Here’s What to Do.
- Check if the float switch is stuck. The float switch is an essential component of a dehumidifier—it prevents your dehumidifier from overflowing and ...
- Check if the drain pipe is clogged.
- Clean the air filter.
- Clean the dehumidifier’s coils.
- Check if the evaporator coil is frozen.
Full Answer
Why is my dehumidifier not collecting water?
Dehumidifier coils can get dirty over time as they work to dehumidify the air coming in. They can have grime and dust build up from what isn’t caught from the air filter. This is normal, but if you don’t do proper dehumidifier maintenance it can be a reason for why your dehumidifier stops collecting water.
How to fix a dehumidifier that won’t blow air?
Remove the filter and check to make sure it’s not the culprit. If dirt has collected in the filter, the fan will have a hard time blowing air. Also check the coils. Dirt can also get trapped in the coils, thereby preventing air from circulating. Try to open the fan area. Turn the dehumidifier in fan setting only.
How do I know if my dehumidifier is working properly?
You check its water receptacle and nada. Zilch. Not even a drop of water to assure you that it’s actually functioning in getting rid of excess moisture in the air. What could be wrong with your dehumidifier?
How do you fix a dehumidifier that is leaking?
Solution: To check for leaks, homeowners should disconnect the device from the power source and remove the casing to examine the coils. In many cases, leaks occur around the joints and areas that have been soldered. Leaks in the refrigerant coils can be corrected, but for this professional dehumidifier repair technician is required.
Why is my dehumidifier working but not collecting water?
If your dehumidifier is not collecting water, the unit is not operating properly: Try resetting the dehumidifier by disconnecting power to the unit for 30 seconds and re-connecting the power. Then, set the control settings and see if the unit operates properly.
Why is my dehumidifier not filling up?
Coils get clogged from dust and grime build-up. This is a normal thing and happens over time as you run your dehumidifier. That's why it's important that you clean your dehumidifier's air filter regularly—it helps to ensure that dust and debris don't build up inside your dehumidifier.
Why is my dehumidifier blowing cold air and not collecting water?
If your dehumidifier is blowing cold air and not collecting water, the main culprit is frozen coils. If your dehumidifier has an auto-defrost feature, let your dehumidifier defrost the coils and it will go back to operating normally.
How many years should a dehumidifier last?
five to 10 yearsMaintain Your Appliance The lifetime of dehumidifiers usually ranges from five to 10 years. To maximize the lifetime, it's important to care for your dehumidifier. Be sure to regularly change the air filters, clean the condensing coils and exhaust grilles, and empty and clean the water bucket.
Why do dehumidifiers fail so quickly?
Dehumidifiers contain electrical components that can go bad, in addition to internal wiring that can short or come loose from connection terminals. Models made within the past decade or so might contain electronic control boards that can burn out and stop working.
Where is the float switch on a dehumidifier?
Float Switch The switch can be found near the bucket, and is activated by the float mechanism when the bucket is full of water. This dehumidifier part is important because it also functions as a safety mechanism, to keep the appliance from overflowing with water.
How do I know if my dehumidifier compressor is working?
If the blower in the dehumidifier is running it is possible that the compressor is not operating. Check to see that the indicator light, on the dehumidifier, is confirming that the compressor is operating.
How long does it take for a dehumidifier to start collecting water?
On average, a dehumidifier begins to collect water as soon as it is switched on. The time taken for a dehumidifier to fill the collection tank can be anywhere between 6-8 hours for a 2-liter tank.
Can dehumidifiers be repaired?
If your dehumidifier doesn't work right, a simple cleaning of the condenser and moisture-collecting (evaporator) coils may be all that's necessary to fix it.
Does a dehumidifier use a lot of electricity?
Dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity. What is this? While the wattage (483.24W is average) and the hourly electricity usage (0.427 kWh is average) are not substantial, the long duration of use results in dehumidifiers consuming a considerable amount of electricity.
How much water should a dehumidifier collect in a day?
Nowadays, a portable dehumidifier is designed to collect around 10 to 20 liters of water a day. But if you have a larger unit, this capacity can be as much as 50 liters. So usually, the bigger the dehumidifier's capacity, the more water it can collect in a day.
Can you run a dehumidifier continuously?
Dehumidifiers have a lifespan and can last a couple of years with proper usage. However, using a dehumidifier continuously for 24 hours a day stresses the compressor and increases its running costs.
How long does it take for a dehumidifier to start collecting water?
On average, a dehumidifier begins to collect water as soon as it is switched on. The time taken for a dehumidifier to fill the collection tank can be anywhere between 6-8 hours for a 2-liter tank.
How much water should a dehumidifier collect in a day?
Nowadays, a portable dehumidifier is designed to collect around 10 to 20 liters of water a day. But if you have a larger unit, this capacity can be as much as 50 liters. So usually, the bigger the dehumidifier's capacity, the more water it can collect in a day.
How do I know if my dehumidifier compressor is working?
If the blower in the dehumidifier is running it is possible that the compressor is not operating. Check to see that the indicator light, on the dehumidifier, is confirming that the compressor is operating.
How do you tell if a dehumidifier is working?
If you're not sure whether your dehumidifier is working, you can always approach it, place your hand above it, and feel for airflow. Some models have different settings, so there's a chance that you've set yours at low operating speeds, making it hard to see if it's doing its job.
Why is my dehumidifier not collecting water?
The functions of a dehumidifier are simple – if there is excess moisture in the air to collect, it will collect. If there’s not enough moisture, it won’t run, especially when set to auto settings.
How to keep dehumidifier on?
Set your dehumidifier to auto setting. It will detect when there is a higher humidity in the air. That is the only time it will function. If you set it to “on” all the time, it will just keep on running even when it has already reached desired humidity. That can wear out the internal parts of the unit.
How to check if a dehumidifier is still working?
Use a multimeter to check if the overload is still working. The overload often wears out faster when it is overused. If you use an undersized dehumidifier and then run it constantly, the overload will surely wear out. Dehumidifiers are also designed to be connected directly to an electrical source.
What is a dehumidifier compressor?
This is the part that allows the refrigerant to circulate in the unit’s evaporator, so that moisture will be extracted from the air. All compressors have a capacitor that is needed to start the compressor. It’s like the trigger for the appliance. Once it gets damaged, the compressor will not run. Only a qualified technician can fix this problem. A capacitor that is compatible with your unit will be used to replace the old one.
Why does my dehumidifier freeze?
In the winter season, the temperature is too low , causing the dehumidifier coils to freeze up. Most dehumidifiers sold today can only run in high temperature. If you run the dehumidifier when room temperature is at 65 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, its coils will freeze. That will stop the unit from running.
How does a dehumidifier work?
If you own a more sophisticated model of a dehumidifier, the fan motor and the compressor are most likely controlled by a PCB assembly. It is a kind of electronic control board equipped with sensors that checks for the relative humidity in the room. If the perceived relative humidity is higher compared to what is set, it will automatically activate the fan motor and the compressor to work. But if the electronic control board is not working, that will not happen, hence the inability of the dehumidifier to collect water.
Why does my dehumidifier make a humming noise?
Turn the dehumidifier in fan setting only. If it doesn’t rotate but you can hear a humming sound, it’s most likely because of a broken fan motor. If it rotates but the motor is silent, a professional might have to come in and check its electrical circuit using a multimeter.
Why is my dehumidifier not collecting water?
If your dehumidifier is not collecting water even though the room temperature is over 65 degrees Fahrenheit, it likely means that the dehumidifier compressor is not working. This part can fail for a number of reasons, one of which is that the overload device has failed. The overload is a component of the compressor which keeps ...
What to do if there is no air blowing?
If there is no air blowing or very little, inspect the fan cover and evaporator coils to make sure they aren’t blocked by dust and debris. Check to make sure the fan is able to rotate easily and that the blower wheel is securely attached to the motor shaft.
How to tell if a compressor capacitor is defective?
If the capacitor fails, the compressor will not run. Signs that the capacitor is defective are that the overload device continually trips.
What does it mean when a compressor won't work?
If the overload is not working, the compressor won’t work, meaning no water is being collected. The overload can be tested for continuity using a multi-meter. This part commonly fails when the unit is powered by extension cords which are too long or too small for the unit. Back to Top.
How to unstick a dehumidifier relay?
If the relay is stuck, then you can unstick it by tapping on it lightly with the handle of your screwdriver. This is usually enough impact to break the relay free.
Why does my dehumidifier shut down?
If your dehumidifier has a drain pipe installed, then you need to ensure that the pipe is not clogged. A clogged drain pipe will cause water to build up inside the dehumidifier . Once there is enough water built up, then a float switch will trigger and shut down the dehumidifier.
Why is my dehumidifier low airflow?
It’s the part that’s responsible for dehumidifying the air, so water will condense on the exterior of the coil.
How to fix a stuck float switch?
To fix a stuck float switch, remove the collection tank from the dehumidifier and find the float switch assembly. It’s located somewhere in the dehumidifier inside of the area where the collection tank goes.
What is overload in a dehumidifier?
The overload is a device that cuts off power to the compressor when it gets too hot. The overload is a critical component that helps protect your dehumidifier from breaking. It also is a safety component that helps prevent fires.
What does it mean when a dehumidifier overloads?
A tripping overload is a symptom of a greater problem—usually a bad capacitor. So in most cases, if your overload is tripped, then there’s something else wrong with your dehumidifier.
Why do dehumidifiers have clogged coils?
Coils get clogged from dust and grime build-up. This is a normal thing and happens over time as you run your dehumidifier. That’s why it’s important that you clean your dehumidifier’s air filter regularly—it helps to ensure that dust and debris don’t build up inside your dehumidifier.
Why is my dehumidifier not drawing enough air?
If the blades are okay but the dehumidifier still doesn’t draw in enough air, the motor is the next likely culprit. You should first determine whether the motor is getting enough power. If power is not the issue, the motor could be broken, at which point it requires replacement.
Who checks a dehumidifier?
Solution: For defective PCB, dehumidifier should be checked by professional refrigeration technician.
How to troubleshoot a capacitor?
Solution: To troubleshot a capacitor since this is a very cheap repair one should first open up the dehumidifier and locate the capacitor for the compressor then test it with the multimeter and replace it for which you may need a soldering iron. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
How does a broken compressor sound?
A broken compressor can manifest through a clicking sound when the device is turned on . Besides a faulty compressor, a dehumidifier may also become ineffective when related components like the capacitor or the overload device fail (both are discussed above as they are cheap repair solutions).
What to do if compressor goes bad?
Solution: If the compressor is gone bad and you are located in the USA or Canada, it is best to purchase a brand new dehumidifier since the costs for repair will supersede.
Why is my refrigerant leaking?
Potential Cause: While coils are designed to resist leakage, the refrigerant’s vibrations and progressive aging of the equipment can cause perforations and breakage, which can lead to refrigerant leakage. When these tiny holes go undetected for long, the refrigerant might decrease to dangerous levels.
How to check if overload device is working?
Locate the overload device and test it with the multimeter to see if it is functional if not then replace it .
Why does my dehumidifier keep collecting water?
For the first little while, after the dehumidifier was in operation, it probably accumulated a whole lot of moisture. This is because it gathered all of the excess water from the ceilings, walls, and things in the general region. After that has been done, all that's left for the dehumidifier is to maintain and regulate the amount of humidity. There'll not be much humidity left in the atmosphere, so the dehumidifier may quit collecting water at some points.
How much water can a dehumidifier remove?
Those who have a more compact dehumidifier can remove about 30 pints of water each day. For those who have a bigger one, it can remove more than 90 pints of water daily.
What temperature should a dehumidifier be?
Certain kinds of dehumidifiers will need to be at a high enough temperature or stop operating correctly. When the temperature reaches approximately 65° Fahrenheit, the machines' coils will freeze, and ice will form. Also, if the room temperature is too low, it's harder for the dehumidifier to reduce humidity from the air.
How does a dehumidifier work?
Refrigerant dehumidifiers have refrigerated coils within them, which work to deal with the humidity. When the humid air flows through the dehumidifier, the humidity is trapped on the coils. Because of this, the air that is blown back into the room is warm but dry.
Why do dehumidifiers use desiccant?
Desiccant dehumidifiers use a chemical known as a desiccant to eliminate the moisture from the air. The chemical will absorb the dampness from the atmosphere, then release the dehumidified air back into the room later. Below are a couple of reasons as to why a dehumidifier may not be accumulating water.
Why does my dehumidifier make a buzzing noise?
This means there are lots of components that could break down and block the whole machine's operation. If the compressor has failed, you will probably hear a buzzing sound every once in a while.
What does it mean when a compressor fails?
If the compressor has failed, you will probably hear a buzzing sound every once in a while. After the compressor stops operating, the humidity will grow, and moisture won't be collected. When the coils begin leaking refrigerant out, it means you've got a leak in the refrigeration system.
Why does my dehumidifier run without water?
If the dehumidifier is too big for the application, it will reach the humidistat setting faster. This means the ON cycles will be shorter and the OFF cycles longer. As a result, you may sometimes feel like the unit is constantly running without collecting water.
What is a dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier is an electrical appliance. It depends on electrical current to turn the various motors within the system to draw stale, moist air into the unit and send dry, healthy air back into your home.
What happens when a compressor dehumidifier runs low?
When a compressor dehumidifier runs low on refrigerant, everything can go wrong. One of the consequences is usually reduced moisture removal capacity. Since the unit relies on refrigerant to extract moisture from your air, low refrigerant can significantly reduce the amount of moisture the appliance can remove per unit time.
How cold does a dehumidifier need to be?
Solution: Check your thermostat to find out the prevailing temperatures. If it’s 60°F or lower, then it’s likely that your dehumidifier is struggling with the cold. The good news is that you don’t need dehumidifiers in extremely cold conditions, anyway.
What are the two types of dehumidifiers?
There are two main types of dehumidifiers – compressor and desiccant. Compressor dehumidifiers operate like air conditioners. They use refrigerants to condense moisture. Meanwhile, desiccant dehumidifiers use desiccant (highly hygroscopic) material to extract moisture from the surrounding environment. Up to 90% of consumers use compressor dehumidifiers. So, it’s likely that yours is also a compressor model.
What does a humidistat do?
All this time, the humidistat monitors humidity conditions inside the house. When the humidistat setting is reached, it instructs the dehumidifier to cycle off temporarily. During this OFF cycle, the unit is running but not collecting water.
Why does a compressor fail?
Compressors can also fail if the compressor capacitor fails. This is because the compressor capacitor serves as a power reservoir for the motor. To protect the motor, it draws through the capacitor rather than directly from the power source. Thus, when the capacitor fails, the motor will also fail.