The AE error means leak detected — the anti-flood sensor in the base pan has detected water.
The LG dishwasher displays the AE error and halts the current cycle until the underlying problem is fixed.
Check these in order. The first cause accounts for the majority of AE errors.
The rubber gasket around the door hardens and cracks over time, allowing water to escape during the wash phase and collect in the base pan below the tub.
A faulty inlet valve that stays open too long causes the tub to overfill — water escapes over the tub seal threshold and triggers the flood sensor.
The hoses connecting the circulation pump and spray arm assembly can develop leaks at their clamp connections, dripping water into the base pan during every wash cycle.
Less common but serious — a physical crack in the plastic tub or sump allows water to drain directly into the base pan. This usually requires professional repair or full tub replacement.
Follow these in order. Stop as soon as the error clears.
AE means water is near electrical components — cut power immediately.
The AE/E1 sensor is a float switch in the base pan. Once water is there, the error triggers on every start until the pan is dry. Remove the kick plate and use towels to absorb standing water.
Open the door and run your hands around the rubber seal perimeter. Look for cracks, hardened sections, or areas where the seal has pulled away from the door frame. Replace if deteriorated.
With the kick plate removed, run a short cycle and observe where water appears. This tells you whether the leak is from the door seal, a hose, the pump, or the sump.
Once you've identified the source: tighten or replace hose clamp connections; replace door seal if it's the gasket. If the tub or sump is cracked, contact LG service.
For warranty service, contact LG support ↗ or a certified appliance technician.