ErrorCodeDoctor
LG · Dishwasher

LG Dishwasher AE / E1 error code

Difficulty: Medium · Cost: $0–$100 · Duration: 20–30m

The AE error means your LG dishwasher detected water in the base pan — the float switch at the bottom of the unit triggered when water leaked into the drain pan below the tub. The dishwasher will not run again until the source of the leak is identified and fixed and the drain pan is dried out. This code may also appear as E1 on some models. Common causes include a unit that is not level, a dirty or damaged door gasket, blocked spray arms, or using too much or the wrong type of detergent.

Common causes

  • Dishwasher is not sitting level causing water to pool and overflow to one side
  • Door gasket has food or grease buildup preventing a proper seal
  • Door gasket is torn or damaged allowing water to escape during the cycle
  • Spray arms are blocked or damaged causing water to spray incorrectly
  • Too much detergent used — more than one pod or filling dispenser beyond the marked level
  • Dishwashing liquid used instead of dishwasher detergent causing excessive suds and overflow

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Check the dishwasher is level — place a level inside the tub against all sides and adjust the feet if needed

  2. 2

    Remove the bottom rack and pour about a gallon of water inside — if it pools to one side the unit is not level

  3. 3

    Inspect the door gasket for food or grease buildup and clean it thoroughly with a damp cloth

  4. 4

    Check the spray arms for blockages or buildup — remove them and clean with a soft brush and warm soapy water then reinstall

  5. 5

    Make sure you are only using one dishwasher pod or tablet per cycle — never use two

  6. 6

    If using liquid or powder detergent fill only to the 15 line for light loads or the 25 line for heavy loads — never overfill

  7. 7

    Stop using dishwashing liquid — switch to dedicated dishwasher pods or powder detergent

  8. 8

    Once the cause is fixed the drain pan must be dried out before the error will clear — unplug the unit and allow it to dry completely

  9. 9

    If the door gasket is damaged or the error persists after all steps the unit needs a professional repair

Related LG Dishwasher error codes

1

bE

The wrong type of detergent was used or the dishwasher is not level

easy
2

CL

Child lock or control lock is active — buttons are disabled

easy
3

IE

The dishwasher did not fill with enough water within 10 minutes

easy
4

2H

The estimated time remaining for the current cycle is less than 2 hours

easy