Quick answer
The Samsung dishwasher HE error code means temperature is being detected incorrectly in Samsung’s current US guidance. It does not prove a failed heater. Empty the dishwasher, add detergent, and run Normal as directed. If HE returns, switch the breaker off and arrange service. Heater, sensor, wiring, and control checks must match the exact model; HE1 should not be assumed to mean overheating on every machine.
Cold dishes and a stopped cycle can make a new heater seem like the obvious purchase. The Samsung dishwasher HE error code needs a closer diagnosis first: the element, its connections, the temperature signal, and the control all matter to the heating system.
What does the exact code mean on your machine? Related HE codes have model-specific meanings, so record the full display and model number. Follow the matching troubleshooting instructions before resetting a recurring fault.
The sections below cover those meanings, the recommended response, power-off testing, and a scoped replacement example. You’ll also find the related codes and the signs that call for professional service.
Quick Facts
Use these details to plan the work:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 45 to 90 minutes
- Tools: Multimeter, suitable Phillips or Torx drivers, pliers, and towels
- Part cost: Varies by model and failed component
- Skill level: Intermediate for electrical diagnosis and heater work
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What Do the HE and HE1 Error Codes Mean on a Samsung Dishwasher?
Samsung’s US guidance defines HE as incorrect temperature detection. Other regional or model manuals may group HE variants as heating-system faults. HE1 is not a reliable universal label for overheating. Use your model’s manual before interpreting the suffix or choosing test points.
The control relies on several parts to manage temperature.
- Heating element: Adds heat to the wash water.
- Thermistor: A temperature sensor that reports changes to the control.
- Heater relay: The electrical switch that turns heater power on and off.
- Harness: The wiring and connectors joining those parts.
What Causes an HE Heater Error on a Samsung Dishwasher?
A failed element, damaged connection, or incorrect sensor reading can cause a heating fault. Low water level can also affect the heater, so the rest of the wash pattern matters.
Use this table to connect a possible fault with a useful check.
| Possible Cause | Evidence to Check |
|---|---|
| Failed heating element | Isolated resistance outside the model’s range |
| Open or faulty thermistor | Reading outside its temperature chart |
| Burnt harness connector | Heat damage, corrosion, loose or broken contacts |
| Heater relay or control fault | Required heater output absent after circuit checks |
| Low water level | Inadequate fill affecting the heated wash |
How Do You Reset a Samsung Dishwasher HE Error Code?
Follow the US HE troubleshooting sequence before considering a reset.
Run the Recommended Empty Normal Cycle
- Record the code and model number before clearing anything.
- Empty the dishwasher and add dishwasher detergent.
- Run a Normal cycle with all covers fitted.
- If HE returns, switch the breaker off and contact service.
Do not substitute repeated short cycles or a generic five-minute reset for the HE instructions. Stop immediately for smoke, damaged wiring, overheating, or a visible leak. Regional instructions can differ, so use the guidance for your machine.
How to Test the Samsung Dishwasher Heating Element With a Multimeter Step by Step
Use power-off tests first. The replacement example below is for the DD47-00008A heater design, as fitted to Samsung DW80F600UTS/AA-00. Confirm your complete model and revision before ordering or dismantling anything.
Phase 1: Isolate and Check the Heater Circuit
- Disconnect electrical power and shut off water before opening panels.
- Inspect heater, sensor, and control connections for burns, corrosion, or damaged contacts.
- Photograph connections before disconnecting the heater leads.
- Measure resistance across the isolated heater and compare with its model specification. OL indicates an open circuit; a finite reading alone does not establish correct operation.
- Have damaged terminals repaired before fitting a new heater. Leave powered relay and sensor diagnosis to a trained technician.
Phase 2: Remove the Confirmed Failed DD47-00008A Heater
Use this sequence only on the matching design. A qualified person must handle hardwired connections.
- Remove racks, supply tube, lower wash arm, and pump cover.
- Remove the access panel; disconnect supply, drain, and electrical connections. Record wiring.
- Release mounts, lower legs, and pull forward without catching hoses.
- Lay it on its back. Remove control and inner covers, disconnect the leak sensor, and remove the bottom panel.
- Disconnect heater wires, remove the ground screw, and undo the plate’s 10 mm nut.
- Stand the machine upright and lift the heater out from inside.
Phase 3: Install, Reassemble, and Check for Leaks
- Fit the heater into its housing. Tip back, secure the plate and nut, then reconnect ground and heater wires.
- Reconnect the leak sensor; refit covers with wiring clear.
- Stand upright, route hoses and cable, slide in, level, and secure mounts.
- Reconnect drain high loop, electrical strain relief, recorded wiring, and supply. Refit panels.
- Refit pump cover, arm, tube, and racks. Restore supplies; check for leaks and normal operation.
A different heater arrangement needs its own removal procedure. Do not bypass a leak sensor or restore power while covers or grounding connections are missing.
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Ask the forum →80,000+ solved repair threads · no account needed to readWhat Does the LC Error Code Mean on a Samsung Dishwasher?
The LC code concerns moisture detected by the leak sensor in the base pan. It is different from a heater fault, even if both appear during the same repair.
Consider these points before restarting.
- Water left after a repair can reach the base pan.
- A leaking heater seal or another water connection may keep the sensor active.
- Drying the pan does not repair a continuing leak.
- The leak source needs correction before a safe reset and test.
Why might LC appear after heater work? Water connections or seals may have been disturbed. Keep the dishwasher off while finding the leak rather than assuming the sensor is simply being troublesome.
What Are the Other Common Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes?
Use the code as a starting point and confirm its exact meaning for the full model.
| Code | General Direction | First Check |
|---|---|---|
| HE | Incorrect temperature detection in US guidance | Empty Normal cycle, then service if repeated |
| HE1 | Model-specific heating-system code | Exact model manual before diagnosis |
| LC | Moisture in base | Leak source |
| OC, 0C, oE | Overlevel water | Water level and inlet system |
| 4C | Water supply | Supply and fill path |
| 5C | Drain fault | Drain path |
| 7E | WaterWall movement on equipped models | Movement obstruction |
| 3C | Circulation motor | Motor circuit |
Should You Repair the Heater or Replace the Dishwasher?
A confirmed heater fault may be worth repairing on a machine with a sound tub and no other major trouble. Compare the whole repair when more than one fault is present.
- Heating element: Get a current model-specific quote after confirming failure.
- Control board: Price this only after heater, sensor, and wiring checks support replacement.
- Dishwasher over eight years old: Consider its overall condition and other repairs.
- LC and HE together: Include the leak repair and any water damage in the estimate.
FAQ
When Should You Call a Technician for a Samsung Dishwasher HE Error?
Call before live relay testing if you do not have the required electrical skills. Overheating, damaged wiring, and a continuing leak also call for service.
Can HE Appear If the Water Supply Is Too Cold?
Cold incoming water can make heating more demanding, but it does not prove the supply is the only cause. A recurring code still needs the model’s heater and sensor checks.
Does HE Stop the Cycle Completely?
The response depends on the model and the fault detected. A stopped cycle should not be repeatedly restarted when the heater circuit has not been checked.
Clearing the HE Code and Getting Hot Water Back in the Wash
A recurring Samsung dishwasher HE error code needs a confirmed repair. The Samsung dishwasher HE error code can return if a leak or damaged wire remains. A clear code should come with a normal heated wash.
Find the heating element or sensor matched to your full Samsung model number after the failed part is confirmed.
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