Hotpoint Dishwasher Error Code AL02

AL02 means the main PCB has detected turbine rotation, indicating water flow, even though the fill solenoid was not activated by the control board. This points to either a fill solenoid that is stuck open or a shorted triac on the PCB that is unintentionally supplying power to the solenoid. Both conditions result in water entering the tub outside of a normal fill cycle, which can lead to overfilling if the machine is run.

Running the dishwasher with an active AL02 fault is not recommended. Because the error indicates water is entering the tub without being commanded, there is a real risk of overfilling, which can lead to water leaking onto the floor or causing damage to cabinetry and flooring. The appliance should be kept off until the cause of the uncontrolled water flow is identified and repaired.

Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. A replacement fill solenoid valve typically falls in the range of $20 to $60 for the part alone, while a main PCB replacement can range from $80 to $200 or more depending on the model. If you hire a technician, expect to add $80 to $150 in labor costs on top of the part price. Diagnosing the fault accurately before ordering parts will help avoid unnecessary expense.

A confident DIYer can perform basic diagnostics such as inspecting the fill solenoid valve for visible damage, checking for debris in the valve seat, and examining the wiring harness for shorts or pinched wires. Testing the PCB triac requires a multimeter and some familiarity with reading voltage and resistance in appliance circuits. Replacing either the solenoid valve or the main PCB is straightforward but does require purchasing the correct part for your specific model.

A power reset may temporarily clear the AL02 code from the display, but it will not resolve the underlying fault. If the fill solenoid is stuck open or the PCB triac has failed, the error will return as soon as the machine attempts to run a cycle. A reset is only useful as a first step to confirm the fault is persistent and not a one-time sensor glitch.