How to Clean a Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers do a great job at pulling in moisture from the air, but at the same time, they'll pull in dust, mold spores, and other contaminants. This accumulation of these things can block the dehumidifier filter which hinders its ability to remove excess moisture from the air. A bit of maintenance goes a long way. Learn how cleaning a dehumidifier regularly will take care of most problems.
How often should you clean your dehumidifier?
Clean your dehumidifier at least every few weeks during periods of heavy use and every month if it's used intermittently. A good rule of thumb is that the more frequently you empty the water collection bucket, the more frequently it needs to be cleaned. This debris can clog the air filter thus making it harder to draw in moisture. The dark, wet environment plus a dirty filter are the perfect spot for mold and bacterial growth.
You'll know your dehumidifier needs a deep cleaning if:
there an increase in noise level
if the water level isn't increasing (or the humidity read-out isn't decreasing)
if there is a musty odor emanating from the unit
if there are visible signs of mildew or growth of mold
if the air filter has excessive dust buildup
Emily Fazio
1. Prepare the Dehumidifier for Cleaning
Unplug the dehumidifier from the power source to prevent electric shocks.
Move the unit to a well-ventilated area.
If applicable, empty the water reservoir to prevent spills during the cleaning process.
You'll need:
warm water
Mild detergent or liquid soap
white vinegar
Soft bristle brush
Vacuum with a brush attachment
Clean, dry towel or microfiber cloth
2. Clean the Exterior Surfaces
Dampen a soft cloth with a mixture of mild detergent and water.
Gently wipe down the exterior surfaces of the dehumidifier to remove dust, dirt, and any other debris.
Pay attention to any grime or buildup around the controls, vents, and seams.
3. Clean the Dehumidifier Bucket
Remove the reservoir bucket from the dehumidifier (if applicable).
Wash the water bucket with warm, soapy water, using a soft-bristled brush or damp cloth to scrub away any residue.
Rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry completely before reinserting it into the unit.
4. Clean the Filter
Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for accessing and removing the dehumidifier filter.
Gently vacuum the filter using a brush attachment to remove any dust particles, dirt, or stubborn debris.
If the filter is washable, rinse it under warm water and allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling it. If not, replace the filter with a new one according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Emily Fazio
5. Clean the Coils and Internal Components
Carefully clean any visible dust or debris from the dehumidifier coils and interior components using a soft brush or soft cloth.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any stubborn dirt or buildup.
If there are any areas with mold or mildew growth, clean them thoroughly with a mixture of white vinegar and water or a mild detergent solution.
Use a dry cloth or let the dehumidifier components air dry.
6. Reassemble the Dehumidifier
Once all the components are clean and dry, reassemble the dehumidifier according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Ensure that the water bucket is securely in place and that all filters and panels are properly installed.
7. Test the Dehumidifier
Plug the dehumidifier back into the power source.
Turn on the unit and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that it's operating correctly.
Monitor the dehumidifier for any unusual noises or issues that may indicate further maintenance is required.
Related: How to Clean Your Humidifier
How can you prevent mold in a dehumidifier?
Mold spores occur naturally in the air. Some environments and certain times of the year see more of it than others. To prevent a bit of mold from gaining a foothold in your dehumidifier:
regular maintenance is crucial. Cleaning every couple of weeks.
Keep the area uncluttered and well-ventilated to optimize airflow.
Consider investing in an air purifier or air duct cleaning if indoor air quality is poor.
Don't pack away a dirty dehumidifier, be sure to clean the water collection tank and bucket filter and let them dry completely for storage.
