Safety first: Disconnect power at the breaker. The heating circuit operates at mains voltage.

1. Confirm symptom: Open the door immediately after a wash phase. If the water and interior are cold and dishes are not drying, the heater may not be working.
2. Access the heater: On many Bertazzoni dishwashers, the heater is integrated in the circulation pump assembly under the tub. Remove the toe-kick panel and bottom access cover to locate the heater terminals.
3. Inspect wiring: Look for burned connectors or loose spade terminals at the heater and NTC sensor. Reseat or replace damaged connectors.
4. Test the heating element: With a multimeter and power disconnected, measure resistance across the heater terminals. A typical reading is between 15–40 Ω. An open circuit indicates a failed heater.
5. Check the NTC sensor: The NTC (temperature sensor) is usually clipped into the sump or heater housing. Measure its resistance at room temperature and compare to service specs (commonly 10–50 kΩ). A shorted or open sensor will cause E3.

If the heater and NTC test good, the control board heater relay may be defective and should be replaced by a professional.

Dishwasher fills but does not heat water properly; cycle runs long and ends with E3 error.

Possible Causes