Washing Machine
E66
The E66 error code on an Electrolux washing machine indicates a fault with the heating element circuit — specifically, the heater relay on the control board is stuck or has failed. It’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your machine from heating water correctly, but it doesn’t always require an expensive repair.
What does this error mean?
E66 means the machine’s control board has detected that the heater relay — the electronic switch that turns the heating element on and off — is not operating as expected. In most cases, the relay is stuck in the ‘on’ position, meaning the heater may run continuously or fail to cut off at the right time. The machine throws this code as a safety measure to prevent overheating or damage to your laundry.
Est. repair cost
£80–£180 professional repair (element or PCB relay); descaler DIY fix under £10
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine: Switch it off at the wall, unplug it, and leave it for 10 minutes. Plug back in and run a short cycle to see if the error clears — a power surge can sometimes trigger a false E66.
Run a descale cycle: If you live in a hard water area (much of England), heavy limescale on the heating element can cause overheating faults. Use a washing machine descaler (e.g. Calgon or Durgol) on a hot empty cycle and retest.
Check your cold water supply and inlet filter: A restricted water supply can cause the heater to overheat. Locate the inlet hose at the back, turn off the water, unscrew the hose, and rinse the small mesh filter under the tap.
Inspect the door seal and drum for blockages: While not a direct cause, foreign objects causing abnormal drum behaviour can stress the heating circuit. Remove any visible debris from the drum and seal.
Do NOT attempt to open the back panel to access the heating element or PCB yourself: These components involve mains voltage wiring. Unless you are a qualified electrician, stop here and call a professional appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
If the error persists after a reset and descale, you need a qualified appliance engineer to test the heating element with a multimeter and inspect the control board for a failed relay. When calling, tell them: ‘My Electrolux washing machine is displaying error code E66 — I believe it’s a heater relay fault on the PCB.’ This will save time and may get you a more accurate quote upfront.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A heating element replacement typically costs £80–£130 fitted; a PCB repair or relay replacement runs £100–£180 depending on the engineer and your location. If your machine is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it. If it’s 8 years or older and the PCB needs full replacement (£150–£220+), weigh that against a new mid-range Electrolux model at £350–£500 — replacement may be the smarter long-term choice.