A dehumidifier is a useful appliance that helps regulate the moisture levels in your home. However, it can be frustrating when it's not working properly and not collecting water as it should. If you're experiencing this problem, don't worry. In this article, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to fix your dehumidifier not collecting water.
Step 1: Check the Power Source
The first step in fixing a dehumidifier that isn't collecting water is to check the power source. Start by ensuring that the dehumidifier is properly plugged into a working outlet. If it's not, plug it in and see if it starts working. If the unit still doesn't turn on, the next step is to check the circuit breaker.
Go to your circuit breaker panel and make sure that the breaker connected to the outlet is in the "on" position. If it's not, switch it on and try plugging in the dehumidifier again. If the unit still doesn't work, try plugging another appliance or device into the outlet to see if it's the outlet that's not working. If this is the case, you may need to call an electrician to fix the issue.
Step 2: Clean the Air Filter
The air filter in a dehumidifier traps dust and debris that can clog the unit's coils. A dirty or clogged air filter can prevent your dehumidifier from collecting water. Cleaning the air filter is a simple task that can often solve the problem.
To clean the air filter, start by turning off the dehumidifier and unplugging it from the power source. Locate the air filter and remove it from the unit. If it's a washable filter, rinse it thoroughly with warm, soapy water and allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling it. If it's a disposable filter, replace it with a new one.
Make sure the air filter is completely dry before reinserting it into the dehumidifier. Reattach the front panel and plug the unit back in. Turn it on and see if it starts collecting water. If the unit still doesn't collect water, move on to the next step.
Step 3: Check the Humidistat
The humidistat in a dehumidifier is responsible for regulating the humidity level in your home. If it's not functioning correctly, your dehumidifier won't collect water. The first step in checking the humidistat is to make sure it's set to the desired humidity level.
Look for the humidistat knob or control panel on your dehumidifier. Check the settings and adjust them to the desired humidity level. If the humidistat is still not functioning correctly, you may need to replace it.
Replacing the humidistat involves removing the control panel and disconnecting the wires from the old humidistat. Remove the old humidistat and install the new one. Connect the wires to the new humidistat and replace the control panel. Plug the unit back in and turn it on to see if it starts collecting water.
Step 4: Inspect the Coils
The coils in a dehumidifier are responsible for removing moisture from the air. If they're dirty or frozen, your dehumidifier won't collect water. Inspect the coils and clean them if necessary.
Start by turning off the dehumidifier and unplugging it from the power source. Locate the coils and inspect them for dirt, debris, or signs of frost. If the coils are dirty, use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to remove any debris or dust that may be blocking them. Be careful not to damage the coils.
If the coils are frozen, turn off the dehumidifier and let them thaw. Once the coils have thawed, turn the dehumidifier back on and see if it starts collecting water.
Step 5: Check the Drain Hose
If your dehumidifier has a drain hose, it's essential to ensure that it's not clogged or kinked. A clogged or kinked hose can prevent your dehumidifier from collecting water. To check the drain hose, start by turning off the dehumidifier and unplugging it from the power source.
Locate the drain hose and inspect it for any clogs or kinks. If there is a clog, you can use a pipe cleaner or a small brush to remove any debris that may be blocking the hose. If there is a kink, try straightening the hose to see if it helps. You may need to replace the hose if it's damaged or too kinked.
After cleaning or straightening the drain hose, reattach it to the dehumidifier and make sure it's properly secured. Plug the unit back in and turn it on to see if it starts collecting water.
Step 6: Check the Compressor
The compressor in a dehumidifier is responsible for compressing the refrigerant gas that cools the coils. If the compressor isn't functioning correctly, your dehumidifier won't collect water. To check the compressor, start by turning off the dehumidifier and unplugging it from the power source.
Locate the compressor and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the compressor is damaged, you'll need to replace it. If there are no visible signs of damage, use a multimeter to check the compressor's continuity.
To check the compressor's continuity, set the multimeter to the ohm setting and touch one lead to the common terminal and the other lead to the run terminal. If the multimeter shows a reading of zero or near-zero, the compressor is working correctly. If the multimeter shows no continuity, the compressor is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Replacing the compressor involves removing the old one and installing the new one. This is a complicated task and should be done by a professional.
Step 7: Check the Refrigerant Level
The refrigerant in a dehumidifier is responsible for cooling the coils that remove moisture from the air. If the refrigerant level is low, your dehumidifier won't collect water. To check the refrigerant level, start by turning off the dehumidifier and unplugging it from the power source.
Locate the refrigerant lines and inspect them for any signs of damage or wear. If there are no visible signs of damage, you'll need to check the refrigerant level. This is a task that should be done by a professional, as it requires specialized equipment.
If the refrigerant level is low, the technician will need to recharge the refrigerant. This involves adding refrigerant to the system until it reaches the appropriate level. It's important to note that adding refrigerant is not a permanent solution and may indicate a leak in the system that needs to be repaired.
Conclusion
A dehumidifier that's not collecting water can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to fix the problem. Start by checking the power source, cleaning the air filter, and checking the humidistat. If these steps don't solve the problem, inspect the coils, drain hose, compressor, and refrigerant level.
It's important to follow each step carefully and take the necessary safety precautions. If you're unsure about any of the steps, or if you're unable to fix the problem yourself, it's always best to call a professional. Remember to regularly clean and maintain your dehumidifier to ensure it functions properly and efficiently. Don't hesitate to comment and share this post if you found it helpful.
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