How Long Does A Dehumidifier Last? [6 Factors Analyzed]

Dehumidifiers are not exactly light on the pocket. However, if they can last for a long time, more people will be willing to buy them.

How long does a dehumidifier last? On average, a dehumidifier can last for 3 to 10 years. Many factors affect the lifespan, including the type and quality of your machine, usage habits, maintenance, etc. 

You may also be wondering how to extend the life of your machine and when to replace it. Look no further! This post will answer all of your dehumidifier lifespan questions.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier, once again, has a lifespan of 3 to 10 years. However, the lifespan of your dehumidifier is determined by a variety of factors. Take a look at the important factors in this section to get a good estimate of your machine’s lifespan.

Quality of your machine 

I suggest you purchase a model that comes from a reputable and trustworthy brand. While you may have to pay a higher upfront cost, the machine may serve you a few years more, saving you more money in the end. 

Some flimsy units may only work for 1 or 2 years and can even catch fire which is quite dangerous. 

Types of dehumidifiers

Typically, a portable dehumidifier can last for about 3 to 5 years, whereas a whole-house dehumidifier can last for around 10 years. However, a whole-house dehumidifier will cost much more than a residential one, which may not be a good idea for everyone. 

A commercial model usually has a lifespan of about 7 to 10 years, but it is generally for offices and restaurants. 

Beyond that, desiccant dehumidifiers will have a longer service life than refrigerant dehumidifiers because refrigerant units make use of a compressor and coils to condense the excess moisture, which is prone to damage.

Dehumidifier capacity 

A larger dehumidifier can collect more pints of water per day, allowing it to operate in a more humid environment or in a larger space.

As a result, a small dehumidifier is more prone to overworking because it must operate at full capacity whenever the weather changes or you relocate it to a larger room.

If a machine is frequently overheated or overworked, its lifespan will be gradually reduced.

Environment 

If you living in a very humid place, you can expect your machine to have a shorter service life than that of your sister, who live in a relatively drier area. This is because your machine has to work harder to lower the humidity to a certain level. 

Aside from that, if your region is very cold. The dehumidifier can not function properly, especially for a compressor model. It can ice up or even stop working every so often.

How do you use a dehumidifier 

Some people prefer to run a dehumidifier continuously throughout the day, while others may only use it a few hours per day and a few days per year. Because the components will inevitably tear and wear, the latter will have a much longer lifespan.

Furthermore, if the model is frequently used in a large space, it may last less time than one used in a small room.

Cleaning and maintenance 

Dehumidifiers require little maintenance. However, this does not imply that you can leave it unattended. When the air filter or coils become clogged, your dehumidifier can freeze or overheat, potentially damaging the machine.

How to make your dehumidifier last longer?

Based on the factors we discussed above, there are a few ways to extend the lifespan of your dehumidifier.

Prevent the machine from being overworked

It is critical to select a dehumidifier that is appropriate for the size of your room. When your machine continues to run at full speed but fails to reach the desired humidity level, it is a good indication that you should use it in a smaller room.

Even though it is generally safe to run it constantly, an overworked unit is susceptible to damage. Let it take a break to serve you longer. 

Find a suitable placement

Make sure the machine is close to the source of humidity and has enough airflow. If the device cannot draw or expel air smoothly, it may overheat or damage the compressor.

Plug it into an outlet on a dedicated circuit

To protect the capacitor and compressor, you should connect them to a dedicated circuit. In this way, the machine can receive a more stable electric current.

Commit to routine cleaning 

To keep mold and bacteria at bay, the water bucket must be emptied every day. Depending on how frequently you use it, you should clean the air filter and coils on a regular basis to avoid freezing and overheating.

When to replace a dehumidifier?

You will need to replace your dehumidifier at some point in your life. These signs will help you identify it.

You need to call a professional one or two times a year

When a machine’s life is up, it may stop working from time to time. If your machine frequently fails, you should consider purchasing a new one.

The compressor is broken 

A dehumidifier’s compressor is expensive. Rather than purchasing a new compressor and having it installed, purchasing a new unit can save you more money.

Your dehumidifier runs continuously

Nowadays, most dehumidifiers have a built-in humidistat that monitors the moisture level and switches off and on automatically when it reaches a certain humidity level.

If your machine begins to work longer and more frequently than usual. It indicates that the sensors have been damaged or that the machine has become worn.

The performance decreases significantly

After a few years, you may notice that your machine no longer performs as well as it once did. For example, it can’t reduce humidity as quickly as it used to.

If the machine can no longer effectively dehumidify the air, it should be replaced.

Conclusion 

A dehumidifier has a lifespan of 3 to 10 years. Choosing a high-quality product and properly using and maintaining it can help it last longer.

Do not use a small dehumidifier in a large room because the machine will have to work very hard to reduce the humidity level, which will quickly damage the device.