Samsung Dishwasher Error Code HE
The dishwasher is unhappy with how the water is heating, either because the temperature it detects does not match reality or because the tub is getting too hot. Samsung's own test is a simple empty cycle; if the code survives that, the heater circuit or its sensor usually needs a technician.
Also shown as: HC
Common causes
- Heating element has failed
- Temperature sensor (thermistor) giving a wrong reading
- Heater relay on the main control board stuck or faulty
- Incoming water already excessively hot
- Poor circulation from clogged filters making hot spots
What to check, in order
- Switch the power off at the breaker for a few minutes, then back on.
- Empty the dishwasher completely, add detergent, and run a normal cycle as a functional test.
- Clean the tub filters so water can circulate over the heater properly.
- Make sure the home water heater is not set excessively hot.
- If the code comes back after the empty test cycle, book service for the heater and sensor circuit.
Clear the code and test
- Fix what the checks above found first — a filter cleaned, a hose straightened, the spray arms freed. Clearing the code without fixing the cause only brings it back.
- Close the door, plug the dishwasher back in (or restore its breaker) and make sure the water tap is open.
- Run the shortest programme and stay nearby for the first minutes, watching for leaks and listening for the drain pump.
- If the programme finishes with no code, the fault is cleared. If the code returns, write down the code and when it appeared before calling a technician — it speeds up the diagnosis.
When to call a professional
This code usually points to a faulty part, wiring or the control board on a Samsung dishwasher. Run the checks above to rule out the simple causes, then book a technician — and book one straight away if any of these apply:
- The code comes back after you have run the checks and a test cycle.
- You smell burning, see sparks or scorch marks, or the breaker trips.
- Water is leaking and you cannot stop it at the tap.
- The fix needs panels opened beyond what your manual describes, or a part tested with a meter, and you are not set up for that.
When you call, give the brand, the code HE, your model number (on a label inside the door or on the back) and the checks you already ran. It shortens the visit.
Repair or replace?
This fault is in professional territory: the fix usually means a major part or board-level work, and the labour adds up. If your machine is already well into its service life, get the repair quote first, then compare it with the price of a current equivalent model before you decide. Paying a large share of a new machine's price to repair an old one is rarely the better deal; replacing a machine over one cheap fault is wasteful too.
Parts that may be involved
Heating elementThermistorMain control board
Parts are model-specific. Find your model number first — usually on a label inside the door, on the door frame or on the back — and match the part to that number before ordering.
Questions people ask about HE
What does HE mean on a Samsung dishwasher?
HE means: Heater error: the water temperature is read incorrectly or runs too hot. The dishwasher is unhappy with how the water is heating, either because the temperature it detects does not match reality or because the tub is getting too hot. Samsung's own test is a simple empty cycle; if the code survives that, the heater circuit or its sensor usually needs a technician.
Can I fix Samsung HE myself?
Only the preliminary checks. Code HE usually means a part, wiring or the control board has failed, which is a technician job. Run the checks to rule out simple causes before you book.
How do I clear Samsung HE?
Fix the cause first — clearing the code on its own brings it straight back. Then restore power and water, run the shortest programme, and watch the stage where the code appeared. If the programme finishes with no code, it is cleared.
Sources checked
- Samsung support: washing machine information codes
- Samsung support: dishwasher information codes
- Samsung support (US): dishwasher troubleshooting
The meaning and checks for this code were checked against the sources above in November 2026. Codes vary by model and region; if your manual lists a different meaning for your exact model, follow the manual.