LG Washer AE Error Code: Water Leak Detected
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What Error Code AE Means
The AE error code means the leak sensor in the base pan of your LG washer has detected water. A float switch or moisture sensor at the bottom of the unit triggered the alert. The washer stops the cycle and activates the drain pump to remove standing water. This error requires immediate attention β water is actively leaking inside the machine.
Common Causes
Torn or displaced door boot seal
The large rubber gasket around the door opening develops tears, mold damage, or foreign objects push it out of position. Water escapes during wash and spin cycles and collects in the base pan.
Leaking tub-to-pump hose
The internal hose connecting the outer tub to the drain pump cracks or works loose from its clamp. Water drips during fill and wash phases.
Leaking detergent dispenser housing
The hose running from the detergent dispenser box to the outer tub cracks or the dispenser housing itself develops a crack. Water from the fill cycle leaks down the front of the tub.
Damaged outer tub seal or spider arm
The main tub seal where the shaft passes through the rear of the outer tub wears out. Water seeps past the seal and drips into the base. A corroded spider arm (drum support) accelerates seal failure.
Overfilled detergent causing excess suds
Excess suds push past the door seal during agitation. The suds condense into water in the base pan and trigger the float switch.
How to Fix It
- 1
Stop the washer and cut water supply
Press Power to stop the cycle. Turn off the hot and cold supply valves behind the washer. Unplug the unit. Place towels around the base to catch any leaking water.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Unplug the washer before inspecting any internal components.
- 2
Inspect the door boot seal
Open the door and run your fingers around the entire rubber boot gasket. Feel for tears, punctures, or areas where the seal has pulled out of the front panel groove. Check the bottom fold of the seal β small objects like screws, bobby pins, or underwires tear through it.
- 3
Check for suds overflow
Open the detergent dispenser. If you see thick suds residue, you are using too much detergent. LG front-load washers require HE (high efficiency) detergent only. Use no more than 2 tablespoons per load. Run an empty Rinse+Spin cycle to clear remaining suds.
- 4
Inspect internal hoses
Remove the lower front access panel (two or three screws). With a flashlight, look at the tub-to-pump hose, the dispenser-to-tub hose, and all clamp connections. Wet spots or water trails indicate the leak source. Tighten loose spring clamps with channel-lock pliers.
- 5
Check the base pan and float switch
Tilt the washer back carefully and look at the base pan. A small Styrofoam float or moisture sensor sits in the pan. If water is present, soak it up with a towel. A stuck float trigger false AE codes. Reset the float to its lowest position.
When to Call a Professional
Call a technician if you see water leaking from the rear tub seal, the door boot is torn, or you cannot identify the leak source. Tub seal and spider arm repairs require full drum removal. TruePro's $59 diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair, and all work carries a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. We serve LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County β same-day service is often available. Call 877-378-3111. First-time customers get 15% off labor with code NEW15.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $0 - $50 |
| Professional repair | $150 - $500 |
Cleaning suds or reseating the door boot costs nothing. A new door boot seal runs $30-$80. Internal hose replacements are $10-$30 for parts. Rear tub seal and bearing jobs run $350-$500 professionally. TruePro's $59 diagnostic is credited toward the repair.
See full washer repair cost breakdown βLG Washer AE β FAQ
Related LG Error Codes
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