If you notice your LG dishwasher displaying an AE error code, it likely indicates there is a leak in the dishwasher system that needs to be addressed. An AE error can occur for several reasons, including a clogged drain hose, malfunctioning water inlet valve, or damaged door seal. Resetting the error code is usually a matter of troubleshooting a few key components and performing a reset of the dishwasher’s control panel. With some simple steps, you can often resolve an AE error on your LG dishwasher and get it functioning properly again.

Understanding LG Dishwasher Error Codes

LG dishwashers are programmed to diagnose issues and communicate them through a series of error codes. These error codes, which often appear as a letter-number combination on the dishwasher’s display panel, signify a specific problem detected by the dishwasher’s internal monitoring system. Becoming familiar with the most common LG dishwasher error codes can help you troubleshoot problems quickly when they arise.

It’s important to note that while LG dishwasher error codes point to an issue, they don’t necessarily fully explain the problem or all of its causes. Some troubleshooting and investigation into what’s occurring with your dishwasher will usually be needed. However, LG error codes provide a useful starting point in determining what’s wrong with your dishwasher.

Common LG dishwasher error codes include:

• OE – This typically indicates an issue with draining, such as a clogged or kinked drain hose.
• IE – This code relates to problems with the dishwasher’s water inlet, like low water pressure or a clogged water filter.
• FE – This signifies that the dishwasher is not filling properly. Causes can include a malfunctioning water valve or float switch.
• LE – A leak has been detected, triggering this error code. Possible sources include the circulation pump, tub seal, or water inlet valve.
• AE – Also signaling a leak, this code specifically points to an internal dishwasher leak.
• PE – This indicates an issue with the water level sensing, such as a float switch malfunction.
• E1 – An error with the circulation pump may be causing this code to appear. It could require pump repair or replacement.
• HE – This denotes the dishwasher has overheated, likely due to a flow issue or drainage problem.

Familiarizing yourself with these error codes can greatly simplify identifying and resolving the majority of LG dishwasher problems. Always refer to your owner’s manual as well for brand and model-specific error code explanations.

What is the AE Error Code on an LG Dishwasher?

The AE error code is one of the more common LG dishwasher error codes, indicating there is a leak somewhere within the internal dishwasher system. This leak is likely allowing water to escape the dishwasher’s tub or internal components.

An internal dishwasher leak signified by an AE error can have several possible causes:

• Failed or deteriorated tub seal – The rubber seal around the dishwasher tub, designed to keep water contained, may have cracked or become too worn over time, allowing water to seep out.
• Damaged or leaking hoses – Defects in the dishwasher’s internal hoses can lead to water escaping. This may include cracks from material breakdown.
• Malfunctioning water inlet valve – A dishwasher’s water inlet valve controls water flow into the tub. If it sticks open, the excess water can leak out.
• Pump or motor seal leaks – The circulating pump and motor have seals and gaskets that can wear out or fail, resulting in water leaking from those components.
• Loose or damaged drain pipe – If the drain pipe that removes water from the dishwasher becomes detached or cracked, it can lead to internal water leaks.
• Siphon issues – Improper siphoning can sometimes cause water to leak out through inlet openings. A backflow prevention device may be needed.

No matter the specific cause, an AE error code indicates that water is escaping somewhere it shouldn’t be within the dishwasher’s confines. The leak is often gradual and minor at first but can worsen over time if not addressed.

How to Reset the AE Error Code

Resetting an LG dishwasher displaying an AE error code is often an effective way to clear the code so you can further troubleshoot the leak issue. However, the error code will likely reappear later if the underlying problem is not resolved.

Follow these steps to try resetting your LG dishwasher when an AE error code is showing:

1. Turn off power to the dishwasher

Shut off power to the dishwasher at the source, usually by flipping the circuit breaker at the home’s main electrical service panel. Ensure power cannot be accidentally turned back on while you’re working.

2. Detach the power cables

Open the junction box beneath the dishwasher or at the rear to locate the power cables. Carefully detach the hot power and neutral cables from the dishwasher’s power terminal block.

3. Drain any remaining water

Place a shallow pan or towel beneath the dishwasher. Open up the dishwasher, remove any remaining water inside using towels if needed, and ensure the interior tub is fully drained.

4. Wait at least 60 seconds

Leave the dishwasher without power for a full minute before reconnecting the power cable. This gives the control board and internal components time to fully reset.

5. Reconnect power

Reattach the hot and neutral wires securely back onto the dishwasher’s power terminal block. Close up the junction box, then turn the breaker back on to restore power.

6. Power up and test

With power restored, turn on the dishwasher. If the leak issue has resolved, the AE code may not reappear. However, the code returning right away likely means there is still an underlying leak problem.

This power reset procedure can clear AE errors from an LG dishwasher display so you can further test the machine. However, you’ll usually need to follow up with investigating the leak source if the AE code persists.

Troubleshooting and Fixing the Leak Causing the AE Error

Once you’ve reset an AE error code on your LG dishwasher, verifying if the leak is fixed and pinpointing the source if it persists are key next steps. Here is how to troubleshoot, isolate, and repair an internal leak triggering an AE error:

Inspect Door Seal

A degraded or unattached door seal is a common source of interior water leaks. Carefully examine the rubber seal between the dishwasher tub and door. Look for any cracks, gaps, or portions where it has come loose from the channels. If the seal is damaged, replacing it can often resolve an AE error.

Check Internal Hoses

The small hoses that feed water to spray arms and other internal components can corrode or weaken over time. Inspect them for any cracks, damage, or signs of leaking. Replace suspect hoses. Ensure connections are tight.

Test Inlet Valve

Use a multi-meter to test the electrical resistance of the water inlet valve solenoid. If outside of specification, the valve may be stuck open, causing leaks. Replace the water inlet assembly if faulty.

Examine Circulation Pump Seal

A failing seal around the circulation pump can leak water. Check for moisture around the pump housing. If the seal or gaskets show wear, replace them. Make sure the pump is properly seated.

Review Drain Lines

Inspect drain lines at the discharge pump for secure fit and any deterioration allowing leaks. Tighten clamps or replace faulty drain components as needed to prevent siphoning leaks.

Check Sump & Tub

Examine the dishwasher’s sump at the bottom of the tub for cracks or excessive staining signaling a leak source. Also look for holes, damage, or other leaks in the tub itself. Patch or replace parts as needed.

Confirm Proper Siphoning

Using a siphon or backflow prevention device on the dishwasher drain line may be required if improper siphoning is causing AE error leaks. Adjust drain lines as needed.

With persistence and methodical part inspection, you can determine where water is escaping and causing the AE error code. Replace any faulty hoses, seals, valves or components allowing leaks. Be sure to confirm a leak is fully fixed before putting the dishwasher back into regular use.

When to Call a Professional for AE Error Repair

While many AE error leaks can be isolated and fixed with troubleshooting, there are instances when you may need to contact an appliance repair technician:

• If the source of the leak cannot be determined after thorough inspection, an expert may be needed to fully diagnose it.
• For leaks originating from internal components like the circulation pump, motor, or control board, professional assistance is advisable for access and repair.
• If the tub, drain pan, or other major dishwasher parts are damaged and require replacement, a technician should handle this.
• For complex dishwasher repairs involving control board replacement or rebuilding the dishwasher, a professional is recommended.
• If the AE error leak is suspected to be causing other electrical issues, it’s best to have an appliance specialist assess this.

Appliance repair technicians have specialized skills in diagnosing leaks, access to LG dishwasher parts for replacement, and abilities to fully rebuild dishwasher tubs or internal components. For serious leaks or complex repairs, it’s often worth the cost to have a professional handle it.

Preventing Future AE Error Leaks

While AE error leaks can originate from a range of issues, there are some steps you can take to help avoid them happening again in the future:

• Regularly inspect the door seal – Check the door seal frequently for any signs of cracking or loosening from the tub. Promptly replace if deteriorating.
• Clean the door seal and tub rim – Not properly cleaning grime buildup around the seal/tub interface can lead to leaks. Wipe and sanitize regularly.
• Use a dishwasher cleaner monthly – Products like Affresh help remove grease and limescale that can cause component and seal failures.
• Avoid overloading – Overpacking dishes prevents proper water distribution and drainage, encouraging leaks. Load per manual guidelines.
• Level the dishwasher properly – An unlevel dishwasher allows water to improperly pool and potentially leak out. Keep it precisely leveled.
• Replace old hoses – Interior dishwasher hoses become porous over 5-7 years. Proactively replacing them prevents leaks.

Making dishwasher maintenance and careful loading habits will help minimize the chances of leaks causing AE errors. But following proper troubleshooting and repair steps is key when an AE code does appear. With a combination of preventative care and prompt issue resolution, an AE leak can often be handled without major dishwasher repairs being necessary.

Conclusion

Seeing an AE error code on your LG dishwasher can be worrying but in many cases, it is fixable with minimal hassle. Now that you know what the AE code signifies, the likely internal leak points, how to reset the dishwasher, and tips for isolating and fixing the leak’s origin, you can take action to get your dishwasher functioning properly again. Catching and repairing a leak promptly also prevents more severe appliance damage down the road. With a bit of targeted troubleshooting, an AE error can usually be resolved and your LG dishwasher restored back to providing spotless results.