What the AE / E1 Code Means
When your LG dishwasher shows AE or E1, it’s telling you there’s water where it shouldn’t be. The machine’s safety float has detected a leak, so it stops the wash cycle to prevent damage.
Why It Happens
An AE error isn’t always a major breakdown. Some of the most common reasons include:
- The dishwasher isn’t sitting evenly on the floor
- The door seal is dirty, loose, or torn
- Spray arms are clogged with food debris
- Too much soap or the wrong type of detergent was used
- In rare cases, an internal part is leaking
Quick DIY Fixes You Can Try
Level the dishwasher
- Put a small level inside the tub.
- If water tilts to one side, adjust the feet until balanced.
Clean the door seal
- Wipe grease and crumbs off the rubber gasket.
- If it’s cracked or bent, it needs replacement.
Unclog the spray arms
- Take them out and rinse under warm water.
- Use a toothpick to clear blocked holes.
Use the right detergent
- Stick to one pod or the recommended powder amount.
- Avoid dish soap—it creates foam that leads to leaks.
Empty the drain pan
- Dry up any standing water under the dishwasher.
- Restart the unit to see if the error clears.
FAQs
Not always. Many times it’s just detergent overflow or a leveling issue.
Yes, but it will come back unless you remove the water and fix the leak.
If the code shows up again after cleaning and leveling, a part inside (like the pump or hose) may be leaking. That’s when you need service.
Local Repair in Toronto
If your dishwasher keeps flashing the AE error code, don’t wait until it causes water damage. At Neighborhood Appliance Repairs, we offer same-day LG dishwasher repair anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area.