Dishwasher shows E3 and stops; water may not heat, or cycle runs unusually long while trying to heat.

Safety first: Disconnect power at the breaker and allow the dishwasher to cool completely before working near the heater.

• Confirm symptom: Run a cycle and check if dishes come out cold and wet. If E3 appears and water never gets hot, suspect the heater circuit.
• Inspect the heating element: Access the bottom of the tub (inside) and look for visible damage, breaks, or heavy scale on the Dacor heating element. From underneath, check for leaks around the element grommets.
• Test element continuity: With power off and wires removed from the element terminals (under the unit), use a multimeter to check resistance. An open reading indicates a failed element that must be replaced.
• Check high-limit thermostat and NTC: Locate the high-limit thermostat and temperature sensor on the tub or heater housing. Test for continuity (thermostat) and proper resistance (sensor) per Dacor specs. Replace if open or out of range.
• Inspect control board: If the heater and sensors test good, remove the control panel and inspect the main control board for burned heater relay contacts or damaged traces. Board replacement is typically required if damage is found.