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Error code reference

Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code AE

Leakage error

Kenmore codesKenmore dishwasher codes

Leakage error - internal leakage detected by the float switch.

First step from the service manual

Check the door gasket for looseness, check the float assembly, and verify unit is level.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What AE means on a Kenmore dishwasher

The AE error code on a Kenmore dishwasher indicates a leakage error triggered by the float switch assembly located in the base pan beneath the wash tub. When water escapes the wash system and accumulates in the drip pan at the bottom of the appliance, the float switch rises with the water level and signals the control board to halt operation and display the AE code. This is a protective fault designed to prevent water damage to surrounding cabinetry and flooring.

The float switch itself is a simple mechanical sensor, but the sources of the leak it detects can vary widely. Common origins include a deteriorated door gasket that allows spray water to escape around the door perimeter, a cracked or loose hose connection on the inlet, drain, or circulation pump, a worn door seal at the bottom edge, or a failed pump housing. In some cases, excessive sudsing from non-dishwasher detergent can also produce overflow that reaches the drip pan.

Before attempting any repair, the unit should be leveled front-to-back and side-to-side, as an improperly leveled dishwasher can cause water to pool toward the door and leak past the gasket during the wash cycle. Once the drip pan is dried and the source of the leak is identified and corrected, the float switch should return to its resting position and allow the fault to clear. If the float switch is stuck in the raised position or is mechanically damaged, it may need to be replaced even after the leak source is resolved.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of AE

  1. 01

    Worn or loose door gasket

    Part replacement

    The rubber gasket that seals the dishwasher door can crack, stiffen, or pull away from its channel over time, allowing water to drip into the base pan during the wash cycle. Inspect the full perimeter of the door seal for gaps, tears, or sections that feel hard and brittle.

  2. 02

    Dishwasher not level

    Wiring / connection

    If the unit tilts forward or to either side, water can migrate toward the door edge and escape past the lower door seal. Check the leveling legs and adjust until the unit is plumb in both directions.

  3. 03

    Loose or damaged hose connection

    Part replacement

    The inlet, drain, and circulation pump hoses connect with clamps that can loosen or corrode, and the hose material itself can crack near connection points. Pull the dishwasher out and inspect all visible hose connections for moisture, mineral deposits, or drip marks indicating an active leak.

  4. 04

    Float switch stuck or faulty

    Wiring / connection

    After the actual leak has been resolved and the base pan has dried, the float switch can remain in the raised position if debris or mineral buildup prevents it from dropping back down. Inspect the float assembly for obstructions and confirm it moves freely up and down by hand.

  5. 05

    Excessive sudsing from incorrect detergent

    Wiring / connection

    Using regular dish soap or even too much dishwasher detergent can create foam that overflows into the base pan and triggers the float switch. If suds are visible inside the tub or around the door, drain the machine, wipe it out, and only use detergent specifically formulated for dishwashers.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about AE

What does AE mean on a Kenmore dishwasher?
The AE code on a Kenmore dishwasher means the float switch in the base pan has detected water that has leaked out of the wash system. The machine shuts down automatically to prevent further water damage. The code points to an internal leak rather than a control or electrical fault, so the source of the water must be found and corrected before the appliance can run normally again.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore dishwasher when the AE code is showing?
No, you should not operate the dishwasher while the AE code is active. The code means water is already escaping inside the machine and reaching the base pan. Running another cycle could worsen the leak, saturate the insulation, damage flooring, or cause electrical issues if water reaches wiring components. Leave the unit off until the leak is identified and repaired.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the AE error code?
A reset will typically not clear the AE code if the underlying leak condition still exists. The float switch will remain in the raised position as long as water is present in the base pan, and the control board will continue to display the fault. The base pan must dry out completely, the float switch must return to its resting position, and the source of the leak must be corrected before the code will clear.
How do I fix the AE error on my Kenmore dishwasher?
Start by inspecting the door gasket for damage and confirming the unit is level on the floor. Next, check the float switch assembly in the base pan to make sure it moves freely and is not stuck in the raised position. If those checks do not reveal the problem, pull the dishwasher out and inspect the inlet, drain, and pump hoses for loose clamps or cracks. Once the leak source is repaired and the base pan is fully dry, the error should clear on its own or after a power cycle.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore dishwasher showing the AE code?
Repair costs depend entirely on what is causing the leak. Replacing a door gasket typically runs between $20 and $60 for the part, while professional labor to diagnose and repair a hose or pump leak can bring the total to somewhere between $100 and $300 or more. If the float switch itself needs replacement after the leak is fixed, that part is generally inexpensive, usually in the $15 to $40 range. Getting an accurate estimate from a technician after a proper diagnosis is the best approach before committing to a repair.

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