Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code HE — Heating Element / Water Heating Error
What this means
The HE error code on Kenmore dishwashers indicates the heating element or the water heating system has failed to reach the target temperature within the expected time. Proper water temperature is essential for effective cleaning and sanitizing. This error is usually caused by a burned-out heating element, a faulty temperature sensor, or incoming water that's too cold.
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsCheck your hot water supply
Run the kitchen faucet on hot until the water is fully heated before starting the dishwasher. The dishwasher connects to your home's hot water line, so if the water heater is set too low or is far away, the incoming water may be too cold.
Your water heater should be set to at least 120°F (49°C) for dishwashers to work effectively.
Inspect the heating element
Turn off the dishwasher's circuit breaker. Open the door and locate the heating element — it's the exposed metal loop at the bottom of the tub. Look for visible breaks, blistering, or burn marks.
Gently wiggle the heating element — if it's loose or wobbly, the mounting nuts underneath may have come loose.
Test the heating element for continuity
Access the heating element terminals from underneath the dishwasher (remove the lower kick plate). Disconnect the wires and test across the two terminals with a multimeter set to ohms. A good element typically reads 10–30 ohms. An open reading (infinite) means the element is burned out.
Also test each terminal to ground (the metal chassis) — if you get a low reading, the element has shorted to ground and must be replaced.
Replace the heating element if needed
From underneath the dishwasher, remove the retaining nuts on both element terminals. Push the old element up and out through the tub floor. Install the new element, secure the nuts, and reconnect the wires.
Apply a thin bead of silicone sealant around the element mounting holes if they show signs of leaking.
When to call a professional
If the heating element tests fine, the issue may be with the control board relay that powers the element, or the water temperature sensor (NTC thermistor). These components require more advanced diagnosis.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Dishwasher Heating Element
Part #W10518394 · $25–$50
Required if element fails continuity testing
Water Temperature Sensor (NTC Thermistor)
Part #WP8534873 · $10–$25
Only if the heating element is good but water still doesn't heat
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