If you own a dehumidifier and have noticed puddles of water around it lately, it can certainly be frustrating as well as potentially damaging to your floors or furniture. Before you panic, though, check to see if the water is actually leaking from the unit itself or if it's just condensation caused by humidity.
Dehumidifiers may start leaking for a variety of reasons, from clogged drainage hoses to faulty internal mechanics. Troubleshooting the issue by yourself can be a daunting task, but don't worry - we've got you covered!
In this article, we have compiled simple and effective solutions to help you fix your dehumidifier for good, so that you can say goodbye to those pesky puddles once and for all.
What Causes a Dehumidifier to Leak Water?
There are a few potential causes for this leaking issue, including a full or damaged water tank, frozen coils or a clogged drain hose.
We will take a closer look at each of these causes, and provide some tips for how to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
Clogged Drain Hose
If you see water coming out of your dehumidifier, don't worry - it happens sometimes. The first thing you should do is check the drain hose. This hose is designed to take away any extra water from the machine and send it to a different spot.
When the drain hose in your dehumidifier gets clogged up, water can start to leak out and that can end up being a real hassle (not to mention potentially dangerous around pets or small kids). It's essential to address this issue as soon as possible by cleaning or replacing the clogged drain hose in your dehumidifier.
Faulty Float Switch
Another crucial component in your dehumidifier is the float switch. Its job is to shut off the machine when the water collection bucket gets full. However, if this part isn't functioning correctly due to a fault, it can prevent your dehumidifier from turning off when the tank is full.
To fix this issue, you can either replace or clean the switch thoroughly to remove any debris that may be affecting its performance. It's important to always ensure that your float switch is in good working condition to avoid any unnecessary leaks or potential damage.
Cracked or Broken Water Tank
One of the common causes of a leaking dehumidifier is a cracked or broken water tank. Over time, the water collection bucket can get damaged due to constant use and harsh conditions. When this happens, water can leak out, creating a mess and potentially damaging your flooring.
If you suspect that your dehumidifier's water tank is the culprit, it's best to contact the manufacturer and order a replacement. Patching the crack may only be a temporary solution, and the same issue may recur in the future.
Frozen Condenser Coils
Frozen condenser coils can also be a common cause of a leaky dehumidifier. This can happen when the coils get too cold and ice builds up, causing a blockage of airflow.
via humiditycheck
To tackle this problem, simply turn off your machine and let it thaw out for a few hours. Once it's thawed, go ahead and clean the coils and air filter to prevent any future buildup.
And remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your dehumidifier running smoothly!
Damaged Water Pump
If you’ve ruled out other potential causes, the issue may be a damaged water pump. The water pump is responsible for pumping collected water out of the dehumidifier and into the drainage hose or collection bucket.
Over time, the pump can become damaged or clogged with debris, which can lead to leaks. If you suspect a damaged water pump, it’s important to contact the manufacturer or a qualified professional for repair or replacement.
How to Prevent Dehumidifier Leaks
When it comes to dehumidifiers, leaks can be a real pain. But fear not, there are some things you can do to prevent them from happening. First and foremost, make sure you keep your unit in good working condition.
Regularly Clean the Condenser Coils
Regularly cleaning the condenser coils of a dehumidifier can be a crucial step in preventing ice buildup that can potentially lead to leaks. According to experts, the coils, which are typically situated behind or under the unit's filter, often get clogged with dirt and debris over time. As a result, the airflow gets restricted and frost accumulates on the coils, leading to leakage issues.
Therefore, it is recommended to clean the condenser coils every three months or as per the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your dehumidifier.
Empty the Water Bucket Frequently
Emptying the water bucket frequently is essential in preventing dehumidifier leaks. As moisture is removed from the air, it collects in the bucket and must be emptied regularly to prevent overflow and leaks.
Neglecting to empty the bucket can cause water to spill onto the floor and cause water damage to your home. It is important to stay on top of emptying the bucket to ensure the dehumidifier continues to function effectively and prevent further complications.
Check the Drain Hose for Clogs
One of the factors that can cause a dehumidifier to leak is a clogged drain hose. Debris or sediment can accumulate in the drainage end, making it difficult for the water to flow out of the unit. To solve this problem, it is recommended to unplug the dehumidifier and take out the drainage hose.
The hose should be cleaned and cleared of any clogs by using hot water, soap, and pipe cleaners. Once it is cleaned, the hose should be reattached to the dehumidifier firmly to ensure proper functioning.
Position the Dehumidifier Correctly
To prevent your dehumidifier from leaking, it's important to position it correctly. The water collection bucket should be inserted in the right position and level, according to the instructions. If it's misaligned or knocked out of place, water can leak from the unit.
Also, make sure to keep the dehumidifier in a safe spot where it won't be bumped or disturbed.
Use a Dehumidifier with an Auto Shut-Off Feature
On top of this, one solution that could help prevent leaks is investing in a dehumidifier with an auto shut-off feature. This nifty little function ensures that the dehumidifier will stop working once the water collection bucket is full, preventing any overflowing and potential damage.
Using a dehumidifier with an auto shut-off feature is a simple yet effective way to keep your home safe and comfortable.
Schedule Regular Maintenance for the Dehumidifier.
Another way to avoid any pesky dehumidifier leaks is by scheduling regular maintenance for the device. Taking proactive measures like this will ensure that any tiny issues are resolved before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems. By investing the time to maintain your appliance, you can be confident that it will operate effectively and efficiently for years to come.
By scheduling an annual maintenance checkup or service visit from the manufacturer of your dehumidifier, or a local repair company with experience repairing dehumidifiers, you can avoid any unexpected issues altogether.
Final Words
Many of the most common causes of leaks are actually quite simple to fix on your own. By making sure your dehumidifier is properly positioned, keeping it cleaned and maintained, and checking for any clogs or blockages in the drainage system, you can help prevent leaks from occurring and keep your indoor space dry and comfortable.
If you have tried these solutions and are still experiencing leaks, it may be time to contact the manufacturer for further assistance. Don't let a leaky dehumidifier dampen your day - take action and get back to enjoying fresh, clean air!
