Complete Comparison: XL-GR vs XL-GRH vs XL-GR-ECO vs XL-GRH-ECO

The Excel XL-GR Series hand dryers are part of the industry-leading XLERATOR hand dryer line manufactured by Excel Dryer. These models are part of our broader range of commercial hand dryers designed for high-traffic public restrooms.

These models are designed for:

• commercial restrooms
• schools
• stadiums
• airports
• restaurants
• high-traffic public facilities

The XL-GR series includes four models:

Each model uses Excel Dryer’s high-velocity motor technology capable of up to 20,000 linear feet per minute airflow, allowing hands to dry extremely quickly while reducing restroom paper towel waste.

This guide compares the models so facility managers, contractors, and building owners can choose the best dryer for their environment.

Quick Comparison Table

Dry time and energy testing were conducted under UL Environment product category rules for hand dryers.

Understanding the Excel XL-GR Series

The XL-GR series is known for delivering extremely fast hand drying using a 5/8 HP motor spinning up to 24,000 RPM.

Key engineering features include:

• Infrared automatic sensor activation
• Adjustable speed and sound controls
• Tamper-proof cover mounting
• Internal grounding for electrical safety
• Washable metal mesh filter
• 35-second automatic shutoff

These features help maintain long-term reliability in high-traffic restrooms.

Model Overview

XL-GR Hand Dryer

The XL-GR is the standard model in the series and one of the most widely installed high-speed hand dryers in commercial facilities.

Key characteristics:

• Approximately 8-second dry time
• Adjustable heat control
• Up to 1450 watts with heat on
• Air velocity up to 20,000 LFM

Because of its extremely fast dry time, this model is commonly installed in:

• airports
• sports arenas
• large restaurants
• shopping malls

Facilities that prioritize speed and throughput often choose this model.

For full specifications, installation details, and current availability, view the XLERATOR XL-GR hand dryer product page.

XL-GRH (HEPA Filter Model)

The XL-GRH is identical to the standard XL-GR but includes Excel Dryer’s eHEPA hand dryer filtration system.

The system removes:

• 99.999% of viruses
• 99.97% of bacteria at 0.3 microns

from the air stream before it reaches the user’s hands.

This makes the XL-GRH a strong choice for:

• hospitals
• healthcare facilities
• laboratories
• food preparation environments

The HEPA filter improves restroom hygiene without affecting drying performance.

View the complete specifications and installation requirements on the XLERATOR XL-GRH HEPA hand dryer product page.

XL-GR-ECO Hand Dryer

The XL-GR-ECO is the energy-efficient hand dryer version of the XLERATOR XL-GR

Key differences:

• No heat technology
• Lower wattage (~425–530 W)
• Slightly longer 10-second dry time

Despite using far less power, the ECO model still maintains strong airflow between 13,000 and 20,000 LFM.

This model is often chosen for:

• LEED-certified buildings
• environmentally focused facilities
• schools
• offices with energy reduction goals

See full product specifications and purchasing options for the XLERATOR XL-GR-ECO energy-efficient hand dryer

XL-GRH-ECO (HEPA + Energy Efficient)

The XL-GRH-ECO combines the advantages of both upgrades:

• eHEPA filtration
• energy-efficient ECO motor system

This model is frequently installed in facilities that require both:

• hygiene protection
• sustainability compliance

Examples include:

• healthcare buildings
• universities
• modern office buildings
• green construction projects

Learn more about the XLERATOR XL-GRH-ECO HEPA energy-efficient hand dryer including installation details and specifications.

Key Technology Behind XLERATOR Hand Dryers

High Velocity Motor

All models use a through-flow discharge vacuum motor capable of spinning up to 24,000 RPM, creating extremely powerful airflow.

XLERATORTechnicalSheet

This airflow allows the dryers to remove water from hands quickly, reducing restroom congestion.

Infrared Sensor Activation

The dryers activate automatically when hands are placed under the nozzle using an infrared touchless hand dryer optical sensor.

Benefits include:

• touchless operation
• reduced germ transmission
• energy conservation

The dryer shuts off automatically when hands are removed.

Adjustable Speed and Sound Control

Facility managers can adjust the airflow speed to balance:

• drying speed
• energy usage
• noise levels

Optional noise reduction nozzles can reduce sound by approximately 9 decibels.

Which XL-GR Model Should You Choose?

Choose XL-GR if:

You want the fastest possible drying speed for high-traffic restrooms.

Choose XL-GRH if:

You need HEPA filtration for improved hygiene.

Choose XL-GR-ECO if:

Your building prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability.

Choose XL-GRH-ECO if:

You want both HEPA filtration and energy efficiency.

Explore Other XLERATOR Hand Dryer Series

If you're comparing other XLERATOR finishes and configurations, explore the XL-BW Series, XL-W Series, XL-SB Series, and XL-C Series hand dryers.

Recommended Applications

The XL-GR series is commonly installed in:

• airports
• restaurants
• stadiums
• schools
• hospitals
• office buildings
• retail centers

For most installations, Excel Dryer recommends one dryer per two washbasins.

Higher traffic facilities may require additional units.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between XLERATOR and XLERATOR ECO?

The primary difference is power consumption and heat technology.

The standard XLERATOR uses heat and higher wattage to achieve an 8-second dry time, while the ECO version uses no heat and consumes significantly less energy with a 10-second dry time.

Are XLERATOR hand dryers ADA compliant?

No, not on their own. They will meet ADA requirements when installed with the optional ADA recessed kit for accessible restrooms.

View the Excel Thinair hand dryers for ADA compliant Excel models  or view our full collection of ADA compliant Hand Dryers

How long do XLERATOR hand dryers last?

These dryers are designed for heavy commercial use and include a 7-year manufacturer warranty covering defective parts and factory labor.

Do XLERATOR hand dryers use HEPA filtration?

Some models include optional eHEPA filtration, which removes 99.999% of viruses and 99.97% of bacteria from the airstream before air reaches the hands.

How many hand dryers are needed per restroom?

Excel Dryer recommends:

• 1 dryer for every 2 sinks in most restrooms

• 1 dryer per sink in extremely high traffic environments.

Final Thoughts

The Excel XL-GR series hand dryers deliver some of the fastest drying speeds available in commercial restroom equipment.

With options for:

• HEPA filtration
• energy efficiency
• adjustable airflow
• multiple cover finishes

these dryers provide flexible solutions for a wide range of commercial applications.

Whether you prioritize speed, hygiene, or sustainability, the XL-GR series offers a model designed to meet your facility’s needs.