Hobart Mixer Troubleshooting
When it comes to food prep, Hobart mixers are among the best in the foodservice industry. But like any piece of equipment that gets used daily, problems can pop up over time. Not sure what's ailing your mixer? We have a list of Hobart mixer troubleshooting tips to help you diagnose the problem so you or an authorized technician can remedy it. Each of the issues below is common on popular models, including Hobart planetary, spiral and legacy mixer models A200, V1401, HL200, HL600, M802 HL and ES.
Hobart Mixer Won't Start
When your Hobart mixer won't start, see if the power cord is unplugged or was accidentally bumped out of the outlet. If that's not the case, check for the following:
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Hobart Mixer Makes a Squeaking or Grinding Noise
There are 1 of 2 reasons your Hobart mixer is making noise:
- Hobart mixer problem 1 – The planetary of your machine can be the source of the noise. In some cases, the center bolt loosens up and causes the planetary to drop down. Tighten the bolt with a wrench, and lift the planetary back up to the proper position.
- Hobart mixer problem 2 – Sometimes, the planetary seal dries out and begins to squeak. Lubricate the seal with mineral oil to prevent further damage and stop noises. Routinely lubricating a Hobart mixer not only eliminates jarring noises, but it also helps ensure optimal operation.
Agitator Touches the Bowl
You should regularly check your machine's agitator clearance. If it touches the bowl, this can cause damage to the bowl itself and different components inside the unit. In some cases, the bowl clamp might not be closed or improperly adjusted. Here are standard instructions for readjusting the agitator on popular models:
- Step 1 - Unplug your mixer.
- Step 2 - Remove the apron by unfastening the thumbscrews.
- Step 3 - Adjust the stop screw on the unit by loosening the bottom locking nut and turning the stop screw. Turn it counterclockwise to increase clearance or clockwise to decrease clearance. Tighten the locking nut as you hold the stop screw.
- Step 4 - Place the apron back on, and secure it to the unit by fastening the thumbscrews.
- Step 5 - Plug the mixer back in. Check the adjustment by operating the bowl lift a few times. Make sure to check your manual for the mixer's proper maximum clearance.
Hobart Mixer Keeps Shutting Off
If your Hobart mixer is periodically shutting off, it’s likely a problem with one of its components. Unfortunately, this requires an authorized service technician to fix it. Before it comes to that, run through these diagnostics and see if it’s not something you can’t solve in-house.
Problem | Solution |
Overheating | Lower the indoor temperature or move the mixer to a cooler location |
Oversized batch | Reduce batch size |
Low voltage supply | Make sure the mixer is plugged into the proper power supply |
Power interruption | Turn the mixer off and then on again. If the problem persists, call an authorized service technician |
Short circuit or ground | Call an authorized service technician |
Motor drive malfunction | Call an authorized service technician |
Hobart Mixer Overheating
If your Hobart mixer has overheated, you must unplug and turn off the machine. Once your mixer has cooled, it’s time to troubleshoot. Luckily, we can trace overheating back to a couple of core issues:
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Hobart Mixer Leaking Oil
If your Hobart mixer is leaking grease, it could indicate that there’s an issue with the seals.
- Grease is leaking from the planetary – You may need to replace the spacer o-ring on the planetary shaft.
- Grease is leaking from the attachment hub – You may need to replace the quad ring in the attachment hub.
Need some more help troubleshooting your commercial mixer? Check out our large selection of Hobart manuals and diagrams for tips specific to your model.