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 085: Wash Tank Overtemperature Tripped
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 085 indicates the wash tank's overtemperature protection has tripped, preventing further operation. This usually points to a component malfunction allowing excessive heat buildup. The primary suspects are a faulty wash tank heater relay, a defective NTC temperature sensor, or potentially a control board issue.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Ensure Safety and Cool Down: Immediately disconnect power to the dishwasher at the main electrical breaker and lockout/tagout. Allow the wash tank to cool completely before attempting any diagnosis or repair.
- Locate and Reset Overtemperature Switch: Access the wash tank area. Locate the manual reset overtemperature thermostat (often identifiable by a small red reset button) typically mounted near the heating elements. Press the button firmly to reset the device.
- Inspect Wash Tank Temperature Sensor (NTC): With power still off, carefully disconnect the wiring from the NTC temperature sensor in the wash tank. Use a multimeter to measure its resistance. Compare the reading to the manufacturer’s specified resistance-temperature chart for the Hobart LXn/LXGn series. A sensor outside the expected range indicates a fault. Also, visually inspect the sensor for any physical damage or corrosion.
- Check Wash Tank Heater Contactor/Relay: With power off, visually inspect the contactor/relay that controls the wash tank heating elements. Check for signs of overheating or arcing. Use a multimeter to test continuity across the main power contacts. If the contacts are “welded” shut (showing continuity when the coil is de-energized), the contactor is faulty and must be replaced as it is continuously supplying power to the heaters.
- Verify Wiring and Connections: Carefully examine all electrical wiring harnesses and connections leading to the wash tank heater, the NTC temperature sensor, and the main control board for any signs of damage, fraying, loose terminals, or burn marks. Secure or repair any compromised connections.
- Consult Control Board (If Other Components Are Good): If the temperature sensor, overtemperature switch, and heater contactor all test good, the issue may lie with the main control board’s ability to accurately read the sensor or properly control the heating circuit. At this point, further diagnostics or replacement of the Main Control Board by a qualified technician may be necessary.
Common Questions:
Q: What does error code 085 mean on my Hobart LXn/LXGn dishwasher?
A: Error code 085 signifies that the wash tank’s overtemperature safety limit has been exceeded, causing the machine to trip and cease operation to prevent damage or safety hazards.
Q: What are the common causes for a wash tank overtemperature error?
A: This error is typically caused by a malfunctioning wash tank heater relay that sticks closed, a faulty NTC temperature sensor providing incorrect readings to the control board, or occasionally a problem with the main control board’s heater control circuit.
Q: Is it safe to operate the dishwasher with error 085?
A: No, it is not safe. The machine’s safety system has detected an unsafe heating condition and will prevent operation until the underlying cause is identified and properly repaired by a qualified service technician. Do not attempt to bypass safety features.
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.