Heating Element Error
What it means
On Siemens dishwashers this code means the unit could not heat the water to the required temperature, or the heater circuit is not responding. On many models the heater is part of the heat pump that also contains the circulation pump, so it is usually replaced as one unit. The dishwasher may finish the program with unheated water, and the same number can mean something else on other brands.
Models covered: Siemens dishwashers; the code shows on the display or at the end of a program.
Symptoms4
- E09 shows and the program stops or ends with poor results.
- Dishes and glasses no longer come out warm.
- Grease and white marks on the dishes.
- Many water droplets left on dishes after drying.
Possible causes5
- A failed heating element in the heat pump or the separate heater.
- Scale on the heater from low salt or a wrong water hardness setting.
- A loose or burnt plug in the heater circuit.
- A faulty temperature sensor (thermistor) sending a wrong reading.
- A faulty heating relay on the control board.
How to diagnose5
- Unplug the unit for a few minutes, then run a hot program and feel the dishes at the end.
- Make sure there is softener salt and the water hardness is set as in the user manual.
- A technician unplugs the unit before taking it apart and checks the heat pump plugs and wiring for burning or looseness.
- The technician measures the heating element and temperature sensor against the manufacturer specification.
- The heating circuit on the board is checked if the parts are fine.
How to fix5
- Fill the salt and set the water hardness to protect the heater from scale.
- Have the technician repair the damaged plug or wire.
- Replace the temperature sensor if its reading is wrong.
- Replace the heat pump or heater if the element has failed.
- Repair or replace the board if needed, then run a hot program to confirm heating and no returning code.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
The cost is small for a plug or sensor repair, and peaks when the heat pump or the control board must be replaced.
Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Why are my dishes coming out with white marks with E09?
The water is not hot enough to dissolve the detergent fully, and low salt can add scale on both the heater and the dishes.
Is the heater replaced on its own in Siemens dishwashers?
On many models the heater is built into the heat pump, so the whole unit is replaced; on others it is separate. The technician confirms this by model.
Does the water hardness setting really matter?
Yes. The right setting makes the dishwasher use salt to soften the water, which reduces scale on the heater and helps it last.
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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.
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