LG Dishwasher HE Error Code: What It Means & What to Check
If your LG dishwasher is showing HE, it typically indicates a heater / heating error. That can mean the water isn’t heating properly during the cycle, or (less commonly) the dishwasher detected an overheat condition.
Because heating is tied to sanitation, drying, and overall performance, an HE code often shows up with cool/dirty dishes, poor drying, or a cycle that stops mid-run. Start with the safe checks below, and if the code repeats, it’s usually a “service-needed” situation.
What HE usually means on an LG dishwasher
HE = heating error on many LG dishwashers. The control board monitors water temperature using a sensor (often called a thermistor). If it doesn’t see the temperature rise as expected — or it sees abnormal temperature readings — it can stop the cycle and display HE.
Quick checks you can safely do at home
1) Power reset
Sometimes a one-time glitch (especially after a power flicker) can trigger HE. Try this first:
- Turn the dishwasher off.
- Unplug it (if accessible) or turn off the breaker for 2–5 minutes.
- Restore power and start a normal cycle.
If HE returns on the next run, it’s likely a real heating/sensing problem.
2) Check incoming water temperature isn’t extreme
Dishwashers typically expect a reasonable incoming water temperature. If the home’s water is unusually hot, it can contribute to abnormal readings; if it’s very cold, it can make heating take longer and may expose weak heating performance.
- Before starting a cycle, run the kitchen hot water until it’s warm (not scalding), then start the dishwasher.
- If your water heater was just adjusted or recently serviced, note that for your technician.
3) See if the error repeats consistently
Run one more cycle after the reset. If HE happens repeatedly (especially at the same point in the cycle), that pattern is helpful for diagnosis.
Common symptoms that go with HE
- Dishes come out cool or not clean (detergent not dissolving well)
- Poor drying or lots of water left behind
- The cycle pauses, drains, and displays HE
- Occasional burning smell or very hot interior (less common; stop using if that happens)
Most common causes of LG HE
- Heater not energizing or failing
- Thermistor (temperature sensor) out of range or reading incorrectly
- Wiring/connector issue to the heater or sensor
- Control board not driving the heater correctly (less common)
- Abnormal conditions that can contribute (model-dependent): low water level, poor circulation, or extreme incoming water temperature
Likely parts involved (when it needs service)
- Dishwasher heater (heating element/heating circuit)
- Thermistor / temperature sensor
- Wiring harness/connectors
- Main control board (less common)
When to call Beacon
Call for service if:
- HE returns after a power reset
- Dishes stay cool/dirty or drying is consistently poor
- The dishwasher stops mid-cycle repeatedly
- You notice an overheat symptom (strong hot smell, excessive heat) — stop using and call
Our friendly technicians in yellow can verify the heater circuit, check thermistor readings, and confirm whether the issue is the heater, sensor, wiring, or control.
Local Help in Citrus County
If your LG dishwasher is showing HE and you want a clear diagnosis and repair plan, we’re here to help.
Beacon Services & Appliances
(352) 726-7530 • www.BeaconSaves.com.
Content Update & Editorial Review
Last reviewed: February 13, 2026
Reviewed by: Chris