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ErrBase

LG Dishwasher AE Error: Leak Detected Fix

Quick Answer

The AE error on an LG dishwasher means the anti-flood float switch in the base pan has detected standing water. Unplug the unit immediately, remove the kick plate, and dry the drip tray. The most common culprits are a torn door gasket, a loose hose connection, or excessive detergent suds overflowing the sump.

LG's AE code fires when the float switch inside the shallow drip tray at the base of the dishwasher rises due to accumulated water. Nine times out of ten, the source is a degraded door gasket letting water seep past the door seal on every wash cycle, or a hose fitting that has worked itself loose over thousands of fill-and-drain cycles. Clearing the pan and eliminating the leak source stops the code for good.

LgDishwasherSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate82% DIY Success
Time to Fix
30–120 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$12 – $55
Tools Needed
Flathead screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver

What Does the undefined Code Mean?

Think of the AE code as LG's built-in water alarm. A small float sits in a collection tray beneath the wash tub. When any internal component leaks enough water to pool in that tray, the float rises, triggers the sensor, and the machine shuts itself down to prevent a flood. The repair always comes down to two steps: dry the tray completely and track down the source of the water.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Torn or deformed door gasket35%
Loose or damaged hose connection25%
Excessive detergent causing suds overflow15%
Faulty water inlet valve dripping12%
Cracked sump or tub body8%
Degraded drain pump shaft seal5%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • AE error code displayed on the control panel with the dishwasher stopped mid-cycle
  • Standing water visible in the shallow tray behind the kick plate at the base of the unit
  • Water puddle forming on the kitchen floor in front of or directly beneath the dishwasher
  • Dishwasher won't start a new cycle even after pressing Cancel
  • Musty or mildew odor coming from the lower cabinet area around the dishwasher

Can you reset a Lg dishwasher to clear the undefined code?

Dry the base pan completely and fix the source of the leak before attempting any reset. Press and hold the Power button for three seconds to reset the control board. If AE persists, unplug the dishwasher for 60 seconds and plug it back in. Press and hold Cancel or Drain for three seconds to clear residual fault memory before selecting a new cycle.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Flathead screwdriverPhillips head screwdriverQuarter-inch nut driverDigital multimeterWet-dry vacuumFlashlight or headlampAdjustable slip-joint pliersTowels and a bucket

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range500–1500 ohms
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Door Gasket / Door SealMDS47123601 · $15–$38
Anti-Flood Float Switch6601ER1006E · $12–$28
Water Inlet Valve Assembly5221DD1001B · $28–$55
Drain Hose Assembly5215DD2003A · $12–$24

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I force-reset the AE code without fixing the leak?
You can clear the code temporarily by drying the base pan and unplugging the unit for 60 seconds, but the AE code will return the moment the next wash cycle produces enough leak water to re-raise the float. LG's anti-flood system is active on every cycle. Running the dishwasher with an unresolved leak risks damaging your subfloor, cabinetry, and potentially voiding any homeowner's insurance coverage for water damage. Always clear the root cause before resetting.
How do I reset an LG dishwasher after fixing the AE error?
After drying the base pan and completing the repair, press and hold the Power button for three seconds to trigger a control board reset. If the AE code still appears, unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet for a full 60 seconds, then plug it back in. You may also need to press and hold the Cancel or Drain button for three seconds to clear any residual fault state stored in memory before the machine will accept a new wash cycle selection.
How much does it cost to fix the LG AE error professionally?
A door gasket replacement by a technician typically runs between $80 and $150 including parts and one hour of labor. A water inlet valve swap generally lands between $120 and $200. If the sump assembly is cracked, expect $200 to $350 because the labor time increases significantly. Compared to a replacement LG dishwasher at $600 or more, most AE-related repairs are well worth completing unless the machine is over 10 years old and showing multiple simultaneous faults.
Why does my LG dishwasher show AE but I can't find any water?
Small leaks can evaporate between cycles, especially in a warm kitchen, leaving the float stuck in the raised position with no visible water remaining in the pan. The float switch itself can also stick in the closed position due to soap residue or mineral scale buildup on the mechanism, falsely triggering the AE code with no actual leak present. Clean the float assembly with a damp cloth to confirm it moves freely up and down, then test the switch with a multimeter as outlined in the diagnostic steps.
Is the LG AE error covered under warranty?
LG's standard limited warranty covers one year of parts and labor on dishwashers from the original purchase date. If your unit is within that window, contact LG support to schedule a warranty service call. Leaks caused by improper installation, using the wrong detergent type, or physical damage to the door seal are typically excluded from warranty coverage. Be accurate when describing the fault to the service representative, as a tech will inspect the unit before warranty work is approved.

Models Known to Experience Errors

This repair applies to most Lg dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

LDF5545ST, LDT5665BD, LDF7774ST, LDFN4542W, LDT5678SS, LDF5545BD, LDPE3762D, LDFN3532T

MS

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on April 8, 2026