Samsung Dryer HE Error: Heating circuit failure
If your Samsung appliance is showing this error, you’re dealing with a samsung dryer he error. Here’s everything you need to know about diagnosing and fixing this issue. Samsung he error code — here is what you need to know. What Does Error Code hE Mean on a Samsung Dryer? Error code hE on Samsung […]
Sometimes
DIY Fixable
From $150
Typical Repair Cost
45-90 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. If the dryer runs and tumbles but simply does not heat, it is safe to operate on air-dry or fluff settings while awaiting repair. However, if the hE code was caused by a blocked vent that led to overheating, do not continue use until the vent is cleared — continued operation with a blocked vent is a fire hazard.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Power cycle the dryer by unplugging for 60 seconds or toggling the breaker. If hE was caused by a one-time temperature spike, it may clear. A tripped thermal fuse, however, does not reset — it must be physically replaced.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: You smell burning or see scorch marks on clothes, The exterior of the dryer is unusually hot to the touch.
Symptoms You May Notice
Clothes remain damp after full cycle
The dryer runs for the full programmed time but clothes are still wet because no heat was produced.
hE or hE1 error on display
The digital panel shows the heating error code, typically appearing 5-10 minutes into a heated cycle.
Drum tumbles but air stays cool
The motor runs and the drum rotates normally, but the air inside the drum is cold or barely warm.
Gas dryer igniter glows but flame does not start
On gas models, the igniter may visibly glow orange through the lower access panel but the gas valve never opens.
Possible Causes
Burned-out heating element
The nichrome wire coil in electric Samsung dryers develops breaks from thermal cycling over years of use, creating an open circuit that prevents heat generation.
Requires ProfessionalTripped thermal fuse
A one-time safety fuse mounted on the heating assembly or exhaust duct blows when temperatures exceed safe limits, cutting power to the heater permanently until replaced.
Requires ProfessionalBlocked exhaust vent
A lint-clogged vent duct restricts airflow, causing the dryer to overheat. While the dryer may still run, the overheating trips thermal safety devices that disable the heater.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Clean lint screen and vent
Remove and wash the lint screen with warm soapy water. Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and check for lint buildup. Verify airflow at the exterior vent hood.
A dryer sheet residue buildup on the lint screen is invisible but blocks airflow — hold it under running water to check.
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2
Check circuit breaker (electric models)
Find the 2-pole 30A breaker for the dryer in your electrical panel. Turn it fully OFF, then back ON. A half-tripped breaker provides 120V (enough to tumble) but not the 240V needed for the heating element.
A tripped breaker may not look obviously tripped — toggle it OFF then ON regardless.
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3
Verify gas supply (gas models)
Locate the gas shutoff valve behind the dryer — the handle should be parallel to the pipe (open). If it is perpendicular, the gas is off. Turn it parallel and try a cycle.
If you smell gas after opening the valve, turn it off immediately and call your gas company.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- The dryer runs cold on every cycle after cleaning the vent and checking the breaker
- The thermal fuse has blown — this is a one-time component that cannot be reset
- Gas dryer igniter glows but gas never ignites (failed gas valve solenoids)
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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