Samsung Dishwasher 3E Error — High Temperature Sensor Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

3E means the water temperature has gone too high — either the heater is stuck on, or the temperature sensor is reading a false high value.
Cancel the cycle, let the unit cool for 30 minutes, then run a short rinse cycle.
If 3E returns, the heater relay is welded closed (heating runaway) and the unit needs service immediately — heating without control is a fire risk.

Affected Models

Samsung DW80
Samsung DW60
Samsung StormWash
Samsung Smart Dishwasher
Samsung Linear Wash

Common Causes

Heater relay welded closed (heating non-stop)
Temperature sensor failed reading high
Sensor wire disconnected from the controller
Control board heater output stuck on
Sensor probe coated with mineral buildup

How to Fix It

Cancel the cycle and unplug.

Press Cancel/Drain on the touchscreen.
Once draining completes, unplug the dishwasher.
For built-in models, switch the breaker off.
Wait 30 minutes for the heater and water to cool fully.
Open the door and check temperature.

Open the dishwasher and feel the inside.
Should be cooled to room temperature after 30 minutes off.
If it's still very hot, the heater stayed on long enough to be a real concern — don't restart yet, let it cool fully.
Try a short rinse cycle.

Restore power.
Run a Quick or Rinse-only cycle (no heated dry).
Watch the cycle.
If it completes without 3E, the cause was a transient sensor read.
If 3E returns within minutes, the heater is genuinely overheating.
Don't run heating cycles if 3E persists.

If 3E returns on a heated cycle, don't keep running.
The heater relay or control board is failing in a way that lets heat run uncontrolled.
Continued use is a fire risk.
Stop and call for service immediately.
Schedule Samsung service.

Provide model and serial numbers.
Tell the service center 3E is showing and the heater appears to be running uncontrolled.
Most fixes are heater relay or control board replacement (150–250 USD parts).
Don't delay — heating system faults need same-day attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3E dangerous?

Potentially, yes — heating without temperature control can damage internal plastic components and in worst cases cause a fire.
Modern dishwashers have multiple safety layers (thermal cutoffs, fuses) that prevent serious incidents, but those exist as last resorts.
Don't rely on them — fix the underlying 3E.

Why does 3E happen with hard water?

Mineral buildup on the temperature sensor probe insulates it from accurate water temperature reading.
The sensor reads cooler than reality, the heater stays on longer, water gets too hot, then 3E triggers.
Annual descaling with dishwasher cleaner prevents this — important in hard water areas.