Electrolux Dryer E4 — What It Means & How to Fix It
E4 means the moisture sensor that tells the dryer when clothes are dry has failed — auto-dry cycles can't measure, but manual cycles still work.
What this code means
E4 (Humidity Sensor Failed) means the control board lost or no longer trusts the moisture-sensor signal, so auto-dry cycles can't judge dryness. The dryer still completes its current cycle and runs manual cycles.
Applies to current Electrolux front-load dryers (EFME/EFMG series) with moisture sensing; several older generations display E31 or E32 for the same moisture-sensor family, so confirm the code your display shows.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture sensor failed or disconnected | Common | No — technician job |
| Sensor wiring corroded or loose | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Sensor bars coated so they can't read the fabric | Occasional | Yes — clean the bars |
What you can try yourself
- Let the current cycle finish — E4 doesn't lock the dryer — and use a manual Timed Dry cycle to keep drying in the meantime.
- Unplug the dryer for a minute, plug it back in, and see if the code clears.
- Clean the moisture sensor bars with rubbing alcohol if you can reach them safely — a coating can block the reading.
- If the code continues on manual and auto cycles, the sensor or its wiring needs a technician's test.
When to call a technician
- If the dryer refuses to start or the code appears instantly, don't force cycles — get it checked.
- If cleaning the bars and a reset don't clear E4, stop retrying and schedule service.
Typical professional repair cost: $150–$300 typical for a professional moisture-sensor replacement
Frequently asked questions
Will my dryer still dry clothes with E4?
Yes — the dryer completes the current cycle and runs manual cycles, but auto-dry dryness sensing is off.
Can a dirty sensor cause E4?
A coated sensor can read wrong, so cleaning the bars with rubbing alcohol is a fair first check before booking service.
Is E4 the same on all Electrolux dryers?
The moisture-sensor family is shared, but older models may display E31 or E32 instead — check what your display actually shows.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Electrolux codes
- Electrolux Dryer EF1 EF1 is the dryer's airflow alarm — the exhaust path can't breathe, so the dryer slows down and warns you about the blockage.
- Electrolux Dryer E42 Dryer E42 means 'door open' to the machine — it won't heat or tumble until the door registers as closed.
- Electrolux Dryer H2 / B2 H2 / B2 is the dryer's power-supply alarm — the control board sees abnormal incoming power and wants the power supply looked at.
- Electrolux Dryer H4 / B4 H4 / B4 means the dryer is seeing incorrect wiring, flagged by Electrolux as an installation issue — a moment to call your installer, not a parts supplier.
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