Hobart LXn/LXGn - Spotting of Silverware, Glasses, or Dishes

⚠️ 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 LXn/LXGn SERIES DISHWASHERS unit, spotting on items indicates issues with rinse temperature or inadequate water fill during cycles. Low water temperature prevents proper drying and sanitization, while insufficient water impacts wash efficacy and detergent dilution. Address these root causes to ensure sparkling, hygienic dishware.

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Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Check Water Supply and Pressure:
    • Ensure the main water supply valve to the dishwasher is fully open.
    • Inspect the external water filter for clogs or debris. Clean or replace if necessary.
    • Verify incoming water pressure meets Hobart specifications (typically 15-25 PSI dynamic pressure during fill). Low pressure can lead to insufficient filling.
  2. Inspect Water Fill Components:
    • Examine the fill solenoid valve for proper operation. It should open fully during the fill cycle. Check for clogs or electrical issues.
    • Locate and inspect the water level sensor or float switch (if applicable). Ensure it’s clean and not obstructed by scale or food debris, which can cause inaccurate readings and premature fill termination.
    • Check the wash tank and booster heater fill lines for obstructions or kinks.
  3. Verify Water Temperature Settings and Heating Elements:
    • Confirm that the dishwasher’s control panel settings are configured for the correct wash and rinse temperatures (e.g., 150-160°F for wash, 180°F for final rinse).
    • Test the functionality of the wash tank heating element and the booster heater element. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and proper resistance.
    • Inspect the high-limit thermostats and temperature probes/sensors for both the wash tank and booster heater. A faulty sensor can provide incorrect temperature readings, leading to insufficient heating.
  4. Evaluate Detergent and Rinse Aid Dispensers:
    • Ensure the detergent and rinse aid dispensers are working correctly, dispensing the appropriate amount of chemicals. Incorrect chemical balance can also contribute to spotting, even with correct water temperatures.
    • Verify chemical supply lines are clear and pumps are priming.
  5. Descaling and Maintenance:
    • Perform a thorough descaling procedure on the dishwasher. Limescale buildup on heating elements, sensors, and spray arms can significantly impact performance and heating efficiency.
    • Clean the spray arms and nozzles to ensure even water distribution. Clogged nozzles can lead to poor rinsing and spotting.
  6. Contact a Qualified Technician: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, or if you suspect complex electrical or component failures, it is recommended to contact a certified Hobart service technician for further diagnosis and repair.

Common Questions:

Q: Why do my dishes have spots even after the dishwasher finishes?

A: Spotting on dishes, silverware, or glasses often indicates that the final rinse water temperature is too low, preventing proper evaporation, or there’s insufficient water flow during the rinse cycle. It can also be related to water hardness or improper rinse aid dosage.

Q: How do I check if my Hobart dishwasher’s water temperature is correct?

A: You can typically check the display on your LXn/LXGn unit for actual wash and rinse temperatures. Alternatively, use a certified temperature strip or a thermometer during a cycle to verify the final rinse temperature, which should ideally be around 180°F for sanitization.

Q: What causes “insufficient fill” and how does it affect cleaning?

A: Insufficient fill can be caused by low water pressure, a clogged water inlet filter, a faulty fill valve, or an inaccurate water level sensor. When the machine doesn’t fill adequately, detergents and rinse aids are improperly diluted, and spray arms may not receive enough water, leading to poor cleaning, rinsing, and persistent spotting.

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.

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