The IH error on your Frigidaire dishwasher means the control board has detected a problem with the water heating circuit during the fill or wash cycle. It usually points to a heating element, thermistor, or wiring fault. In many cases you can clear it yourself with a few basic checks before calling for service.

Error code IH
Meaning Inlet/water heater circuit fault — the dishwasher is not detecting proper heating during the cycle
Severity Medium — dishwasher may still run but won’t clean or dry properly
Time to fix 15–40 minutes
Tools needed Multimeter, screwdriver

What the IH error means

Frigidaire dishwashers use a heating element and thermistor to warm water to the correct temperature for washing and drying. The IH code appears when the control board sends power to the heater but doesn’t see the expected temperature rise within the set time window. This can be a real heating failure or simply a bad sensor reading.

The error can appear mid-cycle, causing the dishwasher to pause, run longer than normal, or end without properly drying dishes.

Common causes

  • Faulty heating element that no longer heats water
  • Failed thermistor or temperature sensor giving incorrect readings
  • Loose or corroded wiring connections at the heater or sensor
  • Water inlet valve not supplying enough water to cover the heater
  • Control board malfunction misreading heater signals
  • Power supply issue causing intermittent voltage to the heating circuit

How to fix the IH error

  1. Power cycle the dishwasher — Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes, then restart. This clears temporary control board glitches.
  2. Check water supply — Make sure the water inlet valve is fully open and the dishwasher is filling to the correct level so the heater is submerged.
  3. Inspect wiring connections — With power off, check the wiring at the heating element and thermistor for looseness, corrosion, or damage.
  4. Test the heating element — Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the heater. No continuity means it needs replacing.
  5. Test the thermistor — Check its resistance against the manufacturer’s spec at room temperature; replace if out of range.
  6. Call a technician — If the heater and thermistor test fine, the control board may be at fault and should be diagnosed by a professional.

FAQ

Can I still use my dishwasher with an IH error showing?
You can try running a cycle, but dishes may not dry or clean properly until the heating fault is fixed.

Is the IH error dangerous?
No, it won’t damage the dishwasher further if left alone short term, but ignoring it long term can strain other components.

How much does it cost to fix an IH error?
A replacement heating element or thermistor typically costs $30–$80 plus labor if you hire a technician, often $100–$200 total.