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