A dehumidifier has a few parts you handle: the air filter, the water bucket, and the case and grille. GE publishes steps for the filter and for the case, grille and bucket, Frigidaire for washing the bucket, and LG for emptying it. Designs differ, so use the one that matches your machine and check your manual. GE says the Clean the Filter light comes on after 250 hours of operation.
Steps, by source
GE: the air filter
Removes and washes the dehumidifier air filter, then resets the filter reminder. Source: GE Appliances: Clean the dehumidifier air filter.
- Remove the bucket.
- Remove the filter (usually behind the front grille) according to the instructions in the Owner's Manual.
- Clean the filter with warm, soapy water.
- Rinse well and allow it to dry completely before replacing.
- Reset the filter reminder timer by pressing the Filter pad or button for 3 seconds.
What the source lists: Warm, soapy water.
From the source. Do not clean the air filter in the Dishwasher.
From the source. If the air filter is clogged, it can reduce the performance of the Dehumidifier.
How often, according to GE Appliances: The Clean the Filter light will come on after 250 hours of operation to remind you to clean the filter.
GE: the case, grille and bucket
Unplugs the dehumidifier, wipes the case, vacuums the grille and washes the water bucket. Source: GE Appliances: Clean the dehumidifier case, grille and bucket.
- Unplug the dehumidifier from the power supply.
- Clean the case with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Clean the front grille with a vacuum attachment or brush.
- Remove the bucket and partially fill it with clean water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Swish it around the bucket, empty it, and rinse with plain water.
What the source lists: Damp cloth; Mild detergent; Vacuum attachment (or brush).
From the source. To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.
From the source. Do not use abrasives or bleach.
From the source. Note: The bucket must be in place and securely seated for the Dehumidifier to operate.
How often, according to GE Appliances: Regularly clean the bucket
Frigidaire: the bucket
Takes the bucket apart and washes it to reduce odor from algae growth. Source: Frigidaire: Clean the dehumidifier bucket.
- Review the bucket disassembly instructions in the owner's manual.
- Remove the carrying handle by bending the support tab to one side, then unlock and remove the handle.
- Lift off the splash guard.
- Wash out the bucket with mild soap and water.
- Reassemble and reinstall the bucket.
- Pan treatment tablets may be used to reduce odors and prevent algae.
What the source lists: Mild soap and water; Pan treatment tablets (may be used to reduce odors and prevent algae).
LG: emptying the bucket
Removes, empties and reseats the water bucket when it is full. Source: LG: Empty the dehumidifier water bucket.
- Turn off the dehumidifier and unplug it.
- Pull the top handle of the water bucket to remove it from the product.
- If you notice that water is dripping, remove it with a soft cloth.
- Remove the cover and pour out the water.
- Put the cover back on and replace the water bucket into the product.
- Angle the bottom in, then push the top into place.
What the source lists: Soft cloth (if water is dripping).
From the source. In order to avoid the water bucket filling up before the timer ends, it's recommended to empty the water bucket before setting the timer.
How often, according to LG: The bucket full light turns on when the water bucket is full
Questions
How often should I clean the dehumidifier filter?
GE says the Clean the Filter light will come on after 250 hours of operation to remind you to clean the filter.
Can I wash the dehumidifier filter in the dishwasher?
GE says not to clean the air filter in the dishwasher.
What happens if the filter is clogged?
GE says a clogged air filter can reduce the performance of the dehumidifier.
Why does my dehumidifier bucket smell?
Frigidaire's steps are for reducing odor from algae growth in the bucket, and it says pan treatment tablets may be used to reduce odors and prevent algae.
What should I not use on the case?
GE says not to use abrasives or bleach.
How do I know the bucket is full?
LG says the bucket full light turns on when the water bucket is full.
Models vary, check your manual. These steps come from the sources linked above and HouseHack doesn't verify them. Follow your appliance's manual and safety labels.
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