Tumble Dryer
F08
The F08 error code on an Electrolux tumble dryer signals a heating circuit fault — the machine has detected that it cannot heat the drum correctly and has stopped to protect itself and your laundry. It’s a moderately serious fault that’s often DIY-fixable, but occasionally needs a professional.
What does this error mean?
F08 tells you that the dryer’s control board has detected an issue within the heating system — typically that the heating element isn’t reaching the expected temperature, or that a safety thermostat has tripped and cut power to the heater. On condenser and heat pump models, it can also point to a blocked or faulty moisture sensor circuit. The machine locks out heating as a precaution to prevent overheating or fire risk.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair; £5–£25 DIY if only the thermal cutout or NTC sensor needs replacing
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Power off and unplug the dryer, then wait 10 minutes. Plug back in and restart a cycle — a temporary thermal trip can reset itself once the machine cools down.
Clean the lint filter thoroughly. Remove it from the door seal area, wash it under a tap, allow it to dry fully, and refit. A clogged filter is the single most common cause of F08.
On a condenser dryer, remove and clean the condenser unit (usually behind a bottom panel). Rinse it under a cold tap until water runs clear, leave to dry, and refit securely.
Check the exhaust duct on vented models for kinks, blockages, or a flap that won’t open. Clear any obstruction and ensure the duct run is as short and straight as possible.
If the error returns after the steps above, the thermal cutout may have blown. This is a small, inexpensive part (£5–£15) clipped onto the heater assembly. Replacing it requires removing the back panel — this is a safe DIY task if you are confident working with unplugged appliances, but call a professional if you are unsure.
Do not attempt to test or replace the heating element or control board yourself unless you are competent with appliance electrics. These steps carry a risk of electric shock if done incorrectly — call a qualified engineer instead.
📞 When to call a professional
If cleaning the filters and resetting the machine does not clear the F08 code, call a domestic appliance repair engineer. Tell them: ‘My Electrolux tumble dryer is showing an F08 error — I suspect a heating fault, possibly a blown thermal cutout, failed heating element, or NTC sensor issue.’ Stop using the dryer until it is fixed, as running it with a faulty heating circuit can cause further damage.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for F08 typically costs £80–£150 depending on the faulty part and your location in the UK. If your Electrolux dryer is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worthwhile. If it’s over 8–10 years old and the heating element or PCB has failed, a new mid-range condenser dryer (£250–£400) may be the more cost-effective long-term choice — especially if this is not the first fault.