Dehumidifiers are wonderful machines that make the environment perfectly comfortable for living. You may run these devices regularly to get rid of the extra moisture from the air inside your home. However, keeping your unit in the best working condition is recommended to use for several years to come.
People using these powerful tiny devices usually come across different issues. Some of the most common challenges include dehumidifier freezing up and dehumidifier runs but not water in the bucket. This happens only when you neglect the importance of proper maintenance and cleanliness.
In this article, you are going to explore the top tips to maintain and clean a dehumidifier. You don’t need professional cleaners to get the job done. Just following the right steps can help. So, let’s dive into those workable tips without discussing anything further!
Follow Maintenance Info in User Manual
Almost every dehumidifier comes with a user manual that you can use to understand the machine and its maintenance methods. Go through all the details given in the guide and follow the steps to make your dehumidifier perfectly cleaned.
Always remember that the manufacturer always knows its machines better than anyone else. So, try following their instructions instead of using DIY tips and tricks. Anyhow, you can try other suggestions if you still face issues with the proper working of a dehumidifier.
Air Filter Replacement
Air filters are used in dehumidifiers to filter out dust particles and other microorganisms that may exist in the air. The filter plays a key role in making your indoor atmosphere fully hygienic. Mainly, it is responsible for the following activities:
- Protecting the internal structure of the unit
- Taking away impurities to create healthy air
- Ensuring smooth regular operations
It will get harder for the dehumidifier to pass out air if the air filter is not cleaned properly. As a result, the machine won’t be able to work at its maximum. Cleaning the air filter is highly recommended. You can replace the filter with a new one if it cannot be cleaned.
Generally, you can find the air filter’s suggested timeframe in the user guide. Make sure you don’t leave an old filter for an extended period as it can cause damage to the machine.
For instance, if the manufacturer has recommended replacing the air filter after 6 months, make sure you install a new one right after the specified period. Make sure not to mess up with the dehumidifier settings and the unit is unplugged before you start replacing the filter.
Clean Water Tray
The water tray or tank gets dirty with excess moisture drained out from the air. You might see dust build-up or other impurities at the bottom of the tray.
Although you should frequently remove water from the tray to allow the dehumidifier to continue working properly, yet washing the tank itself is another important thing you shouldn’t forget at all.
A small bucket of warm water and detergent works well to perfectly clean the water tray. You can rub the surface using a piece of cloth or a brush. Once you feel that the water tank is cleaned, use a clean cloth to dry the detached part.
It is recommended to clean the reservoir at least after two weeks. You can use a solution to remove the odor if you feel a damp smell. Many retail stores sell tablets for odor elimination. These will automatically dissolve when the water starts accumulating in the reservoir.
Clean Dehumidifier’s Coils
The effectiveness or performance of a dehumidifier is affected when there’s a dust build-up around its coils. The machine is likely to work harder due to such an issue. Chances are your dehumidifier stop working due to continuous dust on the coils.
To get this sorted, properly clean coils at least after one month. Regular cleaning will prevent dust from freezing around coils. A small piece of cloth or a brush can do the job. You may observe an ice build-up. If that’s the case, remove the dehumidifier from the floor as that is likely to be the coolest part of your room. You can put the unit on a shelf or table instead.
Avoid Turning Off and On Immediately
Don’t turn off and on your machine right away. It is recommended to wait at least 10 minutes before you turn it back on. This short time frame allows the dehumidifier to equalize the compressor and saves it from damage.
See Also: The Best Place to Keep a Dehumidifier: Its Types and Maintenance
The compressor gets overheated when a user instantly turns the device on and off. Your circuit breaker is also likely to get tripped due to such carelessness. Short-cycling causes a dehumidifier to work inefficiently and eventually result in complete failure. Allow the time required for the machine to get ready for the next cycle. This practice will help you maintain a good performance level and extend the durability of your device.
Troubleshoot Options
You might come across different problems while running a dehumidifier for garage, built-in dehumidifier, or in wall dehumidifier. You don’t need to call an expert every time you see an issue with your product. You can identify and fix it at home. If the unit has stopped working or not working as expected, try the following troubleshooting options:
- If the dehumidifier is running but not removing moisture from the air, then check the humidistat control settings.
- Make sure the water tank is empty if the light is turned on but the machine is not operating.
- If the unit is turned on but you feel no air coming out of it, then chances are that its motor has stopped working. You will need to replace the motor to make the humidifier work again.
- If the performance of the device has got affected by some unknown errors, check the evaporator. The coils are likely to be frosted due to extra cooling. You may need to remove the ice from the coils to allow the smooth working of the dehumidifier. Don’t forget to unplug the machine before opening the evaporator at the backside.