Drain pump
Common dishwasher and washer water-removal part.
AE on an LG dishwasher means the anti-flood sensor at the base triggered. The machine locks out to protect your floor. Don’t bypass this — find the leak first.
What This Error Means
A float sensor in the base pan detects any leaked water and triggers AE. The dishwasher won’t run again until the base is bone dry and the float drops back down.
Common Causes
- Door gasket cracks — Rubber seal hardens and cracks over time, especially at lower corners
- Loose hose connections — Drain hose or supply hose fittings at the pump or under-sink connections
- Pump seal wear — Internal pump seals have failed
- Wrong or excess detergent — Excess suds escape through door gaps
Step-by-Step Fix
- Cut power at breaker or unplug.
- Pull the dishwasher out (remove 2 mounting screws at top of door frame, disconnect power and supply).
- Tilt machine back 30–45 degrees to drain the base pan. Hold 30–60 seconds, set down gently. Keep towels ready.
- Find the leak source. Check door gasket all around (especially lower corners), drain hose connections, inlet hose connection.
- Dry the base completely — paper towels plus a fan for 12–24 hours.
- Fix the leak before reinstalling.
- Run a test cycle and confirm AE doesn’t return.
Parts You May Need
- LG dishwasher door gasket seal
- Dishwasher drain hose replacement
- Dishwasher water supply hose braided
When to Call a Technician
If you can’t identify the leak source, a technician can run the machine pulled out and watch where water originates. Pump seal replacement is involved and typically warrants professional help.