LG Dishwasher HE Code: Why It Happens and Quick Fixes

I noticed the HE code on an LG dishwasher right after loading it with dishes from a small family dinner, and it instantly felt like the night was about to get longer. I paused for a moment because the machine had worked fine the day before, so the code felt random. I wondered if the dishwasher was trying to tell me something simple or something expensive. I opened the door, stared at the display, and thought, “Alright, what now?”

You can clear an HE code by checking water temperature settings inside your home, confirming the hot water reaches the dishwasher quickly, inspecting the heater assembly for signs of wear, looking at wiring around the heater, resetting the control board, and giving the machine a full cleaning to keep buildup away. Each step helps narrow down the real cause so the fix becomes faster and far less stressful.

Checking Water Temperature Matters More Than You Think

I once watched a friend run her LG dishwasher with lukewarm water because her water heater sat far from the kitchen, and it always caused slow heat-up issues. I remember how she laughed when I said the HE code would probably appear soon, and sure enough, it did. The dishwasher expected hot water fast, yet the line delivered a weak start. Many people never realize how much the initial water temperature matters.

Many HE code issues trace back to water that arrives too cool for the heater to manage efficiently. A dishwasher can heat water, but it still relies on a decent starting temperature. I often suggest running the kitchen faucet until it turns hot before starting the cycle. This tiny move gives the machine a head start and helps prevent temperature-related faults that feel mysterious.

Your dishwasher compares expected heat levels to actual results during the cycle. A sudden temperature drop or slow rise triggers the HE code. You can test your hot water with a simple thermometer and see if it reaches at least 120°F. This quick check can confirm whether the issue starts outside the dishwasher or inside its components.

You may also want to inspect your water heater settings if the temperature feels inconsistent. A water heater set too low forces the dishwasher to work harder than it should. You gain more stability by keeping the temperature steady and ensuring hot water travels through clean, unclogged lines.

• Hot water reaching at least 120°F helps prevent HE codes
• Running the faucet first speeds up heat delivery
• Low water heater settings often trigger slower heating
• Long water lines can reduce water temperature significantly

Looking Closely at the Heater Assembly

I visited someone’s home once where the dishwasher kept flashing HE even though the water temperature tested perfectly fine. I decided to pull the machine forward and remove the lower panel. We found the heater assembly covered with minerals and dark spots. The owner looked surprised because the dishwasher still looked clean inside. Small issues outside the tub can stay invisible for years.

Many LG models use an internal heater assembly built into the sump area. When this part weakens, the dishwasher struggles to raise the temperature fast enough. You may notice longer cycle times as well. I usually suggest shining a flashlight into the base area around the filter to look for discoloration or buildup. This gives subtle hints about how the heater is performing.

Your heater assembly can fail from age, hard water, or electrical connection problems. Sometimes the part still warms slightly but fails to reach the required levels. You can feel the base of the tub after a heated cycle—carefully—to see whether warmth seems uneven. This small test helps you understand whether the heater is doing its job or barely working.

You might consider replacing the heater assembly if it shows obvious wear. Many homeowners save money by swapping the part themselves with basic tools. The fix often clears the HE code instantly because the dishwasher finally gets the consistent heat it expects.

• Mineral buildup reduces heater efficiency
• Weak heaters cause slow temperature rise
• Discolored components signal wear or overheating
• Replacing the assembly often resolves recurring HE codes

Confirming Wiring and Connections Stay Tight

I remember tightening a loose wire on an older LG model after the owner insisted everything else had been checked already. The HE code kept returning, and frustration had reached a peak. A simple wiggle test revealed movement on a connector leading to the heater circuit. That tiny gap caused inaccurate readings and made the machine think the heater had failed.

Your dishwasher relies on solid wiring connections to communicate temperature changes. A loose or damaged wire creates resistance, which leads to false temperature faults. You can disconnect power, remove the base panel, and inspect the wiring harness visually. Look for burnt spots, exposed copper, or clips that feel loose enough to move with light pressure.

You may catch a faint smell of heat damage if something has been arcing slightly. This smell often appears stronger after a long cycle. I suggest gently pressing connectors into place to confirm they sit firmly. Any connector that slips off or feels loose may cause intermittent HE code issues.

A secure wiring setup supports proper heater performance. You reduce the chance of false signals and protect the control board from stress. This small inspection takes only a few minutes but often reveals the root cause before you spend money on parts unnecessarily.

• Loose wires cause false heater failures
• Burn marks indicate past overheating
• Firm connectors help maintain accurate readings
• Harness inspections save money on unnecessary repairs

Checking the Control Board for Glitches

I once reset a control board in an LG dishwasher after everything else checked out, and the customer looked doubtful until the code vanished. I explained how tiny electrical hiccups can freeze incorrect data inside the board. The dishwasher then repeats the same error even after the original issue disappears. A simple reset allows the machine to start fresh.

Your control board handles temperatures, sensors, and heater timing. A glitch in data storage can cause misleading HE codes. You can try disconnecting power for at least five minutes. This gives the board enough time to drain leftover charge and reboot. Many people skip this step but later admit a power reset saved a service call.

You may notice odd behavior alongside the HE code such as unusual beeps or cycles stopping abruptly. These signs point to a confused board rather than a hardware problem. A reset gives the software a chance to re-sync with the heater and sensors fully. Sometimes the machine needs nothing more than a clean reboot.

You might consider replacing the control board if resets only help temporarily. Boards age like any other component. Replacing it adds reliability and prevents repeat HE codes. You should always confirm wiring and the heater first so you avoid replacing a board unnecessarily.

• Power resets clear software glitches
• Odd noises often indicate board confusion
• Re-syncing sensors resolves false HE codes
• Board replacements help when symptoms keep returning

Cleaning Filters and Spray Arms for Better Heat Flow

I visited someone’s home where the dishwasher struggled with heating even though everything looked connected and functional. Grease and debris blocked the lower spray arm holes, so water barely reached the sensors evenly. The HE code appeared because the heater operated without proper circulation. The fix came from cleaning the spray system instead of replacing parts.

Your dishwasher relies on steady water movement to heat accurately. Blocked filters reduce flow and force the heater to work harder. I often remove the filter basket and rinse every section under warm water. Food particles hide under the mesh, so a gentle scrub usually reveals more debris than expected.

You also benefit from checking the spray arms closely. A toothpick or thin tool helps clear clogged holes. Better flow ensures temperature readings stay consistent during the wash. Many people skip this maintenance yet wonder why temperature faults keep showing up. A quick cleaning often leads to better heat distribution.

Your tub interior may also contain soap residue if you use too much detergent. This buildup interferes with sensors over time. Running a dishwasher cleaner once a month keeps internal pathways clear and supports accurate heating throughout every cycle.

• Clogged filters disrupt heat circulation
• Spray arm blockages affect temperature readings
• Residue around sensors causes inaccurate data
• Routine cleaning prevents recurring HE codes

Noticing When the Dishwasher Needs Professional Help

I once met someone who replaced parts quickly without diagnosing the full issue and ended up spending more than needed. Their HE code returned because a small sensor misread temperatures, not the heater. Professionals can spot subtle sensor issues faster because they look at live data. You gain clarity from a proper diagnosis when common fixes don’t solve the problem.

Your dishwasher depends on heating sensors that track changes throughout the cycle. When these sensors weaken, they send misleading signals that trigger the HE code. You might notice unusual cycle lengths or inconsistent drying performance. These signs point to problems beyond simple cleaning or resets. You gain peace of mind by having a technician test the components with proper tools.

You may hear quiet clicking noises or buzzing sounds near the control panel when sensors misbehave. A technician can identify whether the sound indicates a failing relay or a temperature probe issue. This targeted inspection prevents unnecessary heater replacements that don’t fix the root cause.

A professional visit becomes helpful when your dishwasher repeatedly flashes the HE code despite your efforts. You save time by letting someone run diagnostics and confirm whether a single part or multiple components need attention. The right fix restores reliability and extends the life of your dishwasher.

• Sensor faults trigger persistent HE codes
• Unusual cycle times suggest deeper issues
• Technicians measure real-time temperature data
• Professional diagnosis prevents unnecessary spending

Final Thoughts

Many HE code issues on LG dishwashers come from simple temperature or circulation problems rather than major failures. You can handle most causes at home with checks, cleaning, and basic inspections. You gain confidence each time you narrow down the issue step by step. Your dishwasher eventually runs smoothly again once the heat system receives proper support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for the HE code to appear only once?

It may appear once if the issue came from a temporary temperature drop or a brief glitch in the control board. You might see this happen after someone uses hot water elsewhere in the house at the same moment. The dishwasher may have received cooler water than expected and triggered the code. You can run the faucet first before starting the machine to see if the code disappears. You may also reset the unit to confirm the issue was temporary.

Is it dangerous to run the dishwasher when the HE code appears?

It may not be physically dangerous, but it can stress the heater and shorten its lifespan. You avoid damage by stopping the cycle and checking the water temperature and filters. The HE code often means the heater worked harder than expected. You can confirm whether the machine heats properly by running a short cycle after clearing the issue. You protect the dishwasher by avoiding repeated cycles with the error active.

Can low water pressure trigger an HE code?

It can contribute because weak pressure reduces circulation and slows down heat distribution. Your heater might work fine, yet the temperature reaches sensors unevenly due to weak flow. You might notice spray arms struggling or dishes coming out less clean. You can check your kitchen faucet pressure to compare. You can also clean filters and spray arms to restore proper flow inside the dishwasher.

Can a control board fail without showing other symptoms?

It can fail quietly and only display an occasional HE code before more problems appear. You might notice random cycle interruptions or inconsistent heating. These small signs often point to the board becoming unreliable. You can reset the dishwasher to see whether the symptoms vanish temporarily. You may need a replacement if the behavior returns repeatedly.

Do I need special tools to check the heater assembly?

You do not need advanced tools for a basic inspection since a flashlight and screwdriver usually work. You may notice discoloration or buildup that tells you the heater struggles. You may also feel uneven warmth after a heated cycle when the tub cools slightly. These clues help you decide whether a replacement makes sense. You can leave the electrical checks to a technician if anything looks confusing.

Can mineral buildup alone trigger the HE code?

It can trigger the code because it insulates the heater and slows energy transfer. Your dishwasher may work, yet the water heats too slowly for the sensors. You may not see the buildup without removing the filter or checking around the heater area. You can prevent this issue by running a cleaner monthly. You can also reduce buildup by using a rinse aid with hard water.

Do I need to replace the dishwasher if the HE code keeps returning?

You do not need a replacement unless multiple major components fail at once. You can usually fix recurring HE codes through cleaning, wiring checks, heater replacement, or sensor repair. You may decide to replace the unit only if it becomes more expensive to repair than to buy a new one. You can compare part costs before deciding. You may save money by diagnosing the actual root cause first.

Is it possible for cold weather to cause the HE code?

It can happen when pipes cool down overnight or during winter months, especially in older homes. Your dishwasher receives colder water than usual, so the heater struggles to catch up. You may notice this more often in kitchens with long water lines. You can run the faucet until hot water flows reliably before starting a cycle. You also gain better consistency by insulating exposed pipes.