Dehumidifier fan not working: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

The dehumidifier fan blade may be damaged or incorrectly installed. Manually rotate the blade to check that it spins freely without contacting the housing. If the blade does not turn smoothly or rubs against the housing, it needs replacement. Also wiggle the motor shaft to check if it is loose, indicating the blade is not properly attached. If tightening the set screw does not secure the fan blade, it requires replacement.

How to Replace Dehumidifier Fan Blade

Replacing a dehumidifier fan blade can be a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this task smoothly:

1. Safety First:

   • Turn off the dehumidifier and unplug it to ensure your safety during the replacement process.
   • Allow the dehumidifier to sit for a while to cool down, minimizing the risk of burns or other accidents.

2. Access the Fan Compartment:

   • Locate the fan compartment, which is typically situated at the back of the dehumidifier or behind a removable panel.
   • Use a screwdriver or appropriate tool to remove the screws or fastenings holding the panel in place.

3. Identify the Fan Blade:

   • Find the fan blade, usually positioned at the center of the fan assembly, and observe how it is attached to the motor shaft.
   • Check for any clips or screws that secure the blade to the shaft.

4. Detach the Old Fan Blade:

   • Use the appropriate tool, such as pliers or a wrench, to hold the motor shaft in place.
   • Unscrew or unclip the old fan blade carefully, ensuring you don't damage the motor or other components.

5. Clean the Area and Prepare for Installation:

   • Remove any dust or debris that might have accumulated in the fan compartment, ensuring a clean working environment.
   • Inspect the motor shaft for any dirt or obstructions that might hinder the installation of the new fan blade.

6. Install the New Fan Blade:

   • Align the new fan blade correctly with the motor shaft, ensuring it fits securely and snugly into place.
   • Use the appropriate fastening method (screws or clips) to attach the new fan blade firmly to the motor shaft.

7. Reassemble the Fan Compartment:

   • Secure the back panel or cover by reinserting and tightening the screws or fastenings you removed earlier.
   • Double-check that the panel is firmly in place and that there are no loose components.

8. Plug in the Dehumidifier and Test:

   • Plug the dehumidifier back into the power source and switch it on to test the new fan blade.
   • Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that might indicate a faulty installation.

9. Monitor the Dehumidifier's Performance:

   • Observe the dehumidifier's performance over the next few hours to ensure the fan blade functions properly and efficiently.
   • Look out for any irregularities in the dehumidifying process or any overheating issues.

10. Final Check and Clean-Up:

    • Conduct a final inspection to ensure the fan blade is securely in place and the dehumidifier is functioning correctly.
    • Clean up any debris or tools used during the replacement process and store them appropriately.

Repair Instructions:

To diagnose a dehumidifier fan that is not operating, first manually rotate the fan blade to confirm it spins freely without contacting the housing. If the blade is obstructed and cannot turn smoothly or rubs against the housing, it requires repair or replacement. Next use a multimeter to check if the fan motor is receiving electrical power. If the motor is getting power but the fan still does not run, this indicates the motor itself is defective and should be replaced.

How to Replace Dehumidifier Fan Motor:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Before starting, unplug the dehumidifier from the power source to ensure your safety throughout the replacement process.

2. Locate the Fan Motor:

   • Identify the location of the fan motor inside your dehumidifier. It is typically situated within the unit's housing, either on the front or back.

3. Gather Necessary Tools and Replacement Parts:

   • Ensure you have the required tools, including a screwdriver or socket wrench, and acquire a compatible replacement fan motor.

4. Access the Fan Motor:

   • Depending on your dehumidifier model, you may need to remove a cover or access panel to reach the fan motor.

5. Disconnect Wiring:

   • Carefully disconnect the wiring or connectors attached to the old fan motor. Make note of their positions for reconnection.

6. Remove the Old Motor:

   • Gently remove the old fan motor from its mounting point, typically held in place with screws or clips.

7. Prepare the New Fan Motor:

   • Unpack the replacement fan motor and inspect it for any defects. Ensure it is clean and free from any packaging materials.

8. Install the New Motor:

   • Carefully position the new fan motor in the same location as the old one, securing it using the original mounting method.

9. Attach Wiring or Connectors:

   • Reconnect the wiring or connectors to the new fan motor, ensuring they are properly and securely attached.

10. Reassemble the Cover or Panel:

    • If you removed a cover or access panel to access the fan motor, reassemble it in its original position.

11. Plug In and Test:

    • Reconnect the dehumidifier to the power source and test the operation of the new fan motor. Ensure it runs smoothly, effectively circulating air within the appliance.

12. Final Check:

    • Inspect the new fan motor and its connections to ensure they are properly installed and functioning, contributing to the efficient dehumidifying operation of your appliance.

Repair Instructions:

Manually rotate the blower wheel to diagnose operation issues. If the wheel does not spin freely or rubs against the housing, it needs replacement. Also check if the wheel wobbles while turning, indicating it is loosely attached to the motor shaft. In that case, tighten the blower wheel if possible or replace it if the issue persists. Visually inspect the wheel as well and replace it if there is any physical damage causing obstructions to air flow. Following these steps to identify damage, obstructions, or loose mounting will determine if the blower wheel requires repair or replacement to properly circulate air again.

How to Replace Dehumidifier Blower Wheel:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Start by disconnecting the dehumidifier from the power source to ensure your safety during the replacement process.

2. Locate the Blower Wheel:

   • Identify the location of the blower wheel inside your dehumidifier. It's typically found within the unit's housing, connected to the fan motor.

3. Gather Necessary Tools and Replacement Parts:

   • Ensure you have the required tools, including a screwdriver or socket wrench, and acquire a compatible replacement blower wheel.

4. Access the Blower Wheel:

   • Depending on your dehumidifier model, you may need to remove a cover or access panel to reach the blower wheel.

5. Disconnect the Old Blower Wheel:

   • Carefully disconnect the blower wheel from the fan motor shaft. It's usually secured by a set screw or a clamp.

6. Remove the Old Blower Wheel:

   • Gently remove the old blower wheel from its mounting point, taking care not to damage the fan motor or other components.

7. Prepare the New Blower Wheel:

   • Unpack the replacement blower wheel and inspect it for any defects. Ensure it is clean and free from any packaging materials.

8. Install the New Blower Wheel:

   • Carefully position the new blower wheel on the fan motor shaft, securing it with the set screw or clamp.

9. Reattach the Fan Motor:

   • Reconnect the fan motor to the blower wheel, ensuring a secure fit.

10. Reassemble the Cover or Panel:

    • If you removed a cover or access panel to access the blower wheel, reassemble it in its original position.

11. Plug In and Test:

    • Reconnect the dehumidifier to the power source and test the operation of the new blower wheel. Ensure it rotates smoothly and effectively circulates air within the appliance.

12. Final Check:

    • Inspect the new blower wheel to ensure it is properly installed and functioning, contributing to the efficient dehumidifying operation of your appliance.

Repair Instructions:

The humidity sensor detects moisture levels in the air to activate the dehumidifier when needed. Its electrical contacts close when humidity is high to signal the dehumidifier to turn on and circulate air. If the sensor is faulty, the dehumidifier fan will fail to operate. To troubleshoot, inspect the sensor and replace it if defective. Proper function of the humidity sensor is crucial for automatically running the dehumidifier fan when moisture levels require air circulation and drying.