Scotsman Prodigy Error Code 8
What does it mean when your Scotsman Prodigy ice maker is off on error code number 8. The Prodigy error code indicates that the Prodigy has gone through short freeze cycle, a few times. If the ice machine’s harvest cycle is triggered before 6 minutes into the freeze cycle this error code will occur. Understanding the sequence of operation and component functions will help you understand how to diagnose this problem and how to solve it. One of the first components to look at is
the ice thickness control. You can find it hanging on top of the evaporator plate, behind the ice curtain. This is where the ice is made. The ice thickness control is shown in the picture above. This sensor is fairly close to the evaporator plate and as the ice increases the water flowing over it begins to get closer to the sensor. Once water has made contact with the sensor for a few minutes it will signal the controller that it’s ready to harvest the ice off of the plate.
Now that you are clear on the Scotsman Prodigy error code 8, what could cause it to tell the controller it’s ready for harvest when there is little to no ice? Below are the most common reasons why this occurs.
- The ice thickness control is dirty. Dirty as in, it has slime, debris, or calcium deposits on the sensor bar. This will general cause a false reading. You will need to remove the sensor and clean it with an appropriate food safe cleaner. If it’s mineral or calcium, you will want to soak it for a several minutes in a descaling solution. Afterwards clean with a brush, then rinse and dry.
- Another reason could be improper water flow. Meaning water could be splashing continuously onto the sensor. This could be caused by scale build up in water distributor or the spillway area.
- Next could be the adjustment of the sensor is set too thin, where it is sitting too close or making contact with the evaporator plate. In this case you will need to turn the adjustment screw to back it away from the plate. Once adjusted test operation and adjust until ice proper ice thickness is achieved.
Further Analysis on the Scotsman Prodigy Ice Thickness Control
The control will detect the electrical continuity, made via the water sensed, which in turn triggers the harvest cycle. Since this control works via an electrical continuity it is critical that it is kept clean to prevent a false detection. The “ready to harvest” light on the controller glows red when this control senses continuity. To test, remove the thickness control and touch it to the metal cabinet. The “ready to harvest” light should come on, if it does not then check the wire connections. If you still have the issue afterwards, you may need to replace it or call your local service technician. See the service manual for additional details on the Prodigy Error Code.
Click here for the Scotsman Prodigy Maintenance Manual – PDF
Common Parts Replaced: Water Level and the Ice Thickness Sensors