How to replace the motor in your XLERATOR hand dryer

 

Replacing the Motor when your XLERATOR Hand Dryer Stops Working

Replacing the Motor when your XLERATOR Hand Dryer Stops Working

If your motor has stopped working on your Xlerator hand dryer, you have three good options for fixing it, before you replace the entire hand dryer. You can replace the motor brushes, replace the motor, or replace the entire subassembly. Before we start, however, let's make sure that the problem is with the motor and not something else in the hand dryer.

Diagnose the Problem

  • No response at all? It could be an electrical issue (e.g., no power to the unit) or a faulty sensor. If nothing happens when you place your hands under the dryer, the sensor may need replacing.
  • Clicking or grinding sounds? This often indicates worn-out motor brushes or a failing motor. (Addressed here.)
  • Dryer runs but blows cold air? The heating element may have burned out and can be replaced separately.

XLERATOR Hand Dryer Diagnostic Light Codes

If your XLERATOR hand dryer isn't functioning properly, check the diagnostic lights located near the sensor at the bottom of the unit. These lights flash in specific patterns to indicate the nature of the issue.

Dryer Maintenance Codes

Flash Pattern Issue Recommended Action Dryer Status
1 Short / 1 Long Clogged Pre-Filter Remove and clean the pre-filter Dryer continues to run
1 Short / 2 Long Severely Clogged Filter Remove and clean the pre-filter Dryer will stop
2 Short / 1 Long Lockout Mode Remove obstruction or adjust sensor range Dryer stops until resolved

Motor Problem Codes

Flash Pattern Issue Recommended Action Dryer Status
1 Long / 3 Short Motor Overcurrent Measure voltage at terminal block; if OK, replace motor Dryer will stop
1 Long / 4 Short Motor Undercurrent Measure voltage at terminal block; if OK, replace motor Dryer will stop

Heater Problem Codes

Flash Pattern Issue Recommended Action Dryer Status
2 Long / 3 Short Shorted or Incorrect Heater Replace the heating element Dryer will stop

Three Solutions for a Non-Working Motor

So you've established that the problem is with the motor. We'll walk through three repair options—from least expensive (but most involved) to most expensive (and easiest).

1. Replace the Motor Brushes

Least Expensive / Most Complicated

If your dryer is older and the motor is sporadic or grinding, the carbon motor brushes may be worn out. These brushes typically last around five years depending on usage. Each motor has two brushes, and both should be replaced at the same time.

Important: XLERATOR models with serial numbers above 1238917 (built in 2025 and later) use non-replaceable curved brushes. For these, you'll need to replace the entire motor.

Parts:

Excel Brush 295

2. Replace the Motor

Moderate Cost / Moderate Complexity

If you prefer a simpler fix or have a newer model, replacing the entire motor may be easier than swapping brushes.

Parts:

Excel Blower 56

3. Replace the Entire Subassembly

Most Expensive / Least Complicated

This option replaces everything except the dryer cover — motor, fan, heating element, sensor, and wall plate. It's ideal for older units or when you want a full upgrade without buying a new dryer.

Excel Subassembly 1410W

Standard Subassemblies (with heating element, no HEPA):

ECO Subassemblies (no heating element):

  • High voltage (208–277V): Excel XLERATOR Part #1411EW
  • Standard voltage (110–120V): Excel XLERATOR Part #1410EW

HEPA Filter Subassemblies:

  • Standard voltage (110–120V): Excel XLERATOR Part #1410HW
  • High voltage (208–277V): Excel XLERATOR Part #1411HW

Bonus: Add a HEPA Filter to Your Existing Dryer

Yes, you can retrofit a HEPA filter to an existing XLERATOR or XLERATOReco dryer. The Excel XLERATOR HEPA Filter Retrofit Kit #40525 includes everything needed: filter adapter, HEPA filter (#40520), pre-filter (#94), clips, wiring, and installation tools. It filters 99.97% of bacteria and particulates at 0.3 microns.

Need help choosing the right part or upgrading your unit? Berl's Commercial Supply is here to help!

If you still have questions on this topic or need further information, please feel free to call us at (704) 937-2673, or email info@berls.com and we will be happy to assist you!

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