FixByModel
HE

LG HE: Heater error — water not heating or overheating

The dishwasher detected a heating fault, either failing to heat the water or overheating it above about 149°F. It typically points to the heater or its control circuit.

May need a technician

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Failed heating element
  2. Faulty temperature sensor giving a bad reading
  3. Damaged or loose heater wiring/connections
  4. Control board fault
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Power resetPress POWER off, switch the breaker off for about 10 seconds, restore power, press POWER on, and start a new cycle.
2Inspect heater wiringWith power disconnected, check the heating element's connections for looseness, corrosion, or heat damage.
3Check the temperature sensorA faulty thermistor can misreport temperature and trigger HE, so verify the sensor is reading correctly.
4Call for serviceIf HE persists, have a technician test and replace the heater, sensor, or control board.

Still showing HE?

If you’ve worked through every step and HE keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

LG dishwashers. LG dishwashers with an in-tub heating element.

FAQ

What does LG HE mean?

Heater error — water not heating or overheating. The dishwasher detected a heating fault, either failing to heat the water or overheating it above about 149°F. It typically points to the heater or its control circuit.

What causes LG HE?

The most likely cause is failed heating element. Other causes include Faulty temperature sensor giving a bad reading; Damaged or loose heater wiring/connections; Control board fault.

Can I fix LG HE myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.