HE
Samsung Dryer
Severity: CriticalWhat it means
Samsung dryer HE error means the heating element or heater relay has failed.
The drum spins but no heat is produced — clothes come out damp or cold.
Affected Models
- Samsung Electric Dryer
- Samsung DV Series
- Samsung Smart Dryer
Common Causes
- Burned-out heating element (most common on electric dryers)
- Blown thermal fuse from overheating
- Faulty high-limit thermostat
- Clogged exhaust vent causing overheating and thermal fuse burnout
- Control board heater relay failure
How to Fix It
-
Check and clear the exhaust vent.
A blocked exhaust vent is the most common cause of thermal fuse failure, which triggers HE.
Disconnect the vent hose and check for lint blockages the full length of the duct to the exterior. -
Test the thermal fuse.
The thermal fuse is a one-time safety device — if it blows, the heater circuit breaks permanently until replaced.
Locate it on the exhaust duct (usually near the heating element), unplug the dryer, and test for continuity.
No continuity means the fuse has blown. -
Test the heating element.
With the dryer unplugged, use a multimeter to test the heating element coil for continuity.
A broken coil reads as open circuit (no continuity) and must be replaced. -
Replace the faulty part.
Thermal fuses and heating elements are both inexpensive parts.
Always replace a blown thermal fuse AND clear the vent — if you only replace the fuse without clearing the blockage, it will blow again.
When to Call a Professional
Replacing a heating element or thermal fuse requires opening the rear or front panel of the dryer.
If you are not comfortable with this, an appliance technician can complete the repair affordably.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Samsung dryer shows HE and the drum spins but there is no heat — is this normal for HE?
Yes — HE specifically indicates a heater circuit failure. The motor and drum continue to run but the heating element is disabled. This confirms the fault is in the heating circuit, not the motor.
Why does my Samsung dryer keep blowing the thermal fuse?
A thermal fuse that blows repeatedly almost always means the exhaust vent is partially or fully blocked. Heat cannot escape, the dryer overheats, and the fuse sacrifices itself to prevent a fire. Clear the full length of the vent duct before replacing the fuse again.