Samsung · Dishwasher
Samsung Dishwasher AE Error Code
Communication fault on control boards
What this error means
AE indicates the main power board lost reliable communication with a sub-module—touch UI, diverter driver, or Wi-Fi board. Cycles may freeze with lights flashing and no progress.
How AE is detected
When AE appears on a Samsung dishwasher, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Samsung DW80B7070US, Samsung DW80R9950US, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most AE calls are resolved without parts: turn breaker off two full minutes—not just cancel on the panel. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If AE returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Loose ribbon cable after door service
- Moisture on connectors following LC leak event
- Surge damage to serial communication lines
- Failed touch panel PCB
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Turn breaker off two full minutes—not just Cancel on the panel
- 2Dry the control area if AE followed an LC code
- 3Ensure the dishwasher shares no outlet with garbage disposal switches that spike
- 4Record whether AE appears at cycle start or mid-wash for service notes
When to call a technician
AE every power-up after dry reset requires main PCB or UI board replacement with model-specific part numbers.
Affected models
- Samsung DW80B7070US
- Samsung DW80R9950US
- Samsung DW80R5060US
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dishwashers to prevent AE from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when AE appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Samsung dishwasher—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for AE; Samsung uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting AE; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.