Asko Dryer E3 Error: Moisture sensor fault
Asko dryer E3 error is a common issue reported by Asko appliance owners. What Asko Dryer Error Code E3 Means Error code E3 on Asko dryers points to a fault with the moisture sensor — the two stainless steel conductivity bars inside the drum that detect when laundry has reached the desired dryness level. When […]
Sometimes
DIY Fixable
From $150
Typical Repair Cost
45-90 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Yes. The dryer is safe to use. Timed programmes work normally even when the moisture sensor is faulty. Use timed drying as a workaround until the sensor is cleaned or replaced.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Power cycling clears the code. Cleaning the sensor bars usually resolves E3 on the next auto-dry cycle. If it persists, timed programmes remain fully functional.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: E3 appears on timed programmes as well as auto-dry — this suggests a broader electrical fault beyond just the sensor bars., Additional error codes appear alongside E3, indicating a wiring or board issue..
Symptoms You May Notice
Auto-dry programmes run for an excessively long time
A timed cotton programme that normally takes 50 minutes runs for 90+ minutes and eventually times out rather than detecting dryness — the moisture sensor is not registering the reducing dampness of the load.
Dryer stops very early, leaving laundry still damp
The auto-dry cycle ends after only 10–15 minutes and indicates the load is dry, but clothes are clearly still wet — the sensor is falsely reading the laundry as already dry.
E3 only appears on auto/sensor-dry programmes, not timed programmes
Timed drying cycles complete perfectly normally. Only programmes that rely on the moisture sensor (auto-dry, extra-dry) display E3 or misbehave.
Metallic or static crackling sound during drum rotation
A faint crackling from inside the drum may indicate laundry items with metal components (bra underwires, zip pulls) repeatedly contacting the moisture sensor strips and confusing the circuit.
Possible Causes
Fabric softener or dryer sheet residue on sensor bars
The two stainless steel sensor bars inside the drum (near the front bulkhead) become coated with a thin insulating layer of fabric softener residue or dryer sheet wax, preventing accurate moisture conductivity readings.
DIY PossibleSmall load or single item not contacting sensor bars
A very small load tumbles without making consistent contact with both sensor bars simultaneously, causing erratic readings and E3 on sensor-drive programmes.
DIY PossibleFailed moisture sensor circuit on control board
The sensor bar wiring or the moisture sensing circuit on the PCB may have failed, sending a permanently invalid reading regardless of actual laundry moisture content.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Clean the moisture sensor bars
Open the dryer door and locate the two thin stainless steel strips on the inside of the front bulkhead (they look like shiny metal bars, usually 5–8 cm long). Clean them with a cloth dampened with white vinegar or a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to dissolve fabric softener residue. Dry thoroughly before closing the door.
Do not use abrasive pads — scratching the sensor bar surface reduces its sensitivity. On Asko T608 and T712 models the bars are positioned at the 6 o'clock position on the front seal edge.
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2
Switch to timed drying as a workaround
If auto-dry programmes are unreliable, use a timed programme instead. Select the appropriate time for your load type — typically 50–60 minutes for a full cotton load. Timed programmes bypass the moisture sensor entirely and will dry the load correctly.
Using timed drying as a regular fallback is perfectly safe and does not harm the machine — it simply means the load may be slightly over or under-dried compared to auto programmes.
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3
Retest with a full load after cleaning
Run an auto-dry Cotton programme with a full load (multiple items) after cleaning the sensor bars. The cycle should run for a normal duration and end when clothes feel dry to the touch. If the programme again times out or ends too early, the sensor circuit needs professional inspection.
Always use a reasonably full load when testing auto-dry programmes — very small loads struggle to make consistent contact with sensor bars on any dryer brand.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- E3 recurs after thorough sensor bar cleaning — moisture sensor wiring harness or PCB circuit requires testing.
- Sensor bar continuity test shows an open circuit in the wiring harness.
- Moisture sensor board or PCB repair on Asko dryers starts from $110.
Need Professional Help?
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