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dehumidifier ice buildup, check these out | Is it normal for a dehumidifier to ice up?

By Matthew Underwood

The most common cause why dehumidifiers freeze up is because the room is simply too cold. Even if the machine can operate at a low temperature, it is typically cap at 65°F degrees. Running below the recommended temperature will cause ice to build up on the condenser coils.

Is it normal for a dehumidifier to ice up?

The most common cause of frost and ice buildup on a dehumidifier is because the unit is operating in temperatures that are too cold. Many dehumidifiers are not equipped to run at temperatures below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. There are some models made for cooler basements that operate down to temperatures of 36 degrees.

What happens when dehumidifier freezes up?

If your dehumidifier coils are freezing up and the surrounding temperature is over 65 degrees Fahrenheit, the fan motor may be the issue. This dehumidifier part facilitates the air flow necessary to keep the condenser coils from freezing up.

Why does my dehumidifier says defrost?

To protect the dehumidifier and to enable it to remove more water from the air the dehumidifier must stop cooling the evaporator coil to allow the ice to melt. This is called “auto-defrost” and when the defrost light shows on the dehumidifier this means that the defrosting cycle has been activated and is proceeding.

Why is my dehumidifier coils icing up?

The most common cause why dehumidifiers freeze up is because the room is simply too cold. Even if the machine can operate at a low temperature, it is typically cap at 65°F degrees. Running below the recommended temperature will cause ice to build up on the condenser coils.

Why does my Frigidaire dehumidifier freeze up?

If the room temperature is below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, the dehumidifier coils will frost up. If the temperature in your home regularly drops below 65 degrees, you will need to obtain a model that is specifically designated for lower temperature operation.

Should you run a dehumidifier in winter?

During cold winter months, the air in your home is usually dry, which means a dehumidifier is not necessary. Most dehumidifiers should not be operated in temperatures below 60° F, since the moisture removed from the indoor air can freeze when it condenses on the cooling coils, which can damage the unit.

How often should dehumidifier defrost?

Generally, a unit must run for a minimum of about 35 minutes after starting up before completing its first defrost. From there, defrosts should occur no more often than approximately every 40 minutes.

How do I know if my dehumidifier is low on Freon?

Directly behind the intake filter of your dehumidifier should be the cooling coil (also known as an evaporator). When the dehumidifier is running, this cooling coil should be cool to the touch. If it is not cool, then it is very likely that the refrigerant has leaked out of the system.

How do I clean the coils on my dehumidifier?

Gently vacuum off the top layer of dust and grime or scrape it off with your hand. Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to clean the coils with a spray detergent or mixture of vinegar and water. Rinse off any residue. Make sure you let the coils completely dry before using your dehumidifier again.

Do dehumidifiers have refrigerant?

There are a few different types of dehumidifiers out there, but by far the most common are the ones that contain Freon. So, yes, to answer your question dehumidifiers do contain Freon. Most of the Freon branded product from DuPont/Chemours has been phased out due to their Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP).