Dehumidifier Not Collecting Water: Quick Fixes And Solutions

Dehumidifiers are handy appliances that help maintain comfortable and healthy indoor humidity levels.

However, as with any device, there may be occasions when your dehumidifier is not working as it should, and you find that it’s not collecting water.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the common reasons for this issue and offer guidance on troubleshooting and resolving it.

Understanding why a dehumidifier is not collecting water is essential to ensure the appliance functions efficiently and effectively.

Factors contributing to this problem may range from simple maintenance tasks to more complex repairs.

By identifying the cause, you’ll be better equipped to take the necessary steps to address the issue and restore your dehumidifier’s performance.

1. Common Causes of Dehumidifier not Collecting water

Temperature and Humidity Level Issues

The performance of your dehumidifier largely depends on the temperature and humidity conditions in your space.

If the temperature is too low (below 60°F) or there is an extremely low humidity level, your dehumidifier may struggle to collect water.

Dehumidifiers are designed to operate under specific temperature and humidity ranges, so always ensure you’re using the right model for your environment.

Malfunctioning Components

Several internal dehumidifier components may malfunction or wear out over time, hindering its ability to collect water.

Some common issues include:

Damaged compressor
Blown evaporator coils
Faulty fan motor
Low refrigerant fluid
Bad capacitors

Having these components checked and repaired or replaced is crucial to restore your dehumidifier’s functionality.

Improper Size or Placement

The size and placement of your dehumidifier also play a role in its ability to collect water from the air.

If you’re using a dehumidifier that’s too small for the space or placed in a poorly ventilated area, it may need to be able to remove excess moisture efficiently.

Ensure you select a dehumidifier with the appropriate capacity for your space and position it in an open, well-circulated area to maximize its effectiveness.

Clogged or Dirty Components

The dirt, dust, and debris buildup in your dehumidifier’s internal components may affect its performance.

Some areas to pay close attention to include:

Air filters: Clean or replace dirty air filters to maintain proper airflow and function.
Coils: Regularly clean and inspect the evaporator and condenser coils for any signs of dirt or wear.
Drain pipes: Ensure that the drain pipes are clear of any clogs or obstructions that may hinder water flow.

Keeping your dehumidifier clean and well-maintained can prevent the most common issues that may cause it to stop collecting water.

2. Temperature and Humidity Solutions

Optimal Temperature Range

Most dehumidifiers are designed to operate efficiently in a specific temperature range, usually between 60°F and 110°F.

When room temperatures fall below 60°F, it becomes difficult for your dehumidifier to collect water, as the coils may freeze.

To ensure your dehumidifier functions properly, maintain the temperature within this range.

If you live in an area with cooler temperatures, consider purchasing a dehumidifier designed for low-temperature operation.

Setting the Right Humidity Level

The effectiveness of your dehumidifier isn’t just contingent upon the temperature; it also relies on the relative humidity in your space.

In winter or arid regions, indoor humidity levels can be quite low, which may cause your dehumidifier to stop working quickly if there isn’t enough moisture to extract.

To determine your space’s ideal humidity level, note how damp the area feels or use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity.

The recommended indoor humidity level is generally between 30% and 50%. You may not need to run your dehumidifier if the humidity is already within this range.

Adjust your dehumidifier’s settings to achieve the desired humidity level if it’s higher than this range.

Remember, using the right dehumidifier size is crucial for effective moisture removal.

If you use a small dehumidifier in a large space, such as a basement, you may need help to keep up with the humidity demands.

Make sure to choose a dehumidifier designed for your space’s size and humidity levels for optimal performance.

3. Component Repairs and Replacements

Keep a close eye on these components to ensure the longevity of your dehumidifier's performance

Compressors

When your dehumidifier stops collecting water, the issue might be with the compressor. This crucial component may only run if the room temperature is at most 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Check to make sure the compressor is functioning properly.

If not, consider repairing or replacing the compressor to have your dehumidifier back up and running efficiently.

Capacitors and Overloads

Remember the capacitors and overloads that help run the compressor. Your dehumidifier might not collect water due to a fault in these components.

Test the capacitor to ensure it’s providing the right amount of electricity. If the overload is faulty, it won’t be able to protect the compressor.

Replace the capacitor or overload, if necessary, to fix the problem.

Fan Motors and Blower Wheels

Your dehumidifier may not be collecting water because of issues with the fan motor or blower wheel.

Examine the motor to ensure it’s functioning correctly; if not, it might need a repair or replacement.

Check if the blower wheel is clean and functioning properly, and ensure it’s firmly connected to the motor shaft.

Control Boards and Sensors

Electronic control boards and sensors help your dehumidifier operate smoothly.

A damaged control board might not send the right signal to the compressor or fan motor, causing the dehumidifier to malfunction.

Carefully inspect the PCB assembly and check for any damaged components. Test the humidity sensors to ensure they accurately read the room’s moisture levels.

Look for any signs of damage and consider replacing the control board or sensors if necessary.

Float Switches and Drain Pipes

Your dehumidifier might need to be collecting water due to float switch or drain pipe issues. The float switch signals the dehumidifier to stop collecting water when the tank is full.

If the float switch is stuck, it can be reset by tapping it gently.

Check the drain pipes for any clogs or obstructions, as this could prevent your dehumidifier from properly collecting water.

By addressing the possible component issues listed above, you can run your dehumidifier efficiently and collect water again.

Keep a close eye on these components to ensure the longevity of your dehumidifier’s performance.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance

Regularly inspect and clean your dehumidifier's drains

Filters and Coils

To keep your dehumidifier running efficiently, cleaning and examining the filters and coils regularly is important.

Filters: Your dehumidifier’s filters help to remove dust, dirt, and allergens from the air. To properly clean the filters, follow these steps:

Remove the filter from the unit.
Gently vacuum off any visible debris or dust.
Wash the filter using warm soapy water and let it air dry completely before reassembling.

Remember to clean your filters every 30 days per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Coils: Your dehumidifier’s coils remove moisture from the air. Dirty or frozen coils can compromise the unit’s performance. To clean the coils, follow these steps:

Turn off and unplug the dehumidifier.
Remove the cover to access the coils.
Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust or debris from the coils.

In frozen coils, please turn off the unit and allow them to thaw before resuming operation.

Additionally, ensure the unit operates in a room above 65 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid freezing issues.

Dealing with Leaks and Clogged Drains

Leaks and clogged drains can cause your dehumidifier to stop collecting water. To address these issues, take the following steps:

Leaks: Inspect the area around the unit for any signs of leaking. If you find any, check the following components:

Bucket: Ensure that it’s properly installed and not damaged.
Humidistat: Confirm it’s functioning correctly and not triggering the unit to shut off too soon.
Blower wheel: Look for any signs of damage or obstructions.

If you cannot identify or fix the leak, consider contacting a professional for repair.

Clogged Drains: Check the drainpipe or hose for any blockages or kinks. To clean a clogged drain, follow these steps:

Turn off and unplug the dehumidifier.
Remove the hose or drain pipe from the unit.
Use a long, flexible brush or plumbers’ snake to remove the clog.

Regularly inspect and clean your dehumidifier’s drains to avoid blockages and ensure optimal performance.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your dehumidifier in top shape and ensure that it efficiently removes excess moisture from the air in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dehumidifier not filling up?

Your dehumidifier may not fill up for several reasons, such as a stuck float switch, dirty air filter, clogged drain pipes, or dirty coils. Ensure all these components are clean and functioning properly, allowing your dehumidifier to collect water effectively.

Why isn’t my dehumidifier collecting water even though it’s running?

If your dehumidifier is running but not collecting water, the compressor may not be functioning correctly. This can occur if the capacitor in the compressor circuit is faulty, preventing the device from properly circulating refrigerant and removing moisture from the air. Additionally, ensure the room temperature is above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, as dehumidifiers may not work effectively in colder conditions.

How can I fix my dehumidifier blowing cold air and not collecting water?

To fix a dehumidifier blowing cold air and not collecting water, start by checking for a frozen evaporator coil. If it’s frozen, you may need to defrost the coil and ensure it’s correctly functioning. Examine other components like the compressor overload, run capacitor, and fan motor to identify any possible issues.

What are some reasons for my dehumidifier not collecting water?

Common reasons for a dehumidifier not collecting water include a stuck float switch, clogged drain pipes, dirty air filters, dirty coils, blown evaporator coils, or a faulty compressor. Inspect each component and address any issues to ensure your dehumidifier functions optimally.

How do I know if my dehumidifier’s compressor is bad?

If your dehumidifier’s compressor is bad, it may not run or produce any noise. Additionally, the dehumidifier might blow cold air without collecting water. To confirm whether the compressor is faulty, check the compressor’s overload and run the capacitor for any issues.