KitchenAidDishwasherCode HE

KitchenAid Dishwasher HE Error Code - Heating Element Fault

HE error code indicates the control board detects no temperature increase during heat cycle.

Quick diagnosis

What this code is telling you

Most likely trigger

Blown heating element

Recommended replacement

Heating Element Assembly

Diagnostic path

4 ordered checks

Part fit

Exact model number required

Safety first

Before opening the appliance

Unplug the appliance before removing panels or testing internal components. Do not bypass safety switches or live-test high-voltage, gas, refrigerant, or combustion components unless you are qualified to do so.

Read the full safety disclaimer

Root cause

Why the control reported this error

The dishwasher records this code when the control cannot complete or verify the expected wash, fill, drain, or heating condition. Check blown heating element first, then rule out tripped high-limit thermostat switch and defective control board relay before replacing heating Element Assembly.

Symptoms

What you may notice

  • ✓Dishes cold and wet at cycle end
  • ✓HE error displayed
  • ✓Long cycle times

Possible causes

Check the most likely causes first

  1. 1

    Blown heating element

    Start here when it matches your symptoms.

  2. 2

    Tripped high-limit thermostat switch

  3. 3

    Defective control board relay

Diagnostic sequence

Work through these checks in order

Stop when you find the fault. Do not perform a step that requires skills or live testing you are not qualified to do.

  1. 1

    Check 1

    Unplug unit and check heating element element for cracks or corrosion.

  2. 2

    Check 2

    Disconnect electrical power before opening panels. Test heating element continuity with multimeter (approx 10-30 ohms).

  3. 3

    Check 3

    Disconnect electrical power before opening panels. Check high-limit thermostat switch for continuity.

  4. 4

    Check 4

    Replace heating element if open circuit.

Replacement part reference

Heating Element Assembly

Exact OEM part number

Model number required

Fitment note

The exact OEM part number varies by model and production revision. Verify the complete model number before ordering.

Verify the appliance model before ordering.

Manufacturers can use different parts under the same error code across model families and production revisions.

Where do I find my model number? →
Search this replacement part on eBay →

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Common questions

Quick answers for this fault

What should I check first for HE?

Start with blown heating element. If that checks out, continue through the diagnostic sequence above rather than replacing a part based on the code alone.

Does HE always mean Heating Element Assembly is bad?

No. An error code identifies the condition the control detected, not a guaranteed failed part. Confirm the likely causes and wiring first. The exact OEM part number varies by model and production revision. Verify the complete model number before ordering.

When should I stop troubleshooting HE myself?

Stop if the next step requires live electrical testing, sealed-system work, gas or combustion service, or any procedure outside your training. Unplug the appliance before removing panels or testing internal components. Do not bypass safety switches or live-test high-voltage, gas, refrigerant, or combustion components unless you are qualified to do so.

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