Excel Dryer XLERATOR Troubleshooting & Repair Guide

Here’s a Troubleshooting & Repair Guide (FAQ style) for the Excel Dryer XLERATOR, XLERATOReco, and XLERATOR HEPA models — tailored for maintenance technicians and capturing both common faults and the error-code system Excel uses. For further assistance or help purchasing an XLERATOR hand dryer, feel free to contact us at 1-800-710-6255 or email sales@handdryerusa.com.

Safety Precautions

  • Disconnect power before removing the cover or performing any service.
  • Confirm circuit is de-energized using a multimeter before touching wiring.
  • Use only manufacturer-approved parts and hardware.
  • Do not test the dryer with the cover removed.
  • Replace any damaged wires, connectors, or seals immediately.
  • Keep water away from internal components and electrical terminals.
  • Wear appropriate PPE: safety glasses, gloves, and insulated tools.

Pre-Check Procedure

  • Verify model and voltage rating on the nameplate. Ensure supply voltage matches (110–120 V or 208–277 V).
  • Confirm unit is securely mounted, level, and has at least 15 inches clearance below the air outlet.
  • Check that the intake and outlet vents are clean and free of obstructions.
  • Inspect external wiring for damage or loose conduit fittings.
  • Confirm circuit breaker size matches specification (typically 15 A or 20 A).
  • If the unit includes a HEPA filter or noise-reduction nozzle, inspect for clogging before applying power.
  • Record the serial number and installation date for maintenance logs.

Common Faults, Symptoms, and Remedies

Below is a list of common failure modes, their potential indications, and possible corrective steps.

Hand dryer doesn't turn on at all

Possible cause(s):

  • No power / tripped breaker or fuse
  • Incorrect voltage or wiring (mismatch with unit rating)
  • Faulty internal control assembly or sensor circuit

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Confirm the power supply is live and breakers/fuses are intact.
  • Check unit rating label vs supply voltage to ensure correct match.
  • Verify wiring connections, terminal block, and grounding.
  • If voltage is correct and wiring is good, replace the control assembly or sensor board.
Hand dryer runs but airflow is weak or inconsistent

Possible cause(s):

  • Clogged pre-filter or HEPA filter (if equipped)
  • Obstructed air intake or outlet vents
  • Motor undercurrent / failing motor
  • Sensor mis-triggering / intermittent on/off

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Remove and clean pre-filter (rinse, dry, reinstall).
  • Clear debris from air inlets, outlets, and inside cover.
  • Measure motor current / resistance; if below spec or erratic, replace motor.
  • Test sensor triggering; adjust sensor range or replace sensor if misbehavior continues.
LED in sensor flashes error code(s)

Possible cause(s):

  • Maintenance, motor, heater, voltage, or control fault as indicated by flash patterns
  • Sensor lockout (obstruction below unit or mounting height issue)
  • Overvoltage / undervoltage on supply

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Refer to the Excel Dryer code chart (see manufacturer documentation).
  • For maintenance codes: clean or replace pre-filter / HEPA filter.
  • For lockout codes: remove obstruction under unit; ensure minimum clearance of 15 inches below.
  • For motor, heater, voltage, or control errors: verify supply voltage, reset circuit breaker, and replace component indicated by code.
  • After repair, power cycle unit and run for 10 seconds to confirm code is cleared.
Unit cycles on and off rapidly or cuts out mid-use

Possible cause(s):

  • Overheating / thermal protection engaging
  • Loose wiring or intermittent connections
  • Control assembly fault

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Check for blocked airflow – clear vents or internal obstructions.
  • Inspect internal wiring, connectors, or terminal block for looseness or corrosion.
  • Test or replace control assembly if repeated faults occur.
  • Ensure unit is installed per manufacturer clearances and ambient conditions.
Unusual noise, buzzing, or vibration during operation

Possible cause(s):

  • Debris or foreign objects caught in fan / motor
  • Loose mounting hardware or internal parts
  • Worn motor bearings or fan imbalance

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Disconnect power, remove cover, and inspect or clean fan and motor area.
  • Tighten all screws, mounting bolts, and internal fasteners.
  • Spin motor by hand (if safe) to detect rough bearings; replace motor if needed.
  • Reassemble and test; listen for residual vibration or noise.
No heat (for models with heater elements)

Possible cause(s):

  • Broken heating element or thermal fuse
  • Incorrect or mismatched voltage to heater circuit
  • Faulty control or heater drive circuit

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Confirm the unit has a heating function (check model specification).
  • Test heater continuity and thermal fuse.
  • Verify correct voltage at heater terminals.
  • Replace heater element, thermal fuse, or related control circuitry as needed.
Persistent faults or failure to restore operation

Possible cause(s):

  • Internal component damage beyond field repair (PCB, control, motor)
  • Improper installation (voltage mismatch, poor mounting)
  • Use of non-OEM parts or previous incorrect repairs

Troubleshooting steps / remedies:

  • Double-check installation: supply voltage and wiring.
  • Inspect control board or internal components for burn marks, corrosion, or failure.
  • Replace control assembly, motor, or other failed parts using authorized Excel parts.
  • If issue persists, contact Excel Dryer technical support at service@exceldryer.com.
  • The Excel Dryer XLERATOR comes with a 7-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.