Samsung · Washing Machine

HE

Heater Error — Heating Element Fault

Severity

Medium

Seeing HE on your Samsung Washing Machine display means the appliance self-diagnostic detected "Heater Error — Heating Element Fault". Before calling a technician, work through the steps in this guide — the fix is often simpler than you think.

Owner's Summary

Your washer's heating element is not working. In hard water areas, limescale coats the element over time like a thick blanket, making it unable to heat water efficiently. Descaling with citric acid is often cheaper than replacing the element.

Symptoms

Wash water stays cold, Samsung washer taking very long on hot cycles, HE error

Common Causes

Failed heating element (open circuit)
Limescale buildup insulating the heating element
Burned heater relay on PCB
Defective temperature sensor causing premature heater shutoff

How to Fix

1 Test heating element continuity with multimeter — no continuity means element is blown
2 Descale the heating element using citric acid solution if heavily scaled
3 Replace the heating element if it fails continuity test
4 Check and replace PCB if heater relay is burned
5 Replace NTC thermistor if element tests good

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter Vinegar or Descaler

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

Technical Explanation

The heating element is a resistive coil typically rated at 1600–2000W. The PCB enables the heating relay based on NTC feedback. An open-circuit element shows infinite resistance on a multimeter. A shorted element shows near-zero resistance and will trip the circuit breaker.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Safe to use on cold cycles while waiting for repair. Avoid hot and sanitize programs until the heater is fixed.

Technician's Pro Tip

In hard water areas, a heating element can fail within 3–4 years from limescale. Run a monthly drum clean cycle with citric acid or dedicated descaler to extend element life significantly.

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 Washing Machine?

Code HE on a Samsung Washing Machine indicates "Heater Error — Heating Element Fault." In practice, the most common trigger is failed heating element (open circuit). Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $20 to $280.

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 continuity with multimeter — 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 washing machine with code HE showing?

Safe to use on cold cycles while waiting for repair. Avoid hot and sanitize programs until the heater is fixed.

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

Repair costs for code HE typically range from $20 to $280. Descaling: $5; Heating element: $40–$150; PCB relay repair: $80–$280. 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 – $280

Descaling: $5; Heating element: $40–$150; PCB relay repair: $80–$280