What to Do If Your Dehumdifier Puts Off a Musty Smell?

Clean the Water Tank

• After unplugging the dehumidifier, begin by cleaning out the water tank. Pour some white vinegar, full strength, into a spray bottle and spray directly into the empty water tank after it is removed from the machine. Let sit for 10 minutes and then rinse with clean water and wipe the tank using a cloth or sponge. Spray the tank with hydrogen peroxide and let sit for 10 minutes. Rinse the tank with water and then wipe clean using a clean sponge or cloth. The combination of the hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar will kill any germs and mold pathogens that may have developed in the water tank. Let the tank air out before adding new water.

Clean the Heating Coils

• When cleaning the inside of a dehumidifier, unplug and cool the machine before reading the instruction manual closely on how to properly remove the cover. Once the cover is removed, clean around the fan and heating coils using a small spindle-style brush to remove any dust particles. Take a lightly damp cloth, add a few drops of white vinegar, and gently wipe down the fan and coils. Let sit for 10 minutes and then wipe using a clean, damp cloth. Removing any dust particles will keep the machine running like new. Allow the inside to dry completely before replacing the cover and plugging in the machine.

Clean the Filter

• While the machine is unplugged, remove the filter and check it over for any damage. If the filter is still usable, you can go ahead and clean it before reinstalling. Take equal parts warm water and bleach and add them to a large tub or bin. Put the filter into the mixture and let sit for approximately 10 minutes. Remove the filter and wipe any excess off with a clean cloth. Let the filter dry completely before reinstalling it into your dehumidifier.

Considerations

• When cleaning a dehumidifier, never spray any chemicals directly on the inside portions of the machine. This could cause damage to the machine's parts and possible injury to the person cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning a dehumidifier as they could cause damage to the unit. Let all parts dry completely before plugging the machine back in and powering it up. To keep them working their best, dehumidifiers should be cleaned at least once a month when in constant use.