Breathe Easy: How To Clean a Dehumidifier The Right Way

1. Do You Know How to Clean a Dehumidifier….

Do you know how to clean a dehumidifier? The reason I ask (and as you’ll see below) is because it’s an essential component in the comfort and well-being of your home. In this detailed guide, you’ll find instructions for cleaning the entire unit and various components of your dehumidifier. Things like the filter, the water container, the coils, and of course the drainage hose.

2. Why Cleaning Your Dehumidifier is Essential

Firstly, understanding the importance of cleaning your dehumidifier is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness. Regular cleaning ensures that it will be work effectively as it was designed to do.

Secondly, a clean effective dehumidifier will do its utmost to protect you and your home. It does this by controlling humidity. If your dehumidifier is not regularly maintained, it cannot protect you.

Thirdly, a clean dehumidifier is more efficient. This is beneficial both financially and environmentally. If your unit is dirty it may be (for the most part) inefficient in its function.

3. Understanding the Purpose of a Dehumidifier

In truth, a dehumidifier serves to protect you and your home and to keep your environment healthy and comfortable. By and large, it exists to remove excess moisture from the air. Too much moisture can lead to problems such as mold, mildew, dust mites, allergens and property damage. When a dehumidifier maintains healthy moisture levels, it makes your living space more comfortable. It deters nasty mold and mildew from growing. A dehumidifier keeps moisture from damaging your furniture and electronic devices. These units can also help minimize allergens and allergic reactions. In short, By using a dehumidifier, you are actively creating a cleaner and healthier environment for your family. (Click on this link for a more in-depth look at what a dehumidifier does).

4. Understanding the Main Components

Before embarking on the cleaning journey, it’s imperative to become familiar with the main components of a dehumidifier:

Filter: This captures airborne particles like dust and pollen.

Bucket: This is where the extracted water collects.

Coils: These facilitate the condensation process to remove moisture.

Drain Hose: If equipped with continuous drainage, this hose transfers the collected water away from the unit.

So, with this knowledge in hand, we can now explore the various cleaning processes.

5. How To Clean A Dehumidifier Filter:

5.1 Importance of Cleaning the Filter

Most modern dehumidifiers come with filters that can be removed for cleaning or replacement, but this isn’t necessarily a universal feature. In fact, the filter’s role in a dehumidifier is to remove particles from the air as it’s drawn into the unit. Without a doubt, cleaning or replacing the filter as necessary is vital for maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the device.

However, the design and construction of dehumidifiers can vary widely, and some older or more specialized models might have non-removable filters or a different filtration mechanism altogether.

5.2 Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Dehumidifier Filter

Remove the Filter: Carefully take out the filter from its housing.

Wash with Soap: Use mild soap and warm water, gently scrubbing to remove dust and grime.

Use a Compressed Air Can: For stubborn particles, using a compressed air can is highly effective.

Dry and Replace: Make sure the filter is completely dry before replacing it.

5.3 Tips and Warnings

Check the filter regularly and clean it as needed.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace ripped or damaged filters.

6. How To Clean A Dehumidifier Bucket:

6.1 Why Clean the Bucket?

A dehumidifier’s bucket functions as the collection container and temporary storage container for the water extracted from the air. Once the bucket is full, you must manually empty it. Some dehumidifiers might also have an option to attach a hose for continuous drainage, eliminating the need to empty the bucket manually.

In truth, cleaning the water bucket of your dehumidifier is essential for several reason

6.1.1 Preventing Mold and Mildew Growth

Standing water can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If left uncleaned, these can spread within the bucket and potentially to other parts of the dehumidifier, which might cause health problems for those in the household.

6.1.2 Avoiding Unpleasant Odors

The stagnant water in the bucket can lead to foul smells. Therefore, regular cleaning helps in preventing these odors from developing and permeating the surrounding area.

6.1.3 Maintaining Efficiency

If the bucket is not cleaned regularly, residues and build-up might interfere with the proper functioning of the sensor or float switch that detects when the bucket is full. This could lead to the dehumidifier not shutting off when it should, possibly resulting in an overflow or other malfunctions.

6.1.4 Preserving the Material

If left uncleaned, the bucket might become stained or corroded over time, depending on the material from which it is made. Therefore, regular cleaning helps in maintaining the integrity of the bucket and prolonging its lifespan.

6.1.5 Ensuring Proper Hygiene

Regular cleaning is a simple hygiene practice that ensures the dehumidifier functions well. So, cleaning it with an appropriate cleaner will eliminate any bacteria or other microorganisms that might be present.

6.1.6 Avoiding Contamination

If you’re using the water collected in the bucket for watering plants or other purposes, cleaning the bucket ensures that the water is free from potential contaminants.

6.2 Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Dehumidifier Bucket

Empty the Bucket: Remove all the water.

Wash with a Gentle Cleaner: A non-abrasive dehumidifier cleaner will suffice.

Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly and dry it before reassembling.

6.3 Tips and Warnings

Regularly inspect the bucket for cracks that might lead to leaks.

Obviously, use gloves if there’s any sign of mildew or mold.

7. How To Clean Dehumidifier Coils

7.1 The Role of Coils

The coils in a dehumidifier play a crucial role in the process of removing moisture from the air. Here’s how they work:

7.1.1 Refrigerant Circulation

To clarify, dehumidifiers typically contain two sets of coils: evaporator coils and condenser coils. The evaporator coils are filled with a refrigerant, a substance that can absorb a lot of heat.

7.1.2 Cooling the Air

As humid air is drawn into the dehumidifier, it passes over the cold evaporator coils. Since the coils are colder than the dew point of the incoming air, the moisture in the air condenses on the coils’ surface.

7.1.3 Water Collection

The condensed water then drips down into the dehumidifier’s bucket or drain system, removing it from the air.

7.1.4 Warming the Air Back Up

The air, now drier and cooler, passes over the condenser coils. The condenser coils release heat back into the air, warming it back up before it is released into the room. This heat comes from the refrigerant, which has been compressed and heated after absorbing heat in the evaporator coils.

7.1.5 Refrigerant Recirculation

The refrigerant circulates between the evaporator and condenser coils in a continuous loop. It absorbs heat (and thus cools) in the evaporator coils, is compressed and heated, releases heat in the condenser coils, and then expands and cools again to start the process over.

7.2 How to Clean Dehumidifier Coils

Access the Coils: You may need to remove panels or other parts to get to the coils.

Brush Gently: Using a soft brush can help remove stubborn dirt. Gently brush the coils in up and down motions to remove dust and debris.

Use Compressed Air: Use a compressed air can to blow away any dirt in those hard-to-reach coil areas.

Use a Vacumm: Use a vacumm to collect any loosened the dust and debris. Be gentile. Dehumidifier coils can be easily damaged.

Use a Dehumidifier Coil Cleaner: A specialized dehumidifier coil cleaner will break down dirt and grime. Spray the coils with the cleaner and allow it to settle.

Rinse the Coils: Follow the instructions outlined on the coil cleaner you are using. If rinsing is required, cover the dehumidifer motor and rince the coils with warm water. Keep the motor dry at all times.

7.3 Tips and Warnings

Always turn off and unplug the unit before cleaning.

Take care not to damage the coils while cleaning.

8. Maintaining the Dehumidifier Drain Hose

8.1 The Importance of the Drain Hose

Furthermore, the dehumidifier drain hose is crucial for those units equipped with continuous drainage, allowing them to operate without needing to empty the bucket manually.

8.2 How to Maintain a Dehumidifier Drain Hose

Detach the Hose: Remove it from the unit with care.

Clean with Warm Water: Usually, warm water will suffice for regular cleaning. Run the water both inside and outside of the hose to remove any debris. Use mild dish soap if required.

Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks or other signs of wear that may cause leaks.

8.3 Tips and Warnings

Regular inspections and cleaning help prevent blockages and leaks.

Always handle the hose gently to avoid damage.

(For more information, click on the following link and access our blog post titled “Dehumidifier Drain Hose 101: Everything You Need to Know“).

9. Keeping Your Dehumidifier Clean and Efficient

Lastly, cleaning your dehumidifier doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Regular maintenance, following the manufacturer’s guidelines, and using the right tools like a dehumidifier coil cleaner and compressed air can will keep your dehumidifier working efficiently.

Moreover, by understanding how to clean a dehumidifier filter, bucket, and coils, you are ensuring a more comfortable and healthier living space. Additionally, your dehumidifier will last longer and perform better, providing peace of mind for years to come.

So breathe easy, knowing that your dehumidifier is working tirelessly to keep your environment pleasant and healthy! Remember, a clean dehumidifier is a happy dehumidifier!