How to Take Apart a Dehumidifier

For proper cleaning and maintenance, it is necessary to know how to take apart a dehumidifier. Because the humidifier itself consists of only a few basic parts, the process can be completed in a handful of simple steps. The only tool required is a Philips screwdriver to open the front panel of the dehumidifier.

Reservoir

After disconnecting the dehumidifier from its power source, detach the removable water bucket that serves as the dehumidifier’s reservoir. This piece should be cleaned a couple of times a month, since it is most likely to house dirt that can contaminate the appliance and interfere with its function. This can be accomplished by simply wiping down the inside of the reservoir bucket with a damp cloth, making sure to remove all visible particles of dirt and dust. The bucket should also be allowed to dry completely before reuse.

Filter

The next step in learning how to take apart a dehumidifier is figuring out how to remove and clean the air filter. The filter should be visible after the bucket has been detached, and can be removed by gently pulling the filter down and towards you. It can then be cleaned with a vacuum or dust buster, or (if it is very dirty) it can be washed with warm water and detergent. Like the reservoir bucket, the filter should be allowed to dry fully before it is reinserted back into the dehumidifier.

Plastic Covers

Once the bucket and filter are removed, the next step is to remove the plastic front cover of the dehumidifier. To do this, simply remove the screws by turning them counterclockwise with the Philips screwdriver, and lift off the cover by pressing down on the release tabs. The same thing can be done to remove the metal top cover of the dehumidifier as well.

Coils and Controls

The coils and control boxes are a bit trickier to manage when learning how to take apart a dehumidifier. For cleaning purposes, they can often be left inside the unit and scrubbed gently with a small dry brush to remove dirt. If they need to be fixed or replaced, they can be removed by unscrewing them from the device and disconnecting all wires. If coils are icing over or malfunctioning, however, cleaning them and exposing them to the air while the unit is off can be the best remedy.

Fan and Motor

Like the coils, the fan blades are part of the intricate infrastructure of a dehumidifier, and should be removed only as a last resort. Once they are exposed, they can be wiped down with a damp cloth. To remove the fan, unscrew the nuts and bolts that hold it onto the motor shaft, and the fan should be able to be lifted outward. The motor can be removed in a similar fashion, as it is also attached with a number of screws. Consulting an appliance repair professional and/or manual will help avoid any missteps.

Once an individual has mastered how to take apart a dehumidifier, it will be much easier to complete the requisite cleaning and maintenance that keeps the appliance running efficiently. A dehumidifier, if used frequently, should be cleaned once a month by emptying the reservoir and removing dirt and debris that may have accumulated inside of the device.