Now, you might be wondering, “Why do dishwashers even have error codes?” Think of these error codes as the dishwasher’s way of communicating with you. When something goes wrong, it lets you know through a series of letters or numbers, just like how a smartphone might alert you if it’s running low on battery or memory. The error code “HE” specifically relates to the heating element, which plays a crucial role in ensuring your dishes come out dry and sanitized. But don’t worry — we’ll walk you through the steps to reset your dishwasher and potentially solve the issue at hand.
Understanding the Error Code HE on Your Frigidaire Dishwasher
So, what exactly is the “HE” error code trying to tell you? In simple terms, your dishwasher has sensed an issue with its heating element. This is the part that heats the water to the necessary temperature to clean and sanitize your dishes properly. Think of it like the heating element in an oven — if it’s not working right, your food won’t cook as expected. Similarly, if the water isn’t hot enough, the dishwasher can’t do its job properly.
When the “HE” code appears, it means there could be a problem with the heating circuit. This could involve anything from a faulty heating element to issues with the wiring or the control board. You might feel a bit overwhelmed thinking about dealing with electrical parts. However, it’s important to remember that in most cases, a simple reset might suffice. Sometimes, error codes can appear due to a temporary glitch rather than a significant malfunction.
Before diving into more complex causes, let’s focus on a straightforward reset. By doing so, you can determine if the error was a momentary hiccup. If the error persists, there might be a need for further investigation, which we’ll cover in the following sections.
Steps to Perform a Basic Reset on Your Frigidaire Dishwasher
Ready to tackle this together? Let’s walk through the steps to reset your Frigidaire dishwasher, which might just clear that “HE” code right up. First things first, think of this as giving your dishwasher a chance to start fresh, like rebooting a lagging computer or refreshing a webpage that won’t load.
Begin by turning off the dishwasher. Locate the power button (often close to the control panel) and press it to switch off the machine. If your model doesn’t have a clear power button, try opening the door to pause any current cycle. After turning it off, unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet. If it’s hard-wired into your home’s electrical system, switch off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the dishwasher.
Once you’ve done that, give it a few minutes — around 10 minutes is ideal. This short break allows the appliance’s electronic systems to reset. It’s akin to powering down your computer or letting your phone rest when it’s glitching. After the waiting period, plug the dishwasher back in or flip the circuit breaker back on. Turn on the dishwasher and see if the “HE” error code has disappeared.
What to Do If the Error Persists
If the reset doesn’t do the trick and that pesky “HE” code is still glaring at you, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Think of this step as investigating why your car won’t start even though you’ve jumped the battery. There could be several reasons for the issue, and it’s crucial to tackle each methodically.
Begin by checking the heating element itself. This part can be found at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. You’re looking for signs of damage, such as visible breaks or burnt spots. A multimeter, a handy tool for measuring electrical current, can help you check if the element is conducting electricity properly. No current? That’s a surefire sign the element needs replacement.
Next, examine the wiring connected to the heating element. Look for any loose connections or visible damage. A frayed wire is like a kinked hose — it’s not going to let the energy flow smoothly. If everything seems intact but the “HE” error won’t budge, it may be time to consider issues with the control board or thermostat, which are more complex parts that may require professional attention.
Seeking Professional Help and Preventing Future Errors
If these steps don’t solve the problem, don’t lose heart. Just as you wouldn’t hesitate to call a mechanic for a persistent car problem, reaching out to a qualified technician for your dishwasher is a smart move. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve more complicated issues that might be beyond a simple reset or inspection.
In the meantime, to prevent future occurrences of the “HE” error, ensure your dishwasher isn’t overloaded and that you’re using it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Regular maintenance, like cleaning the filters and checking the water inlet valve, can keep everything running smoothly. Think of it like routine car maintenance — an oil change here, a tire rotation there — to keep things working in top condition.
While it can be frustrating to deal with these issues, understanding the basics and knowing when to seek help can make the process less stressful. With a little patience and care, your Frigidaire dishwasher will be back to its reliable self, helping you tackle those after-dinner messes with ease.
