Dealing with appliance errors can be frustrating, but fixing the E73 code on your Electrolux dryer is not as daunting a task as it seems. This common issue signals a temperature sensor problem that just takes some simple troubleshooting to resolve. Don’t panic – follow these steps to safely power down the dryer, methodically test the two key components that regulate heat sensing, and eliminate the error for good. Let’s break it down step-by-step to get your dryer up and running smoothly once again.
Safety Precautions when Fixing an Electrolux Dryer E73 Error
When fixing an appliance like a dryer, safety should always come first. Rushing into repairs without taking proper precautions can lead to electric shocks, burns, or even serious injuries. Let’s go over some smart tips to stay safe when troubleshooting and repairing your Electrolux dryer displaying error code E73.
Power Off and Unplug the Dryer
This first step is obvious but easy to forget in the moment. Before doing any work on your dryer, make sure to:
- Turn the dryer to the “Off” position using the power button or dial. This shuts down any internal systems.
- Unplug the power cord from the outlet. This cuts off electricity to prevent shocks.
- For good measure, you can also turn off the circuit breaker for the dryer.
Give the Dryer Time to Cool Down
Dryers get very hot when running. Before servicing your unit, allow time for it to cool to room temperature. Touch the drum, vent, and rear panels to check they are not hot. Cooling off takes 1-2 hours usually. Rushing in while it’s hot risks burns.
Choose a Clear, Well-Lit Area
Pick a work area with ample room and lighting. Avoid clutter like laundry piles which can lead to slips or falls. Good visibility reduces mistakes. Daytime is best if possible.
Keep Your Hands Dry
Never work on an appliance with wet hands or standing in water. Moisture transmits electricity, raising your shock risk. Dry your hands if needed.
Consult the User Manual
Your dryer manual has specific instructions tailored for your model. Review the service and repair sections before starting. Following proper steps prevents damage.
Handle Parts Gently
Many dryer components are fragile like heating elements and control boards. Remove and handle parts gently to avoid cracks or breaks.
Use Insulated Gloves
Wearing rubber-insulated work gloves adds protection in case you touch live wires. Play it safe, especially if you have to check electrical terminals.
Exercise Caution with Wires
Live wires and connectors should be avoided if possible. Tape up any exposed wire ends you come across. Never tug on wires directly.
Document Connections
Taking photos or making notes on wire locations will help greatly during reassembly. Knowing where wires were originally prevents mix-ups.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the Electrolux Dryer E73 Error
Dealing with an E73 error on your Electrolux dryer can be frustrating, but this error code provides a clue to what component needs attention. With some basic troubleshooting, you can diagnose and resolve the E73 yourself and get your dryer back up and running.
Let’s walk through a complete game plan for assessing and correcting an E73 error in clear, easy-to-follow steps:
Accessing the E73 Error Code
The first step is to check if the E73 error is actually being displayed. Here’s how to do this:
- Make sure your dryer is plugged into the electrical outlet and power is flowing to the appliance. Double-check that the breaker controlling the dryer circuit has not tripped.
- Press the “Power” button to turn on your dryer. If it does not power on, make sure the outlet is live and that the door switch activates properly when closed.
- Once powered on, wake up the dryer’s control panel by pressing any button except for “Cancel”. The display should illuminate.
- Locate the round “Start/Pause” button and the square “Cancel” button on the control panel.
- Press and hold BOTH the “Start/Pause” and “Cancel” buttons simultaneously for 6 seconds.
- Keep holding the buttons down until the display changes and shows “E73”.
- The E73 code will flash or remain steadily lit. This confirms the E73 error is active on your dryer.
Now that you’ve accessed the error, you can move on to diagnosing the problem.
Checking the Thermistor Resistance
The E73 indicates an issue with the inlet thermistor, which is the temperature sensor attached to the dryer vent. This part monitors air flow temp and relays data back to the control board.
Here is how to test the thermistor:
- Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet for safety before handling any components.
- Locate the thermistor wiring housing near the vent inlet. It will have 2 or 4 colored wires connected to it.
- Carefully disconnect the wiring harness plug to separate the thermistor from the circuit.
- Examine the wiring for any damage, cuts, or frayed insulation. Replace wires if needed.
- Get a digital multimeter and set it to resistance mode, signified by the ohm symbol.
- Touch the meter probes to the thermistor’s terminals or wire ends one at a time.
- The resistance reading on the multimeter should be between 47,000 to 66,000 ohms at room temperature.
- If the reading falls well outside this range, the thermistor is likely faulty and will require replacing. Order the specific replacement part for your dryer model.
If the thermistor resistance checks out, the control board may be the culprit instead…
Also Read: How do I check my Samsung dryer’s temperature sensor?
Evaluating the Control Board
If the thermistor tests fine, problems with the control board could be causing the E73 error. To check:
- Locate the main control board housing on the back or top of the dryer.
- Identify the J4 wire connector, which will be labeled.
- Place the multimeter probes on pins J4-3 and J4-4 of the control board connector.
- Check the resistance reading on the multimeter.
- If the reading shows the proper 47,000 to 66,000 ohm range, then the control board is likely faulty and should be replaced.
This should provide a clear walkthrough of diagnosing an E73 error code, testing the thermistor, and evaluating the control board.
Final Thoughts on Fixing Electrolux Dryer Error Code E73
Dealing with an E73 error on your Electrolux dryer can be annoying, but we’ve broken down how to fully troubleshoot and resolve this issue in a safe and straightforward manner.
Let’s review the key steps:
- Access the error code display to confirm E73 is present
- Unplug and safely disassemble the dryer to access components
- Check thermistor resistance values with a multimeter
- Replace the thermistor if readings are way off
- If thermistor is fine, test control board resistance
- Replace control board if resistance value indicates a fault
- Reassemble dryer and test for normal operation
The E73 points to a thermistor temp sensor problem, but could also be a bad control board. By methodically testing each component and comparing to spec values, you can isolate and replace the failed part.
Safety comes first when doing any appliance repair. So be sure to discharge energy, work cautiously, and consult manuals. Taking it slow helps ensure proper diagnosis and service.