UE
LG Dishwasher
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
The UE error on an LG dishwasher indicates the appliance has detected an unlevel or unbalanced installation. A dishwasher that is not properly leveled can cause water to pool incorrectly, lead to poor cleaning, and trigger sensor errors. This error most commonly appears after installation, after the machine was moved, or if flooring has shifted under the appliance. Leveling the dishwasher resolves this error in most cases.
Affected Models
- LG LDT5665V
- LG LDFN4542S
- LG LDP6797ST
- LG LDT7808BD
- Most LG built-in dishwashers
Common Causes
- The dishwasher was not properly leveled during installation
- The floor under the dishwasher is uneven or has warped over time
- Leveling legs were adjusted during a kitchen renovation and not reset
- Dishwasher was bumped or moved slightly out of position
- A leveling leg has seized up or broken and can no longer be adjusted
How to Fix It
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Place a small bubble level (or use a level app on your phone) on the bottom rack of the open dishwasher. Check both side-to-side and front-to-back levelness.
The dishwasher should be level in all directions. Even a slight slope can cause water pooling and sensor errors.
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Pull the dishwasher out from under the counter slightly so you can access the front leveling legs. Use a wrench or pliers to adjust the leg height — clockwise raises, counterclockwise lowers.
Most dishwashers have two front legs and two rear legs. Rear legs often require a screwdriver accessed from inside the tub.
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Adjust the legs until the bubble level shows level in all directions. Make small adjustments and recheck — a quarter turn can make a noticeable difference.
Do not raise the dishwasher so high it no longer fits under the counter — ensure there is clearance for the door to open fully.
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Slide the dishwasher back into position and recheck the level. Pushing the machine back can shift the legs slightly.
Reattach the mounting brackets to the underside of the counter once the dishwasher is correctly positioned and level.
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Power cycle the dishwasher by turning it off and back on. Run a short cycle to confirm the UE error has cleared.
If the error persists after proper leveling, the level sensor inside the machine may need to be inspected by a technician.
When to Call a Professional
Leveling a dishwasher is a straightforward DIY task — but pulling the machine out and adjusting legs on a built-in model can be awkward. If the leveling legs are seized or broken, a technician can replace them. If the floor itself is warped or sloping, a carpenter may need to address the subfloor before the dishwasher can be properly installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the UE error damage the dishwasher?
Not directly — UE is a warning to fix the installation issue. However, running a dishwasher that is significantly out of level can cause water to pool incorrectly, leading to cleaning problems and potentially causing water to leak at the door seal over time. Fix the leveling and the error should clear.
My dishwasher was level before. Why is it showing UE now?
Floors can settle and shift over time, especially in older homes. A kitchen remodel, heavy foot traffic, or moisture damage can cause flooring to warp slightly. Recheck the level and adjust the legs to compensate.
How do I adjust the rear legs on an LG dishwasher?
On most LG dishwashers, the rear legs are adjusted from inside the tub. Open the door, look at the bottom front corners of the tub interior — there are usually access holes or screws that adjust the rear leg height. Use a flat-head screwdriver to turn them while watching the level indicator.