Samsung Washer HE Error Code — What It Means
HE (and related codes HE1 or HE2) on a Samsung washer indicates a heating circuit or water temperature detection fault. The washer has detected a problem with the heating element, the thermistor temperature sensor, or the circuit that controls and monitors water heating. Because Samsung uses different error codes across model families, you should confirm the exact meaning of HE for your specific model by checking the service manual or model documentation. Samsung’s public support pages note that error codes vary by model, so treat HE as a general heating-system fault until you verify it against your model’s code table.
Common Causes
- Failed heating element The heater has an open circuit or internal break and no longer provides continuity when tested with a meter.
- Faulty thermistor or NTC temperature sensor The sensor reads open, shorted, or delivers an out-of-range signal that the control board cannot interpret as a valid temperature.
- Damaged wiring or corroded connectors Loose, burned, or corroded connections at the heater, thermistor, or control board interrupt the circuit and prevent proper heating feedback.
- Water supply problem affecting heat detection Low flow, kinked hoses, closed valves, or clogged inlet screens prevent the washer from filling or heating water normally, triggering a sensor fault.
- Control board relay or driver circuit fault After field components test good, the PCB relay or heater driver circuit may fail to energize the heating element or process thermistor signals correctly.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Confirm your exact model number and code variant from the washer’s rating label and consult the model-specific service manual, because Samsung error codes differ by model family.
- Unplug the washer and shut off water supply before opening any panels or testing electrical components.
- Inspect the water supply path by checking that both hot and cold supply valves are open, hoses are not kinked, and inlet screens are clean and allow normal flow.
- Access the heater and thermistor by removing the washer’s front or rear service panel (location varies by model) and inspect all wiring harnesses and connectors for burns, looseness, or corrosion.
- Test the heater element for continuity using a multimeter set to ohms, and compare the reading to your model’s service data. Replace the heater if it shows an open circuit or is clearly out of specification.
- Test the thermistor resistance with a meter and verify that it changes smoothly with temperature. Replace the thermistor if it reads open, shorted, or does not respond to temperature changes as expected.
- Check the control board heater relay or driver output if both the heater and thermistor test within normal range, and consult service documentation for any voltage or signal tests the board requires.
- Reassemble the washer, restore power and water, and run a test cycle to confirm the HE code does not return and the washer heats water normally.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Samsung washer heating element | Amazon | Match the part number to your exact washer model. Test the old element for continuity before ordering. |
| Samsung washer thermistor (NTC temperature sensor) | Amazon | Verify resistance behavior with a meter and compare to model specs before replacement. |
| Washer wiring harness or connector kit | Amazon | Order if connectors at the heater or thermistor are burned, melted, or damaged beyond cleaning. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a qualified appliance technician if you are not comfortable working with live electrical circuits or testing components with a multimeter. Also call a pro if you have replaced the heater and thermistor but the HE code persists, because the fault may lie in the control board relay circuit or require model-specific diagnostic software. If your washer is still under warranty, contact Samsung or an authorized service center before opening any panels, as DIY repairs can void coverage.