Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HE: What It Means and How to Fix It
The Samsung washing machine error code HE means the washer's heating system has malfunctioned. Either the heating element has failed, the temperature sensor (thermistor) is sending abnormal readings, or there is a wiring problem between these components and the control board. A power reset can clear the code if it was a one-time glitch, but in most cases this error requires professional repair because the heater is an internal component.
What Does Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HE Mean?
The Samsung washing machine error code HE is a heater error that indicates the washer cannot heat water to the temperature required by the selected cycle. Samsung washers with built-in heaters monitor water temperature through a thermistor (temperature sensor). When the heater fails to raise the water temperature within the expected timeframe, or the thermistor sends readings outside the normal range, the washer stops the cycle and displays HE.
On different Samsung models, the same heater fault may appear as HC, HE1, Hr, or 1 HC. These are all variations of the same heating system error across different display generations. The HE1 code specifically indicates the heater is overheating, while HE and HC are general heater failure codes.
Not all Samsung washers have built-in heaters. Many models rely entirely on your home's hot water supply. If your Samsung washer does not have a heater and shows this code, the thermistor or control board may be the issue. The HE code typically requires professional repair because the heating element and thermistor are internal components that cannot be accessed or replaced without disassembling the machine.
Why Samsung Washing Machine Shows Error Code HE
How to Fix Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HE (Step-by-Step)
Unplug the washing machine
Disconnect the washer from the power outlet or switch off the circuit breaker. This is a safety precaution and the first step in resetting the control board.
Wait 10 minutes before restoring power
Leave the washer unplugged for a full 10 minutes. The heater circuit needs time to cool and the control board needs time to fully discharge. If the HE code was caused by a temporary electronic glitch, this reset will clear it.
Confirm your hot water supply is working
Go to a nearby faucet and run the hot water for 30 seconds. If hot water flows normally, the issue is with the washer, not your plumbing. If you are not getting hot water from the faucet either, the problem is your household water heater, not the Samsung washer.
Check that the hot water hose is connected
Look at the back of the washer. Confirm the hot water supply hose is connected to the hot water inlet (usually marked with a red ring or "H"). If it is disconnected or connected to the cold inlet by mistake, the washer may not receive heated water.
Make sure the hot water valve is fully open
Turn the hot water supply valve behind the washer fully counter-clockwise to the open position. A partially closed valve restricts hot water flow and can prevent the washer from reaching the target temperature.
Try a cold-water cycle
Plug the washer back in and select a cycle that uses only cold water (such as a rinse cycle or a cold-wash setting). If the washer completes the cold cycle without the HE code, the error is specific to the heating system and will need a technician to diagnose the heater or thermistor.
If the code returns after these steps, the issue is internal and needs a technician. The heating element, thermistor, or wiring harness cannot be accessed or replaced without professional tools and experience.
When to Stop and Call a Technician
The HE code almost always requires professional repair. Call a Samsung appliance repair technician if:
- The HE code returns immediately after a full 10-minute power reset
- The washer stops mid-cycle on any warm or hot water setting
- You notice a burning smell coming from the washer (this may indicate the heater has shorted)
- Cold-water cycles work fine but any cycle requiring heated water triggers the code
- The display shows HE1 specifically, which indicates the heater is overheating rather than failing to heat
How Promix Repairs Samsung Washing Machine HE Errors
When a Promix Appliance Repair technician arrives for an HE error call, the diagnosis starts with testing the heating element for continuity using a multimeter. If the heater has an open circuit, it needs replacement. The technician also tests the thermistor's resistance at room temperature and compares it to the expected value. A thermistor reading outside the normal range confirms a sensor failure.
If both the heater and thermistor test normally, the technician inspects the wiring harness and connectors between these components and the main control board. Loose or corroded connections are a known cause of intermittent HE errors. Promix technicians carry common Samsung washer and dryer repair parts, including heating elements and thermistors, for same-day completion when the part is in stock.
Every repair includes a warranty on parts and labor, backed by 10+ years of experience across the Boston and MetroWest area. A service call fee applies and is credited toward the repair if you choose to proceed. Call Promix Appliance Repair at (781) 666-9565 to schedule same-day service.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HE?
If a Reset Fixes It
Professional Repair
Call (781) 666-9565 for a transparent quote before any work begins.
How to Prevent Samsung Error Code HE From Coming Back
Same-Day Samsung Repair in Boston and MetroWest
Promix Appliance Repair serves Boston and surrounding MetroWest towns including Newton, Wellesley, Needham, Brookline, Framingham, and Lexington. With a 4.9 Google rating, certified technicians, and common Samsung parts on every truck, most heater repairs are completed the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using my Samsung washing machine with error code HE?
You can run cold-water cycles while waiting for a repair. The HE code only triggers on cycles that require the heater to raise water temperature. Cold rinse and cold wash settings will typically run without the error. However, the heater issue will not resolve on its own and should be repaired to restore full functionality.
Will resetting my Samsung washing machine clear error code HE?
Unplugging the washer for 10 minutes will clear the HE code from the display. If the cause was a temporary power glitch, the code may not return. If the heating element or thermistor has actually failed, the code will reappear the next time a heated cycle runs.
How long does it take to fix Samsung error code HE?
A power reset takes about 10 minutes. If a technician needs to replace the heating element or thermistor, the repair typically takes 45 to 75 minutes. Promix Appliance Repair carries common Samsung heater and sensor parts for same-day completion when available.
Is Samsung error code HE covered under warranty?
If your Samsung washer is within the manufacturer's warranty period (typically one year for parts and labor), a heater or thermistor replacement caused by a manufacturing defect may be covered. Heater failure from normal wear over several years of use is generally not covered. Check your warranty documentation or contact Samsung to confirm.
What is the difference between Samsung error codes HE and HC?
They indicate the same heater fault. HE is the code displayed on older Samsung washer models, while HC is the updated format used on newer models. The causes, diagnosis, and repair are identical. Some models also display HE1 (heater overheating) or Hr (heater relay error), which are more specific variations of the same category.
Does my Samsung washer have a built-in heater?
Not all Samsung washers include a built-in heater. Many models rely on your home's hot water supply for warm and hot cycles. If your Samsung washer has a Steam Wash, Sanitize, or Self Clean cycle, it likely has a built-in heater. Check your owner's manual or Samsung's support site with your model number to confirm.