What does AE mean on a LG washer?

AE means: Water leak error. The most likely parts involved are door boot seal (bellows), drain hose, water inlet hoses, leak sensor float switch.

How much does it cost to fix AE?

A typical leak repair (hoses / pump / seals) costs about $130–$400 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.

Can I clear the AE code and keep using my washer?

Not until you know the leak is fixed. The water in the base pan has to dry or drain before the code will clear, and running the washer with a real leak can damage your floor.

Why does AE show up when I don't see any water on the floor?

The leak may be inside the cabinet, where water collects in the base pan before it reaches the floor. A stuck float switch can also cause the code without any leak.

Error codes › Washer › LG

LG Washer AE Error Code

Water leak error

Applies to: Front-Load models with base drip pan and aqua-stop leak sensor. May also appear as E1.

What's going on

The AE code on an LG front-load washer means water has collected in the pan under the machine and lifted a float switch that senses leaks. The washer stops so the leak does not get worse. Turn off the water supply, unplug the washer, protect your floor, and look for where the water is coming from.

Some LG front-load washers have a drip pan in the base with a small float switch inside. If water leaks inside the cabinet, it drains into this pan. When enough water builds up, the float rises and the washer shows AE. This applies to front-load models that have a base drip pan and leak sensor, so check your model number to confirm your washer has this feature.

The code matters because a hidden leak can soak your floor and the space under it. It can also lead to mold or damage to the washer's own parts. Sometimes the cause is a real leak. Other times the float is stuck or the pan holds water from an old spill or suds overflow.

Likely causes

door boot seal (bellows) — A torn or worn rubber seal around the door can let water drip inside the cabinet during a wash. The water then runs down into the base pan and trips the float.
drain hose — A loose, cracked, or clogged drain hose can leak water inside or behind the washer. If that water reaches the base pan, the sensor triggers AE.
water inlet hoses — The fill hoses can loosen at the connections or crack with age. Water from a leaking connection can find its way into the base of the washer.
leak sensor float switch — The float switch can stick in the up position or fail, even after the pan is dry. Then the washer shows AE when there is no real leak.

The same code can mean different things on different model generations. Check the model number on your washer's rating plate before ordering parts.

Can you fix it yourself?

Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.

Safe things to check first

Shut off both water valves behind the washer and unplug it or switch off its breaker before you touch anything. Put towels down to protect the floor.
Look at the fill hoses where they connect to the wall and the washer. Check for drips, wet spots, cracks, or bulges. Hand-tighten any loose connections.
Open the door and look closely at the rubber door seal for tears, holes, or trapped items like coins or hair ties.
Check the drain hose behind the washer for kinks, cracks, or a loose fit at the drain. If you use too much detergent, switch to the right amount of HE detergent, since extra suds can overflow inside.

When to call a technician

If you cannot find an outside leak, the code keeps coming back, or the door seal or float switch needs replacing, call a qualified appliance technician. A handy owner may replace hoses or a seal with the right part, but get help if the leak is inside the cabinet or you are unsure.

What the repair usually costs

$130–$400

Leak repair (hoses / pump / seals), parts and labor — national reference range

Confidence: medium (based on 2 cost guides). Plus a service call fee of about $50–$100, often credited toward the repair.

This is not a quote. Prices vary by region and by model.

Repair or replace?

Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.

A typical new washer costs about $700–$1,300.

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Common questions

What does AE mean on a LG washer?: AE means: Water leak error. The most likely parts involved are door boot seal (bellows), drain hose, water inlet hoses, leak sensor float switch.
How much does it cost to fix AE?: A typical leak repair (hoses / pump / seals) costs about $130–$400 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.
Should I repair or replace my washer?: Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.
Can I fix AE myself?: Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.
Can I clear the AE code and keep using my washer?: Not until you know the leak is fixed. The water in the base pan has to dry or drain before the code will clear, and running the washer with a real leak can damage your floor.
Why does AE show up when I don't see any water on the floor?: The leak may be inside the cabinet, where water collects in the base pan before it reaches the floor. A stuck float switch can also cause the code without any leak.