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LG · Dishwasher

AE

Leak Detected

Severity
High

Seeing AE on your LG Dishwasher display means the appliance self-diagnostic detected "Leak Detected". Before calling a technician, work through the steps in this guide — the fix is often simpler than you think.

Owner's Summary

LG dishwashers have a flood sensor in the base — once water collects there, AE triggers and the machine stops. Tilting the machine back may drain the pan and clear the code temporarily, but you must find and fix the leak source.

Symptoms

LG dishwasher stops mid-cycle, AE error displayed, water may be visible under machine

Common Causes

  • Leak detected by float switch in base pan
  • Damaged door gasket
  • Loose or cracked water inlet hose connection
  • Faulty circulation pump seal

How to Fix

  1. 1 Tilt dishwasher slightly back to drain base pan
  2. 2 Inspect door gasket for tears or debris
  3. 3 Check all hose connections under sink for drips
  4. 4 Run short cycle while watching underneath for active leaks
  5. 5 Replace door gasket or pump seal if leak source is identified

Tools You'll Need

Pliers Towels / Bucket Flashlight Replacement Gasket

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

The float switch in the base pan closes when water accumulates, sending a signal directly to the PCB which immediately kills all water inlet solenoids and pump relay outputs. AE will persist until the float switch opens again as the pan dries.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Urgent — an active leak can damage flooring and cabinetry. Identify the source before running the machine again.

Technician's Pro Tip

Using too much detergent or non-dishwasher detergent creates excessive suds that overflow the sump and trigger AE without an actual mechanical leak. Try a cycle with no detergent to rule this out first.

Related Codes

OE — LG Washing Machine

Drain Error — Outlet Error

High
IE — LG Washing Machine

Inlet Error — Water Not Filling

High
LE — LG Washing Machine

Motor Error — Locked Motor

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code AE mean on a LG Dishwasher?
Code AE on a LG Dishwasher indicates "Leak Detected." In practice, the most common trigger is leak detected by float switch in base pan. Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $10 to $250.
Can I fix AE myself, or do I need a technician?
Many cases of AE can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: tilt dishwasher slightly back to drain base pan. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with code AE showing?
Urgent — an active leak can damage flooring and cabinetry. Identify the source before running the machine again.
How much does it cost to repair AE on a LG Dishwasher?
Repair costs for code AE typically range from $10 to $250. Door gasket: $15–$60; Pump seal: $30–$100; Pump assembly: $100–$250. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.
Estimated Repair Cost USD
$10 – $250

Door gasket: $15–$60; Pump seal: $30–$100; Pump assembly: $100–$250