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LG Dishwasher Error Code AE: Leak detected error

Applies to LG dishwashers that show AE or E1 on the display.

Quick answer

A leak inside the appliance has lifted the base-pan float switch (shown as AE or E1). Turn the water off and find the source before running it again.

What this code means

LG dishwashers carry a float switch in the base pan. When leaked water lifts it, the machine cancels the cycle to protect your floor. The source is usually a hose fitting, a door gasket, or over-sudsing detergent rather than a major failure.

The manufacturer's checks, in order

  1. Switch the dishwasher off and close the water supply.
  2. Check the door seal, the drain hose connections and whether the unit sits level, as LG's guide lists.
  3. Dry the base pan once you find the source, then run a short cycle and watch for new moisture.
Where you stop

LG's manual directs owners to turn off the water supply and contact LG if the leak source is not obvious — do not keep cycling a leaking machine.

Parts involved in this fault

PartWhy it is involvedTypical price
Door seal / gasketA perished or split seal is the most common leak path.$20-$45Check priceaffiliate slot
Hose setSupply and internal hoses perish and weep with age.$15-$30Check priceaffiliate slot
Leak sensor / float switchThe sensor that detects the water — occasionally the sensor itself is the fault.$15-$30Check priceaffiliate slot

Related LG dishwasher codes

IE — Water inlet errorOE — Drain (water outlet) errorFE — Overfill errorHE — Heater errortE — Thermistor (temperature sensor) errorLE — Wash motor error

Questions people ask about AE

Is AE a leak on every LG appliance?

No. On LG dishwashers AE/E1 is a leak. On LG top-load washers AE is a drum rotation error. Same brand, same letters, different appliance, different fault.

Source & provenance. The meaning, the checks and their order, and the service line on this page are restated from LG official — “How Do You Fix Common Dishwasher Problems?” (LG Story) and “LG Dishwasher — Understanding Error Codes” (Help Library) (source), read on 2026-11-06. No forum content, no invented repair steps, and nothing involving gas, refrigerant or mains wiring. Where the manufacturer says to request service, this page stops too.