Dishwasher Low Severity
PE Appliance Error Code

Samsung Dishwasher PE Error: Zone wash sensor error

If your Samsung appliance is showing this error, you’re dealing with a samsung dishwasher pe error. Here’s everything you need to know about diagnosing and fixing this issue. Samsung pe error code — here is what you need to know. What Does Error Code PE Mean on a Samsung Dishwasher? Error code PE on Samsung […]

By James Crawford Lead Appliance Repair Specialist & Technical Writer

No

DIY Fixable

From $250

Typical Repair Cost

90-150 min

Pro Repair Time

Quick Assessment

Answer to continue safely

Is it safe to keep using?

Yes. PE only affects the zone wash feature. The dishwasher is completely safe to use in full wash mode. There is no safety hazard — this is a convenience feature error.

Can I reset the code?

Yes. Power cycle via the breaker for 5 minutes. PE may clear temporarily. If the diverter is physically jammed, the code will return when zone wash is attempted.

When to stop immediately?

Stop if you notice: Water is not reaching one of the racks at all during a full wash, Unusual mechanical noises from inside the tub during wash cycles.

Symptoms You May Notice

Zone wash mode does not activate

Selecting the half-load or zone wash option does not concentrate water to the selected rack zone.

PE error on display

The panel shows PE when a zone wash cycle is attempted.

Full wash works but zone wash fails

Normal full-load cycles complete successfully, but any zone-specific option triggers the error.

Water pressure seems lower than normal

If the diverter is stuck partially open, water pressure may be split between zones instead of concentrated.

Possible Causes

1

Failed diverter valve actuator

The small motor that positions the water diverter between upper and lower wash zones wears out or loses position accuracy.

Requires Professional
2

Jammed diverter mechanism

Food debris or mineral deposits jam the diverter in one position, preventing it from switching between zone wash configurations.

Requires Professional
3

Position sensor failure

The sensor that reports diverter position to the control board has an intermittent connection or has failed completely.

Requires Professional

Safe Checks You Can Do

These checks are safe for homeowners. No disassembly required. Do not remove panels or access internal components.
  1. 1

    Power cycle and test full wash

    Turn off the breaker for 5 minutes. Start a normal full wash cycle (without zone wash selected). If it completes successfully, the issue is isolated to the zone wash feature.

    If full wash works fine, you can continue using the dishwasher normally — just avoid the zone wash option.

  2. 2

    Run a cleaning cycle

    Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaning tablet to dissolve any mineral buildup that may be jamming the diverter mechanism.

    Samsung recommends running a cleaning cycle monthly for optimal performance.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a qualified technician if:

  • PE appears on full wash cycles as well as zone wash
  • Water pressure is noticeably low on both upper and lower spray arms
  • The diverter mechanism makes grinding sounds during cycle start

Need Professional Help?

Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.

Dishwasher Repair Service Schedule Appointment

More Dishwasher Error Codes

View all codes →
TE BE2 HE LE OC 9E 7E 5E 4E 3E 1E

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