Error Code AL6

Drainage Problem in Your Dishwasher (Error Code AL6)

If your AEG, Electrolux, or Quelle-Privileg dishwasher displays the error code AL6, it means the appliance has failed to drain the water from the wash tub within the allocated time period. This indicates a restriction or blockage somewhere in the drainage pathway.

Before contacting a technician, please follow the diagnostic steps below.

Step 1: Check the Drainage System for Blockages

The most frequent cause of the AL6 error is a simple blockage in the drainage system which prevents water from flowing freely out of the appliance.

1. Inspect the Dishwasher Filters and Sump:

• Safety First: Ensure the dishwasher is switched off and, if possible, unplugged before inspecting internal components.
• Locate: Remove the bottom rack to access the filter assembly located at the base of the wash tub (the sump area).
• Clean: Unscrew and carefully remove both the coarse and fine filters. Rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove all food debris, grease, and residue.
• Check the Sump: After removing the filters, shine a flashlight into the base of the sump to ensure no large food particles or plastic objects are obstructing the main opening leading to the drain pump.

2. Inspect the Drain Hose:

• Position: If the drain hose is visible behind or beneath the unit, check its entire length.
• Kinks: Ensure the hose is not kinked, twisted, or squashed against the wall or cabinets, which would restrict water flow.
• Connection: Verify the hose connection to the sink drain or disposal unit is not completely blocked by food waste or built-up debris. (If connected to a sink disposal, ensure the knock-out plug was removed during installation).

Step 2: Look for Foreign Objects in the Drain Pump

Even when filters are correctly installed, small items (like glass shards, olive pits, or plastic labels) can sometimes bypass the filter system and become lodged in the drain pump, stopping the impeller from spinning.

• Access the Impeller: Once the filters are removed (as detailed in Step 1), you may be able to access the drain pump impeller cover at the base of the sump.
• Clearance: Carefully feel around the impeller (the small fan blade responsible for pumping water) to check for foreign objects. Use a damp cloth or soft sponge to clear any visible debris.
• Remove Obstructions: If you locate a foreign object, remove it carefully. Warning: Glass shards can cause injury; wear protective gloves if necessary.
• Test: Reinstall the filters securely and run a short test cycle (e.g., a rinse cycle) to see if the error code is resolved.

Step 3: When to Contact a Service Technician

If you have thoroughly cleaned the filters, checked the drain hose for kinks, and confirmed that no visible foreign objects are obstructing the drain pump impeller, but the AL6 error code still persists, the issue is likely internal.

A service technician will be required to diagnose problems such as:

• A faulty drain pump motor that has failed completely.
• An electrical fault with the appliance’s main control board preventing the drain pump from activating.
• A blockage deep within the internal plumbing or air trap that cannot be accessed by the user.

When contacting technical support, please have your appliance model number, serial number, and the specific error code (AL6) ready.