Samsung · Dishwasher

HE

Heater Circuit Error

Severity

Medium

The error code HE on your Samsung Dishwasher indicates a specific system failure categorized as "Heater Circuit Error". This guide walks you through the most likely causes and the correct repair sequence.

Owner's Summary

Your Samsung dishwasher detected a fault in the water heating circuit. Dishes washed without hot water won't be properly cleaned or sanitized. The heating element is the most common cause and is affordable to replace.

Symptoms

Samsung dishwasher not heating water properly, HE code displayed

Common Causes

Heating element open circuit
NTC thermistor failure
PCB heater relay failure
Wiring harness burn or disconnect

How to Fix

1 Test heating element resistance — should read 15–30 ohms
2 Test NTC thermistor at room temperature — should read 10–50k ohms
3 Inspect wiring harness for heat damage
4 Replace heating element if open circuit
5 Replace PCB if element and thermistor test within spec

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

HE is generated when the PCB's heater monitoring circuit detects either an open circuit in the heater path or a thermistor reading that does not change proportionally to heater on-time — indicating the element is present electrically but not producing heat.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

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

Technician's Pro Tip

Before condemning the heater, check the water temperature at the tap connected to the dishwasher. If the water heater is set very low, the dishwasher's own heater may not be able to raise the temperature sufficiently within its time window — causing a false HE code.

Related Codes

E2 — Samsung Washing Machine

Water Supply Error

High

4E — Samsung Washing Machine

No Water Supply Detected

High

5E — Samsung Washing Machine

Drain Error — Water Not Draining

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code HE mean on a Samsung Dishwasher?

Code HE on a Samsung Dishwasher indicates "Heater Circuit Error." In practice, the most common trigger is heating element open circuit. Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $20 to $300.

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

Many cases of HE can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: test heating element resistance — should read 15–30 ohms. 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 HE showing?

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

How much does it cost to repair HE on a Samsung Dishwasher?

Repair costs for code HE typically range from $20 to $300. Heating element: $40–$120; Thermistor: $20–$50; PCB: $120–$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–$120; Thermistor: $20–$50; PCB: $120–$300