Samsung Dishwasher moderate

HE Heater error - water not heating

The Samsung HE error code on your dishwasher indicates: Heater error - water not heating. This typically requires troubleshooting the heating system.

Reported on: DW80R5060USDW80R9950US
Diagnosis

What Causes This Error

1

Heating element burned out

high

The flow-through heater or heating element in the dishwasher sump has failed and can no longer heat wash water.

2

Water temperature sensor fault

medium

The NTC thermistor that monitors water temperature is sending incorrect readings, causing the control board to think the water isn't heating.

3

Control board relay failure

medium

The relay on the main control board that powers the heater has failed.

4

Wiring issue to heater

low

A wire or connector between the control board and heating element is loose, corroded, or broken.

Repair Guide

How to Fix Error HE

  1. 1

    Power cycle the dishwasher

    Turn off the circuit breaker or unplug for 5 minutes, then restore power. This resets the control board and clears transient errors.

  2. 2

    Run a hot water test

    Before starting a cycle, run your kitchen sink hot water until it's hot (this pre-heats the supply line). Then start a cycle. If the error persists, the dishwasher's heater itself has failed.

  3. 3

    Test the heating element

    Disconnect power. Locate the heater (usually accessible from underneath or behind the kick plate). Test with a multimeter — it should read 10-30 ohms. Infinite resistance means it's burned out.

    Always disconnect power before testing electrical components.
  4. 4

    Check wiring connections

    Inspect the wire connectors at the heater terminals. Look for burned, corroded, or loose connections. Reseat firmly.

  5. 5

    Replace the heating element

    If the heater tests open, order a replacement for your model. Samsung dishwasher heaters are typically flow-through style, located in the sump area.

When to Call a Professional

If the heater tests fine but water still isn't heating, suggesting a control board issue

  • Control board relay diagnosis requires specialized tools
  • Flow-through heaters on some models are difficult to access
  • Incorrect diagnosis could lead to expensive unnecessary replacements
Video Repair Guide Search "Samsung dishwasher error HE fix"

Models Affected

DW80R5060USDW80R9950US