Rational iCombi Pro - Error 25: Fan Wheels Not Running/No Increase in Performance at the Fan Motor

⚠️ 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 iCombi Pro unit, Error Code 25 indicates that the fan wheels are not running correctly or the fan motor's performance doesn't increase when water is applied. This typically points to issues with water supply, pressure, hoses, or the CDS sensor affecting fan motor operation. Address water system integrity and sensor function to restore proper air circulation and cooking performance.

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Technical Details

Repair Steps:

  1. Verify Water Supply and Pressure. Ensure the main water supply valve to the iCombi Pro is fully open. Check the water inlet hoses for kinks, damage, or blockages. Confirm adequate water pressure (typically 2.5-6.0 bar or 36-87 psi) using a pressure gauge at the unit’s inlet. Insufficient pressure can prevent the water jet from activating correctly or cause the fan motor to react improperly.
  2. Inspect CDS Sensor and Connections. Locate the CDS sensor (Conductivity Detection System sensor), usually positioned in the cooking cabinet or near water inlets, and inspect it for scale buildup or damage. Clean the sensor gently if scaling is present. Check all wiring connections to the CDS sensor and the main control board for looseness or corrosion. A faulty CDS sensor might incorrectly signal water presence, affecting fan operation.
  3. Examine Fan Motor and Fan Wheels. Power down and disconnect the unit from the electrical supply. Access the cooking cabinet’s interior fan cover. Remove it to inspect the fan wheels for obstructions (food debris, foreign objects) or damage. Manually rotate the fan wheels to ensure they spin freely without resistance. Inspect the fan motor itself for any signs of overheating, unusual noises, or visible damage.
  4. Check GN Conductors and Mobile Oven Racks. Ensure that any GN (Gastronorm) conductors and mobile oven racks are correctly positioned and making proper contact. Although less common for fan motor issues, improper seating can sometimes interfere with system diagnostics or water flow paths if they’re designed to interact.
  5. Inspect Hoses and Water Lines Internally. Trace internal water lines and spray nozzles (if accessible) that direct water towards the fan or cooking chamber. Look for clogs or dislodged hoses that might be misdirecting water, or affecting pressure around the fan area.
  6. Power Cycle and Monitor. After performing the checks, reassemble the unit, restore power, and initiate a cooking cycle with steam or a cleaning program to observe the fan motor’s behavior. If the error persists, further diagnostics by a certified Rational technician may be required, potentially involving control board diagnostics or fan motor replacement.

Common Questions:

Q: Why does my iCombi Pro’s fan motor performance decrease specifically when water is present?

A: This often points to issues with the water supply system, such as insufficient pressure, blocked hoses, or a malfunctioning CDS sensor. The system expects a certain fan response when water is jetted, and a discrepancy triggers the error.

Q: Can I continue using my iCombi Pro if Error 25 appears?

A: While the unit might operate, cooking results will be compromised, especially for steam or combi-steaming modes, due to inadequate air circulation and heat distribution. Continued use without resolution can lead to unevenly cooked food and potential further damage.

Q: How often should I check my iCombi Pro’s water supply and fan system?

A: Regular preventive maintenance, including checking water filters, hoses, and observing fan operation during daily cleaning cycles, is recommended. A full professional service check should be performed annually to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

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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