Hotpoint Dishwasher Error Code AL10

AL10 means the main PCB has detected an open circuit in the heating element circuit. The board is not seeing electrical continuity through the heater circuit when the heater relay is activated. This fault must be present for a set number of minutes before the alarm triggers. The dishwasher will not be able to heat water or complete a normal wash cycle until the fault is resolved.

Running the dishwasher with an AL10 fault means the heating element is not functioning, so dishes will not be washed in properly heated water and the drying phase will be ineffective. While the fault itself does not immediately create a safety hazard, the underlying cause should be diagnosed promptly. If wiring damage is present in the heater circuit, continuing to operate the appliance without inspection is not advisable.

Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. A replacement heating element typically falls in the range of $30 to $80 for the part alone, while a new main PCB can range from $80 to $200 or more. Adding professional labor costs generally brings the total repair estimate to somewhere between $100 and $350 depending on the fault and your location. Getting a diagnosis first helps avoid replacing parts unnecessarily.

Some causes of AL10 are accessible to a knowledgeable DIYer. Checking and reseating disconnected wiring connectors in the heater circuit requires no special tools and can clear the fault if a loose connection is the cause. Testing the heating element for continuity with a multimeter is also a straightforward check. However, replacing the main PCB or diagnosing a relay fault on the board is typically best handled by a qualified appliance technician.

A reset may temporarily clear the displayed error code, but AL10 will return as soon as the dishwasher attempts to run the heating circuit again and detects the same open circuit condition. The alarm requires the open circuit signal to be present for a defined period before triggering, so resetting does not fix the underlying problem. The faulty component or connection must be identified and repaired for the error to stay cleared.