Commercial dishwashers play a critical role in keeping hospitality businesses running efficiently. So when a Hobart Ecomax dishwasher displays an error code, many business owners and kitchen managers are left wondering what the issue means and how serious it might be. While some faults may appear minor initially, ignoring warning codes can often lead to larger breakdowns, reduced cleaning performance, and costly downtime.
At Commercial Kitchens Armiya, we regularly assist Melbourne hospitality businesses with commercial dishwasher repairs, maintenance, and test and tag. Understanding common error codes can help identify problems early and minimise disruption to your kitchen operations.
Below are some of the most common Ecomax dishwasher error codes and what they typically indicate.
Why Dishwasher Error Codes Should Never Be Ignored
Modern commercial dishwashers are designed with diagnostic systems that monitor temperature, water levels, heating performance, and various internal components.
When something falls outside normal operating conditions, the machine generates an error code to alert operators.
While the dishwasher may continue operating temporarily, error codes often indicate developing issues that can impact:
- Cleaning performance
- Hygiene standards
- Energy efficiency
- Wash cycle times
- Equipment lifespan
- Kitchen productivity
Addressing faults early is often far less expensive than dealing with a complete machine failure during a busy service period.
Error Code 01: Boiler Temperature Too High
One of the more common temperature related faults on Ecomax dishwashers is Error Code 01.
This code indicates that the boiler sensor temperature has exceeded its programmed setpoint.
Common Causes
Several faults can trigger this error, including:
- Faulty temperature sensors
- Malfunctioning thermostats
- Heating element issues
- Electrical control faults
When the boiler overheats, water temperatures may rise beyond the machine's intended operating range.
Why It Matters
Excessively high temperatures can affect wash consistency and place additional stress on internal components. Prolonged overheating may also contribute to premature wear on parts that are already working hard in a commercial environment.
Professional diagnosis is recommended to identify the root cause and prevent further damage.
Error Code 02: Boiler Temperature Too Low
Error Code 02 indicates the opposite problem. The boiler temperature is failing to reach the required setpoint.
This means the dishwasher cannot heat water effectively enough to complete wash cycles as designed.
Common Causes
Potential causes include:
- Faulty heating elements
- Damaged thermostats
- Temperature sensor failures
- Electrical supply issues
- Signs You May Notice
In addition to the displayed error code, hospitality staff may observe:
- Longer wash cycles
- Poor cleaning results
- Dishes remaining greasy
- Reduced sanitisation performance
Why Fast Repairs Matter
Commercial dishwashers rely on correct water temperatures to maintain hygiene standards. If temperatures remain below specification, cleaning performance may suffer significantly.
For busy hospitality venues, this can quickly create operational challenges.
Error Code 03: Hot Water Tank Thermostop Activated
Error Code 03 indicates that the hot water tank thermostop has been triggered during the wash programme.
This generally means the dishwasher has detected an issue preventing the machine from reaching the required operating temperature.
Common Causes
Potential causes include:
- Faulty thermostats
- Heating element failures
- Water heating interruptions
- Sensor related faults
Potential Impact
When this error occurs, wash cycles may not complete correctly.
Kitchen staff may notice:
- Interrupted wash programmes
- Incomplete cleaning cycles
- Reduced sanitisation performance
- Longer turnaround times
For commercial kitchens operating during busy periods, this can create bottlenecks that impact service efficiency.
Error Code 05: Tank Temperature Too High
Error Code 05 indicates that the tank sensor temperature has exceeded its programmed setpoint.
Similar to Error Code 01, this fault points towards overheating conditions within the dishwasher.
Common Causes
This issue may result from:
- Faulty temperature sensors
- Thermostat failures
- Control board issues
- Heating system faults
Risks of Ignoring the Problem
Excessive tank temperatures can affect cleaning consistency and place unnecessary strain on components.
In severe cases, ongoing overheating may contribute to larger repair costs if left unresolved.
Early diagnosis can help identify the cause before additional components become affected.
Error Code 06: Tank Temperature Below Setpoint
Possible Causes
- Heating element fault
- Temperature sensor failure
- Thermostat issue
- Electrical fault
- Can you fix it yourself?
Not reliably. You can check that the machine is getting adequate power and that there are no visible issues with the water supply. The fault itself however, such as the element, thermostat, or sensor require proper diagnosis to confirm.
Error Code 07: Boiler Pressure Too High
Possible Causes
- Pressure sensor fault
- Water circulation issue
- Blocked plumbing
- Internal pressure regulation problem
Can you fix it yourself?
Partially. Check that your building water pressure is adequate and that the supply line isn't kinked or partially closed. If the code clears, monitor the machine closely. If it returns, the pressure sensor or internal plumbing needs an assessment from a technician.
Error Code 08: Boiler Pressure Too Low
Error Code 07 indicates the boiler pressure has dropped below the required operating range.
Possible Causes
- Low incoming water pressure
- Pressure sensor malfunction
- Water supply restriction
- Internal plumbing fault
Can you fix it yourself?
Partially. Check that your building water pressure is adequate and that the supply line isn't kinked or partially closed. If the code clears, monitor the machine closely. If it returns, the pressure sensor or internal plumbing needs a technician to assess.
Error Code 09: Tank Pressure Too High
Error Code 09 means the wash tank pressure sensor has detected excessive pressure.
Possible Causes
- Pressure sensor issue
- Water level control fault
- Internal plumbing restriction
Can you fix it yourself?
Partially. Check building water pressure and supply line condition first. If the code keeps returning despite a normal water supply, the pressure sensor or internal plumbing needs a professional assessment.
Error Code 10: Tank Pressure Too Low
Error Code 10 indicates the wash tank pressure has fallen below acceptable operating levels.
Possible Causes
- Low water level
- Pressure sensor failure
- Water supply issue
- Control system fault
Can you fix it yourself?
Partially. Check that water supply is adequate and that nothing is restricting flow into the machine. If the code clears on a restart and doesn't return, monitor closely. If it persists, call a technician.
Error Code 12: Drainage and Overfilling Problems
One of the more frustrating issues hospitality businesses encounter involves Error Code 12.
A recent example involved a Hobart ECO-G404-90B dishwasher that was experiencing drainage issues and displaying Error Code 12 after several wash cycles. Despite checking the drain and hose for obvious blockages, the machine would begin overfilling after approximately six wash cycles.
What Error Code 12 Typically Indicates
On many Hobart Ecomax systems, Error Code 12 is commonly associated with drainage or water level related faults.
The dishwasher may struggle to remove water correctly, causing water levels to gradually increase during operation.
Even when no visible blockages are present, several underlying issues may still exist:
Drain Pump Problems
A partially failing drain pump may continue working initially but lose efficiency as the machine operates repeatedly throughout the day.
This can explain situations where the dishwasher functions normally for several cycles before overfilling occurs.
Water Level Sensor Faults
Faulty level sensors can provide incorrect readings to the control system.
As a result, the dishwasher may continue filling beyond the correct level, eventually triggering an error.
Internal Blockages
Not all blockages are immediately visible.
Grease, detergent residue, food particles, or scale buildup may partially restrict water flow inside the machine's internal plumbing.
Solenoid Valve Issues
A faulty inlet valve may allow water to enter the machine when it should remain closed.
Over multiple cycles, this can gradually contribute to overfilling conditions.
Control Board Problems
In some cases, the issue may stem from an electronic control fault affecting drainage commands, sensor readings, or fill cycles.
Error Code 13: Filling Programme Fault
Error Code 13 indicates that the dishwasher has detected an abnormal filling sequence.
Possible Causes
This can be caused by a pressure sensor issue, an interruption to the water supply or a problem with the tank filling process. The machine may automatically pump out the water before allowing another wash cycle.
Can you fix it yourself?
In some cases, pumping the machine out completely, allowing it to drain fully and restarting it may clear the error. If the code returns, professional inspection of the fill valves and pressure sensor is recommended.
Error Code 14: Drain Failure
Error Code 14 is another fault we attend regularly across Melbourne venues. This error code indicates that the dishwasher failed to drain correctly during the pump out cycle.
Possible Causes
- Blocked drain hose
- Blocked filters
- Drain pump failure
- Internal blockage
- Drain valve issue
Common Symptoms
- Standing water
- Slow drainage
- Wash cycles stopping
- Overflowing water
Can you fix it yourself?
Check the drain hose for kinks or visible blockages, clear the filters, and make sure the drain pump is running audibly during the pump-out cycle. If the code keeps appearing after those checks, the pump or drain valve likely needs replacing by a technician.Error Code 17: Water Filling Fault
Error Code 17 means the machine has detected a filling problem using the impeller monitoring system.
Possible Causes
Water supply restriction
Closed isolation valve
Inlet valve failure
Faulty impeller sensor
Can you fix it yourself?
Start by checking that the isolation valve is fully open, building water pressure is normal, and that the inlet hose isn't kinked. If the code persists with a confirmed water supply, the fill valve or internal sensor is the likely cause and a technician will need to confirm which.
Error Code 28: Low Wash Tank Water Level
Error Code 28 typically indicates that the wash tank water level is below the required level at the beginning of a programme. A low water level can be related to an issue with the water supply, filling system or water level monitoring components.
Problems with the inlet system, pressure or level sensing can prevent the machine from reaching the required water level.
Possible Causes
Water supply issue
Leak within the system
Water level sensor fault
Filling interruption
The dishwasher will usually attempt to refill automatically.
Can you fix it yourself?
In some cases, the dishwasher may refill normally and continue operating. Check that the isolation valve is fully open and building water pressure is normal. If the machine refills successfully and the code doesn't return, monitor it through the next few cycles. If Code 28 keeps coming back despite a normal water supply, the fill valve or water level sensor needs professional assessment.
Information Messages
Some messages are reminders rather than error codes and faults.
Door
The dishwasher door has been opened during a wash, fill, or drain cycle.
HY
The machine is requesting its hygiene cleaning programme.
SA Lt
The dishwasher requires additional regeneration salt for the water softener.
Why Professional Diagnosis Is Important
Drainage and overfilling faults often involve multiple interconnected components.
Replacing parts based on guesswork can quickly become expensive and may not solve the underlying problem. Professional fault diagnosis helps identify the actual cause and reduces unnecessary downtime.
Preventing Dishwasher Faults Before They Become Breakdowns
While not every fault can be prevented, regular maintenance can significantly reduce the likelihood of unexpected dishwasher failures.
Some best practices include:
- Cleaning filters daily
- Inspecting spray arms regularly
- Monitoring drainage performance
- Checking for unusual noises
- Watching for temperature inconsistencies
- Scheduling preventative servicing
- Addressing error codes promptly
Many major dishwasher breakdowns begin as small issues that gradually worsen over time.
Commercial Dishwasher Repairs Melbourne
At Commercial Kitchens Armiya, we provide fast and reliable commercial dishwasher repairs for Hobart, Meiko, and other leading brands across Melbourne.
Our experienced technicians help hospitality businesses diagnose error codes, identify underlying faults, and restore equipment performance as quickly as possible.
If your Hobart dishwasher is displaying error codes or showing signs of performance issues, contact Commercial Kitchens Armiya today to arrange professional commercial dishwasher repairs and minimise costly downtime.
Disclaimer
This article is provided free of charge for public information. We do not guarantee, and accept no legal liability for, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of the content or any linked material. Users should apply their own judgment and verify the material’s relevance to their needs. This article is a general summary and not a substitute for legal or professional advice. Users should seek appropriate advice for their circumstances. Any third-party views expressed do not necessarily reflect ours or imply endorsement.
