Electrolux · Dishwasher

E3

Water Not Heating

Severity

Medium

Seeing E3 on your Electrolux Dishwasher display means the appliance self-diagnostic detected "Water Not Heating". Before calling a technician, work through the steps in this guide — the fix is often simpler than you think.

Owner's Summary

Your Electrolux dishwasher is washing with cold water. Dishes won't be properly cleaned or sanitized without heat. The heating element is the most common cause and is an affordable DIY replacement.

Symptoms

Electrolux dishwasher running cold wash cycles, E3 displayed

Common Causes

Failed heating element
Open NTC thermistor
Burned heater relay on control board
Wiring harness open circuit to heater

How to Fix

1 Test heating element continuity — no continuity means element is blown
2 Test NTC thermistor resistance at room temp
3 Inspect wiring harness to heater for burn damage
4 Replace heater element if open circuit
5 Replace PCB if heater and thermistor are good

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter Flashlight

These are simple, low-risk fixes most homeowners can do with tools already in a basic toolbox.

Technical Explanation

E3 on Electrolux indicates the wash temperature did not reach the program target within the maximum heating window. The control board monitors thermistor feedback continuously — failure to achieve the target temperature rise triggers E3 and the heater relay is disabled.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No safety risk. Cold cycles will still run. Fix within a week.

Technician's Pro Tip

Electrolux and Frigidaire dishwashers share many components — the heating element and thermistor part numbers often cross-reference. Searching both brands when sourcing replacement parts can yield significant savings.

Related Codes

E1 — Samsung Dishwasher

Water Supply Error

High

E2 — Samsung Dishwasher

Water Temperature Too High

Medium

E3 — Samsung Dishwasher

Water Not Heating

Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code E3 mean on a Electrolux Dishwasher?

Code E3 on a Electrolux Dishwasher indicates "Water Not Heating." In practice, the most common trigger is failed heating element. Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $20 to $300.

Can I fix E3 myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of E3 can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: test heating element continuity — no continuity means element is blown. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with code E3 showing?

No safety risk. Cold cycles will still run. Fix within a week.

How much does it cost to repair E3 on a Electrolux Dishwasher?

Repair costs for code E3 typically range from $20 to $300. Heating element: $40–$150; Thermistor: $15–$50; PCB: $80–$300. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$20 – $300

Heating element: $40–$150; Thermistor: $15–$50; PCB: $80–$300