How to troubleshoot & fix an HE error on a Samsung dishwasher

One of the common error codes that Samsung dishwashers may display is HE. This error typically pertains to faults within the dishwasher’s heating system. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you through the troubleshooting process.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Samsung dishwasher while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The error code information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What causes the HE error code?

The HE code usually stands for “heater error” on a Samsung dishwasher and usually indicates that the heating system is not working. 

This code is usually triggered when the dishwasher doesn’t detect a temperature increase of more than 7 degrees within the first 10 minutes of the heating cycle. When this happens, some models may display a heater error on the control panel as flashing LEDs for Heavy and Delicate or Heavy and Quick. 

Read more: What is Dishwasher Insulation and Why is it Important?

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs to any appliance parts that hold water. Have towels ready for any residual water in the system when removing parts. 
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Don’t test wiring with a multimeter for live voltage if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting when testing. 
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.

Read more: How to use a multimeter to check appliance parts

How to troubleshoot the HE error

Follow these steps to clear the HE error from your Samsung dishwasher.

Step 1: Inspect the heating element wire connections

When looking for any heating error, the first thing you’ll want to check is the connections that deliver power to the heating element.

Carefully inspect the heating element wires at the heating element itself and the connection to the control board.

Look for:

• Corrosion on the wire terminals or surfaces
• Burnt or discolored wires at the terminals
• Visibly loose, bent, or broken connector pins
• Wires pulled out of connectors 

Reconnect any loose wires and replace any damaged ones as needed. Test the dishwasher after making any repairs to see if the HE error has disappeared.

If the wiring looks good but the HE error still shows up, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Test the heating element

You’ll need to measure the element’s resistance to determine if it’s faulty.

How to test:

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
2. Disconnect the wires leading to the heating element.
3. Set a multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
4. Connect the meter probes across the two heating element terminals.
5. Check the meter reading. The element should have a resistance of approximately 13.5 ohms. If you see a significantly different value, then the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If the heating element tested good, move on to the next step.

Step 3: Check the heater relay

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the dishwasher needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in and powered on.
2. Find the connections T101 and T102 on the main control board. 
3. Set your multimeter to measure AC voltage.
4. Use the meter probes to test for voltage between the T101 and T102 connections while the dishwasher is running.
5. Check the meter reading. You should get 120 Volts AC.

If you’re getting the correct voltage, then the wire harness will need to be replaced. 

If you don’t get 120 Volts, then the main control would need to be replaced.

Read more: How to Clean a Dishwasher

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Samsung dishwasher working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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