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Error code reference

Ariston Dishwasher Error Code AL 02

Solenoid valve broken

Ariston codesAriston dishwasher codes

Solenoid valve broken - turbine detects water movement for 10 seconds with the fill solenoid off, indicating the inlet solenoid valve is stuck open or faulty.

First step from the service manual

Check inlet solenoid valve and its cables; replace if faulty.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What AL 02 means on a Ariston dishwasher

AL 02 on an Ariston dishwasher indicates a fault with the inlet solenoid valve, specifically that the valve is stuck open or failing to close completely when commanded to do so. The control board monitors water flow through a turbine (flow meter) in the water inlet circuit. Under normal operation, when the fill cycle is complete and the inlet solenoid valve is switched off, the turbine should detect no water movement. If the turbine continues to register water flow for approximately 10 seconds after the solenoid valve has been commanded off, the control board logs AL 02 and typically halts the wash cycle to prevent overfilling or flooding.

The inlet solenoid valve is an electromechanical component that uses a coil to open and close a diaphragm or plunger, controlling water entry into the dishwasher. When this valve fails, it is usually due to a worn or warped diaphragm that no longer seats properly, debris lodged in the valve seat holding it partially open, or a coil that has failed in an energized state. In some cases, the fault may not be in the valve body itself but in the wiring harness connecting the solenoid to the control board, where a short circuit could cause the valve to remain powered.

Diagnosis should begin with a physical inspection of the inlet solenoid valve and its connecting cables. Check the wiring for visible damage, corrosion at connectors, or shorts. The solenoid coil can be tested for resistance to confirm it is within specification. If the valve body is cracked, corroded, or if debris is visible in the inlet screen or valve seat, replacement of the complete inlet solenoid valve assembly is the recommended repair.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of AL 02

  1. 01

    Failed inlet solenoid valve (stuck open)

    Part replacement

    The diaphragm or plunger inside the solenoid valve has worn out or warped, preventing it from fully closing when the control board cuts power. This is the most common cause of AL 02 and usually requires valve replacement.

  2. 02

    Debris lodged in the valve seat

    Wiring / connection

    Mineral deposits, sediment, or foreign particles can become trapped in the valve seat, physically holding the valve open even when the solenoid is de-energized. Inspect the valve inlet screen and valve seat for blockages.

  3. 03

    Faulty or shorted solenoid wiring

    Wiring / connection

    Damaged wiring or a short circuit in the cables connecting the solenoid valve to the control board can keep the valve electrically energized after the board commands it off. Inspect the harness and connectors for burns, corrosion, or pinched insulation.

  4. 04

    Burned out solenoid coil (shorted internally)

    Part replacement

    If the solenoid coil has developed an internal short, it may draw current and hold the valve open even without a proper control signal. Testing coil resistance will reveal this fault.

  5. 05

    Turbine or flow meter fault

    Part replacement

    In less common cases, a malfunctioning turbine or flow meter may incorrectly report water movement when none exists, triggering AL 02 as a false positive. This should be considered only after the solenoid valve and wiring have been confirmed to be functioning correctly.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about AL 02

What does AL 02 mean on a Ariston dishwasher?
AL 02 means the dishwasher's flow meter (turbine) detected water still entering the machine for about 10 seconds after the inlet solenoid valve was commanded to close. This indicates the inlet solenoid valve is stuck open or faulty. The dishwasher stops the cycle to prevent overfilling or flooding. The inlet valve and its wiring cables should be inspected first.
Can I fix AL 02 on my Ariston dishwasher myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose this fault by inspecting the inlet solenoid valve, checking for debris in the valve seat, and examining the wiring harness for damage or corrosion. If the valve itself is faulty, replacing it requires disconnecting the water supply, removing the old valve, and fitting a compatible replacement. Always disconnect power and shut off the water supply before beginning any inspection or repair.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher when AL 02 is showing?
No, you should not continue running the dishwasher with AL 02 active. A stuck-open inlet valve can allow water to overflow into the appliance or onto the floor, creating a risk of water damage and potentially an electrical hazard. Leave the dishwasher off and the water supply valve closed until the fault is diagnosed and repaired.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the AL 02 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code and allow the cycle to restart, but if the underlying fault with the inlet solenoid valve or its wiring has not been resolved, AL 02 will return. In many cases it will reappear within the same cycle or the next wash cycle. A reset should only be used after the root cause has been identified and corrected.
How much does it cost to repair an AL 02 error on an Ariston dishwasher?
If only the inlet solenoid valve needs replacing, parts typically range from around $20 to $60 depending on the specific model. If you hire a technician, labor costs will add roughly $80 to $150 on top of the part cost. If the fault turns out to be a wiring issue rather than a failed valve, repair costs may be lower since no parts are required.

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