The LG Dishwasher Error Code HE indicates that the heating element is not working correctly. When this error happens, the dishwasher will be unable to heat water, or it will overheat it above the optimum temperature of 149-degree Fahrenheit. You will get this error generally at the end of the wash cycle and the start of the dry cycle. You can quickly identify the problem by seeing some clear signs such as the dishes will not dry, or they become too hot.
How To Fix LG Dishwasher Error Code HE
As we have already stated before, the error identifies a problem with the heating circuit. In some scenarios, you may also have to check the control panel and the thermistor. Also, it is worthy to note that the Error code HE occurs on newer models of LG dishwasher as the older one does not have this error in the display panel.
Main causes of the HE Error Code
- The heating element is unable to heat the water.
- The water temperature has become more than 149°F.
So before you start disassembling the LG dishwasher, we recommend you to do some basic troubleshooting and diagnosis. Most of the time, it will solve the issue, and your dishwasher will start working normally again.
Check the Water Supply
You need to check the water supply and see if it is supplying the water at the correct temperature. If the water temperature s more than the dishwasher will not be able to wash dishes properly. So make sure that the temperature of the water supply is less than the optimum temperature.
If you supply the hot water to the dishwasher, it will display the HE error code. We also want to tell you that don’t provide the dishwasher with very cold water as the dishwasher will take a longer time to heat the water and hence thereby to cause the issue.
Reset the LE Error Code
If the water supply has no issues, then you can try by testing the error. Many a time, there will be a short term failure of the control board, and it can be fixed by doing the below steps.
- Press the POWER button to turn the Dishwasher OFF.
- Now, wait for 10-15 seconds.
- Press the POWER button to turn the Dishwasher ON again.
- Start the wash cycle and check if you still get the HE error.
If this is not solving your problem, then you have to check the internal components and wiring of the LG dishwasher.
Loose or Burnt Wiring Harness
Are you observing that water is not becoming hot enough to wash dishes? Then there may be a problem with the wiring connection. You need to check the wiring harness between the pressure switch and the heating element. You should also check the wiring connection to the control panel. Ensure that there is no loose or burnt wire.
For getting access to the electrical circuit, you may have to dismantle the dishwasher. So, it is always better to take the help of an electrician in doing this step. Also, check the insulation is not weak. Due to constant heat, many times, the rubber insulation becomes soft, thereby exposing the wire that can break easily now. You might get other errors as well, along with the LG Dishwasher Error Code HE.
Clogged Filters
if the LG dishwasher not draining water before drying, then it will also show the HE code. This can happen due to clogged filters, drain hose or the drain pump is not working. Check the filter and clean it properly under running water. Please make sure to remove all food particles and debris from it that might be disrupting the flow of water.
You also need to remove clogs from the drain hose. You can use a wet and dry vacuum and attach the hose to it. It will suck all the stuck particles and make the hose clean again.
Faulty Heating Element
If the heating element is faulty, then it won’t be able to heat the water to sufficient temperature for drying and washing the dishes. The dishwasher heating element may be burned out. You can easily identify this by checking if it is visibly broken or burnt. But many times it will difficult to see if its faulty or not. So, take a multimeter to test the heating element.
It is best to perform a continuity test. A continuity test will determine if the continuous electrical path is present in the heating element. If the element has continuity, it should be functioning properly. No continuity means the electrical path is broken, and the element is burned out.
Also, check the resistance with the help of a multimeter. For the most dishwashers, the heating element resistance should be around 12 Ω. If you get high resistance or infinite resistance, the element is faulty, and it’s better to replace it with a new one.
The Thermistor is not working
If the heating element is working correctly, but you are still getting the LG Dishwasher Error Code HE, then you need to check the Thermistor or Temperature Sensor. Use a multimeter and check the resistance at the average room temperature. The resistance between connection should be around 11.320 Ω. If the resistance is too low or too high, then the sensor is not working correctly and needs to be replaced.
The Thermistor is typically located on or near the mounting bracket of the water heater. Sometimes it is not replaceable, and you may have to buy the entire heating unit.
Faulty Control Board Relay
If you observe that the water in the dishwasher is too hot ( More than 149°F), then we suggest you check the control board relay. It will be near the PCB and needs a constant electric current of 500 to 1000W. Many times during power surge, the relay may be burnt or get damaged.
We suggest you buy a new relay board and replace the faulty board with a new one.
We hope that we can help you in solving the error. Do check the LG dishwasher NE error on repairfixit.com. Please check our website for more dishwasher solutions.