What does E2 mean on a Hoshizaki DCM-60KE / DCM-120KE cubelet dispenser?

Short answer: Float switch error. If your Hoshizaki DCM-60KE / DCM-120KE cubelet dispenser is showing E2, the controller has logged a specific, documented condition. This page covers what it means, what causes it, what you can safely fix yourself, and when — and why — it takes a technician.

What exactly is the machine telling you?

With the flush water valve off, the float switch reported tripped at both the upper and lower float levels simultaneously for 2 seconds — an impossible state, indicating a faulty float switch. The unit stops and dispensing is disabled.

Which machines show this?

the DCM-60KE and DCM-120KE are Hoshizaki cubelet ice dispensers with a digital display — unlike the beep-only machines, these show actual codes, in two tiers that matter. Lowercase c-codes are cautions: the machine pauses or adjusts and usually resets itself automatically. Uppercase E-codes are interlock errors: the machine has stopped, dispensing is disabled, and most require a power-off/power-on reset after the cause is fixed. The tiers are connected — cautions escalate into errors when they repeat (two c8 low-production cautions become an E1 lockout; five c2 pressure cautions become an E4). So a caution code is the cheap moment to act: it's the machine telling you what the lockout will be.

What causes it?

• A float switch reporting an impossible state (tripped at both levels simultaneously)
• Scale or debris fouling the float mechanism
• A failed float switch

Can you fix it yourself?

One power-cycle, and (power off first) a check that the float switch connector is seated. The impossible-reading signature usually means the switch itself.

Step by step — what to try, in order:

1. Reset by turning the power supply off and back on
2. If comfortable, check the float switch connector is seated (power off first)

What to check before you call

• One power-off/power-on reset — Rules out a one-time glitch.
• Float switch connector (power off first) — If you're comfortable and the connector is reachable, check that it's fully seated.
• Scale in the water circuit — Mineral scale or debris can foul the float. If the machine is overdue for cleaning, mention that to the tech.

When do you need a technician — and why?

A recurring E2 means the float switch needs cleaning or replacement done properly inside the water circuit — a small job, but one where correct reassembly matters for everything downstream of that sensor.

Parts a technician may look at

Based on the causes listed for this code (not a parts order — a tech confirms first):

• Float switch (clean or replace)
• Float switch connector or wiring

What might it cost?

Typically a service call plus a modest part. When a technician is needed, this is usually a diagnostic visit plus a sensor, switch, valve, or similar small component. A rough, hedged range is a few hundred dollars in total — often in the $200–$500 band — but parts prices and labor rates vary a lot by model and area. Get a quote.

These are rough, typical ranges, not quotes; we don't have pricing data for your area or your exact model.

If it does come to a service call and you're in Nashville, TN or Birmingham, AL, we maintain independently compiled lists of local companies that service commercial ice machines — real businesses with verified contact information, none of whom paid to be listed.

Related questions

Can I fix E2 on a Hoshizaki DCM-60KE / DCM-120KE cubelet dispenser myself?

One power-cycle, and (power off first) a check that the float switch connector is seated. The impossible-reading signature usually means the switch itself.

When does E2 on a Hoshizaki DCM-60KE / DCM-120KE cubelet dispenser need a technician?

A recurring E2 means the float switch needs cleaning or replacement done properly inside the water circuit — a small job, but one where correct reassembly matters for everything downstream of that sensor. A recurring E2 means the float switch itself needs cleaning or replacement by a technician.

Why does E2 call the float reading impossible?

The float switch reported tripped at both the upper and lower levels at once for 2 seconds with the flush water valve off. A float can't physically be at both levels, so the controller flags the switch as faulty.

Is E2 expensive to fix?

It's usually one of the smaller DCM repairs, since the fix is cleaning or replacing the float switch. Correct reassembly inside the water circuit still matters.

Source: HOS-DCM-KE_spm.pdf (partstown.com)