RE
LG Dishwasher
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
The RE error means your LG dishwasher has detected a rinse aid dispenser issue. The rinse aid level sensor or the dispenser mechanism has a fault. Dishes may still wash, but drying performance will be reduced.
Affected Models
- LDF5545ST
- LDFN4542D
- LDT5678SS
- Most LG built-in dishwashers with rinse aid sensors
Common Causes
- The rinse aid compartment is empty
- The rinse aid dispenser door is stuck or not opening during the cycle
- The rinse aid level sensor is faulty or clogged with dried rinse aid
- The wrong type of liquid was added to the rinse aid compartment
- A control board communication fault with the dispenser sensor
How to Fix It
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Open the dishwasher door and locate the rinse aid compartment on the inside door panel.
It usually has a round cap with a rinse aid icon. Turn it counterclockwise to open.
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Check the rinse aid level — refill it if it is low or empty.
Use only dedicated dishwasher rinse aid. Do not use vinegar as a substitute in sensor-equipped machines.
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Clean around the dispenser opening with a damp cloth.
Dried rinse aid can clog the sensor or stick the dispenser door shut.
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Reset the dishwasher by unplugging it for 5 minutes.
After a refill, the sensor sometimes needs a power reset to clear the error.
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Run a short rinse cycle and observe whether RE returns.
If it clears, the issue was low rinse aid. If it returns, the dispenser or sensor needs inspection.
When to Call a Professional
RE is usually a minor issue resolved by refilling or cleaning the dispenser. If the dispenser door is broken or the sensor is faulty, a technician is recommended. Dispenser assembly replacement costs $50–$120 including labor. Do not fill the rinse aid compartment with dish soap — it causes excessive suds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run the dishwasher with an RE error?
Yes, in most cases. Dishes will wash normally. But without rinse aid, dishes may come out with water spots and take longer to dry. Fix the dispenser issue when convenient.
Why does RE show even though I just refilled the rinse aid?
The sensor may still be detecting the old 'empty' state. Unplug the dishwasher for 5 minutes to reset the sensor reading. If RE persists after a reset, the sensor itself may be faulty.
What rinse aid should I use in my LG dishwasher?
Any major brand of dishwasher rinse aid works — Finish, Cascade, or similar. Do not use hand dish soap, vinegar, or homemade solutions in sensor-equipped dispensers. These can damage the dispenser mechanism and the sensor.