Having a dehumidifier that fails to collect water can be extremely frustrating. High humidity levels allow for mold, mildew, and bacteria growth that can aggravate allergies and asthma. Thankfully, there are several easy DIY troubleshooting steps you can try before calling in professional service.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with steps for inspecting common issues, maintenance tips to prevent problems, and cleaning procedures for optimal dehumidifier performance. Follow these DIY fixes to get your unit collecting water again quickly and efficiently.
Common Reasons a Dehumidifier Stops Collecting Water
There are a few key reasons why a dehumidifier might stop collecting moisture:
Power Supply Issues
- Loose plugin connection
- Faulty outlet
- Tripped breaker
- Damaged power cord
Control Panel Errors
- The unit displays error codes
- Humidistat set too high
- Settings need adjustment
Blocked Air Flow
- Clogged air filter
- Dust/debris in grilles
- Improper clearance
Component Malfunctions
- Leaking water bucket
- Fan failure
- Sensor failure
- Refrigerant leak
Pinpointing the root cause is the first step toward getting your dehumidifier working properly again.
Step 1 – Check Power Supply to the Unit
The first DIY troubleshooting step is verifying that your dehumidifier has power:
- Make sure the unit is plugged directly into a wall outlet and that the connection is snug. Loose plugs can disconnect power intermittently.
- Test the outlet by plugging in a different device, like a lamp or phone charger. If other devices don’t power on properly, there may be an issue with the outlet itself.
- Check your electrical panel box and reset any tripped breakers related to the dehumidifier circuit.
- Inspect the power cord carefully for damage. Fraying, cuts, loose wiring, or bent plug prongs can lead to power issues. Never use damaged power cords due to fire risks.
Restoring steady power delivery is essential before moving to other troubleshooting steps.
Step 2 – Investigate the Control Panel and Settings
If the unit has power but still won’t collect condensation, the next step is checking the control panel and settings.
- Refer to your owner’s manual to interpret any error codes or indicator lights on your dehumidifier’s display panel. Follow troubleshooting instructions related to codes.
- Check that the humidistat setting isn’t too high. If set above the current room humidity, the unit won’t perceive a need to run. Lower it below the existing humidity level.
- Make sure any modes or settings aren’t preventing normal operation. For example, make sure it isn’t set to fan-only mode.
- Reset any settings to factory defaults if problems persist. Input settings can sometimes get corrupted.
Adjusting control panel settings often gets the dehumidifier pulling moisture again.
Step 3 – Clear Air Flow Obstructions
Inadequate airflow can prevent the dehumidifier from functioning efficiently:
- Remove and clean the unit’s air filter if dirty. Dust and debris easily clog filters over time.
- Check that exterior exhaust and intake grilles aren’t obstructed by furniture, curtains, or other objects. Air needs to flow freely.
- Allow proper clearance around the dehumidifier. Most units require at least 12 inches for ventilation.
- Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clear any dust buildup around ventilation grilles or fans.
- Consider relocating the unit to an area with more open airflow if space constraints are limiting performance.
Keeping intake and exhaust ports clear goes a long way toward efficient moisture removal.
Step 4 – Drain Bucket Inspection
Faulty drain buckets or pumps can also prevent water collection:
- Check the condensate tank for leaks or cracks. Damaged collection tanks won’t hold water. Replace damaged or missing tank components if needed.
- Make sure the unit is perfectly level. Improper leveling prevents water from draining properly into the collection tank.
- Check that the condensate pump tubing isn’t bent or blocked. Kinks prevent pumped drainage. Ensure tubing runs downhill without obstructions.
- Ensure the condensate pump and tubing connections are secure. Loose fittings result in water spilling rather than draining properly.
- Clean any scale or sediment buildup around condensate ports. Mineral deposits can block proper water flow.
An intact, properly installed drain bucket is vital for collecting moisture.
Step 5 – Component Function Check
If no obvious issues present themselves through previous steps, various internal faults may be preventing normal operation:
- Power on the unit and make sure the compressor and fans activate when appropriate. Broken system components need professional service.
- Inspect the coils, filters, and fins on the interior for frost buildup indicating refrigerant leaks or blockages. Schedule service for suspected leaks immediately to prevent serious issues.
- Note any odd noises like squealing belts, grinding bearings, or knocking, which can indicate fan, motor, or compressor failures.
- Consider replacing faulty sensors if the unit runs constantly but won’t remove moisture.
Have an experienced technician assess suspected component failures. DIY repairs to sealed systems often cause more harm than good. The costs of professional service pale in comparison to complete unit replacement!
6 Tips to Maintain Your Dehumidifier Effectively
While performing occasional troubleshooting is expected, following best practices for dehumidifier maintenance can minimize operation issues:
1. Adjust Unit Location
Place the dehumidifier in a central, open location for optimum performance. Avoid cramped spaces with limited air circulation.
2. Check Air Filter Monthly
Dirty filters are the most common cause of poor dehumidifier performance. Check and clean the filter routinely.
3. Vacuum Ventilation Grilles
Use a brush attachment to vacuum all intake and exhaust grilles at the start of each season.
4. Keep Dehumidifier Level
An uneven unit can hinder condensate drainage and cause operational problems. Verify level placement.
5. Set Humidistat Accurately
Make sure to adjust settings relative to room size and conditions for your specific environment.
6. Allow Proper Clearance
Most units require at least 12” clearance on all sides for ventilation needs. Avoid obstructing airflow around the dehumidifier.
Staying on top of maintenance prevents many common dehumidifier issues down the road.
Proper Drain Bucket Cleaning Methods
To keep your condensate tank hygienic and working properly, follow these cleaning procedures monthly:
Supplies Needed
- Bucket or spray bottle of warm water and dish detergent
- An old toothbrush or small scrub brush
- Clean microfiber cloth
Instructions
- Unplug the dehumidifier before removing the bucket.
- Take the bucket to a sink to thoroughly clean.
- Fill with warm water and a small amount of detergent.
- Use a scrub brush to gently clean the bucket walls, base, and corners.
- Drain dirty water and rinse several times with clean water to eliminate detergent residue.
- Allow the bucket to fully dry before reinstalling. Never reinsert wet.
- Check the condition of the bucket and replace it if cracks or leaks are noted.
Regular cleaning keeps drain buckets mold-free and removes mineral deposits for proper water drainage.
Air Filter & Vent Cleaning Procedures
Follow these seasonal steps to keep intake and exhaust ports clear:
Items Needed:
- Gloves
- Vacuum with a brush attachment
- Replacement air filter (if needed)
Instructions:
- Unplug the dehumidifier before servicing.
- Carefully slide out the unit’s air filter located on the rear or side.
- Check filter material for any tears or damage. Replace if deteriorated.
- Use a vacuum brush to remove accumulated dust and debris from the filter surface.
- Wash with warm water and mild detergent if very dirty rather than continuing to vacuum. Rinse and allow to fully dry before reinstalling.
- Use the vacuum brush attachment to gently clear any dust or debris from all intake and exhaust vents around the unit housing.
- Wipe vents with a small brush or cloth if needed to remove stuck-on particles AFTER vacuuming.
- Re-secure the filter once fully dry and restart the dehumidifier.
Routinely cleaning the filter and vents improves airflow and protects internal components.
When to Call for Professional Service
While many common dehumidifier issues can be addressed with DIY troubleshooting, call in the pros for:
- Visible water leaks, damage, or hazardous conditions
- Suspected coolant leaks
- Electrical issues involving wiring or components
- Drain line clogs requiring pipe disassembly
- Noise indicating compressor, fan, or motor failure
- Frozen internal components
- Any fault codes after troubleshooting efforts provide no resolution
HVAC technicians have specialized tools and diagnostics to fully assess failures and safety hazards. They can also legally recharge refrigerant after leaks and handle parts replacement.
Let professionals handle scenarios exceeding your mechanical expertise!
Read More: The Most Common Parts to Fail on a Dehumidifier
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive DIY guide for non-functioning dehumidifiers assists in getting your unit working efficiently again quickly.
Follow the layered troubleshooting steps to methodically pinpoint and remedy common problems. Stick to regular maintenance procedures to avoid many pitfalls proactively.
Pay attention to any operational changes signaling larger issues, and don’t hesitate to contact a technician when advanced repairs are needed.
Implementing these fix and prevention best practices will have you resting comfortably in a properly dehumidified space once again!