Wash tank does not reach set temperature; display shows E3 and machine may stop or alarm.

Safety first: Turn off power at the breaker and allow the machine to cool completely. Do not work on live high-voltage circuits.

Step-by-step checks:

• Confirm hot water supply: Ensure incoming hot water meets CMA’s minimum temperature requirement. If building hot water is too low, the machine may struggle to maintain temperature.
• Inspect tank heating element: Access the wash tank heater terminals. Look for burned wires or signs of leakage. Use a multimeter to check resistance across the element; an open circuit indicates a failed element that must be replaced.
• Check high-limit thermostat: Locate the manual-reset high-limit on the tank. If it has a reset button, press it firmly until it clicks. If it trips repeatedly, investigate for low water level or a stuck relay.
• Test temperature probe/thermostat: Verify the sensor is firmly seated in the tank well and wiring is intact. Use a meter to check for proper resistance change with temperature (refer to CMA service data). Replace if readings are out of range.
• Control relay/contactor: If the heater and sensors test good but do not energize, the heater relay or contactor on the control board may be defective and should be tested and replaced by a technician.

When to call a technician: Any work involving heater replacement, high-limit circuits, or control board components should be performed by a qualified CMA service technician.