The Ultimate Dehumidifier Maintenance Checklist

A properly functioning dehumidifier improves your indoor air quality, reduces allergens, fights mold growth, and lightens the load on your HVAC system, extending the lifespan of the equipment. However, appropriate dehumidifier maintenance is a must. Our Aire Serv® dehumidifier maintenance checklist will help you keep the humidity in check, your equipment running efficiently, and your home feeling fresh.

Do Dehumidifiers Need Maintenance?

Yes, most dehumidifiers require maintenance at least once a month, but this can vary depending on the type of dehumidifier you have. Reference the ‘owners manual’ for specific maintenance recommendations for the type of dehumidifier you have.

As the dehumidifier extracts excess moisture from the air, the humid air passes through filters and cooling coils, depositing dust and other particulates. Moisture condenses on the coils and is then collected in a reservoir or drained through a series of hoses. At every stage, the collected moisture and particulates can cause corrosion and clog the system.

Using an optimal dehumidifier setting and learning how to maintain a dehumidifier will help you keep your system running efficiently. This can also lower your energy bills. Cleaning excess moisture and gunk helps your equipment work more easily, so it uses less energy to cool and heat your home. In turn, this lowers your energy bills and extends the life of the equipment. Additionally, it also combats the buildup of mold and mildew.

Essential Tools and Materials for Dehumidifier Maintenance

Before we get to the dehumidifier maintenance checklist, let’s review the tools you’ll need for the job:

• Soft Cloths: Wipe down surfaces
• Vacuum Cleaner with Brush Attachment: Cleans filters and removes dust and debris from the coils
• Replacement Filters: Replace old, clogged filters
• Coil Cleaner Spray: Cleans the cooling coils, removes buildup, and improves efficiency
• Bucket or Basin: Collects water while cleaning the reservoir
• Soft Brush: Scrubbs coils and other parts
• Mild Detergent Solution: Cleans the reservoir and other parts
• Screwdriver Set: Opens panels and accessing internal components
• Pipe Cleaner or Plumbing Snake: Cleans the drainage hose and preventing clogs
• Compressed Air: Blows out dust and debris from electronic components and tight spaces

Safety Precautions for Dehumidifier Maintenance

Before starting our dehumidifier maintenance checklist, please follow these essential safety precautions:

• Ensure the dehumidifier is off and unplugged.
• Work in a well-ventilated area or turn on an exhaust fan to avoid inhaling cleaning fumes.

How to Maintain a Dehumidifier: Maintenance Recommendations

Following the manufacturer’s care instructions for maintenance of your type of dehumidifier will help keep it running at peak efficiency. It will also help extend its serviceable life and combat mold buildup and allergens. Here are some common maintenance tasks you should follow:

Monthly Maintenance Tasks:

• Unplug the Dehumidifier
• Wipe Down Exterior Surfaces
• Clean or Replace Filters
• Empty the Water Reservoir
• Clean the Water Reservoir
• Reattach All Covers and Parts
• Plug in Dehumidifier and Test
• Record Maintenance

Quarterly Maintenance Tasks:

• Inspect and Clean Cooling Coils
• Ensure Coils are Completely Dry Before Reassembling Dehumidifier
• Inspect Drainage Hose for Blockages
• Clean Drainage Hose with Pipe Cleaner or Snake
• Ensure Drainage Hose is Securely Attached and Free of Kinks

Biannual Maintenance Tasks:

• Check Power Cord for Wear
• Replace any Damaged Parts
• Blow Out Dust from Internal Components

Annual Maintenance Tasks:

• Schedule Professional Dehumidifier Service
• Record Professional Service

Following these recommendations for dehumidifier maintenance will keep your system working efficiently and provide optimal indoor air quality for your home.

How Often Should You Have a Dehumidifier Maintenance

We divided our dehumidifier maintenance checklist into monthly, quarterly, biannual, and annual tasks based on the average frequency with which the need develops. While filters can become dirty or even clogged within 30 days of use, drainage hoses take longer to get blocked. You’ll determine how often to empty your dehumidifier. And while the power cord may experience microscopic wear every day, checking it every six months will let you stay on top of its condition.

Even when you follow our dehumidifier maintenance checklist, you will still want to schedule annual service with HVAC services pros for a few reasons:

• Maintain warranty compliance
• Early detection of issues
• Performance optimization
• Servicing refrigerants and seals
• Advanced cleaning and calibration

Keep Your Dehumidifier Running Smoothly

Dehumidifier maintenance is critical to your home’s indoor air quality, lowering your energy bills and extending the life of your HVAC equipment. When you need professional dehumidifier services, call on the pros at Aire Serv. We work with you to optimize your system’s performance to maintain a comfortable home environment while saving you money on your HVAC system. We can also help you with residential air purification and all your HVAC needs.

Trust the HVAC professionals at Aire Serv. The Neighborly Done Right Promise™ backs all our work, so your satisfaction is baked right in.

Request an appointment today, and breathe easier with Aire Serv.