Dishwasher Leaking Water
A leak inside the dishwasher has tripped the float switch. The 6 codes below are the ones whose manufacturer wording describes this condition. Open a code for the checks and the escalation advice listed for it.
Which error codes can cause this problem?
Codes are grouped by brand. Each one links to its own page with the full checklist and the manufacturer source.
Samsung
LG
Bosch
Whirlpool
- F8E2Fill valve electrical error. Whirlpool suggests removing the drip tray to inspect the inlet valve connection for leaks, then power cycling; service if it returns.
- F8E4Water detected in the drip tray - a possible leak or overflow, common after a new installation. Verify water connections and float switch, empty the drip tray, then clear the code.
- FAE5Diverter leak. Whirlpool says to check for leaks under the dishwasher and confirm water connections are secure, press Cancel twice, and try a new cycle; service if the error returns.
Browse all dishwasher error codes
What to check first
These are the checks the manufacturer support page lists for each code. Brands word their checks differently, so they are shown per code.
Samsung LC — 1 check
- Inspect the door area and usage conditions, confirm only dishwasher detergent was used, remove debris from the door gasket and bottom lip and ensure racks or tall items are not distorting the door seal, check the toe-kick area for puddles or water marks, and verify the sink or disposal is not backing water into the dishwasher.
LG AE — 4 checks
- Check the unit is level with a level placed inside the tub.
- Clean food/grease buildup off the door gasket and the tub sealing area.
- Inspect and clean the spray arms with warm soapy water.
- Use only dishwasher pods/tablets or detergent at the marked levels - never dishwashing liquid.
Bosch E15 — 1 check
- Check around the dishwasher base for visible leakage and inspect the hoses for visible kinks or damage.
Whirlpool F8E2 — 2 checks
- Remove the drip tray (if accessible) and inspect the inlet valve connection for leaks;
- then power-cycle for 30 seconds.
Whirlpool F8E4 — 4 checks
- Check that all water supply connection points are tight and the rubber washers are seated;
- ensure the float switch is properly connected;
- empty any water in the drip tray;
- press Cancel once to clear the code.
Whirlpool FAE5 — 3 checks
- Check under the dishwasher for leaks and make sure all water connections are secure;
- press the Cancel key twice;
- try starting a new cycle.
Common causes
Conditions the manufacturer support pages name for these codes.
- Water collecting where it should not be (a leak or the base tray filling) Samsung LC, LG AE, Bosch E15
- Debris or a blockage in the water path Samsung LC
- Too much detergent, which produces excess suds LG AE
- Using the wrong type of detergent LG AE
- Restricted airflow or a blocked ventilation path LG AE
- A kinked, bent, or pinched hose Bosch E15
When to call a professional
What the manufacturer support pages say about escalating each code.
- If the error persists after drying and the checks above, contact Samsung service. Samsung LC
- If the unit is not level, or the error persists when it is level, or no water is leaking onto the floor but the code stays on, unplug and request service. LG AE
- If no visible fault is found, book an engineer appointment. Bosch E15
- If the error code returns after the power cycle / checks above, schedule service. Whirlpool F8E2
- If water reappears, leaks persist, or the code returns, schedule service. Whirlpool F8E4
- If the error returns, schedule service. Whirlpool FAE5
Regional differences
These codes are described separately for the United States and the United Kingdom.
Samsung LC
United States: The leak sensor has detected moisture; the dishwasher turns itself on, will not turn off, and keeps trying to drain the water away. On Waterwall models it can also mean the water reflector is blocked.
United Kingdom: The unit won't start or stops mid-cycle, drains continuously while beeping, and won't accept a new program - a leak/moisture fault; water may be visible under or around the unit.
Related problems
Official sources
- Samsung dishwasher is displaying an error code
- AE & E1 ERROR CODE - DISH WASHER | LG USA Support
- Dishwasher Error Codes | Support | Bosch
- F8E2- Dishwasher
- F8E4 - Dishwasher
- FAE5 or F10E5 - Dishwasher
Every explanation on this page follows the manufacturer support page for the code it comes from.
If you see water on the floor, smell burning, or the official page says to call service, stop and contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician.