The secret part of a dehumidifier you need to clean once a fortnight & why you should NEVER switch it off at the mains
THEY’RE one of the most frequently used devices at this time of year.
But if you’re someone who relies on a dehumidifier to keep damp and mould at bay in your home, then there’s a secret section you may be forgetting to clean.
And leaving it just ends up with the machine getting “clogged up” and working inefficiently.
According to Which?, it’s important to take out the filter to clean at least once a fortnight.
“Never let the filter get clogged up because it can stop the dehumidifier working efficiently,” the experts explained in a video on their TikTok page.
“Manufacturers recommend cleaning it every two weeks or once a month.”
Use the brush attachment to give the filter a quick gentle vacuum, and if it’s really dirty you might need to wash it if it’s particularly dirty.
“Just check the manufacturer’s instructions,” they added.
And the majority of people in the comments section admitted they had no idea there was even a filter inside the dehumidifier.
“I have this dehumidifier and you’re telling me there’s a FILTER???” one exclaimed.
“Yikes, I’ve had the same one 20 yrs and had no idea there was a filter I need to clean,” another admitted.
As a third sighed: “I didn’t know mine had a filter!”
The Which? pros also warned that when it comes to using a desiccant dehumidifier, you should never switch it off at the mains.
“You should always turn them off at the control panel on the machine,” they advised.
“This way the fan continues to spin until it’s cooled down, which protects the internal parts.”
It should also be noted that this only applies to desiccant dehumidifiers – which save more energy compared to the more commonly used compression dehumidifiers.
When it comes to where to position the dehumidifier, it’s a good idea to try and place it “at least 20cm away from walls or furniture”.
“Also make sure it’s not placed near any heat sources or vents as this can affect its performance,” they added.
What are the benefits of using a dehumidifier?
Chris Michael, Managing Director of Meaco shared the mistakes exclusively with Fabulous.
Savings on electricity bills – A tumble dryer costs approx. £1.50 per load to dry. A dehumidifier costs approx. £0.30. A £1.20 saving every time its used instead to dry the wet washing.
Savings on heating bills – Dry air is cheaper to heat than damp air. By removing the humidity the dehumidifier helps makes heating more efficient.
Prevents damp and mould – By reducing excess moisture from daily activities like cooking, washing, showering they help prevent mould, mildew and damp smells in the property, improving the living conditions for all the occupants.
Takes the chill out of the air – During the colder months of the year the dehumidifier removes the moisture in the air that causes chills.
Reduces condensation – They reduce condensation on windows and walls, protecting your home from damp-related issues.
Protects furniture and property – Helps prevent mould and damp caused damage to soft furnishings, wooden furniture, wallpaper, walls etc
Improves air quality – They remove airborne allergens such as dust mites, which thrive in humid conditions, improving overall air quality. Some models come with HEPA filters so that the dehumidifier can also be used for air purification, helping occupants who suffer from allergies.
Likewise, make sure that all your windows and external doors are closed.
“If it’s trying to also combat the humid air from outside, you won’t feel the benefits,” they explained.
And lastly, while lots of people swear by using dehumidifiers to get washing dry quicker, you need to be careful with placing it anywhere near wet laundry.
“Never let wet clothes drip on the dehumidifier when drying them,” they said.
“It’s a potential fire hazard and could damage the dehumidifier.
“Make sure the dehumidifier is far enough away from the laundry and position it so the air coming out of it is directed towards the clothes.”
“Five mistakes to avoid if you want to get the most out of your dehumidifier,” they captioned the video.
“90% of dehumidifier owners we asked would recommend getting one for helping to dry laundry and preventing mould and damp.”