Dishwasher Overflowing or Over-Level

There is more water in the dishwasher than there should be. The 5 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

Whirlpool

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 OC — 2 checks
  1. Check detergent usage and visible foam, check for any standing water in the base, check the drain hose for kinks, and make sure the dishwasher is not sitting on the drain hose;
  2. if overflow occurs, turn off the main water supply and remove water from the base pan before restarting.

Open the Samsung OC page

LG AE — 4 checks
  1. Check the unit is level with a level placed inside the tub.
  2. Clean food/grease buildup off the door gasket and the tub sealing area.
  3. Inspect and clean the spray arms with warm soapy water.
  4. Use only dishwasher pods/tablets or detergent at the marked levels - never dishwashing liquid.

Open the LG AE page

Whirlpool F6E4 — 1 check
  1. Check that the dishwasher is level and level it if needed, then power-cycle for 30 seconds.

Open the Whirlpool F6E4 page

Whirlpool F8E4 — 4 checks
  1. Check that all water supply connection points are tight and the rubber washers are seated;
  2. ensure the float switch is properly connected;
  3. empty any water in the drip tray;
  4. press Cancel once to clear the code.

Open the Whirlpool F8E4 page

Whirlpool F8E5 — 3 checks
  1. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher if possible;
  2. press Cancel once to silence the alarm and keep the door closed;
  3. do not turn off power while the door is closed unless the water cannot be shut off.

Open the Whirlpool F8E5 page

Common causes

Conditions the manufacturer support pages name for these codes.

When to call a professional

What the manufacturer support pages say about escalating each code.

Regional differences

These codes are described separately for the United States and the United Kingdom.

Samsung OC

United States: There is more water in the dishwasher than there should be (over-level / overflow error).

United Kingdom: The dishwasher stops mid-cycle or won't complete the cycle - possible small puddles at the bottom of the door, a continuous filling sound, and strong detergent foam (wrong detergent or excessive suds) - overflow/over-level.

Related problems

Dishwasher Leaking Water

  • LG AE — A leak inside the dishwasher has tripped the float switch; the leak source must be found and fixed before the dishwasher can be used again. Common causes are an unlevel unit, food/grease buildup on the door gasket, blocked spray arms, or overflowing suds from the wrong detergent.
  • Whirlpool F8E4 — Water 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.

These codes are listed on both pages because the manufacturer wording covers both conditions.

Official sources

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.