Samsung Dryer Error Code HE
Heater fault — drum not heating or overheating
The most common cause of the HE error on a Samsung dryer is failed heating element (open circuit) (~45% of cases); start with: check the lint filter and vent.
What Does Error Code HE Mean on a Samsung Dryer?
Heater fault — drum not heating or overheating.
The control board monitors the heating circuit and drum temperature sensors, then fires HE when the measured temperature falls outside expected limits for the selected cycle. It triggers when the element sits open and produces no heat, or when restricted airflow drives temperatures high enough to trip the high-limit thermostat. Unlike tE, which flags an out-of-range thermistor reading, HE points to the actual heat-generating circuit — element, thermostat, relay, or wiring — failing to deliver or safely regulate heat.
What Causes Error Code HE?
Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:
- 1 Failed heating element (open circuit) 45% of cases
- 2 Tripped high-limit thermostat from restricted airflow 30% of cases
- 3 Faulty heater relay on control board 15% of cases
- 4 Wiring fault to heating element 10% of cases
How to Fix Samsung Dryer Error Code HE
- 1
Check the lint filter and vent
A completely blocked vent can cause the high-limit thermostat to trip, cutting off heat. Clean the lint filter and disconnect/clean the vent duct.
- 2
Test the heating element
Disconnect the element wires and test continuity. A working element will show resistance (around 10–20 ohms); an open element shows infinite resistance.
🔩 Multimeter - 3
Test the high-limit thermostat
If the element is good but heat isn't reaching the drum, the high-limit thermostat may have tripped permanently. Test for continuity — no continuity = failed.
🔩 High-limit thermostat ($10–$25) - 4
Replace the failed component
Replace whichever component tested as failed.
🔩 Samsung dryer heating element ($40–$100)⚠️ Unplug dryer and ensure it's gas-disconnected if applicable before opening.
How to Reset Error Code HE
After repair, the code may require clearing by unplugging for 5 minutes. Check that vent is clear before first test run.
Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.
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When to Call a Professional
If both the element and thermostat test OK, the issue is likely on the control board and requires professional diagnosis.
Related Error Codes
Same Code on Other Brands
Error code HE appears on these other brands too. See every brand that shows HE →
Find Replacement Parts
Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Samsung Dryer:
External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.
More Samsung Dryer Error Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using my Samsung Dryer when error HE appears? +
What most commonly causes HE on a Samsung Dryer? +
HE keeps coming back after a reset — what should I check next? +
How much does it cost to fix Samsung Dryer error HE? +
Which Samsung Dryer models show error HE? +
Sources & References
- • Samsung Support — Error Codes — official manufacturer documentation
- • Our editorial & verification policy
Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 10, 2026.