# Standing desk error codes: E01, E04, ASR, RST and LOC

Source: https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/standing-desk-error-codes
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Chair and Posture

**In short:** RST means the desk needs a reset: hold the down button until it beeps. LOC means the keypad is locked: hold the unlock key, often M, for several seconds. ASR usually means anti-collision has triggered: clear the obstruction and move the desk. E01 and E04 are commonly linked to motor, cable or control box communication faults: check every cable and reset. Codes vary by controller, so confirm in your manual.

Electric standing desks use a small set of display codes to tell you something is wrong, but the meanings are rarely printed on the desk and they vary between controller makers. Many brands, including Flexispot, Maidesite, Fezibo and others, use controllers that share similar codes. This guide explains what the common codes usually mean and the first fix to try for each. Because brand-specific meanings differ, treat this as a starting point and check your desk's manual or the maker's support pages for your exact model.

## Quick reference

Find your code in the table, try the suggested fix, then read the detail below if it does not clear.

| Code | Usually means | First fix |
| --- | --- | --- |
| RST | Reset required | Hold down until it beeps and nudges |
| LOC | Keypad locked | Hold unlock key (often M) for several seconds |
| ASR | Anti-collision triggered | Clear obstruction, move desk, reset if needed |
| E01 | Often a motor or leg connection fault | Check leg cables, unplug, reset |
| E04 | Often keypad to control box fault | Reseat keypad cable, unplug, reset |
| HOT | Motor protection after heavy use | Leave it to rest, then try again |

Common codes and usual meanings (vary by controller)

## RST: reset required

RST is the most common code. The controller has lost track of the legs' position, often after a power cut, being unplugged mid-movement, or a cable being disturbed. The desk usually only goes down until you reset it.

Hold the down button until the desk reaches its lowest point, and keep holding for roughly 5 to 10 seconds until it beeps and nudges. Release and test. Our [reset guide](https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/how-to-reset-a-standing-desk) covers variations.

## LOC and ASR

LOC means the child or keypad lock is on, so buttons do nothing. On many controllers you hold the M key for several seconds until LOC disappears; on others, a different key or combination is used. Check the manual. The same sequence usually turns the lock back on.

ASR is shown on many controllers when the anti-collision system detects resistance and stops the desk. Look for something blocking the desk: a chair arm, drawer unit, windowsill, cable caught under a leg or an object on a shelf above. Move it, then press up or down to continue. If ASR appears with nothing in the way, uneven load or a sticky leg can trigger it; level the desk, spread heavy items across the top, and try a reset. Some controllers let you adjust collision sensitivity in a settings menu.

## E01, E04 and other E codes

Numbered E codes differ most between brands. On many common controllers, E01 points to a problem with a motor or leg connection, and E04 to a communication fault between the keypad and control box. Other numbers can indicate overload, an unbalanced desk or a leg out of sync. The fix sequence is similar for most of them.

1. Unplug the desk from the wall.
2. Check every cable at the control box, each leg motor and the keypad; unplug and firmly re-seat each one.
3. Look for pinched or damaged cables, especially where they pass the crossbar or legs.
4. Remove some weight if the desk is heavily loaded.
5. Wait a minute, plug back in and perform the hold-down reset.
6. If the code returns, note it and contact the maker with your model number.

Note: Do not open the control box or motors. If a cable is damaged or you smell burning, unplug the desk and contact the maker or a qualified electrician.

## HOT and overheating

Desk motors are designed for short runs, not continuous movement. If you move the desk up and down many times in a row, some controllers show HOT or a similar code and stop to protect the motor. Leave it for a while, often 15 to 20 minutes, then use it normally. Repeated HOT codes in normal use may mean the desk is overloaded or a motor is struggling.

## When to contact the maker

If a code keeps returning after cables are re-seated and a reset is done, the control box, keypad or a motor may be faulty. Many frames carry long frame warranties with shorter terms for motors and electronics; Flexispot, for example, lists 5 years on the frame and 2 years on electronics for its EC5W frame. Have your model number, the code and when it appears ready. See our [desk not working guide](https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/standing-desk-not-working) for wider checks.

[Compare electric standing desks](https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-electric-standing-desks)

## Frequently asked questions

**What does E01 mean on a sit-stand desk?** On many controllers it points to a motor or leg connection fault. Re-seat cables and reset; check your manual for the exact meaning.

**What is an ASR error?** Usually the anti-collision system has stopped the desk. Clear any obstruction and try again.

**How do I clear RST?** Perform the hold-down reset: hold down until the desk beeps and nudges at its lowest point.

**How do I unlock LOC?** Hold the unlock key, often M, for several seconds. Check your keypad's manual.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-electric-standing-desks
- https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/flexispot-standing-desks-compared
- https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-standing-desk-frames

## Sources

- [Flexispot UK](https://www.flexispot.co.uk/)