How to Fix LG Dishwasher Error Code AE

No one wants an error code to show up on their appliances. It is important to remember that error codes help us to identify the issue faster. In this case, when your LG dishwasher displays an AE (also displayed as an E1 on some models) error code, it indicates that there is a leak inside the dishwasher. 

Unfortunately, with an AE error code, your dishwasher will generally stop working until the issue has been resolved. Some other causes of the error code include using the wrong type of detergent if the float sensor is damaged or the control board is defective. If it was caused by a leak, you would need to find and replace the leaking part to resolve the AE error code.

The following LG dishwasher models are covered in this guide:

LDF6810BB

LDF6810ST

LDF6810ST/01

LDF6810WW

LDF6920BB

LDF6920ST

LDF6920WW

LDF7551ST

LDF7774ST

LDF7810BB

LDF7810ST

LDF7810WW

LDF7811BB

LDF7811ST

LDF7932ST

LDS4821BB

LDS4821ST

LDS4821WW

LDS5540ST

LDS5811ST

LDS5811WW

Follow these simple steps to resolve the AE error on your LG dishwasher. 

1. Reset the dishwasher

The first thing to do is to ensure the error isn’t showing as a result of a control board glitch or a float sensor fault. The easiest way to check this is by resetting your dishwasher. You can do this by disconnecting it from its power source and waiting for 5 to 10 minutes. Then reconnect your dishwasher to the power source and turn it on. Check to see if the error code has returned. If not, it was caused by a glitch, and you are good to go. If it does, continue down through this list to troubleshoot the issue.

2. Check the water inlet line and filter

A common cause of the AE error code is that the water inlet line, valve, or filter may be clogged or damaged. Thankfully, it is obvious when one of these components is the issue. You should be able to see water leaking or any rips or tears in the inlet valve. 

If you can’t see any damage, check that the filter is not clogged. Start by disconnecting the water inlet line. Next, remove the filter that fits inside either the water inlet line or the inlet valve. You may need needle-nose pliers to get it out. Clean the filter and ensure it is clean before you put it back. If any of the components are damaged or old, they should be replaced. 

3. Diagnose the problem

To make sure a leak is causing the problem and not a fault, you will need to access the float sensor and pan. The float sensor monitors the amount of water in your dishwasher and ensures it does not fill up with too much water. Then you should check that there is excess water in the pan. No water in the pan, or any leaking from the dishwasher, may indicate there has been a component failure. The component will need to be fixed. 

If this is the case, you will need a trained technician to fix the issue, as testing the control board can be very difficult. 

The AE error code can be very time-consuming and difficult to diagnose and fix. For this reason, start by checking the steps above thoroughly before moving on. 

To diagnose the leak, you will most likely need to remove the dishwasher access panels to find the leak while it is running. While there is no set rule for the component that causes an AE error, a spray arm that has been damaged, a worn door gasket, or a drain hose are the most common components that cause the error.

4. Access the float sensor and drain pan

As there are so many different models of LG dishwashers, you may need to consult your owner’s manual for this step. If you have a kick or toe panel on your model, you may be able to simply remove it to get access to the float sensor and drain pan. If not, the dishwasher door or an access panel on the side of the dishwasher might need to be removed to gain access. Your power should already be disconnected for this step. 

Remember to be mindful of electrocution if you do need to run the dishwasher cycle to find the leak. 

5. Check the drain pan and float sensor 

Once you have accessed the float sensor, check to see if there is water in the pan. You may need to use a towel to wipe out the water. Use a multimeter to test if the float sensor is working or if it needs to be replaced. To test if the multimeter is faulty, touch the terminals to the wires or terminals on the float sensor and check it is set to ohms. The multimeter should read 1 ohm when the float is lifted up and 0 ohms when the float is down.

6. Check which component is leaking

This can be a difficult error to fix because there are multiple components that could be leaking. There are three components, however, that are the most common causes. The spray arms may be damaged and shooting water directly at the door gasket or draining into the drain pan. 

If the door seals are damaged, they may not be able to keep the water inside the dishwasher while it’s running. You should visually inspect them for rips, tears, or worn patches. 

The final common cause of the AE error is leaking from the hoses or their sockets. If one of the hoses is damaged and leaking, it is best to replace the hose instead of trying to patch it.