How to Clean a Dehumidifier

If you have a dehumidifier, you are in luck. It’s an essential device to keep the moisture and dampness in your home or office under control. A dehumidifier provides tremendous benefits to users. If you are at your wit’s end on how to clean a dehumidifier, keep reading.

The moisture in your home has many disadvantages. It can make occupants prone to allergies caused by dust, mold, and mildew. A high humidity area can also cause respiratory illnesses, skin irritations, and general discomfort.

A dehumidifier is a high-functioning device capable of improving the air quality and providing comfort to everyone in the environment. It can also preserve and extend the lifespan of your building structure, furniture and food stored in the pantry.

A dehumidifier should be cleaned regularly to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment devoid of air-like bacteria such as mildew and mold.

How to Clean a Dehumidifier

To effectively clean your dehumidifier, you need a few cleaning supplies. Fortunately, they are affordable and readily available in the store. Some of these items can even be found in your pantry.

Tools Needed to Clean a Dehumidifier

Rubber Gloves

A pair of rubber gloves are required to protect your hands from grime, dust, soap, and other chemicals used to clean the dehumidifier.

A Mask

A dust mask can protect you from breathing in particles and having an allergic reaction.

Cleaning Products

Cleaning tools like brushes, small toothbrushes, towels, rags, etc, soap and other cleaning agents like bleach and vinegar will be required. Similarly, you will need a dry-wet vacuum cleaner with a connected hose to remove dirt from the interior of your dehumidifier.

Safety Tips for Cleaning a Dehumidifier

Safety and precautionary measures should be taken before cleaning a dehumidifier to avoid getting sick or electrocuted.

Wear your Gear

Firstly, you should put on your rubber gloves to protect your hands from chemicals in cleaning products. Also, wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust.

Turn off your Dehumidifier and Unplug

Before you begin cleaning your dehumidifier, you must ensure it is turned off and unplugged. Cleaning a plugged-in dehumidifier is unsafe for you and can make the device faulty.

Like other electrical devices, wait for at least 10mins before turning it back on. Immediately turning your dehumidifier on after putting it off can damage the compressor or reduce the frequency to remove moisture.

Steps on How to Clean the dehumidifier

Tank

A dehumidifier has a tank where water is collected. It is crucial to clean the tank to avoid the growth of mold. To clean the tank properly,

Remove the tank and drain over a bathtub or sink.

Afterward, detach the tank from the main device.

Use soap and water to wash the interior of the tank.

Lastly, you dry it with a towel.

Coils

Dehumidifiers from Deye usually come with an auto-defrost feature. However, you can also care for and clean the coils. The coils located behind the dehumidifier can get cold when the unit is working. This is because of the condensation that occurs with the help of a fan.

To defrost the coils, you need to unplug the machine and leave it to thaw for a few hours. Collect the dripping water and empty it in a drain.

Filter

The filter of your dehumidifier can quickly get clogged with dirt and dust particles from the humid air. Vacuum your filter and then rinse with a mixture of cold water and mild soap. This will remove stubborn dirt and grime from the filter. You should carefully dry it before replacing it.

Dehumidifier Device

Vinegar is effective in disinfecting a dehumidifier. You can use a mixture of vinegar and water in equal quantities to wash the tank. Allow the mixture to remain in the tank for 30-90 mins to enable it to disinfect thoroughly. Gently scrub the interior with a soft brush to avoid the growth of mold.

How Often do I Need to Clean my Dehumidifier

The tank or bucket is the dirtiest part of your dehumidifier as it collects water every day. Due to its function, the tank is prone to dirt and should be cleaned thoroughly at least once a month.

Tips on How to Maintain a Dehumidifier

Surprisingly, dehumidifiers are low-maintenance appliances that are durable and can last for many years with a few maintenance practices. Here’s a guide on how to maintain a dehumidifier.

Close all Windows and Doors

If a door or window is open, the outside air can influence the moisture level within the house. If your dehumidifier is on, it may not perform optimally. Ensure all windows and doors are properly closed to get the best result from your dehumidifier.

Place your Dehumidifier in the Best Place

To maintain a dehumidifier and ensure it works in it’s best capacity, place your dehumidifier strategically. A dehumidifier functions better away from the wall or any obstructions blocking its exhaust.

Adjust the Humidity Level of the Room

The humidity can determine the efficiency and life span of the device. You can control the humidity level with a humidistat. This device helps to monitor and maintain your preferred humidity level.

 

Clean or Replace the Air Filter

The filter collects dirt and dust and protects the dehumidifier and its internal components from unsafe weather elements.

Your dehumidifier comes with a recommended guide stating when to change the filter. However, some filters are washable and reusable.

Do Not Short Cycle the Dehumidifier

Short cycling the compressor of your dehumidifier can lead to damages that may be difficult to repair. Every dehumidifier is different, with varied specifications and features. It is essential to check the manual before carrying out any maintenance work.

With a good dehumidifier, you can create a comfortable, healthier environment in your home or office. These tips on cleaning a dehumidifier will guide you to effectively clean your dehumidifier and ensure it functions in its best capacity.

Deye sells a variety of dehumidifiers, whether for residential or commercial uses. Visit our website to see what we have in stock, or give us a call.