Samsung DMR78AHS/XAC Dishwasher HE Code

[HawaiianRyan]

Our Samsung DMR78AHS dishwasher is giving an HE error code. I have read on these forums that this is not uncommon and often caused by a failed heating element or relay. Our hot water tank is far from the dishwasher so I think no hot water makes it to  the dishwasher each time it fills so the heater is likely over worked.

I believe that if either element or relay has failed they would not work intermittently but the code only shows up about 25% of the time, although it seems to be happening with more frequency. Any thoughts on the diagnosis before I start ordering parts would be appreciated.