The code “HE” stands for a heating error in your Whirlpool dishwasher. This might sound a bit technical at first, but think of it like your dishwasher basically saying, “Hey, I’m having trouble keeping things hot in here!” Dishwashers rely on heat to clean and sanitize effectively, so if there’s a problem with the heat, it stands to reason that the dishes won’t come out as sparkling as you’d like. Knowing why this is happening and how to fix it will keep your kitchen running smoothly.
Understanding the “HE” Error Code
So, what exactly is going on when your dishwasher displays the “HE” error code? Picture your dishwasher as having its personal little hot tub party for your dishes. It uses heating elements to raise the water temperature to just the right level to melt away grease and food particles. When there’s a snag in this heating process, the “HE” code pops up to alert you.
This code indicates that your machine’s heater isn’t working correctly. It might not be heating at all, or it could be underheating, which leads to less effective cleaning. Much like trying to wash a greasy pan in cold water, without proper heat, your dishes might stay dirty or not get sanitized, which is definitely not ideal. The “HE” code acts like a distress signal from your dishwasher saying, “I’m trying, but I need some help over here!”
What causes this error? It could be a faulty heating element, an issue with the thermostat, or even a problem with the control board miscommunicating the need for heat. If the machine isn’t reaching the temperatures it’s supposed to, it won’t perform its job well, leaving you with less than clean dishes. Let’s delve into how these components work and what might be going wrong.
Common Causes of the “HE” Error
If you’re curious about what’s causing this heating issue, let’s break it down. One of the main culprits could be the heating element itself. This is the part of your dishwasher that’s responsible for warming up the water and, occasionally, drying your dishes. Think of it like the burner on your stovetop; if it’s not heating up, your dinner’s not getting cooked, and similarly, your dishes aren’t getting cleaned.
Sometimes, the issue might be as simple as a broken or misaligned thermostat. The thermostat’s job is to monitor the temperature and signal the control board to turn the heater on or off as needed. If it’s not working, the whole cycle gets thrown off, a bit like your thermostat at home refusing to turn the heat on during a chilly night.
Another possible cause is a glitch in the control board. This is the brain of your dishwasher, coordinating all the different parts to work in harmony. If the control board isn’t properly communicating with the heater or the thermostat, your dishwasher might not even realize it needs to heat things up. In rare cases, electrical issues such as faulty wiring can also disrupt the heating process.
How to Fix the “HE” Error
Now that we know what might be causing the “HE” error, let’s talk about what you can do to fix it. Before you start panicking about calling in professionals, there are a few simple checks and balances you can try at home first.
Start with a simple reset. Unplug your dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker that powers it, wait a minute, and then plug it back in or turn the circuit back on. This can sometimes resolve temporary glitches. If this doesn’t work, inspect the heating element for any obvious signs of damage or malfunction, like visible breaks or corrosion. However, be mindful of safety and make sure the dishwasher is disconnected from power when doing so.
If the issue persists, it might be time to test the thermostat. With the help of a multimeter, you can check if it’s functioning correctly, though this step might require a bit more technical know-how. If both components seem fine, then a faulty control board might be at play, which usually needs a professional touch to fix or replace.
Preventative Tips and Next Steps
To avoid seeing the “HE” error code pop up in the future, regular maintenance is key. Just like you wouldn’t let your car run without oil changes, your dishwasher needs some TLC to keep going strong. Periodically checking and cleaning the heating element of lime or mineral build-up can prevent overheating issues. Also, ensuring your dishwasher is balanced and level can prevent undue stress on internal components.
If you’ve tried everything and the error still persists, it might be time to consult a professional repair service. They can offer more detailed diagnostics and repairs that might be outside the scope of at-home fixes. Remember, it’s important to tackle these issues early. Ignoring them could lead to more significant — and expensive — problems later.
Taking just a few minutes to understand how your dishwasher works can save you time, money, and hassle down the line. So next time you see the “HE” error code, you’ll know just what to do to get your dishes back to their squeaky-clean glory.
