The “HE” error code on a KitchenAid garbage disposal typically signals a problem related to overheating. This can happen for several reasons, such as a jam in the disposal or an overworked motor. Think of it like your smartphone getting too hot when running too many apps at once—it needs a break. Your garbage disposal is essentially telling you, “Hey, I need some attention!”
Understanding the Overheating Issue
Here’s the deal: when you see that “HE” error code, it means your garbage disposal’s motor is getting too hot. Now, why does this happen? Just like when you overfill a blender, and it struggles to blend everything smoothly, your garbage disposal can struggle if it’s asked to do too much. Maybe there’s a stubborn piece of food stuck inside or too many items are being processed at once, causing the motor to work harder than it’s supposed to.
What you might be wondering is how this overheating happens. Often, it’s due to a jam. Picture a traffic jam, where cars move slowly or not at all because something’s blocking the way. Similarly, if food or foreign objects get trapped inside the disposal, it forms a “traffic jam” for your appliance, making the motor work harder to spin the blades.
Now, an overheated motor isn’t just about jammed pieces. It could also result from electrical issues or if the disposal is running continuously for too long without proper cooling time. So, keeping an eye on usage and what you put down the disposal is crucial to prevent overheating.
Steps to Fix the HE Error Code
So, what do you do when faced with the dreaded “HE” code? The first step is to turn off the disposal and ensure it’s not receiving power. Safety first, right? You wouldn’t want to accidentally encounter those spinning blades. Once it’s powered off, try to locate any visible blockages. This might mean using a flashlight to peer inside and carefully removing debris with tongs.
Next, consider the reset button. Most garbage disposals, including those from KitchenAid, come with a reset button—usually located at the bottom of the unit. Pressing this button after resolving any blockage can sometimes clear the error code. Think of it like rebooting your computer when it’s acting up—it gives the appliance a fresh start.
If resetting doesn’t work, it may be time to look deeper into the issue. This could involve checking the power connections or contacting a professional if you’re unsure. Remember, it’s always better to call in an expert than to risk damaging your appliance further.
Preventing Future HE Errors
Now that you know what causes the “HE” error, let’s talk about prevention. First off, don’t treat your disposal like a trash can. Avoid putting hard or fibrous items like bones or corn husks down there. It’s like trying to chop logs with a kitchen knife—it’s just not going to end well.
Regular maintenance is your ally. Run cold water through the disposal after each use to help prevent waste buildup. Think of it like rinsing out your coffee pot after every brew to stave off stains and residue. Regularly grinding ice cubes can also help clean the blades and dislodge small particles.
Lastly, always turn on the water before switching on the disposal and keep it running for a few seconds after turning the disposal off. This ensures everything gets flushed through the pipes, reducing the chance of a jam that could lead to overheating.
In summary, while the “HE” error code might initially seem daunting, understanding it as a sign of overheating makes tackling the issue simpler. With proper care and by following these preventive tips, you can keep your KitchenAid garbage disposal running smoothly like a well-oiled machine.
