Taylor Soft Serve Error Messages Explained
When your Taylor soft serve machine flashes a message on the control screen, it can be confusing and stressful — especially in the middle of a busy shift. Below you’ll find a breakdown of the most common error and warning messages exactly as they appear on the screen (or lights on the panel), what they mean, and what you can do next.
BEATER OVERLOAD
What it means:
The beater motor has tripped due to strain or overload.
Quick Fix:
- Turn the power OFF.
- Press the beater motor reset switch.
- Restart in AUTO mode.
When to Call Service:
If the overload keeps tripping, it may be caused by dull or broken scraper blades, hardened product in the barrel, or motor/capacitor issues. Order Scraper Blades
HPCO COMPRESSOR
What it means:
High-pressure cut-out. The refrigeration system has overheated or lost proper airflow.
Quick Fix:
- Turn the machine OFF.
- Allow at least 5 minutes for the compressor to cool.
- Check for blocked airflow, dirty condenser coils, or poor ventilation.
When to Call Service:
If the error repeats, the refrigeration system may need professional diagnosis.
PRODUCT DOOR OFF
What it means:
The front door isn’t properly installed or detected.
Quick Fix:
- Re-seat the product door and ensure all latches/parts are in place.
- Restart the machine.
When to Call Service:
If the message continues, the door switch or alignment may be faulty. [Link tune-up kit / door parts here]
HOPPER THERMISTOR FAIL
What it means:
The hopper temperature sensor (probe) is not reading correctly.
Sub-Messages:
- SHRT → Shorted probe
- OPEN → Open circuit / disconnected
- OVER → Over-temperature detected
Quick Fix:
- Power cycle the machine.
- Inspect wiring or connections if possible.
When to Call Service:
Probe replacement is usually required. Order a Hopper Probe Here.
BARREL THERMISTOR FAIL
What it means:
The barrel temperature sensor is not reading correctly.
Sub-Messages:
- SHRT → Shorted probe
- OPEN → Open circuit / disconnected
- OVER → Over-temperature detected
When to Call Service:
A replacement barrel probe will be needed. Order a New Probe Here.
MIX LOW (Indicator Light)
What it means:
The hopper mix level is running low.
Quick Fix:
- Add mix to the hopper before it runs out.
MIX OUT (Indicator Light + Audible Alarm)
What it means:
The hopper is empty, and the freezing cycle has shut down to protect the machine.
Quick Fix:
- Refill the hopper with mix.
- Restart in AUTO once filled.
Fault History Abbreviations
The Softech control also logs detailed abbreviations in its fault history. These don’t always display live, but they help diagnose longer-term issues.
- (L/R) HPR>41F (5C) AFTER 4 HR → Hopper temperature stayed above 41°F for 4 hours.
- (L/R) BRL>45F (7C) AFTER 1 HR → Barrel temperature stayed above 45°F for 1 hour.
- (L/R) COMP ON TOO LONG → Compressor ran continuously too long without reaching cycle. Indication of warn Scraper Blades.
Tip: Replace Scraper Blades. If you see these repeatedly, it may point to refrigeration issues, airflow problems, or faulty sensors.