HE
What code HE means on a Kenmore dishwashers, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore HE means: Heating failure. The documented cause is: This code appears when water isn't heating or when the thermistor (temperature sensor) detects that water temperature is higher than 194 degrees.
What HE means
Heating failure
The display shows HE and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| This code appears when water isn't heating or when the thermistor (temperature sensor) detects that water temperature is higher than 194 degrees |
| If water inside the dishwasher tub is extremely hot, measure water temperature using an accurate thermometer |
| If the thermometer measures water temperature near 190 degrees, then you'll likely need to replace the electronic control board because a stuck heater relay on the control board is causing the heating element to stay on constantly |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine and close the water tap before removing any panel. The heating element and the wash water can stay hot long after the cycle ends.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
Find a specialist
TroubleAtlas Pro
TroubleAtlas Certified
What is the TroubleAtlas Score?
Beyond fault codes and specialists, we rate the reliability of appliance brands and models — a transparent score that owes nothing to the manufacturer. The reference to check before you buy or repair.
See all appliance scores →TA YouTube Channel
Frequently asked questions
What does HE mean on a Kenmore?
Heating failure The documented cause is: This code appears when water isn't heating or when the thermistor (temperature sensor) detects that water temperature is higher than 194 degrees. If water inside the dishwasher tub is extremely hot, measure water temperature using an accurate thermometer. If the thermometer measures water temperature near 190 degrees, then you'll likely need to replace the electronic control board because a stuck heater relay on the control board is causing the heating element to stay on constantly
Can I fix HE myself?
It depends on the part involved: This code appears when water isn't heating or when the thermistor (temperature sensor) detects that water temperature is higher than 194 degrees. If water inside the dishwasher tub is extremely hot, measure water temperature using an accurate thermometer. If the thermometer measures water temperature near 190 degrees, then you'll likely need to replace the electronic control board because a stuck heater relay on the control board is causing the heating element to stay on constantly Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 13 other codes for Kenmore on this dishwashers. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.