# Power Soak Pot and Pan Washing Systems: Use and Care

> Learn how to use and care for Power Soak pot and pan washers. Covers operation, installation, cleaning, and troubleshooting for PS-50 to PS-420 models.

How-to by Norpex. Published 2026-10-15, updated 2026-10-15.
Canonical: https://norpex.ca/guides/power-soak-pot-and-pan-washers-guide

![Stainless steel Power Soak sink system with a drainboard and pre-rinse faucet](https://norpex.ca/m/a2/33/a233a5548e5a7961287fedd640012df3dbd42b53d1b68e6ef9f0b4cc6d7b88cc.jpg)

Pictured: [Power Soak – PS-300](https://norpex.ca/product/power-soak-ps-300)

This guide explains how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot Power Soak pot and pan washing systems, covering daily use, chemical requirements, and routine care for models PS-50 through PS-420.

## Key takeaways

- Power Soak systems use continuous motion and random loading to clean pots and pans without racks.
- Always use a low-foaming, metal-safe detergent and consult a chemical provider for proper sanitizer.
- Installation must be performed by a qualified, licensed installer to local code.
- Daily cleaning of liquid level sensors and monthly motor fan shroud cleaning keep the system reliable.
- For service, contact the manufacturer's authorized service network.

## How Power Soak washing works

Power Soak pot, pan and utensil washing systems use a continuous motion, random loading design. Unlike rack-style dishwashers, items are placed directly into the wash sink one at a time and circulate freely in the water. The video 'An Overview of Power Soak Operation' demonstrates this process.

The systems covered in this guide include the PS-50, PS-100, PS-200, PS-225, PS-275, PS-300, PS-400 and PS-420. The PS-50 operator manual (part number 33019) covers the PS-50. The PS-100 service manual (part number 50826) covers the PS-100. The PS-300 is the Power Prep system; its installation and operator manual (part number 41654) covers it. The PS-400 and PS-420 are covered by the installation manual (part number 51967) and the operator manual (part number 51966). For the PS-200, PS-225 and PS-275, the manufacturer's manual for the specific model provides detailed instructions.

A typical Power Soak system includes a wash sink with water jets, a rinse sink, and a sanitizer sink. The wash sink water is heated to approximately 115°F (48°C) and contains a low-foaming detergent. After washing, items are rinsed in fresh water and then submerged in a chemical sanitizer solution. The system is designed to run continuously during service, with items loaded and unloaded without stopping the pump.

## Installation requirements

Installation of a Power Soak system must be performed by a qualified, licensed installer in accordance with all applicable local codes. The installation manuals for the PS-300 and PS-400/420 provide detailed steps. Before uncrating, verify the system direction (left-to-right or right-to-left) and the electrical requirements on the machine identification tag.

Water supply lines must be ½ inch diameter or larger. The centre lines of the hot and cold water supply must be 10 inches or less above the floor to access shutoff valves. Install new ½ inch or larger ball-valve shutoff valves. The waste drain must be a minimum of 1½ inches in diameter, with its centre line 11 inches or less above the floor to allow proper drainage. A grease trap that meets local plumbing codes may be required.

Electrical installation requires a dedicated circuit and a permanently mounted disconnect in a liquid-tight enclosure. Do not use a power cord and plug or an extension cord. The PS-300 installation manual states that a NEMA 3X disconnect should be incorporated in the fixed wiring, and a water-tight disconnect box with switch may be supplied. The PS-400/420 installation manual also warns against using a power cord and specifies that all electrical connections must be liquid tight and readily accessible for inspection. A licensed electrician must determine the appropriate breaker and wire size based on the machine's electrical rating.

If the system includes a Power Soak brand chemical dispenser, it must be bolted to the underside of the front rim and connected to the chemical injectors. The chemical supplier must finalize the setup of the dispensing system. For any other chemical dispensing system, follow the manufacturer's installation guide.

## Daily operation

At the start of each day or shift, fill the sinks with water at the correct temperatures. The PS-50 and PS-100 manuals specify wash sink water at 115°F (48°C), rinse sink at 75°F (24°C), and sanitizer sink at 75°F (24°C). The PS-400/420 operator manual gives the same temperatures. Fill each tank to the waterline mark; do not overfill. If the wash sink has dual waterlines, use the upper line when washing sheet pans held in racks and the lower line for all other purposes.

Add detergent to the wash sink and sanitizer to the sanitizer sink only after the sinks are filled. Never add concentrated chemicals to an empty tank. The detergent must be low-foaming, safe for human hands, and metal/aluminum-safe. Consult a chemical provider for the correct detergent and sanitizer, including the required concentration and sanitizer submersion time to meet local health codes. The PS-100 manual notes that the machine can use two types of detergent: one for normal cleaning and one for deep cleaning.

To start the wash action on a PS-50, turn the ON/OFF switch to ON. On a PS-100, press the green Start button; if the water temperature is below 104°F, the wash tank heater will warm it to 115°F. The PS-400 and PS-420 are run from on-screen prompts. After loading, the PS-400 displays a Standard Wash Cycle screen; the PS-420 offers a choice between Standard Wash and Deep Clean Wash. The maximum wash water temperature for a standard cycle is 115°F (46°C) and for a deep clean cycle is 128°F (53°C). The screen guides the user through filling, starting, and draining.

Load pots and pans immediately after scraping off excess debris. Do not overload the wash sink; if items are stationary above the waterline, remove some. Separate nested items. Place utensils and small wares in the utensil basket. Never wash knives or sharp objects. The system is designed to run continuously; typical wash times range from three to fifteen minutes. After washing, rinse items thoroughly by spraying or dipping in the rinse sink, then submerge in the sanitizer solution for the required time. Dry on a clean drain board. For heavily soiled items, a deep clean or 'night wash' can be run by leaving the system on overnight.

## The Advanced Wash Insert and silverware pre-wash

The Advanced Wash Insert (AWI) is an accessory that provides a designated area for washing utensils and small items. The video 'Advanced Wash Insert (AWI) Assembly and Daily Cleaning' shows how to assemble and clean the AWI. Daily cleaning of the AWI is essential to maintain performance.

The Silverware Pre-Washing System uses a vortex of high-volume, self-heated, agitating water and detergent to pre-wash silverware. The video 'Silverware Pre-Washing System by Power Soak' demonstrates this system. It increases the consistency and quality of silverware cleanliness before final washing.

## Cleaning and routine care

Routine preventative maintenance keeps the Power Soak system reliable. The PS-100 service manual outlines daily, monthly, and as-needed tasks. Daily: clean the liquid level sensors located on the side walls of the wash and sanitizer tanks. These are white plastic discs with metal centres. Clean the sensor faces thoroughly with a washcloth and soapy water. If the sensors are not cleaned regularly, the machine may fail to operate or run without water, causing serious damage.

Monthly: turn off the power at the main breaker. Clean the pump motor fan shroud—the vented cover at the end of the motor closest to the control panel—with a damp, soapy cloth or a stiff bristle brush and vacuum. This prevents grease and dust from blocking airflow. The motor bearings are permanently sealed and do not need greasing. Also clean the heating element: remove the cover plate in the slanted surface of the back wall of the wash tank, remove debris, and reinstall the cover plate.

As needed, de-lime the wash tank using a de-liming agent safe for plastics and stainless steel. Fill the tank with the mixture, turn on the pump to circulate it, then drain and rinse. The PS-400/420 operator manual instructs users to drain and clean all sinks at the end of each wash cycle. After draining, the screen resets for the next cycle.

## Troubleshooting common issues

The PS-100 service manual's troubleshooting tables are written for qualified service personnel; the checks below are the ones an operator can safely make. If the wash pump will not operate, first check that the water is filled to the waterline and that the liquid level sensor is clean and its LED is illuminated. If the sensor is clean but the LED is off, the sensor may need replacement. Other causes include a blown 3-amp fuse, a defective pump contactor, or a tripped thermal overload.

If the motor starts but makes noise, debris may be lodged in the pump housing, or the motor fan cover may be dented or clogged. Turn off power at the circuit breaker before inspecting. If the motor runs but there is little water flow, the impeller key may have fallen out, the impeller may be broken, or the motor may be rotating in the wrong direction (only after installation or replacement). A qualified electrician must correct wiring.

If the water gets too hot and stops the machine, the detergent may be creating too much foam, which insulates the tank and reduces pump efficiency. Switch to a low-foaming detergent or reduce the amount used. If the chemical dispenser pump runs but does not pump, check for a punctured hose or an improperly seated fitting. For any issue not resolved by these checks, contact the manufacturer's authorized service network. The manufacturer's manual for your specific model provides complete troubleshooting steps.

## Service and support

All service and repairs should be performed by the manufacturer's authorized service network. For questions about a particular model or to order parts, ask Norpex. Norpex is an online store and does not provide installation, service, or repair.

## Videos from the maker

- [An Overview of Power Soak Operation](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nY2W8gMhz8) (Power Soak)
- [Advanced Wash Insert (AWI) Assembly and Daily Cleaning](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY_rysML22c) (Power Soak)
- [Silverware Pre-Washing System by Power Soak](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtRcmTBnLn8) (Power Soak)

## Common questions

### What type of detergent should I use in a Power Soak system?

Use a low-foaming detergent that is safe for human hands and metal/aluminum-safe. It should have good grease-cutting ability without an excessively high or low pH. Consult a chemical provider for a suitable product. The PS-100 manual notes that two types can be used: one for normal cleaning and one for deep cleaning.

### How often should I change the wash water?

Most chemical companies recommend changing the wash water approximately every four hours, but this can vary. Check with your chemical provider and local health department requirements. The sanitizer solution also needs periodic replacement as directed by the chemical supplier.

### Can I wash silverware and small items in the Power Soak?

Yes, but always use the utensil basket or the Advanced Wash Insert (AWI). Do not place small items like spoons, forks, or scrub pads directly into the wash sink, as they can damage the machine or cause injury. The Silverware Pre-Washing System is a separate accessory designed specifically for silverware.

### What water temperatures are required for each sink?

The wash sink should be filled with water at approximately 115°F (48°C). The rinse sink and sanitizer sink should be at about 75°F (24°C). For deep clean cycles on PS-420 models, the wash water can be up to 128°F (53°C). The manuals warn that wash sink water can exceed 120°F (49°C), so wear personal protective equipment.

### How do I clean the liquid level sensors?

Daily, clean the white plastic discs with metal centres on the side walls of the wash and sanitizer tanks. Use a washcloth and soapy water. If not cleaned regularly, the machine may fail to operate or run without water, causing serious damage.

## Related guides

- [Commercial Sinks Explained: Compartment, Hand and Prep Sinks](https://norpex.ca/guides/commercial-sink-guide)
- [Commercial Dishwasher Buying Guide: Undercounter, Door-Type or Conveyor](https://norpex.ca/guides/commercial-dishwasher-buying-guide)

## Shop the catalogue

- [Dishwashers](https://norpex.ca/products/dishwashers)
- [Sink Accessories](https://norpex.ca/products/sink-accessories)