Troubleshooting the E-26 Heat Amps Locked On Error Code

Overview

The E-26 Heat Amps Locked On error occurs when the system detects electrical current (amp draw) to the heating elements even though there is no demand for heat. This is identified by the amp sensors. The fryer may temporarily resume operation after the user acknowledges the error, but if the issue persists, the error will reappear.

E-26 Errors

• E-26U: Amp draw detected at the upper element when no demand for heat.

• E-26L: Amp draw detected at the lower element when no demand for heat.

• E-26M: Amp draw detected at both elements when no demand for heat.

The errors displayed will also show which element and leg is showing amp drawas well as the upper or lower heater.

Example:

This example indicates that the bottom heater middle leg is showing low amp draw while the top heater is good.

Call Avoidance

There are no remote or customer-level steps to resolve the E-26 error. This issue requires a service call.

Field Troubleshooting

Recommended Parts

CFE 5XX Open Fryer Series

• Amp sensors

• Heat contactors

• Control board

Recommended Tools

• Amp clamp

• Multimeter

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

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check for Unwanted Heating:

• Use an amp clamp to test the wires to the upper and lower heating elements.

• If there is amp draw when there is no heat demand, proceed to Step 2 otherwise proceed to Step 3.

• With the power switch in the OFF position, there should be no amp draw. If you see amp draw and the unit is heating, immediately unplug the fryer until issue is resolved.

• With the power switch in the ON position and oil temperature cold (below 270°F (132°C)), you should see a pulse heating occurring and the amp draws turning on and off with the cycling of the heat contactors. If there is constant amp draw, proceed to Step 2.

2. Test Heat Contactors:

• Disconnect a coil voltage wire from the heat contactor.



• If the contactor remains closed, replace the contactor.

• If there is a consistent 24 VAC from the control board when there is no heat demand, replace the control board.

3. Test Amp Sensors (Power Off):

• Disconnect the amp sensors from the control board.

• Measure resistance (ohms) across each sensor.

  • Expected reading: 33 ohms ±10% (i.e., between 29.7 and 36.3 ohms). If the reading is outside this range, replace the amp sensors.

• In the rare case the reading is within range and connections are secure, replace the control board.

NOTE: If amp sensors need replaced, but parts are not on hand you can temporarily disable the amp sensors to allow the customer to stay in operation. Navigate to Menu > 4. Prog > 7. Tech Mode (enter tech passcode) > T-23B and disable the amp sensors. This allows the fryer to stay in operation, and will display a message stating "Notice - Amp Sensors Disabled". Once the amp sensors are replaced, it is required to re-enable the amp sensors in T-24B.

Other Possibilities

• In rare cases, intermittent control board faults may cause false amp readings. If all components test correctly but the error persists, replace the control board.

• Ensure all wiring connections are secure and free of corrosion or damage.