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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code E3

Heater failure

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Heater failure – if heating for 90 minutes cannot reach the setting temperature in service mode 1 (washing-heated process), or if during the washing heated step controlled by temperature, 30 minutes after the temperature does not exceed 3°C and thermistor is trouble-free, the unit jumps to next step and no longer opens the heating tube; enters fault handling when washing is over.

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What E3 means on a GE dishwasher

The E3 error code on a GE dishwasher indicates a heater failure related to the wash cycle heating system. Specifically, the fault triggers under two distinct conditions. First, if the unit is operating in service mode 1 during a washing-heated process and the water cannot reach the target temperature within 90 minutes, E3 is logged. Second, during a temperature-controlled washing heated step, if the water temperature fails to rise more than 3 degrees Celsius within a 30-minute window and the thermistor has been confirmed as trouble-free, the control board skips to the next step and disables the heating element for the remainder of the cycle. The fault is formally entered into memory once the wash cycle completes.

The heating system involved includes the heating element (heating tube), the thermistor used to monitor water temperature, and the control board that manages the heating sequence. Because the E3 code specifically distinguishes between a thermistor fault and a genuine heating failure, a true E3 indicates the temperature sensor is functioning correctly but the water is not warming as expected. This points the diagnosis toward the heating element itself, its electrical supply circuit, or the relay on the control board responsible for activating the element.

Common root causes include a failed or open-circuit heating element, a faulty control board relay that is not sending power to the element, poor electrical connections at the element terminals, or low incoming water temperature combined with an undersized heating interval. In some cases, a failing control board may incorrectly signal the element or fail to hold the relay closed long enough to achieve the required temperature rise.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E3

  1. 01

    Failed heating element

    Part replacement

    The heating element (heating tube) may have burned out or developed an open circuit, preventing it from generating heat. You can test it for continuity with a multimeter; a lack of continuity confirms the element has failed and needs replacement.

  2. 02

    Defective control board relay

    Part replacement

    The control board contains a relay responsible for supplying power to the heating element. If this relay is stuck open or damaged, the element receives no power even though the thermistor and wiring are intact.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded wiring connections at the heating element

    Wiring / connection

    Poor electrical connections at the heating element terminals can cause intermittent or no power delivery, resulting in insufficient temperature rise. Inspect the terminal connectors for corrosion, heat damage, or looseness and reseat or replace them as needed.

  4. 04

    Thermistor providing marginal readings

    Part replacement

    Although E3 is logged only when the thermistor is confirmed trouble-free, a thermistor that is borderline out of calibration may not trip its own fault code while still providing slightly inaccurate temperature data. Cross-check the thermistor resistance values against specifications to rule this out.

  5. 05

    Very cold incoming water temperature

    Wiring / connection

    If the household water supply is extremely cold, the heating element may not be able to raise the water temperature by more than 3 degrees Celsius within the 30-minute monitoring window even if functioning correctly. Verify that the hot water supply to the dishwasher is at an adequate temperature before replacing components.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E3

What does E3 mean on a GE dishwasher?
E3 on a GE dishwasher signals a heater failure in the wash cycle. The control board monitors water temperature during heating, and if the water fails to reach the target temperature within 90 minutes, or fails to rise more than 3 degrees Celsius over a 30-minute window while the thermistor is confirmed working, the code is stored. The dishwasher skips the heated step, completes the cycle, and then logs the E3 fault.
Can I fix an E3 error on my GE dishwasher myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose and repair E3 in many cases. Start by checking the wiring connections at the heating element for looseness or corrosion, then test the heating element for continuity using a multimeter. If the element is open-circuit, it can be replaced as a DIY repair. If the element tests good, the control board relay may be at fault, which is a more advanced repair.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher when E3 is displayed?
The dishwasher will continue to run cycles after an E3, but it will skip the heated wash step, meaning your dishes will be washed in unheated water. This reduces cleaning and sanitizing effectiveness. The machine itself is not in a dangerous state, but it is not performing at spec, and the underlying fault should be addressed to restore proper operation.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher E3 error?
Repair costs vary depending on the failed component. A replacement heating element typically costs between 30 and 80 dollars for the part, with professional labor adding roughly 80 to 150 dollars. A control board replacement is more expensive, with parts ranging from 100 to 250 dollars depending on the model, plus labor. Diagnosing the exact cause before ordering parts helps avoid unnecessary expense.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the E3 error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the E3 code from the display, but because the fault is entered into memory at the end of the wash cycle, it will return as soon as the dishwasher runs another heated wash cycle and the same condition is detected. The underlying cause, whether a failed heating element, faulty relay, or wiring issue, must be repaired to prevent the code from reappearing.

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