HE
Samsung Washing Machine
Severity:What Does This Error Mean?
HE on a Samsung washer means the heater element or its sensor has failed — water cannot reach the cycle's target temperature. Wash cycles abort. The heating element is service-replaceable but not a routine DIY job — book Samsung service.
Affected Models
- Samsung WF45R6100AW
- Samsung WF50R8500AV
- Samsung WW90T684DLH
- Samsung WF8500NHW
- Samsung WW10T684DLH
Common Causes
- Failed heating element (heater coil burned out, often after limescale build-up)
- Failed temperature sensor (NTC thermistor)
- Loose harness connector at the heating element
- Control board fault affecting heater control (less common)
How to Fix It
-
Power off for 10 minutes.
A power cycle clears soft heater faults. Some HE events are triggered by a transient sensor read and clear after the control board re-reads the heater on power-up.
-
Try a cold cycle.
Select a cold-water cycle (e.g., Cold Wash). The heater is not used at cold settings — if the cycle completes normally, the cooling and motor sides are fine, and HE is isolated to the heater.
-
Run a Self Clean if available.
Self Clean uses high temperature water and tests the heater under load. If your washer has been used a lot in hard-water areas, limescale build-up on the heater may have caused HE — Self Clean monthly slows this build-up.
-
Book Samsung service for heater replacement.
A Samsung washer heater costs USD 60–120 for the part. Labour is the bulk of the cost — typical USD 200–350 fitted. The heater is accessed from the front (some models) or rear, and the washer must be partially disassembled.
When to Call a Professional
HE faults require opening the washer to access the heater behind the front or rear panel. The heater is in contact with mains and must be replaced safely — book authorised service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using my Samsung washer with HE if I only do cold washes?
Yes — cold cycles do not use the heater and complete normally even with HE. You lose the ability to do hot washes, sanitise cycles, and Self Clean. This is acceptable as a short-term workaround while waiting for service.
Why did the heater fail on my Samsung washer?
Most heater failures are due to limescale build-up insulating the element until it overheats and burns out. This is more common in hard-water areas. Routine Self Clean and using the right detergent dose help prolong heater life.