LG dishwasher not heating

Why is my LG dishwasher not heating?

Many LG dishwashers use an immersed heating element integrated into the sump that heats water as it flows through the circulation pump.

A flow meter and thermistor (temperature sensor) send signals to the electronic control board to monitor heating.

When the heater isn’t working, one of these components could be at fault:

• Heating element.
• Electronic control board.
• Flow meter.
• Thermistor.
• Wiring.

HE Error Code

When the electronic control board detects a failure in the heating system, you’ll typically see the HE error code displayed on the control panel.

This code appears when water isn't heating or when the thermistor (temperature sensor) detects that water temperature is higher than 194 degrees.

If water inside the dishwasher tub is extremely hot, measure water temperature using an accurate thermometer. If the thermometer measures water temperature near 190 degrees, then you'll likely need to replace the electronic control board because a stuck heater relay on the control board is causing the heating element to stay on constantly. Unplug the dishwasher to disconnect electrical power before replacing the control board.

If water inside the tub doesn't seem to be overheated, then the code likely indicates that the heating element wasn't heating the water.

Unplug the dishwasher and check the wire harness connections on the heating element and pressure switch. (The pressure switch detects water flow to the heater and shuts off the heater if water flow is insufficient.)

A loose wiring connection on the heating element or pressure switch can prevent current from flowing through the heating element. Reconnect any loose wires.

If the wiring connections are okay, unplug the wires from the heating element and measure resistance through the element using a multimeter. The meter should measure about 12 ohms of resistance.

Replace the heating element if the meter measures infinite resistance.

If the heating element is good, measure resistance through the thermistor on the heating element. The meter should measure 11,320 ohms at 75 degrees (room temperature). Replace the heating element (which includes the thermistor) if thermistor resistance is off by more than 10 percent because a faulty thermistor could be causing the HE code.

If the heating element and thermistor are good, then you may need to replace the pressure switch or the electronic control board.

You'll need to have a service technician examine the dishwasher and perform live voltage checks to determine whether the pressure switch or electronic control board is preventing the heating element from heating.

What to expect when you experience an LG dishwasher not heating issue

How is the not heating problem fixed?

Correcting most not heating problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, pump and motor assembly or user interface control. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher that is not heating

When the dishwasher is not heating it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.

What to look out for with a dishwasher not heating diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

If your LG dishwasher can’t heat water or achieve a hot final rinse, mineral buildup or a failing heating element may be at play. Lukewarm washes often leave behind grease and germs. Rather than putting your dishes’ cleanliness at risk, schedule a dishwasher repair near me. A robust heating cycle returns the sanitizing power your kitchen deserves.