Inspect and Clean Dehumidifier
Why It Matters
A dirty dehumidifier cannot control humidity effectively, allowing mold to grow in your basement or crawl space.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: basic tools. Materials required: necessary materials.
- 2
Perform the inspect and clean dehumidifier
Clean the filter, coils, and water collection bucket in your dehumidifier. Safety note: Unplug before cleaning.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace.
Community Tips
The filter should be cleaned or replaced every 2-4 weeks during peak humidity seasons, as a clogged filter forces the compressor to work harder and reduces moisture extraction by up to 40%. Most dehumidifiers use standard pleated filters compatible with replacements like the Frigidaire Dehumidifier Filter ($12-18), which costs less than a service call.
Use a soft-bristled brush attachment on a cordless handheld vacuum like the Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless ($40-60) to safely clean fins and coils without damaging delicate aluminum components that can crack under pressure washing.
Never operate a dehumidifier without emptying the collection tank or disconnecting the drain hose, as standing water left inside for more than a week breeds mold and mildew that will contaminate indoor air despite the unit's intended purpose. Stagnant water also corrodes internal components and voids most manufacturer warranties. ---