Meiko M-iClean - Error 111: Water Loss in Wash Tank

⚠️ 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 MEIKO UM, UM+, US unit, error code 111 indicates water loss in the wash tank. This typically points to an issue with maintaining the correct water level, potentially due to a faulty drain, an obstructed fill, or an incorrect level sensor reading. Address potential leaks or blockages in the drain system first.

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Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Check Water Supply and Inlet Valve: Ensure the main water supply to the machine is fully open and that there’s adequate water pressure. Verify that the machine’s inlet valve (solenoid valve) is functioning correctly and opening to allow water into the wash tank. A clogged inlet filter can restrict flow.

  2. Inspect Drain System for Blockages or Leaks: Examine the drain standpipe or drain hose for any obstructions (food debris, scale). Ensure the drain pump is not continuously running or partially open, allowing water to escape prematurely. Check for visible leaks around the wash tank, drain connections, and plumbing.

  3. Verify Wash Tank Level Sensor/Probe: The machine uses a level sensor or probe to monitor the water level in the wash tank. Turn off and unplug the machine. Locate and inspect the level sensor/probe for scale buildup or damage. Clean the probe if necessary. A faulty sensor might incorrectly report low water levels or fail to detect the correct level, leading to repeated filling or draining issues.

  4. Examine Recirculation Pump and Manifolds: If water is being lost during the wash cycle itself, inspect the wash pump and spray arm manifolds. While not a direct cause of “water loss in tank” in terms of level maintenance, inefficient circulation or blockages here could indirectly lead to poor washing and potential level issues if sensors are misreading. Check for leaks from pump seals.

  5. Test Machine Cycle and Monitor Water Level: After performing the above checks, run a wash cycle and carefully observe the water level in the wash tank. Confirm that the tank fills to the correct operating level and maintains it throughout the cycle. If the issue persists, further diagnostics by a qualified technician may be required to test control board signals or component functionality.

Common Questions:

Q: Why does my MEIKO UM, UM+, US show “water loss in wash tank” after filling?

A: This often indicates that the machine is filling, but water is escaping faster than it’s replenished, possibly due to a leaky drain valve, a siphon effect in the drain hose, or a malfunctioning level sensor.

Q: Can a dirty level sensor cause error code 111?

A: Yes, scale or food debris buildup on the level sensor can prevent it from accurately detecting the water level, causing the machine to either overfill, underfill, or report a constant water loss.

Q: What’s the quickest way to check for a leak causing water loss?

A: Visually inspect around the base of the machine, all plumbing connections, and the drain hose for any signs of dripping or puddles. Pay close attention to the drain standpipe and wash tank seals.

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.

Need Professional Help?

Our certified technicians can help you on-site.