Why your dehumidifier might fail this monsoon and simple fixes that help

Mint

19 hours ago

If you have a dehumidifier in your home running most days during the monsoon season, you already know how much difference it makes. It keeps the air from feeling clammy, protects walls and furniture, and helps keep musty smells under control. But this is also when dehumidifiers are pushed the hardest, and not every machine holds up without problems. From clogged filters to voltage issues, there are a few common reasons why your device might stop working when you need it most, especially during monsoon days.
Let us understand the problems first. One of the main culprits is a blocked filter. In many Indian states with heavy monsoon humidity, like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kerala, dust and moisture combine to clog the filter faster than usual. When the air gets restricted, the machine has to work harder to draw in moist air and you might notice that the tank is not filling as it usually does.
For example, you could leave the dehumidifier running all afternoon in your room and still feel dampness in the air by evening. Cleaning the filter regularly, ideally once a week during the rainy season, can prevent this from building up.
Another big issue is the humidity sensor itself. Dehumidifiers rely on sensors to judge when to cycle on and off. If the sensor starts to malfunction or becomes covered in condensation, the appliance may keep running without collecting much water. Sometimes it may shut down altogether. This happens when the display stays stuck at one number for hours or the machine doesn't start in the morning. In this case unplugging the dehumidifier for 10 minutes often resets the sensor and restores the normal operation.
Another problem many people overlook is the power supply. Monsoon storms bring sudden voltage drops and surges. If you have an older dehumidifier, you might notice that it stops working whenever the power supply flickers during heavy rain. Plugging the machine into a surge protector or stabiliser can help prevent this problem and save you from worrying about damage.
Sometimes it's just the water tank filling up faster than you expect. For example, on humid nights, the tank can be full by morning, and the machine will stop on its own to prevent spills. I've seen this in many homes where people think the dehumidifier is broken. It's always a good idea to check the tank first and put it back properly after you empty it.
If you have checked the filter, sensor, power, and tank but the machine still won't remove moisture, there may be a refrigerant leak or a compressor problem. Dehumidifiers work much like air conditioners, using refrigerant to pull water from the air. You will usually notice this if the fan keeps running for days but no water collects. These repairs need a professional because handling refrigerant requires special tools and training.
Temperature can also be one of the issues. Dehumidifiers work best in mild warmth. If your room gets too cold during the rainy season, the coil can freeze, and the machine stops removing moisture. Frost often builds up behind the vent. This usually happens when the unit sits near an open window where cool air comes in all night. Turn it off to let the ice melt. If it keeps happening, move the dehumidifier to a slightly warmer spot in your room.
A lot of the trouble people usually face with dehumidifiers isn't as complicated as it seems. Most problems can be sorted out with a few sensible habits and a couple of low-cost tech add-ons. Here are some fixes worth trying, especially during the monsoon:
1. Clean the filter regularly
A clogged filter makes the machine work harder. Take out the filter every week, rinse it, and let it dry completely before replacing it again. Good airflow is the first step toward reliable performance.
2. Use a gravity drain hose
Instead of emptying the tank by hand, attach a gravity drain hose if your model supports it. This setup might sound basic, but it's a tech upgrade that automates drainage and keeps the machine running longer without stops.
3. Try a smart plug to schedule power
Plug the dehumidifier into a smart plug to control when it runs. You can set schedules, monitor energy use, or turn the appliance on and off remotely. This adds a layer of smart home control that goes beyond simply plugging it into the wall.
4. Install a float switch or overflow alarm
If you prefer to stick with manual drainage, adding a float switch or a small overflow alarm can help. These sensor based devices are helpful because they stop water from spilling by alerting you or cutting power automatically. Many cost under ₹ 500 and can be fitted easily.
5. Use a condensate pump for vertical drainage
If you don't have a floor drain, a small condensate pump can push the water up into a sink or higher drain. These little pumps help the dehumidifier keep working without stopping.
6. Empty and reseat the tank often
Even if you use a hose or pump, the tank can still fill up fast on humid days. Check it every day and make sure it sits back in place properly so the machine knows it's empty.
A bit of smart maintenance keeps your dehumidifier working like new, even when humidity peaks.