Homeowners seek to keep moisture and humidity out of their residences. Mold and mildew can cause major health difficulties if exposed frequently, and water is a breeding ground for many other illnesses. A dehumidifier helps reduce the amount of mold and mildew by removing moisture from the air.
If you already own a dehumidifier, you are aware of how unpleasant the coils and tray may occasionally be. We’ll go through how to keep your dehumidifier operating as effectively as possible after talking about when you might need one in your house.
You can detect dark stains or what appears to be slime inside your dehumidifier after some time and several uses. This is composed of mold and dirt. Mold is a living creature that releases spores into the air, where they can land and grow on surfaces. In contrast to what you want, a soiled dehumidifier may actually release mold spores into your house.
The greatest dehumidifier may lose effectiveness if it isn’t cleaned frequently. It may require more energy to operate and won’t be as effective at sucking moisture from the air, which will raise your power cost. Try to establish a regular cleaning schedule for your dehumidifier, beginning with changing the filter, to prevent encountering these problems.
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How to clean a dehumidifier filter
Filters for dehumidifiers need to be replaced or cleaned frequently. There are many variations in the cleaning methods for various brands and models, therefore it’s crucial to first review the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on the amount of dust and other allergens it has accumulated, some goods have disposable air filters that should be changed once or twice a year. Other devices have permanent air filters.
Wearing a mask and goggles while cleaning your dehumidifier is a good idea if you have allergies or a damaged immune system. During the cleaning procedure, a lot of dust and filth can be reintroduced into the atmosphere. Shut off your dehumidifier first. Vacuum as much debris and dust as you can after removing the device’s filter. The filter should then be gently washed in soap and water. Before putting your dehumidifier back together and operating it once more, thoroughly rinse and dry the filter.
How to clean a dehumidifier coil
Dehumidifiers function by forcing air from your home over chilly coils; the condensation that results from the chilly air drips into the catch bucket. The air is then recirculated back into the space after passing over a heating coil.
Give your dehumidifier plenty of room to breathe and for it to operate more efficiently. Keep it away from walls, furniture, and other obstructions. According to Energy Star, avoid placing a dehumidifier near sources of dust and dirt, such as close to woodworking machinery, as the coils may become clogged and cease to function correctly (opens in new tab).
Check the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin cleaning the coils on your dehumidifier. This is crucial since there are now many various types of dehumidifiers available, and they are all constructed differently. If you put off cleaning the coils, they may become clogged with the dust, hair, and other things they draw from the air. The dehumidifier is unable to function correctly as a result.
A few hours before you intend to clean your dehumidifier, turn it off to give the coils time to warm up. Start by looking for the coils inside or at the back of your dehumidifier. The top layer of dirt and dust should be carefully vacuumed off or scraped off with your hands. With a spray detergent or a vinegar and water solution, clean the coils with a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Remove any leftovers by rinsing. Be sure to fully dry the coils before running your dehumidifier once more.
Use a flashlight if necessary to get a good look inside your dehumidifier. Look for any leftover moldy areas that need cleaning. With a cloth, warm water, and soap, clean the gadget’s exterior.
How to clean a dehumidifier bucket
If you don’t want to manually empty the catch basin, you can install a pump to empty the water outside of your house or connect a hose to it so that it empties into a floor drain. When draining the bucket with a hose, you should also clean it by soaking it in warm, soapy water or a solution of vinegar and water. Make care to thoroughly rinse it. Even if the catch basin isn’t full after each use, you should empty it if you notice that you’re not using your dehumidifier frequently. Long-term standing water in the appliance will improve the conditions for mold and bacteria growth.