LG · Dishwasher Minor

bE — Bubble / oversuds error

The dishwasher detected excessive suds in the tub. The cycle pauses to prevent foam from migrating past the door gasket and tripping the AE/E1 leak sensor.

Keep using it?
Yes — fix when convenient
DIY difficulty
Easy
Verified against
lg.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Cancel cycle, open door, and remove excess foam with a towel.
  2. Run a Rinse-only cycle with no detergent to flush soap out.
  3. Switch to dishwasher-rated powder, pod, or gel — and use only the recommended dose.
  4. Verify the unit is level front-to-back and side-to-side using a bubble level on a rack rail.
  5. If bE returns with correct detergent, replace the pressure / suds sensor.
  6. Do not use rinse aid in the detergent cup — it belongs in the dispenser only.

Why it happens

Typical signs: bE on display · Visible foam through door window or after pause · Cycle stops mid-wash · Sometimes precedes AE/E1

  • Wrong detergent Hand-dish soap, laundry detergent, or excessive liquid dishwasher detergent.
  • Soft water + standard dose Soft water amplifies sudsing; reduce detergent dose.
  • Unit not level Tilted tub pools water on one side and increases foam at the sensor.
  • Residual soap from a prior wrong-detergent event Foam returns for several cycles until rinsed out.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • LG dishwasher pressure sensor Common replacement
    Amazon →

Related repair guides

Dishwasher Leaking From the Bottom of the Door →

More LG dishwasher codes

2H 2H — Delay-start indicator (2 hours remaining) AE AE — Leak Detected (Aqua Error) CE CE — Motor / communication error CL CL — Child lock / control lock active CR CR — Test / calibration mode E1 E1 — Leak detected (newer display label)

All LG codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the bE code mean on a LG dishwasher?

The dishwasher detected excessive suds in the tub. The cycle pauses to prevent foam from migrating past the door gasket and tripping the AE/E1 leak sensor.

What causes the bE code on a LG dishwasher?

Wrong detergent: Hand-dish soap, laundry detergent, or excessive liquid dishwasher detergent. Soft water + standard dose: Soft water amplifies sudsing; reduce detergent dose. Unit not level: Tilted tub pools water on one side and increases foam at the sensor.

Is it safe to keep using a LG dishwasher with a bE error?

Yes — fix when convenient. This is rated a minor-severity fault.

How do I fix bE on a LG dishwasher?

Cancel cycle, open door, and remove excess foam with a towel. Run a Rinse-only cycle with no detergent to flush soap out. Switch to dishwasher-rated powder, pod, or gel — and use only the recommended dose.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com.