Lg Dishwasher: error code AE, not draining

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your LG dishwasher displays the AE error code, it indicates a leak detection or flood sensor activation, halting operation mid-cycle. Water may accumulate in the tub, preventing proper drainage. This issue often arises from leaks or excessive suds caused by improper detergent use. Understanding the root causes can help you efficiently resolve the problem and restore your dishwasher's functionality.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • AE (also E1) is specifically defined by LG as a leak detection error triggered by water in the base pan activating the float switch.
  • LG documentation emphasizes proper leveling of dishwasher to prevent water pooling that can trigger AE.

Possible Causes

Water leak causing float/flood sensor activation

How to Identify: Water present beneath dishwasher base panel (remove kickplate, standing water in base pan, sensor triggered even if filter/drain clear.

Part: Float/flood sensor, base pan

Incorrect detergent use resulting in suds overflow

How to Identify: Excessive suds during/after cycle, soap foam coming out around door, error occurs after high‑suds cycle.

Part: Detergent dispenser/detergent

DIY Solutions

Drain and dry base pan to clear leak detection

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, towels or wet/dry vacuum
  1. Turn off power at breaker and turn off water supply.
  2. Remove front kickplate and check base pan for water.
  3. Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from pan.
  4. Allow area to dry fully before restoring power.
  5. Restore power and run a short cycle to see if AE clears.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before accessing internal areas.

Use correct detergent and reduce amount

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Remove any excess detergent from dispenser.
  2. Use only one HE dishwasher pod or measure powder detergent to marked levels.
  3. Avoid using liquid dish soap.
  4. Run a rinse cycle to clear suds if present.

Check and reseat door gasket

Moderate 15-45 minutes
Tools Needed: soft cloth, warm soapy water
  1. Open dishwasher door and inspect gasket.
  2. Clean gasket and door edge with cloth.
  3. Press gasket firmly into its groove ensuring good seal.
  4. Run a test cycle with no dishes to check for leaks.

Inspect and straighten/clean drain hose

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket
  1. Pull dishwasher out to access back.
  2. Inspect drain hose for kinks or clogs.
  3. Straighten hose and remove any debris.
  4. Reconnect hose securely and run test cycle.

Professional Repairs

Replace damaged door gasket

Estimated Cost: $30 - $100

Replace float switch/sensor

Estimated Cost: $20 - $80

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

Control board diagnosis and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Water continues to leak or AE persists after DIY steps
No visible water in base but AE persists
Electrical components (control board/sensor) suspected faulty
Major internal leak visible under dishwasher

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean filter and drain area: Clogs that can lead to water pooling and leakage detection
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect door gasket: Leaks around door that trigger AE error
    Frequency: quarterly
  • Use correct HE detergent: Excessive suds and overflow
    Frequency: every use
  • Check dishwasher level: Water pooling due to improper leveling
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Dishwasher Error code AE, not draining?
The AE error code indicates a leak detection or flood condition, often due to water leaks or incorrect detergent use causing suds.
How do I fix LG Dishwasher Error code AE, not draining myself?
To fix it, drain the base pan, use the correct detergent, check the door gasket, and inspect the drain hose for clogs.
How much does it cost to fix Error code AE, not draining?
Professional repair costs for Error code AE range from $30 for a door gasket replacement to $350 for control board diagnostics.
When should I call a technician for Error code AE, not draining?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable performing repairs, it's best to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged drain filter or hose
  • Faulty drain pump
  • Blocked or kinked drain line

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain filter and hose. Remove the lower spray arm and filter cover, clean any debris, and reassemble.

  2. Inspect the drain pump for obstructions and test its functionality. If faulty, replace the pump.

  3. Examine the drain line for kinks or blockages. Straighten any kinks and clear any blockages found.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. LG LDP6797BD AE Error code

Community Discussions

AE error code, beeping, draining issue

Taking apart the removable parts and reassembling resolved the issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!