Troubleshooting the E-18 Level Sensor Failed Error Code

Overview

The E-18 error code indicates an issue with the level sensor probe.

The level sensor monitors oil level in the vat. When this error occurs, cooking can continue, however the oil auto top off feature is disabled until the sensor is repaired. This error typically points to a faulty level sensor or connection issue between the sensor and the board, but in rare cases, it may be caused by a control board issue.

E-18 Errors

• E-18A: The level probe is open (disconnected or broken).

• E-18B: The level probe is shorted (electrically shorted).

1	Temperature Probe
2	Level Probe
3	Bottom Probe
4	Auxiliary Probe - Used for Testing Only - Not found on all Fryers

Call Avoidance Steps

There are no remote troubleshooting steps for this error.

NOTE: When the E-18 error displays, cooking can still continue, however the oil auto top off feature is disabled until repaired.

Field Troubleshooting

Recommended Parts

CFE 5XX Open Fryer Series

• Level probe

• Control board

Recommended Tools

• Multimeter

• Electrical contact cleaner

• Oil thermometer

• Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)

Troubleshooting Instructions

1. Inspect the probe.

   • Make sure filter pan is in place and empty. Drain down the oil from the vat.

   • Inspect the probe to make sure the guard and probe are not damaged or broken.

   • Replace probe if damaged, otherwise proceed to Step 2.

2. Lower the control board.

   • At the rear of the control board, disconnect power by unplugging the connector at P2.

3. Access the probe connection.

   • Unplug the probe harness P3 from the control board.

4. Measure probe resistance.

   • Use a multimeter to measure the resistance (ohms) of the level sensor P3 pins 3 and 4. NOTE: The level sensor is labeled as the "top level probe" on the rear of the control.

5. Measure temperature near level probe.

   • Use a thermometer to measure either the oil temperature near this probe or the air temperature near this probe if it is not touching oil.

6. Compare reading with Reference Chart. Compare your resistance reading with the 1k-ohm chart based on the current oil temperature:

   • If the reading is open (infinite resistance) or if the reading is outside an expected oil temperature range of resistance or fluctuating greatly, replace the temperature probe.

   • If the reading is within range, proceed to Step 7.

7. Check probe connection. If the probe reading is accurate, use a contact cleaner on the probe connections and ensure the probe is securely connected to the control board. If this does not correct the issue, proceed to Step 8.

8. Replace control board. In the rare case the probe is good, and the connections are clean and secure, but the E-18A or E-18B error persists:

   • Replace the control board.

Other Possibilities

In rare cases, the issue may be due to damaged wire harness or intermittent connection. Inspect the wiring for visible damage or loose pins. The probe will need to be replaced if the wiring is damaged.