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SAMSUNG 1E

Samsung Dishwasher Error 1E: Filter Clog or High Temperature Heater Error

Clear meaning, realistic next steps, and safe guidance without turning the page into a long repair manual.

What it means

On WaterWall models, 1E indicates the filter is clogged and restricting water flow. On rotary spray arm models, 1E indicates the water temperature has risen above safe operating limits or the high-temperature heater is faulting.

Severity

Medium - some user checks may help, but repeated faults often need service.

Can you fix it yourself?

Partial — start with DIY steps

Most likely cause

Filter assembly clogged with food debris or grease — most common cause on WaterWall models

Also displayed as 1E, IE on some models.

Estimated time for safe first checks: 10–15 min for filter clean; Professional if heater fault.

Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide

  1. SAFETY: Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker before removing the filter.
  2. Remove the lower rack to access the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
  3. Twist and lift out the cylindrical filter, then remove the flat mesh filter beneath it.
  4. Rinse both filter parts under warm running water. Use a soft brush to remove trapped food particles.
  5. Hold each filter piece up to light — confirm you can see through the mesh.
  6. Reinsert the flat filter first, then lock the cylindrical filter by twisting clockwise until it clicks.
  7. Restore power and run a rinse cycle to confirm 1E has cleared.
  8. If 1E returns on a rotary model after filter cleaning, the issue is temperature-related — call Samsung Support at 1-800-726-7864.

If the warning comes back after restart

  • If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
  • If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.
  • 1E returns immediately after cleaning and correctly reinserting the filter

What This Error Means

Error 1E on your Samsung dishwasher means: On WaterWall models, 1E indicates the filter is clogged and restricting water flow. On rotary spray arm models, 1E indicates the water temperature has risen above safe operating limits or the high-temperature heater is faulting. Also displayed as IE on some models. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has flagged this condition and may have paused the current cycle.

The most frequent cause is filter assembly clogged with food debris or grease — most common cause on waterwall models. Work through the causes and steps below before calling a technician.

Many cases of 1E can be partially resolved by the homeowner. Complete all DIY steps before contacting a technician.

A clean filter is the single most important maintenance task for a Samsung dishwasher. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the filter monthly. Rinse it under running water and use a soft brush on the mesh — a clean filter improves wash performance, reduces odors, and prevents pump strain.

Most Likely Cause by Symptom

The Samsung dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.

Likely cause: Filter assembly clogged with food debris or grease — most common cause on WaterWall models

Check first: SAFETY: Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker before removing the filter.

Performance may drop because airflow, filtering, or draining is restricted.

Likely cause: Filter not reseated correctly after previous cleaning

Check first: Remove the lower rack to access the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.

Common Causes

  • Filter assembly clogged with food debris or grease — most common cause on WaterWall models
  • Filter not reseated correctly after previous cleaning
  • High incoming water temperature — hot water supply exceeding safe dishwasher limits
  • High-temperature heater component failing on rotary models
  • Blockage preventing water from reaching the filter area

What Not to Do

  • Do not run the dishwasher with a clogged filter — reduced water flow causes poor washing and can overheat the pump
  • Do not use a dishwasher tablet or cleaning cycle as a substitute for physically removing and cleaning the filter

Model and Display Variation Notes

Model-family notes

  • Samsung dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
  • If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
  • Some models may display the same fault as 1E, IE.

Display and panel differences

  • Some control panels show this issue as 1E, IE instead of only 1E.
  • Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.

Parts, Tools and Service Options

Common parts

  • Filter assembly if mesh is torn or damaged ($20–$50)
  • High-temperature heater for rotary models ($40–$90)

Manual and model check

Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Samsung dishwasher parts.

Service option

Samsung service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.

Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.

When Not to Keep Troubleshooting

1E returns immediately after cleaning and correctly reinserting the filter

  • 1E appears on a rotary spray arm model — this indicates a heater fault, not a filter issue

How to Prevent It Recurring

  • Clean the dishwasher filter monthly — food debris accumulates faster than most owners expect, especially with heavily soiled loads
  • Scrape plates before loading to reduce debris reaching the filter

Related Error Codes

Extra notes

  • This page is based on Samsung support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
  • The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.

Source and model notes

Last reviewed: 2026-04-08

Based on: Based on Samsung support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.

View Samsung US Official Support

Model coverage note: Samsung dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.

Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.

Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.