LG Dishwasher Error Code HC

The HC error code indicates a heater overheat fault. On LG dishwashers with software version 7134 and later, this code is triggered when the control board detects a temperature at or above 176°F for 3 continuous seconds. When the fault occurs, all driving components stop and the main relay shuts off as a safety measure. The dishwasher will not operate again until the underlying cause is resolved.

No. The HC code represents a heater safety shutdown, meaning the appliance detected a potentially dangerous overheating condition. The dishwasher has disabled itself to prevent further risk. You should not attempt to bypass or reset and continue running the machine until the heater and thermistor have been inspected and the root cause is confirmed and corrected.

Repair costs vary depending on the faulty component. Thermistor replacement is generally the least expensive fix, with parts typically ranging from $15 to $50 and labor adding $75 to $150 if a technician is used. A heating element replacement may run $40 to $100 for parts. Control board replacement is the most costly scenario, with parts alone often ranging from $100 to $250 or more depending on the model, plus labor costs.

Some causes of the HC error, such as a faulty thermistor, are within reach of a confident DIYer who is comfortable using a multimeter to test component resistance. However, faults involving the control board or a stuck relay typically require more advanced diagnosis and soldering or board-level repair skills. If you are unsure about electrical testing, having a technician diagnose the heater and thermistor is the safer route.

A power reset may temporarily clear the HC code and allow the dishwasher to start, but if the underlying fault in the heater or thermistor is still present, the code will return once the overheat condition is detected again. A reset alone does not fix the problem. Always diagnose and address the cause before assuming the fault is resolved.