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Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code AL

Temperature alarm

Bosch codesBosch refrigerator codes

Temperature alarm — FC, RC, or TCD compartment temperature has exceeded the warning threshold (FC warmer than -1°C/34°F, RC warmer than 18°C/64.5°F, TCD warmer than 35°C/95°F).

First step from the service manual

Touch the alarm/lock button to release the warning signal; display shows warmest temperature reached for 10 seconds.

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

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What AL means on a Bosch refrigerator

The AL error code on a Bosch refrigerator is a temperature alarm indicating that one or more compartments have exceeded their designated warning thresholds. Specifically, the alarm triggers when the Freezer Compartment (FC) rises above -1°C (34°F), the Refrigerator Compartment (RC) rises above 18°C (64.5°F), or the Temperature Controlled Drawer (TCD) rises above 35°C (95°F). These thresholds represent the upper limits of safe food storage temperatures, and the alarm is designed to alert users before food safety is seriously compromised.

When the AL code appears, the refrigerator's control system has detected a sustained temperature rise in at least one zone. To begin diagnosis, press the alarm or lock button to silence the audible signal. The display will then show the warmest temperature reached in the affected compartment for approximately 10 seconds, giving you a baseline reading to assess the severity of the event. This peak temperature reading is critical for determining whether the cause was a brief external factor or an ongoing mechanical failure.

Common triggers range from simple user actions, such as a door left ajar or a large load of warm groceries placed inside, to more serious component failures including a faulty door gasket, a malfunctioning evaporator fan, a failed thermistor, or a refrigerant system issue. The compartment that triggered the alarm and how far above threshold the temperature climbed will help narrow down the root cause quickly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of AL

  1. 01

    Door left open or not fully closed

    Wiring / connection

    A door that was left ajar or failed to seal completely allows warm air to enter the compartment, quickly raising internal temperatures. Check that the door closes fully and that no items inside are blocking the seal.

  2. 02

    Worn or damaged door gasket

    Part replacement

    A degraded door gasket loses its airtight seal, allowing continuous warm air infiltration even when the door appears closed. Inspect the gasket around all compartments for tears, stiffness, or areas that do not make consistent contact with the cabinet frame.

  3. 03

    Large load of warm food recently added

    Wiring / connection

    Placing a significant quantity of warm or room-temperature food into any compartment at once raises the internal temperature temporarily and can trigger the alarm threshold. If temperatures recover to normal within a few hours, no repair is needed.

  4. 04

    Evaporator fan failure or restricted airflow

    Part replacement

    If the evaporator fan is not running or airflow is blocked by ice buildup or obstructions, cold air cannot circulate properly and compartment temperatures rise. Listen for fan operation and check for frost buildup around the evaporator cover.

  5. 05

    Faulty temperature sensor or thermistor

    Part replacement

    A defective thermistor in the FC, RC, or TCD zone can send inaccurate readings to the control board, either triggering a false alarm or failing to maintain correct cooling cycles. If temperatures appear normal on an independent thermometer but the alarm persists, the sensor circuit should be tested for correct resistance values.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about AL

What does AL mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
AL is a temperature alarm indicating that the Freezer Compartment rose above -1°C (34°F), the Refrigerator Compartment rose above 18°C (64.5°F), or the Temperature Controlled Drawer rose above 35°C (95°F). Press the alarm or lock button to silence the alert. The display will then show the peak temperature reached for about 10 seconds, helping you gauge how serious the event was.
Will resetting the alarm clear the AL code on a Bosch refrigerator?
Pressing the alarm or lock button silences the audible signal and clears the display, but it does not fix the underlying cause. If the compartment temperature has already returned to the normal range and no mechanical issue exists, the alarm will not return. However, if a component such as a door gasket or fan is failing, the AL code will reappear once temperatures climb above the threshold again.
How do I fix the AL error on my Bosch refrigerator?
Start by pressing the alarm button to silence the alert and note the peak temperature shown. Check that all doors are fully closed and that the gaskets are sealing properly. Make sure the unit is not overloaded with warm food and that airflow inside is not blocked. If the alarm returns repeatedly and temperatures do not recover, inspect the evaporator fan for operation and consider testing the temperature sensors, as a failed component will require replacement.
Is the AL alarm on a Bosch refrigerator a food safety concern?
It can be, depending on how high the temperature climbed and how long it stayed elevated. The alarm thresholds are set to warn you before temperatures reach levels that are immediately dangerous, but food kept above safe storage temperatures for extended periods should be evaluated carefully. If the Refrigerator Compartment reached significantly above 4°C (40°F) for more than two hours, perishable items like meat, dairy, and prepared foods may need to be discarded.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch refrigerator showing an AL error?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. A replacement door gasket typically runs in the range of $30 to $100 for the part, while professional labor to diagnose and replace a faulty evaporator fan or thermistor can bring the total repair into the $150 to $400 range. If the refrigerant system is involved, costs can be higher. Starting with the free checks, such as door alignment and airflow, before calling a technician can help avoid unnecessary service calls.

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