Which XLERATOR® Hand Dryer Sensor or Heating Element Do You Need?

If your XLERATOR® hand dryer is not performing like it used to, the issue might be with the sensor or heating element. But with multiple models and part numbers, it can be hard to know which one to order.

This maintenance guide breaks it down by manufacture date, serial number, and dryer features so you can find the right part quickly.

Sensor Replacement Guide: Excel Part XL 7

For Dryers Manufactured After 2015 (S/N greater than 1,000,000)

• Part: XL 7 Stock #40103 Enhanced Control Assembly & Sensor
• Includes: Control board, optic sensor, mounting bracket
• Features: Adjustable motor speed, heat, and sensor sensitivity
• Voltage: 110–277V
• Note: Will NOT work with dryers made before 2015

For Dryers Manufactured Before July 2016 (S/N less than 900,000)

• Part: XL 7 Stock #40102 Original Control Assembly & Sensor
• Includes: Control board, optic sensor, mounting bracket
• Features: No speed or heat adjustment
• Voltage: 110–277V
• Note: Not compatible with enhanced models made after July 2016

For Enhanced Dryers With HEPA Filters

• Part: XL 7 Stock #40105 Enhanced Control Assembly & Sensor (HEPA)
• Includes: Control board, optic sensor, mounting bracket
• Features: Adjustable motor speed, heat, and sensor sensitivity
• Note: Only for dryers with HEPA filters

For Dryers Manufactured Before 2015 (S/N less than 900,000)

• Part: XL 15 Stock #30089XL IR Sensor
• Use if: Your control board is 40100, 40101, or 40102
• Voltage: 110–277V
• Note: Not compatible with newer control boards (40103 or 40105)

Heating Element Replacement Guide: Excel Part XL 8

For Early Model Xlerator's Prior to 2015 (No Speed or Heat Control)

Need a Motor Instead?

Check out our full guide on how to replace the motor in your XLERATOR® hand dryer.

Still Not Sure?

If your serial number is close to 900,000 or 1,000,000, we recommend calling Excel Dryer directly to confirm compatibility. You can also contact Berl’s and we will help you find the correct part for your unit.

How to Diagnose Sensor Issues in Your XLERATOR® Hand Dryer

When your XLERATOR® hand dryer stops activating, the problem is often the infrared sensor. This component detects hands and triggers airflow. The good news is that diagnosing sensor issues is straightforward once you know what to look for.

This guide covers common symptoms, troubleshooting steps, and how to identify the correct replacement part.

Common Signs of a Faulty Sensor

Watch for these signs before you begin repairs:

• Dryer does not activate when hands are placed underneath
• Dryer runs continuously without hands present
• Intermittent activation or delayed response
• No LED light on the sensor module
• Dryer works only when manually triggered with a tool or object

If you notice any of these issues, it is time to inspect the sensor.

Step by Step Sensor Diagnosis

1. Check the Power Supply

• Confirm that the unit is receiving power.
• Make sure the circuit breaker has not tripped.
• If the dryer has a HEPA filter, verify that it is properly seated. Some models will not run without it.

2. Inspect the Sensor Lens

• Clean the sensor lens with a soft cloth to remove dust or soap residue.
• Obstructions or smudges can prevent the sensor from detecting motion.

3. Test Sensor Activation

• Place your hand 2 to 4 inches below the nozzle.
• If the dryer does not activate, try using a white piece of paper. Some sensors respond better to reflective surfaces.

4. Check the Control Board

• Remove the cover and inspect the control assembly.
• Look for loose wires, corrosion, or burn marks.
• If your board has adjustable settings, confirm that the sensor sensitivity is not turned all the way down.

5. Review the Serial Number

• The serial number determines which sensor assembly your unit uses.
• Serial numbers below 900,000 typically use older parts.
• Serial numbers above 1,000,000 use enhanced models with adjustable settings.

Choosing the Right Replacement Sensor

Once you have confirmed that the sensor is faulty, use the manufacture date, serial number range, and dryer features to match your unit to the correct XL 7 or XL 15 sensor assembly in the guide above.

Pro Tip: Replace the Sensor and Control Board Together

Many sensor issues originate in the entire control assembly, not just the sensor eye. Replacing the full unit helps ensure long term reliability and reduces the risk of mismatched components.

Still Not Sure?

If you are unsure which part fits your dryer, we are happy to help. Contact Berl’s or call us directly. We will help you match your serial number to the correct part quickly.