Wascomat Washer-Dryer Error Code 81: Drying Error RMC Program
Code 81 on the Selecta II dryer unit means the maximum allowable RMC time was exceeded. It applies to non-coin models only and is E 11 in the Selecta II manual. Clean the lint filter, and see the Selecta II service manual or call us if it returns.
Medium: the program stopped on a time limit, and the cause needs checking before drying can be trusted.
What does Wascomat error code 81 mean?
The Selecta II dryer program unit of the Wascomat WD4130 and WD4240 limits how long an RMC drying program may run. When the program passes the maximum allowable RMC time, the unit ends it and shows ERROR 081 / DRYING ERROR RMC PROGRAM, which the Selecta II manual lists as E 11. The manual notes that this applies to non-coin models only. It gives no causes and refers the reader to the Selecta II service manual. In principle, a drying program that runs to its time limit has not reached the dryness it was looking for, so heat, airflow or the temperature readings that guide the program are the natural places to look, although the manual does not say so. The time limit protects the load and the machine from drying that never ends.
Affected models and control systems
The dryer program unit (Selecta II) of Wascomat washer-dryers WD4130 and WD4240, non-coin models only.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- ERROR 081 / DRYING ERROR RMC PROGRAM appears on the dryer display
- The dryer stops after a very long run
- Loads come out still damp
- The code returns on the same program
Possible causes
Likely causes — what usually sits behind error code 81 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A clogged lint filter or restricted exhaust that slows drying
- A load too large or too wet for the program to finish within the allowed time
Safe checks before calling for service
- Let the dryer cool and empty the lint filter.
- Check that the exhaust duct is not crushed or blocked, where you can see it.
- Run a smaller load on the same program.
- If the code returns, note the program, the load size and the time it ran, and call us.
How a technician diagnoses error code 81
- Read the code and confirm it is E 11 in the Selecta II table.
- Follow the Selecta II service manual for the RMC program limit.
- Check airflow through the lint filter, drum and exhaust.
- Check the heating and the inlet and outlet temperature sensors.
- Time a trial load against the program limit.
- Repair the cause that the tests show.
- Heating and sensor tests happen next to heaters and mains wiring.
- Exhaust restrictions may sit outside the machine and need a duct specialist.
- Program time limits are service settings and are not changed to hide a drying problem.
How error code 81 differs from similar codes
Code 81 is the RMC time limit, code 82 is the Autostop limit, and code 83 limits the requested time on payment systems.
Technical reference
- Document
- Service manual, Washer extractors W465H-W4300H, W475S-W4330S, W475N-W4330N, Type W3..., Compass Control
- Maker documentation
- Wascomat owner support
- Edition
- 438 9228-61/EN, 2011.08.25
- Models / control
- Dryer program unit of washer-dryers WD4130 and WD4240 (Selecta II program unit)
- Section
- Troubleshooting, Error codes from DRYER PROGRAM UNIT, 'Only for WD4130, WD4240' (manual pp. 110, 138-139)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related Wascomat washer error codes
Does it happen on coin models?
The manual lists code 81 for non-coin models only.
Is the dryer broken?
Not necessarily. Lint and airflow problems often cause long drying.
What is RMC?
It is a drying program type on the dryer; the manual gives no further detail.
Need help with Wascomat error code 81?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.