## How to Fix LG Error AE (Leak Sensor)
The LG AE error code is an emergency stop designed to prevent major flooding. It indicates that water has leaked out of the wash tub and into the protective base pan beneath the drum.
—
### 1. Explanation: What AE Means in Plain English
The “AE” code (often standing for Aqua Error or Auto Emergency) signals that the **Leak Sensor (float switch)**, located at the bottom of the machine’s base plate, has detected water.
The washer automatically shuts down the moment this sensor floats, locking the machine and displaying the AE code to alert you to a leak.
**The machine itself is not necessarily broken; it has successfully prevented a potential flood.** Your task is to find the source of the leak and dry the base pan.
—
### 2. Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing and Clearing the Error
Before beginning any diagnosis, you must clear the water from the base pan to reset the float switch.
#### Step 1: Safety & Initial Reset
1. **Unplug the Machine:** Immediately disconnect the washer from the electrical outlet.
2. **Turn Off Water Supply:** Turn off the hot and cold water valves behind the machine to prevent any further water ingress.
3. **Dry the Base Pan:** Tilt the washer forward or backward about 45 degrees. Hold it in this position for 30–60 seconds. The water that pooled in the base pan should drain out through the vent holes underneath the unit. You may need towels to catch the draining water.
4. **Plug In and Test:** Plug the machine back in. If the AE code immediately reappears, there is still water on the sensor, and you need to repeat the tilting process.
#### Step 2: Identify the Leak Source
Once the AE code is cleared, run a short, cold rinse cycle and watch the machine closely. The source of the leak usually falls into one of three categories:
**A. Simple External Leaks (Easy Fix)**
* Check the hot and cold water supply hoses at the back of the unit. Are the connections tight and sealed?
* Examine the drain hose connection where it meets the standpipe or sink. Is it securely fastened and unkinked?
**B. Visible Internal Leaks (Gasket/Seal)**
* **Door Gasket:** Check the rubber boot gasket around the door. If it is ripped, torn, or covered in thick residue (which prevents a tight seal), water will leak out the front.
**C. Component Failure (Requires Part Replacement)**
This is the most likely cause if the leak appears slowly or if water drips into the drum even when the machine is off.
* **Focus on the Water Inlet Valve:** This is the common culprit that triggers the AE code.
* **Diagnosis:** If the Water Inlet Valve fails, it means it is stuck slightly open or defective. The valve slowly drips water into the drum when the machine is *idle*. Over hours, this slow drip fills the drum, causing it to eventually overflow the tub and leak down into the base pan, triggering the AE error.
* **Test:** Wait 15 minutes after turning off the machine. If you hear a faint dripping or notice the water level in the drum rising slowly without the machine running, the Water Inlet Valve needs replacement.
#### Step 3: Repair and Final Test
If your diagnosis confirms a failed Water Inlet Valve (which controls the flow of water into the washer):
1. **Remove Power:** Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply completely.
2. **Access the Valve:** The valve is typically located at the back of the washer, connected to the water supply hoses. You will need to remove the top panel to access it.
3. **Disconnect:** Carefully remove the electrical harness and the hoses connected to the valve.
4. **Replace:** Install the new valve, reconnect the hoses and wiring harness, and replace the top panel.
5. **Test:** Turn the water supply back on and run a full test cycle, checking for leaks around the new valve connection.
***
### 3. Call to Action
Check the price for a replacement Water Inlet Valve here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=LG+Water Inlet Valve&tag=trivian-20