Samsung Dishwasher Error Code HE2

HE2 is a heater overheat error code on Samsung dishwashers. It activates when the control board detects a water temperature of 176°F or higher for 3 or more consecutive seconds. When this happens, the dishwasher shuts down all driving components and cuts the main relay as a safety measure. The most likely causes are a faulty thermistor or a heater relay that is not switching off correctly.

You should not attempt to run the dishwasher while the HE2 error is active. The code indicates that the machine has already shut itself down as a protective measure against excessive heat. Running it again without resolving the underlying cause could lead to damage to internal components, wiring, or the dishwasher tub. Resolve the fault before resuming normal use.

Repair costs depend on which component has failed. A replacement thermistor is typically an inexpensive part, often in the range of $10 to $40, while a heater relay or control board can cost significantly more, ranging from $50 to $200 or higher for parts alone. Adding labor for a professional technician generally brings total repair costs to between $100 and $350, depending on your location and the specific parts required.

Start by checking the thermistor and heater relay, as these are the first components to inspect according to Samsung diagnostic procedures. Verify that the thermistor resistance is within the expected range for your model and that the heater relay is switching on and off properly. Also inspect the wiring harness between the thermistor and the control board for damage or loose connections, and check that the filter and circulation path are not blocked.

A power reset may temporarily clear the HE2 error and allow the dishwasher to start, but the code will return if the root cause has not been addressed. If the thermistor is faulty or the heater relay is stuck, the same overheat condition will be detected again once the cycle reaches the heating phase. A reset is useful for confirming whether a fault is persistent, but it is not a repair.