If your Samsung dishwasher shows HE or tE, don’t panic. These codes usually point to a problem with the dishwasher’s heating circuit — the part that warms the water and helps dry the dishes. This page explains, in plain American English, what the error means, common causes, how to safely try simple DIY fixes, and how to prevent the problem from coming back. The text alternates between short readable paragraphs and concise lists so it’s easy to scan and friendly for both homeowners and people searching for quick answers.
Quick snapshot — fast facts
- HE / tE = heater error or temperature-sensor error in many Samsung models
- Most often caused by a faulty heating element, thermal fuse, or temperature sensor (thermistor)
- Some fixes are simple checks you can do yourself; others require a technician and tools
- Important: always unplug or turn off power at the breaker before doing any work
What the HE / tE error actually means
Samsung uses different codes depending on model and firmware, but HE and tE are both associated with problems in the part of the dishwasher that manages heating or temperature sensing. The dishwasher heats water for detergent activation and sometimes uses the heater to help dry dishes. If the control board doesn’t see the expected temperature change or detects an electrical fault in the heater circuit, it will throw a heater/temperature error and stop the cycle to protect the appliance.
This error can show up during wash, prewash, or drying stages. Sometimes the machine will run but not clean or dry well; other times it stops and locks until the issue is resolved.
Common causes
- Faulty heating element (burned out or shorted)
- Bad temperature sensor / thermistor (wrong readings)
- Blown thermal fuse or safety thermostat
- Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit
- Control board failure or faulty relay that powers the heater
How you’ll usually notice the problem
You might see one of these symptoms before or along with the HE / tE code: cycles that stop early, no warm water inside the tub, dishes remaining wet after the cycle, or the machine refusing to start certain cycles. Sometimes you’ll smell burning or see visible damage at the element area (rare). If the code appears only occasionally, it may be an intermittent connector or wiring problem; if it’s constant, a component likely needs replacement.
DIY troubleshooting checklist
- Cut power to the dishwasher at the breaker and wait one minute, then restore power and try a cycle (a reset).
- Check for error code history in the user manual or control panel diagnostics (some Samsung models have self-test modes).
- Inspect the heating element for obvious damage or discoloration through the lower access panel.
- Look for loose or corroded wiring at the element, sensor, and control board (only if power is off).
- If you have a multimeter and feel confident, test the heating element and thermistor for continuity/resistance.
How to safely check and test the heater
Never work on a dishwasher while it’s connected to power. Turn off the circuit breaker and confirm the unit is dead. To access the heating element you’ll usually remove the lower kickplate and the access panel under the tub. The heater is commonly a loop or rod in the bottom of the tub or mounted under the tub.
A multimeter can tell you if the element is electrically open (no continuity) or shorted to ground. Typical heating element resistance values vary by model, so consult your model-specific repair manual if you have it; if the element shows infinite resistance it’s failed. Thermistors are usually tested by measuring resistance at room temperature — if the number is wildly off expected values (or open) it needs replacement. If wiring looks melted, brittle, or green with corrosion, that connection should be fixed.
Practical DIY fixes you can try
- Reset the dishwasher power and run a short cycle to see if the code clears. Sometimes a temporary electrical glitch triggers the code.
- Tighten any visible connectors (with power off). A loose wire can cause intermittent errors.
- Replace a clearly damaged heating element or thermistor if you can source the correct Samsung part and have basic tools.
- Clean around the element and connectors — mineral deposits or debris can create poor contact.
- Replace a blown thermal fuse or safety thermostat if the symptom and continuity checks point to it.
If you replace parts yourself, label connectors and take photos before disconnecting. Use only OEM or compatible replacement parts and follow torque and mounting instructions so seals and gaskets remain intact.
Preventive maintenance tips
- Run a cleaning cycle with dishwasher cleaner every 1–3 months to reduce scale buildup
- Use the correct detergent and avoid overfilling the dispenser
- Clean filters and spray arms regularly to ensure proper water flow and heating effectiveness
- Inspect the power cord and visible wiring yearly for wear or moisture damage
- Keep the dishwasher well-ventilated under the sink area so electronics stay dry
Regular simple maintenance prevents many heater-related errors because scale, blocked filters, or poor water flow can make the heater work harder and fail sooner.
When to stop and call a professional
If the error persists after a reset, or you find damaged wiring, or the element or control board tests are inconclusive, it’s time to call a trained appliance technician. Also call a pro if:
- You are uncomfortable working around electrical components
- The multimeter shows confusing results or components test borderline
- There’s evidence of water leaking onto electrical parts
- Replacing the element or sensor doesn’t clear the code
A technician will have the correct diagnostic flow for your Samsung model, can safely test the control board, and will replace parts and seals properly.
Frequently asked questions — quick answers
What’s the difference between HE and tE?
They are different labels Samsung uses for heater/temperature errors depending on model; both indicate a problem in the heating/temperature-sensing circuit.
Can I run the dishwasher without the heater?
You can run some cycles without the heater, but washing and drying performance will be reduced; long-term running without the heater may trigger other faults.
Is a new heating element expensive?
Parts are generally affordable, but cost depends on model and whether you use OEM parts or aftermarket replacements. Labor can be the larger expense if you hire a technician.
Will a blown thermal fuse cause HE/tE?
Yes — a blown safety device can look like a heater fault because the control board sees the circuit open or a temperature reading missing.
Could the control board be the culprit?
Yes, especially if all parts test fine but the board does not command the heater or misreads the sensor.
Final thoughts
The HE / tE error on a Samsung dishwasher usually means a heating or temperature-sensing issue. Start with simple, safe steps: reset power, inspect visible wiring, clean filters, and check the element area. If you’re comfortable with basic tools and a multimeter, test the element and sensor; otherwise, call a qualified technician. Regular maintenance keeps the heating system healthy and reduces the chance of repeat errors. Fixing it promptly ensures your dishwasher cleans and dries dishes efficiently and helps avoid larger electrical or water-damage problems down the road.