Jan 5th 2025 - Juliet Wattles

Understanding Error Codes on a Fetco Coffee Brewer

Fetco produces some of the best units for a wide range of food service applications when it comes to brewing world-class coffee. On rare occasions, an error message may appear on the screen. This guide will walk you through the Fetco coffee brewer error codes on popular CBS-2232 and CBS-2231 models, allowing you to diagnose the problem as soon as possible. Keep in mind that you should not clear any error codes until the error is correctly identified and fixed.

Fetco Coffee Brewer Error Codes

001: Software error. Either an error occurred on start up, or the software is corrupted.
002: The internal flash is corrupted or there is a malfunction in the internal data memory.
010: The front U/I board has lost communication with the interior O/I board.
011: The front U/I board has bad communication with the interior O/I board.
050: There is a short-circuit in the temperature probe.
051: The temperature probe is open.
100: Initial Fill Error. Initial fill time took longer than expected after powering up.
101: Error on refill. The tank did not refill within expected time.
200: The heating element is timing out while the tank is boiling.
201: The heating is running high due to a failure of the SSR, the high limit thermostat, the temperature probe, or the heating element.
202: The heating element has shorted or the SSR is stuck.
255: There is a keyboard error on the HID (Human Interface Device).
NO BSKT: You need to insert the brew basket.

Model Featured: Fetco CBS-2232

image of a Fetco CBS-2232 brewer

Code 001

This code indicates that there was an error in the software on startup, or that the software is corrupted.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Improper start up or shutdown.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Restart the machine. If the machine is still broken after restarting, then try to reload the software.

Keep in mind that to reload the software, you will need to check for its availability on the Fetco website. You'll need the correct firmware version specific to your model. If you cannot download it from the website, then you will need to contact an authorized service technician to reload or update the software for you.

Code 002

This code indicates that either the internal flash drive is corrupted or the internal data memory has malfunctioned.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: This is an error that is found during the cyclic redundancy check (CRC) performed automatically by the machine. The error-checking process is used in its electronic controls, particularly for data communication between the control board and peripheral components.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Restart the machine. If the error persists, then reload the software. If reloading the software doesn’t fix the error, then you will need to replace the control board.

For the next two error codes, keep in mind the following information:

U/I Board (User Interface Board)

Purpose: Manages the interaction between the user and the machine.
Key Functions: Controls buttons, touchscreen, or other input mechanisms. Displays information such as brew status, error codes, and settings on the screen. Interprets user commands and sends them to the main control system.
Location: Usually located behind the user-facing control panel.

O/I Board (Output/Input Board)

Purpose: Handles the inputs from sensors and outputs to actuators within the machine.
Key Functions: Receives input signals from sensors like temperature, water level, or flow rate sensors. Sends output signals to components like pumps, heating elements, or solenoid valves. Acts as the communication hub between the machine's internal components and the main control board.
Location: Typically mounted inside the machine, near the main control system or power distribution area.

Code 010

This code indicates that the U/I board behind the control panel has lost communication with the interior O/I board.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: There is no communication at all between the front panel and the interior board. This might be generated by a loose connection, electronic interference, or a software issue.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Turn the cycle brewer off and then on again. Check the cable connections for any obvious problem. If this doesn't work, you will need to email techsupport@fetco.com (with a picture of the hardware/software/bootloader version from the service menu on your machine) for help.

Code 011

This code indicates that the U/I board in the front of the machine has poor communication with the O/I board inside the machine.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: There is disrupted communication between the front panel and interior board. This is usually caused by a loose cable connection.

Code 050

This code indicates that the temperature probe has short circuited.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: The temperature probe died.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Replace the temperature probe.

Code 051

This code indicates that the temperature probe is open.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: A bad temperature probe connection or a temperature probe failure.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Check all of the temperature probe connections. If all connections are good, then you might need to replace it.

Code 100

This code indicates that the initial fill time took more time than expected from when you turned on the machine.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: The water supply flow rate is too low, the fill valve is stuck, or the water line has a kink in it or is closed.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Reboot the machine. If the problem persists, watch for a shortage of water in your pots during brew cycles. Investigate what's causing the low flow rate.

Code 101

This code indicates that the water tank did not refill within the expected time after the low water indicator appeared.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: The water supply flow rate is too low.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Check the water supply line. Your water pressure should be 20-75 psi. If your water pressure is in the correct range, then you might need to replace your fill valve. Investigate what's causing the low flow rate.

Investigating a Low Water Supply Flow

First, check your external water supply.

Water Pressure: Verify that the water supply pressure meets Fetco's recommended range, typically between 20-75 psi. Low pressure can cause insufficient flow.
Clogged or Partially Closed Valve: Ensure the water shutoff valve is fully open and that no blockages are present in the external plumbing.
Kinked or Damaged Hose: Inspect the water line for any kinks, bends, or physical damage that could restrict flow.

Second, check the water filtration system.

Clogged Filter: If a water filtration system is in use, check the filter for clogs or saturation. Replace the filter if it's overdue for maintenance.
Incorrect Filter Rating: Ensure the filter supports the required flow rate for the machine.

Third, check the machine's internal components.

Inlet Valve: Inspect the water inlet solenoid valve for proper operation. A faulty or partially blocked valve can restrict water flow. Listen for a clicking sound when the valve operates, indicating it’s opening and closing correctly.
Inlet Screen: Check the inlet screen inside the machine for debris or mineral buildup that could obstruct water flow. Clean or replace if necessary.
Flow Meter: If the machine has a flow meter, ensure it is functioning properly and free of obstructions.

Fourth, check for scale and mineral build up.

Descaling: Excessive scale buildup in the machine’s water lines, inlet valve, or heating tank can impede flow. Perform a descaling procedure as per Fetco's guidelines.
Preventative Maintenance: Use filtered or softened water to minimize scale buildup over time.

Finally, see if you can run the machine's diagnostic program to check flow rates or detect errors. If all else fails, contact an authorized service technician.

Code 200

This code indicates that the machine detects that the water tank is not reaching the desired temperature within the expected timeframe.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: The heating element is malfunctioning or burnout. This problem might also occur if the SSR controlling the heating element fails to provide sufficient power, preventing proper water heating.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Inspect the heating element for continuity and visible damage. Verify the accuracy and position of the temperature probe. Clean the tank and heating element to remove scale buildup.

The Heater SSR refers to the Solid State Relay (SSR) used to control the heating element. The SSR acts as an electronic switch that regulates power delivery to the heating element, enabling precise temperature control without mechanical wear or arcing that can occur in traditional relays.

Code 201

This code indicates that the heating system is overheating or failing to stabilize, often due to an SSR stuck "on" or thermistor issues. This typically occurs when the SSR fails to shut off power to the heating element, causing excessive heating.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: A failure of the SSR, the high limit thermistor, the temperature probe, or the heating element. Or, the hot water faucet removing the water during the time of heating.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Test the SSR for "leakage" current when it should be off (a common failure mode). Inspect and calibrate the thermistor, ensuring it's securely in place. Test and check the temperature probe. Check the heating elements with a current clamp, and replace if necessary. Advise staff to avoid taking large amounts of hot water from the tank especially during the heating mode.

Code 202

This code indicates that the heater has short circuited or the heating SSR is stuck.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: The heater is turned off but the SSR is still on.

RECOMMENDED FIX: Check the ohms on the heater (they should be between 15-60). If the SSR is stuck in on mode, you might need to replace it.

Code 255

This code indicates a keyboard error on the HID (human interface device).

POSSIBLE CAUSE: This problem usually stems from someone being in contact with the interface for longer than 10 seconds. Otherwise, it might indicate that a service technician didn't reassemble it properly after a service call.

POSSIBLE FIX: Restart the machine. If the error persists, then reload the software. If reloading the software doesn't fix the problem, then you have a mechanical error with the HID and you will need to replace it.

Code NO BSKT

This code indicates that the brew basket is not in its proper place.

CAUSE: For safety reasons, the brew basket must be in place.

FIX: Insert the brew basket onto the brew rails to enable the machine.

Need more help?

We are here for you, even after your purchase! Contact us or chat with us online if you have any further questions. The information above was taken from the Fetco User Manual.

If you need a service technician, you can find one on the Fetco website.

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