Samsung dryer hE error explained
The hE code on a Samsung dryer indicates a problem in the heating circuit or heater control. It usually appears when the dryer detects that the heater is not operating within expected parameters, which could be due to a failed heating element, a blown thermal fuse or thermostat, a faulty temperature sensor (thermistor), a damaged heater relay on the control board, or wiring/connection issues. When the hE code appears users commonly experience no heat or intermittent heating, longer drying times, damp clothes at the end of a cycle, and in some cases the dryer may shut down or refuse to start heating as a safety precaution. Because heating issues can increase the risk of overheating or cause stress to electrical components, addressing an hE fault promptly is important for performance and safety.
Common causes
- Failed heating element or open circuit in the heater coil
- Blown thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat
- Faulty thermistor or temperature sensor giving incorrect readings
- Defective main control board or heater relay
- Damaged or loose wiring and connectors in the heater circuit
- Restricted venting causing overheating and safety shutdown
- Moisture or corrosion on terminals and connectors
- Faulty door switch or interlock that prevents heating in some models
Troubleshooting steps
- Power cycle and clear: unplug the dryer or switch off the breaker for 5 minutes, then power back on. Some temporary faults clear with a reset.
- Check vents and lint screen: remove lint from the filter and inspect the dryer vent and exhaust hose for blockages. Restricted airflow can trigger safety logic and is an easy fix.
- Run diagnostics: if your model supports Samsung diagnostic or Smart Check, run the built-in diagnostic to confirm the hE fault and capture related codes.
- Inspect for visible damage: unplug the dryer and inspect wiring, connectors, and heater assembly for burns, breaks, or loose terminals.
- Test thermal fuse and thermostats: with power disconnected, use a multimeter to check continuity of the thermal fuse and limit thermostats. An open thermal fuse will prevent heating and often shows as hE.
- Test the heating element: check the heater coil for continuity and inspect for obvious breaks or grounding to the housing. Replace if open or shorted to chassis.
- Check the thermistor/temperature sensor: verify the sensor reads within expected values per the service manual or compare resistance at room temperature to spec. Replace if out of range or intermittent.
- Inspect the control board and relay: if all heater components test good, the main control board or its heater relay may be defective. Look for burn marks or swollen components and consider bench testing or replacement.
- Verify wiring harness continuity: check continuity between control board con