E1 Critical Moderate DIY

LG Dishwasher E1 — Leak detected (newer display label)

LG Dishwasher · Error code E1

What E1 Means

E1 is the newer-firmware label for the same anti-flood/leak event as AE: water reached the base pan and tripped the float switch. The unit blocks fill and runs the drain pump until cleared.

Symptoms

  • E1 shown on display
  • Continuous drain pump operation
  • Won't start any cycle
  • Water on floor under the dishwasher

Common Causes

1
Excess suds from improper detergent

Foam migrates past the door gasket and pools in the base pan.

2
Pinched / aged door gasket

Compression set or food debris on seal lets steam and water escape.

3
Loose hose clamp at sump or drain

Vibration loosens factory clamps over time.

4
Inlet valve internal leak

Cracked plastic body weeps onto the base when pressurized.

5
Sensor stuck wet from prior event

Drain pan not fully dried — float remains raised after the leak source was fixed.

How to Fix It

  1. Tip the unit back to empty the base pan onto towels and let it air-dry overnight.
  2. While accessible, inspect all clamps, the inlet valve body, sump grommets, and door gasket for leaks.
  3. Switch to dishwasher-only detergent and use the recommended dose.
  4. Restore power; if E1 immediately returns with a dry pan, the float sensor is faulty.
  5. Replace the leak sensor / float switch at the base.
  6. If a hose or inlet valve is the source, replace that component.
  7. Run a short cycle and watch for new wetness before reinstalling the kick plate.

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement LG dishwasher leak sensor View on Amazon→ Common replacement LG dishwasher door gasket View on Amazon→

More LG Dishwasher Codes

2H 2H — Delay-start indicator (2 hours remaining) AE AE — Leak Detected (Aqua Error) bE bE — Bubble / oversuds error CE CE — Motor / communication error CL CL — Child lock / control lock active CR CR — Test / calibration mode

All LG codes → All dishwasher codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.