[jyl]

The refurb unit would be a recent model.

I am not an expert on Hobart models but I believe my machine is from the LX30-40 line, made in the early 1990s(?). They’ve had a couple lines since. The latest LXnR was introduced around 2023(?) and basically added WiFi for parameter setting, reporting, and diagnostics; I guess the idea is you’re the equipment guy for a chain and want to be able to monitor all the Hobart dishwashers chainwide. The “Advansys” LXeR model before that was launched around 2020(?) and introduced energy recovery; the machine somehow harvests energy from the steam created during final 180F rinse, this eliminates the steam otherwise released into the room and allows the machine to use cold supply water instead of the hot supply previously required, it takes that 65F water and brings it to 180F. Those machines have “EnergyStar” labels. The model before that, LXeH, had some automatic features like sensors for clogged arms or deliming needed, and different cycles for light, heavy, pot/pan. My 30(?) year old LX30H machine is very “primitive” with precisely three buttons: ON OFF WASH. It is also built like armor, weighs 200 lb, the door is designed for 300 lb cooks who stand on the open door to reach upper shelves and similar abuse. After the LX30/40, they had the LXI model but I’m not sure what was different about it.

LWJ, thanks for checking Craigslist. The LX30/40 and LXI models are all similar vintage to mine. I suspect they are all getting difficult to service.

Hobart has introduced two cheaper brands to compete with the made-in-China machines that you can get as cheap as $3,000. The Hobart tech told me they have similar internals but lighter-gauge materials and fewer features. The machines I described above are the top range machines that are branded “Hobart”. I hope they haven’t cheapened that range. Hobart still has a good reputation, I think.