What to do when your dehumidifier displays an error code

Dehumidifiers usually hum along quietly, keeping your place comfy and the humidity in check. But every now and then, one of those cryptic error codes might pop up, making you wonder what’s wrong. The good news? Most of these codes actually hint at what’s going on inside. So, chances are, you can troubleshoot and sort out the issue yourself without too much hassle.

The tips in this article might not match your exact dehumidifier model. We try our best to cover all sorts of DIY repair advice, but different models can have their own quirks, like varying error codes and fix-it steps. For the best results, it’s a good idea to check out your manufacturer’s manual or give us a shout if you’ve got any questions.

Common dehumidifier error codes 

If your dehumidifier’s flashing an error code, it’s usually its way of telling you there’s a hiccup, maybe a faulty part, a sensor glitch, or an issue with the water bucket. Below, we’ve rounded up some common error codes and what they might mean. Just keep in mind, codes can differ between brands and models, so it’s always a good idea to double-check your user manual. Not sure about your model? Take a look at how to find your appliance’s model number for some help.

E1 error code

Getting an E1 code? That’s often a sign there’s an issue with the humidity sensor or maybe the control panel itself. Since the sensor keeps tabs on humidity levels, letting your dehumidifier know when to kick on or take a break, seeing E1 flash usually means the sensor’s loose, dirty, or downright kaput.

First things first: give the sensor a once-over. A lot of dehumidifiers have a little wire harness connecting the sensor to the control board. Double-check that it’s snug and secure, and gently wipe off any dust with a soft cloth. If the sensor looks damaged, you might need to think about getting a replacement.

E2 error code

Spotting an E2 code? That usually hints at a sensor or circuit problem, especially with temperature sensors. On some models, E2 and E1 codes can overlap, so they might be swapped around. Most of the time, E2 means your dehumidifier isn’t getting the right temperature readings.

To tackle E2, you can pretty much follow the steps for E1: check the wiring, make sure the contacts are clean, and see if the sensor’s damaged. If the code keeps popping up, you might need to swap out the temperature sensor to get things back on track.

E3 error code

Getting an E3 code? It often has to do with the humidity sensor too, but on some brands, it might point to issues with the fan motor or circuit hiccups. If your manual says E3 is a fan problem, take a look at the fan blades and motor assembly to see if anything’s blocking it from spinning.

If E3 relates to the humidity sensor, then you’re looking at similar fixes as E1 or E2. Give the sensor a check and a gentle clean, watch out for any loose wires, and make sure everything’s snug and in place. And hey, always unplug your dehumidifier before you pop off the cover, better safe than sorry.

EC error code

An EC code popping up? That sometimes means there’s a refrigerant leak, which can mess with how your dehumidifier cools things down. Since it uses a refrigeration system to pull moisture from the air, low refrigerant levels can trigger the EC code. On some models, EC might also show up if a sensor’s giving off strange readings.

Think it’s a refrigerant issue? Take a peek at the coils, look for any damage or oily spots that might hint at a leak. It’s also a good idea to check out other sensors involved in the condensation process. While fiddling with refrigerant can be tricky, sometimes simple fixes like cleaning the coils or swapping out a wonky sensor do the trick. Just remember: safety first! Make sure the dehumidifier’s unplugged before you dive into any internal checks.

P1 or P2 error codes

Seeing P1 or P2 codes? These usually point to issues with the water bucket or problems draining water. If these codes pop up, try pulling out the bucket and check for things like algae buildup, stuck floats, or parts that aren’t sitting right. The float in the bucket tells the dehumidifier when it’s full, so if that’s acting up, you’ll get these codes.

Give the bucket a good clean, then pop it back in carefully, making sure it’s sitting properly. Sometimes just a small misalignment can trigger P1 or P2 because the sensor thinks the bucket’s missing or overflowing. If you spot cracks in the bucket or a busted float mechanism, you might need to get a new bucket or float assembly.

F0, F1, F2 error codes

Got an F0, F1, or F2 code showing up? Some dehumidifiers use these kinds of codes to flag fan motor issues, sensor failures, or even control board problems. If you see one of these, it’s time to break out the manual and see what’s up. Common fixes might include cleaning off the fan blades, reconnecting any loose wires, or replacing a bad sensor. If the code’s pointing to the fan motor itself, clearing out debris and making sure the motor shaft spins freely might do the trick.

Tank full indicator or “full” message

Noticing a “Full” message or the tank full indicator lit up? Even though it’s not exactly an error code, it’s the dehumidifier’s way of saying it’s time to empty the water tank. If the “Full” alert sticks around after you’ve dumped the water, take a look at the sensor or float that detects the water level, it might be stuck, grimy, or busted. Sometimes, if the bucket isn’t seated just right, the “Full” message can pop up too. So, try repositioning the bucket to see if that clears things up. If you’re still seeing the alert, check out the float mechanism for any damage and ensure it’s set up correctly.

How to troubleshoot dehumidifier error codes

Troubleshooting dehumidifier error codes doesn’t have to be a headache. Usually, you can tackle them with a step-by-step approach. By checking out each part and reconnecting any loose wires, you’ll often fix the problem on your own before needing to call in the pros. Here’s a general guide that’ll work for most dehumidifiers, but remember to refer to your specific model’s manual too.

1. Unplug your dehumidifier before you do anything else. Safety first! Always disconnect the power when you’re planning to open up your dehumidifier or poke around inside. This helps prevent any nasty shocks. If you need more details, flip through your manual or check out our repair help page.
2. Find your model’s specific instructions. Different models hide sensors in different spots. If you’re not sure where to look or how to test something, take a sec to find your model number. Need a hand? Here’s how to find your appliance’s model number.
3. Check out the sensor harness and wiring. Lots of error codes come from a loose or damaged wire harness. Gently make sure all the wires are connected securely between the sensors and the control board. If you see any wires that look beat up, you might need to replace them.
4. Look for dirt or debris. Dust can pile up on sensors, fans, or coils, messing with readings. Use a soft cloth or some gently compressed air to clean things up. Keep the dehumidifier unplugged while you’re cleaning, and steer clear of using water on any electronics.
5. Test resistance if you need to. If you’re trying to figure out if a sensor or motor is failing, a multimeter can come in handy. By measuring resistance, you can see if parts like motor windings or sensors are doing their job. For instance, you can test the fan motor coil’s resistance and compare it to what’s listed in your dehumidifier’s manual. If the numbers are off, the part might be shot and need replacing.
6. Inspect the bucket assembly. If you’re seeing P1, P2, or a “Full” message, make sure the bucket’s in place. Check the float for any gunk or mildew that might make it stick. Clean it gently with mild soap and water, rinse it off, dry it, and pop it back in.
7. Drain any extra water from the unit. If your dehumidifier has some leftover water inside, try to empty it out. Some models might need you to tilt them a bit to get all the water out. Wipe it down with a cloth to make sure no residual water messes with the sensors.
8. Reset the dehumidifier. Once you’ve put everything back together, plug it in and see if the error code is gone. Some dehumidifiers need you to press a reset button or unplug them for a few minutes to clear things up. Check your manual for the specifics. If the code disappears, keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t pop up again.
9. Replace any bad parts. If the error code’s still hanging around, there might be a damaged sensor, fan motor, control board, or wire harness at fault. Jot down the exact part you need, confirm your model number, and order the right replacement from a reliable source. Our repair help resources can walk you through replacing it. Often, a new sensor or wire harness is all it takes to get your dehumidifier back in action.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts, grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need help finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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