Is your LG dishwasher flashing the dreaded "HE" error code, leaving you with a sink full of dirty dishes and a growing sense of frustration? Don't panic! This error, often indicating a heating element issue, is a common problem with LG dishwashers, and in many cases, you can troubleshoot and fix it yourself, saving time and money on repair bills. This guide will walk you through the steps to diagnose and resolve the HE error code, empowering you to get your dishwasher back up and running smoothly.
Understanding the HE Error Code: It's More Than Just "Heating Element"
While the HE error code on your LG dishwasher typically points to a problem with the heating element, it's not always that straightforward. The dishwasher's control board uses various sensors to monitor the heating process, and the HE code can be triggered by several factors that interfere with proper heating. These factors include a faulty heating element, a malfunctioning temperature sensor, a problem with the control board itself, or even wiring issues. Therefore, a methodical approach is key to pinpointing the root cause.
Think of the HE code as a symptom, not the disease. We need to investigate further to find the actual problem causing the symptom.
Safety First: Before You Start Troubleshooting!
Before you even think about poking around inside your dishwasher, safety is paramount. Follow these crucial steps:
- Disconnect the power: Locate the circuit breaker that controls your dishwasher and switch it off. This is the most important step to prevent electrical shock.
- Turn off the water supply: Find the shut-off valve for the dishwasher's water supply (usually located under the sink) and turn it off. This will prevent water from flooding your kitchen.
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or cleaning chemicals.
Gathering Your Tools: What You'll Need
Having the right tools on hand will make the troubleshooting process much smoother. Here's a list of essentials:
- Screwdrivers: A Phillips head and a flathead screwdriver are essential for removing panels and components.
- Multimeter: A multimeter is crucial for testing the heating element, temperature sensor, and wiring for continuity and resistance.
- Pliers: Pliers can be helpful for gripping and manipulating wires.
- Wire strippers/crimpers: If you need to repair or replace any wiring, these tools will be necessary.
- Flashlight or headlamp: Good lighting is essential for seeing inside the dishwasher.
- Work gloves: Protect your hands!
- Camera or smartphone: Take pictures of wiring connections before disconnecting them to help you remember how they go back together.
- Paper and pen: For taking notes and keeping track of your progress.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting: Diagnosing the HE Error
Now that you're prepared, let's dive into the troubleshooting process.
1. Resetting the Dishwasher:
Sometimes, the HE error can be a fluke. Try resetting the dishwasher by:
- Turning off the circuit breaker for a few minutes.
- Turning the circuit breaker back on.
- Running a short wash cycle.
If the error disappears, you're in luck! If it returns, proceed to the next steps.
2. Checking the Heating Element:
The heating element is the most common culprit. Here's how to test it:
- Locate the heating element: It's usually at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, often circular or U-shaped.
- Disconnect the heating element: Disconnect the wires connected to the heating element terminals. Remember to take a picture of the wiring configuration before disconnecting!
- Test for continuity: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (usually marked with the omega symbol Ω). Place one probe on each terminal of the heating element.
- A good heating element should show a resistance reading, typically between 15 and 30 ohms (check your dishwasher's service manual for the exact range).
- A faulty heating element will show either no continuity (an open circuit, indicated by "OL" or infinity on the multimeter display) or a short circuit (a very low resistance reading, close to 0 ohms).
If the heating element has no continuity or a short circuit, it needs to be replaced.
3. Inspecting the Temperature Sensor (Thermistor):
The temperature sensor, also called a thermistor, tells the control board the water temperature. A faulty sensor can cause the HE error.
- Locate the temperature sensor: It's usually located near the heating element or in the sump area. Refer to your dishwasher's service manual for the exact location.
- Disconnect the temperature sensor: Disconnect the wires connected to the sensor. Again, take a picture!
- Test the resistance: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Place one probe on each terminal of the sensor.
- A good temperature sensor will show a resistance reading that varies with temperature. You can consult your dishwasher's service manual for a resistance chart that shows the expected resistance at different temperatures.
- A faulty temperature sensor will show either no continuity or a resistance reading that's significantly different from the expected value.
If the temperature sensor is faulty, it needs to be replaced.
4. Examining the Wiring and Connections:
Loose or corroded wiring can also trigger the HE error.
- Visually inspect all wiring: Look for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires, melted insulation, or corrosion.
- Check the connections: Make sure all wiring connections are secure and clean. Disconnect and reconnect the wires to ensure good contact. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to clean any corroded connections.
- Test for voltage: With the dishwasher plugged in (carefully!), use a multimeter to check for voltage at the heating element terminals during a wash cycle. If there's no voltage, the problem could be with the control board. This step requires extreme caution and should only be performed by someone comfortable working with electricity.
5. Checking the Control Board:
The control board is the brain of the dishwasher, and a faulty control board can cause all sorts of problems, including the HE error. Unfortunately, diagnosing a control board issue is often the most challenging part of the process.
- Visually inspect the control board: Look for any signs of damage, such as burned components or swollen capacitors.
- Check the relays: The control board uses relays to switch power to the heating element. A faulty relay can prevent the heating element from working. You can test the relays with a multimeter, but this requires specialized knowledge.
- Consider professional diagnosis: If you've checked everything else and still suspect the control board, it's best to consult a qualified appliance repair technician. Replacing a control board can be expensive, so you want to be sure that's the problem before you spend the money.
Replacing Faulty Components: Getting Your Dishwasher Back in Action
Once you've identified the faulty component, you'll need to replace it. You can order replacement parts online or from a local appliance parts store.
- Heating Element: Replacing the heating element is usually a straightforward process. Simply remove the old element and install the new one, making sure to connect the wires correctly (refer to the pictures you took earlier!).
- Temperature Sensor: Replacing the temperature sensor is also relatively easy. Remove the old sensor and install the new one, again ensuring correct wiring connections.
- Control Board: Replacing the control board is more complex and may require some technical expertise. Follow the instructions that come with the new control board carefully.
Important: After replacing any components, double-check all wiring connections and make sure everything is properly installed before turning the power and water back on.
Prevention is Key: Keeping Your Dishwasher Healthy
Once you've fixed the HE error, there are several things you can do to prevent it from happening again:
- Regularly clean your dishwasher: Remove food debris and mineral buildup to ensure proper water flow and heating.
- Use a dishwasher cleaner: Use a dishwasher cleaner regularly to remove grease and grime.
- Descale your dishwasher: Hard water can cause mineral buildup on the heating element, which can lead to premature failure. Descale your dishwasher regularly using a descaling solution.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can prevent proper water circulation and heating.
- Use the correct detergent: Using the wrong detergent can damage the dishwasher and cause problems with the heating element.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher heating element?
- The cost of a new heating element typically ranges from $30 to $100, depending on the model. Labor costs for professional installation can add another $50 to $150.
Q: Can I use my dishwasher if the heating element is broken?
- You can use it, but the dishes won't dry properly and sanitization may be compromised. It's best to fix the issue as soon as possible.
Q: Is it safe to repair a dishwasher myself?
- If you are comfortable working with electricity and follow safety precautions, yes. If not, it's best to call a professional.
Q: How do I find the service manual for my LG dishwasher?
- You can often find it online by searching for your dishwasher's model number followed by "service manual" or "repair manual."
Q: My dishwasher is still under warranty. Should I attempt a repair myself?
- No. Attempting a repair yourself may void the warranty. Contact LG or an authorized service center instead.
Conclusion
The LG dishwasher HE error code can be frustrating, but with a systematic approach and a little patience, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety, gather the necessary tools, and follow the steps outlined in this guide. If you're uncomfortable with any of the steps, don't hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician. By understanding the potential causes of the HE error and taking proactive steps to maintain your dishwasher, you can keep it running smoothly for years to come.