LG Washer AE Error Code — What It Means
The AE error code on your LG washer indicates that the leak sensor or float switch in the base pan has detected water at the bottom of the machine. When water reaches the leak tray under the drum, the washer enters protection mode and stops the cycle to prevent further damage. This is an active or residual leak alarm, not a software glitch. The float or moisture sensor will stay triggered until the base pan is completely dry and the leak source is repaired.
Common Causes
- Torn or displaced door boot gasket Tears, punctures, or sections of the rubber door seal pulled out of the front panel groove allow water to escape during the wash cycle and drip into the base pan.
- Excess detergent and suds overflow Using too much detergent or the wrong type (non-HE) creates excessive suds that overflow the tub and migrate down into the leak tray.
- Leaking internal hoses or loose clamps The tub-to-pump hose, dispenser-to-tub hose, and their clamp connections can develop leaks or work loose over time, sending water into the cabinet.
- Detergent dispenser leakage Buildup or poor sealing around the detergent drawer lets water escape at the front and travel down into the base area.
- Drain hose leak or improper routing A cracked, loose, or improperly seated drain hose can drip water into the cabinet or base pan during drain cycles.
- Residual water in the base pan Even after a leak is repaired, standing water in the leak tray keeps the float switch triggered until the pan is manually dried.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Power down and isolate utilities by unplugging the washer and shutting off both hot and cold water supply valves to stop any active leak.
- Access the base pan by tilting the washer back slightly or removing the lower front access panel, then check for standing water in the leak tray and verify that the float or moisture sensor is wet.
- Inspect the door boot gasket around its full circumference, paying close attention to the lower folds where tears, punctures, or pulled-out sections are most common, and repair or replace the boot if damaged.
- Check for excess suds in the drum and dispenser area. If heavy sudsing is present, run a rinse and spin cycle without detergent to clear it, then switch to HE detergent and reduce the amount per load.
- Examine all internal hoses by looking for wet trails at the tub-to-pump hose, dispenser hose, and clamp joints. Tighten loose clamps and replace any cracked or leaking hoses.
- Dry the base pan completely using towels or a wet-dry vacuum so the float switch can return to its rest position, as the AE code will not clear until all residual moisture is removed.
- Restore power and run a short test cycle while monitoring the door seal, hose connections, and base area for signs of recurring leakage. If the AE code returns, the leak source is still active.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Door boot gasket | Amazon | Match the OEM part number for your LG washer model. Inspect for tears or separation from the front panel groove. |
| Leak sensor / float switch assembly | Amazon | Located in the base pan. Replace if the sensor itself is damaged or the float mechanism is stuck. |
| Tub-to-pump hose and clamps | Amazon | Order the correct diameter hose and use spring clamps rated for washing machine pressures if the original is cracked or loose. |
| Drain hose | Amazon | Replace if cracked or leaking. Verify the hose length and end fittings match your installation. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a qualified appliance technician if you cannot locate the leak source after inspecting the door boot, hoses, and dispenser, if the base pan remains wet despite no visible active leak, or if the AE code persists after drying the pan and running test cycles. A pro can pressure-test internal components, trace hidden leaks in the tub or pump assembly, and replace the leak sensor if it has failed. Also call for help if you are uncomfortable tilting the washer, removing panels, or working around water and electrical connections.