monitor the rinse temperature during the next cycle. If the error reoccurs, proceed to further diagnostics.
- Inspect Temperature Sensor: With power disconnected and lock-out/tag-out procedures followed, access the dishwasher’s interior and locate the rinse tank temperature sensor (often a thermistor or RTD). Check its wiring for any disconnections, corrosion, or physical damage. A faulty sensor can provide incorrect readings, leading to over-heating or misreporting. Test its resistance with a multimeter and compare to manufacturer specifications if accessible.
- Examine Rinse Heater Contactor/SSR: Disconnect power from the unit. Locate the rinse heater contactor or Solid State Relay (SSR) controlling the rinse heater. Inspect for signs of arcing, burning, or physical damage. A “stuck closed” contactor or a shorted SSR would continuously power the heater, causing the over-temperature condition. Test for continuity across the contacts when the coil is de-energized (for contactors) or for a short across the output terminals (for SSRs).
- Check High-Limit Thermostat (if applicable): Some Hobart models incorporate a secondary high-limit thermostat as a safety override. Locate this component, typically mounted near the heating element or rinse tank. It may have a small red ‘reset’ button. If tripped, press to reset. If it trips repeatedly, it indicates a persistent over-temperature condition that requires deeper investigation.
- Verify Control Board Functionality: If all other components appear functional, the main control board or power board may be at fault. A malfunctioning control board could incorrectly command the heating element to stay on or misinterpret sensor readings. This requires advanced diagnostics, often involving software checks or component replacement by a qualified technician.
- Contact Hobart Service: Given the safety-critical nature of high-temperature conditions, if the error persists after these checks, it is strongly recommended to contact a qualified Hobart service technician. Do not continue to operate the machine if the 081 error reoccurs, as it poses a significant safety risk.
Common Questions:
Q: What does a high final rinse temperature indicate on my Hobart dishwasher?
A: A final rinse temperature exceeding 239°F (115°C) typically indicates a failure in the heating control system, such as a faulty temperature sensor, a continuously energized heating element contactor/relay, or an issue with the main control board. It’s a critical safety shutdown.
Q: Can I continue using my HOBART LXn/LXGn SERIES DISHWASHERS with error 081?
A: No, it is unsafe and not recommended. The error code 081 signifies a dangerous over-temperature condition. The machine will automatically shut down for safety. Continued operation risks scalding, damage to dishes, and potential equipment failure, and could void warranties.
Q: How can I prevent high rinse temperature errors in the future?
A: Regular preventative maintenance, including the calibration of temperature sensors and inspection of heating elements and control relays, can help. Promptly addressing any subtle fluctuations in rinse temperature or unusual operational noises can prevent critical failures. Always ensure genuine Hobart replacement parts are used for repairs.
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.