Introduction
As the owner or operator of a medical aesthetics practice, few things disrupt your day more than seeing an error code appear on your laser’s screen. The Cutera Enlighten and Enlighten III systems are powerful, high-precision devices — but like all advanced technology, they occasionally trigger internal fault codes to protect the machine and operator.
Unfortunately, many clinics are left in the dark when this happens. Most manuals provide only vague definitions, leaving you unsure whether you can resolve the issue yourself or if it’s time to call for service.
That’s where Amtech Medical comes in. We’ve built the most complete and clinic-focused reference for Cutera Enlighten error codes available anywhere online.
Understanding the Cutera Enlighten System
The Cutera Enlighten is a dual-wavelength picosecond and nanosecond laser platform designed for tattoo removal, pigmentation correction, and aesthetic rejuvenation. It operates using high-energy pulses to target pigment and tissue chromophores with extreme precision.
Because it runs at such high power, the laser continuously monitors internal systems — including cooling, temperature, footswitch, optics, and power supply. When any parameter drifts outside of normal range, it displays an error code to prevent unsafe operation.
What to Do When an Error Code Appears
If your Enlighten shows an error message:
- Stop treatment immediately.
- Record the code shown on the screen (e.g., 1300 or 1700).
- Do not continue operation until you determine whether it’s user-fixable.
- Use the table below to identify the issue and next steps.
If the code says “Call for service”, power down your system and contact Amtech Medical for professional diagnosis. Continuing to use the machine can cause permanent damage or void manufacturer service coverage.
Complete List of Cutera Enlighten Error Codes and What to Do
| Code | User Fixable? | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 1004 | No | Footswitch need to be serviced. Call to see if we can help |
| 1005 | Yes | Make sure footswitch is connected. Restart machine |
| 1006 | No | Call for service |
| 1007 | Yes | Footswitch is active. Make sure it’s not compressed, unplug and reinsert, restart machine, call if problem persists |
| 1010 | No | Call for service |
| 1100 | No | Call for service |
| 1115 | No | Call for service |
| 1120 | No | Call for service |
| 1125 | No | Call for service |
| 1150 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1155 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1200–1212 | No | Phone support may be available. Call for service |
| 1220–1230 | No | Phone support may be available. Call for service |
| 1250–1256 | No | Phone support may be available. Call for service |
| 1300 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1310 | Yes | Make sure water tank is full and restart laser |
| 1320 | Yes | Make sure water tank is full and restart laser |
| 1330 | Potentially | Make sure air filter is clean and room is not too hot |
| 1331 | Potentially | Make sure air filter is clean and room is not too cold |
| 1340 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1341 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1350 | Potentially | Make sure room is not too hot |
| 1352 | No | Call for service |
| 1400 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1410 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1500 | No | Call for service |
| 1505 | No | Call for service |
| 1510 | No | Call for service |
| 1512 | No | Call for service |
| 1516 | No | Call for service |
| 1517 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1518 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1520 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1521 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1525 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1526 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1530 | No | Call for service |
| 1540 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1541 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1550 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1551 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1600 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1601 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1602 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1603 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1610 | No | Call for service |
| 1611 | No | Call for service |
| 1612 | No | Call for service |
| 1700 | Yes | Turn off and let laser cool down. Make sure there is sufficient coolant |
| 1701 | Yes | Turn off and let laser cool down. Make sure there is sufficient coolant |
| 1702 | Yes | Turn off and let laser cool down. Make sure there is sufficient coolant |
| 1703 | Yes | Turn off and let laser cool down. Make sure there is sufficient coolant |
| 1710 | No | Call for service |
| 1711 | No | Call for service |
| 1712 | No | Call for service |
| 1713 | No | Call for service |
| 1714 | No | Call for service |
| 1720 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1721 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1722 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1723 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1800–1810 | No | Call for service |
| 1900–1902 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1910–1911 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1920–1921 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1930–1931 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1950 | Yes | Remove and reinsert the handpiece lens |
| 1960 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1970–1971 | Potentially | Restart machine and call if problem persists |
| 1980–1992 | No | Call for service |
| 1999 | No | Call for service |
| 2000–2002 | No | Call for service |
| 2010–2011 | No | Call for service |
| 2020 | Yes | Let unit cool down and restart |
How Amtech Medical Helps Clinics Nationwide
Amtech Medical provides specialized service, repair, and preventive maintenance for medical, aesthetic, and dermatology equipment — including Cutera Enlighten systems. Our technicians are trained to diagnose laser issues quickly, minimize downtime, and extend equipment life.
Through our Amtech Preferred Program, clinics get access to:
- Priority service response times
- Free loaner equipment when available
- Preventive maintenance visits
- Flat-rate repair options and discounted parts
- Multi-device coverage (Candela, Cutera, Cynosure, and more)
When a Cutera Enlighten error code appears, we can often troubleshoot remotely or dispatch a certified technician the same day.
Preventing Future Errors
Many of the most common error codes can be prevented with regular care and a stable clinical environment:
- Keep air filters clean and unobstructed.
- Maintain a temperature-controlled laser room (65–75 °F).
- Use distilled water or manufacturer-approved coolant.
- Ensure proper grounding and surge protection.
- Schedule preventive maintenance every 6–12 months.
FAQ — Cutera Enlighten Error Codes
1. Can I clear an error code myself?
Yes, some minor codes (like 1005 or 1310) can be cleared by restarting or reconnecting components. However, if the same code reappears, stop and contact Amtech Medical.
2. How do I know if my Enlighten requires service?
If the screen says “Call for Service” or if error codes reoccur frequently, it’s a sign that a subsystem is failing and needs inspection.
3. Can I keep using the laser while an error code is active?
No. The system enters a fault state to protect itself — using it may cause additional damage or trigger safety interlocks.
4. Does Amtech service only Cutera lasers?
No. We also service Candela, Cynosure, Lumenis, Sciton, and other leading aesthetic platforms nationwide.
5. How soon can a technician come out?
Most service requests are scheduled within 24–48 hours, and phone support is available immediately for troubleshooting.
Final Thoughts
The Cutera Enlighten remains one of the most reliable and advanced laser platforms in the medical-aesthetic field — but like any precision device, it depends on careful handling and timely maintenance. Understanding these error codes can save you time, money, and potential equipment damage.
If your system displays any code marked as “Call for Service,” contact Amtech Medical right away. Our expert technicians can guide you through next steps or schedule on-site service to get your clinic running smoothly again.
