Meiko M-iClean - Error 117: Upper Wash Arm Not Present or Flowing Properly

⚠️ 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 117 indicates an issue with the upper wash arm, suggesting it's either missing, incorrectly installed, or experiencing improper water flow. This will severely impact cleaning performance. Begin by visually inspecting the arm's presence and correct seating, then check for clogs in the nozzles or pump filter.

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Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Power Cycle the Unit: First, power off the MEIKO UM, UM+, or US unit completely for at least 30 seconds, then power it back on. This can sometimes clear transient errors.
  2. Inspect the Upper Wash Arm Installation: Open the machine door and visually inspect the upper wash arm.
    • Ensure it is present and correctly seated on its mounting bracket or manifold. MEIKO wash arms typically “click” into place or are secured with a retaining pin/nut.
    • Verify it can rotate freely without obstruction.
    • Check for any visible damage, cracks, or deformities in the plastic.
  3. Check Wash Arm Nozzles for Blockages: Remove the upper wash arm and inspect all spray nozzles.
    • Clear any food debris, scale, or foreign objects that may be blocking the spray holes. A small, non-metallic tool or compressed air can be used.
    • Ensure all nozzles are intact and facing the correct direction to effectively spray dishes.
  4. Inspect the Wash Pump Filter: Locate and remove the main pump filter (often in the wash tank).
    • Thoroughly clean the filter basket and housing, removing all food particles, grease, and debris.
    • Rinse it under running water until completely clear.
    • Ensure the filter is reinstalled correctly and securely to prevent bypassing.
  5. Verify Water Flow to the Upper Wash Arm:
    • With the wash arm removed, briefly run a wash cycle (if possible without error 117 immediately stopping it) and observe if water flows forcefully from the upper manifold connection point.
    • A weak or absent flow suggests a problem further upstream, possibly with the wash pump or internal plumbing.
  6. Examine the Wash Pump Impeller (Advanced): If the above steps don’t resolve the issue and water flow is still poor, the wash pump itself might be the culprit.
    • CAUTION: This step involves working near electrical and moving parts. Ensure the machine is completely disconnected from power before proceeding.
    • Access the wash pump (usually located beneath the wash tank).
    • Inspect the impeller for any obstructions (e.g., broken glass, cutlery) or damage (e.g., worn vanes). Clear any debris.
    • If the impeller is visibly damaged or seized, the wash pump may require replacement or professional repair.
  7. Contact RestoFixer Specialist: If the error persists after performing these checks, the issue may involve electrical components, internal plumbing blockages, or a faulty wash pump that requires specialized tools and expertise. Contact a qualified RestoFixer technician for further diagnosis and repair.

Common Questions:

Q: Why does my MEIKO unit show error 117 even after I reinstalled the wash arm?

A: The error often indicates either improper seating of the arm, clogged spray nozzles preventing adequate water flow, or a deeper issue with the pump filter or wash pump itself affecting pressure.

Q: Can I run the machine with error 117?

A: While the machine might technically run, the upper wash arm won’t be effectively spraying, resulting in poorly cleaned dishes. It is highly recommended to address this error to ensure proper sanitation and performance.

Q: How often should I check the wash arm and filters?

A: The wash arm should be checked daily as part of routine cleaning. The main pump filter should also be cleaned daily, or even multiple times a day in high-volume operations, to prevent clogs that can lead to error 117.

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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