Error Code
medium
Winterhalter UC Series – Wash Items Do Not Dry (Rinse Temperature Too Low)
On your WINTERHALTER UC Series unit, if wash items are not drying,…
Winterhalter UC Series - Wash Items Not Clean (Temperatures Too Low)
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 UC Series unit, if wash items are not clean and temperatures are too low, this indicates an issue with the heating system or temperature sensing. This can be caused by faulty heating elements, a malfunctioning thermostat or NTC sensor, or inadequate hot water supply. Rectify the underlying temperature issue to ensure proper sanitization and cleaning results.
Technical Details
Repair Steps:
- Verify Displayed Temperatures: First, check the digital display on your WINTERHALTER UC Series machine for the current wash and rinse temperatures. Compare these readings to the machine’s set temperatures to confirm the reported discrepancy.
- Inspect Heating Elements: Power off and unplug the dishwasher. Access the wash and rinse tank heating elements. Visually inspect them for any signs of damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the heating element terminals. A lack of continuity indicates a faulty element that needs replacement.
- Test Temperature Sensors (NTCs/Thermostats): Locate the NTC temperature sensors or thermostats in both the wash and rinse tanks. Test their resistance using a multimeter. Compare the readings to the manufacturer’s specifications (often found in the service manual); out-of-spec readings indicate a faulty sensor.
- Evaluate Incoming Hot Water Supply: Ensure that the building’s hot water supply connected to the dishwasher is at the correct temperature and pressure as specified in your UC Series installation manual. Insufficient incoming hot water will strain the machine’s heating capabilities.
- Check Water Levels and Descale: Verify that the water levels in both the wash and rinse tanks are adequate. Low water levels can hinder effective heating. Additionally, inspect for scale buildup on the heating elements and sensors. Excessive scale acts as an insulator, reducing heating efficiency. Perform a descaling cycle or manually clean components if necessary.
- Examine Control Board and Relays/Contactors: If heating elements and sensors appear functional, power off the machine and inspect the main control board for any burnt components or signs of damage. Check the relays or contactors that supply power to the heating elements for proper operation; a faulty relay may prevent power from reaching the heaters. Refer to the wiring diagram for specific component locations.
Common Questions:
Q: What temperature should the wash and rinse cycles be on my Winterhalter UC Series?
A: For optimal hygiene and cleaning, Winterhalter UC Series machines typically operate with a wash temperature between 55-65°C (131-149°F) and a rinse temperature of at least 80-85°C (176-185°F) for sanitization, depending on local regulations and specific model settings. Always consult your operator’s manual.
Q: Why are my dishes still cold or not fully dry after a cycle, even after troubleshooting?
A: If dishes are cold or not drying, it strongly suggests the final rinse temperature is too low. After checking heating elements and sensors, also verify the rinse aid dosage, as proper rinse aid helps water sheet off, aiding in drying. Insufficient hot water supply pressure or flow can also be a factor.
Q: Can hard water cause low temperatures in my commercial dishwasher?
A: Yes, hard water is a common culprit. Over time, mineral deposits (scale) from hard water can build up on heating elements and temperature sensors. This scale acts as an insulator, significantly reducing the efficiency of the heating elements and preventing sensors from accurately reading the water temperature, leading to under-heating.
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.