LG Washer Error Code HE

The HE code on an LG washer signals a heater overheat error. It activates when the water temperature rises 4°C or more within a 5-second interval during heater operation, or when the temperature sensor reads 100°C or above for 6 consecutive seconds. This condition indicates the heating element may be operating without adequate water around it, posing a fire risk. The machine responds by opening the main relay and powering off automatically after 5 seconds.

A power reset may clear the displayed code temporarily, but it will not resolve the underlying problem. If the root cause, such as a water supply issue, a failed sensor, or a defective inlet valve, is still present, the heater overheat condition will recur and the machine will shut down again. A proper diagnosis of the heating circuit and water fill system is necessary before the washer can be safely operated.

Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. A replacement NTC temperature sensor typically costs in the range of $15 to $50 for the part alone. A water inlet valve generally runs $30 to $80, while a heating element can range from $40 to $120. If a control board replacement is required, costs can be significantly higher. Adding a professional technician's labor typically brings the total repair cost to somewhere between $100 and $350 or more, depending on the specific fault and your location.

Yes, this error is treated as a safety-critical condition because it indicates the heater may have operated without sufficient water, which can cause the element to overheat and create a fire hazard. LG designed the machine to shut down automatically when this condition is detected. You should not attempt to bypass or ignore this error. Identify and correct the underlying cause before running another cycle.

Start by checking that the water supply valves behind the washer are fully open and that the inlet hose screens are clear of debris. If water fill is normal, test the NTC temperature sensor for correct resistance values at a known water temperature. Inspect the water inlet valve for proper flow and check the pressure switch and its air trap tube for blockages. If the element itself is suspected, test it for continuity and insulation integrity. Replace any component that tests outside its specified range.