Are you frustrated? Has your trusted GE dehumidifier lost its touch? A dehumidifier that fails to collect water can be puzzling, especially when you have started relying on its efficient moisture removal capabilities.
If the above scenario is the case for you, worry not, because in this article, we have gathered 10 simple and effective solutions for a GE dehumidifier that’s not collecting water to get it back on track, restoring the desired balance in your living space.
This comprehensive guide delves into the various factors that may hinder your dehumidifier’s water collection, ranging from moisture levels and room temperature to malfunctioning parts and clogged filters. Drawing insights from a wealth of knowledge found in expert articles, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to troubleshoot and resolve these issues efficiently.
So, bid farewell to dampness and welcome a revitalized dehumidifier experience. Let’s explore the 10 ingenious ways to breathe life back into your GE dehumidifier, ensuring it once again functions at its peak efficiency and keeps your environment fresh, dry, and comfortable.
Why is your GE Dehumidifier Not Collecting Water?
There are several reasons behind a GE dehumidifier that’s not collecting water. Is your GE dehumidifier not collecting water? Here’s the reason why:
1. Not Enough Moisture in the Air to Collect
A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air. But if the relative humidity in your room is too low (anything below 45% is very low), or if the temperature is a lot lesser than the relative humidity, there may be little excess moisture for the dehumidifier to collect.
That happens because the dehumidifier only collects the air’s moisture; the air carries less moisture in both scenarios.
In such situations, the dehumidifier tries to remove most of the initial moisture from the walls, ceilings, and other objects in the area. Once done, the dehumidifier may not remove more moisture from the air and may even stop working altogether.
2. Low Room Temperature
Like many other models, GE dehumidifiers rely on the proper temperature range for optimal performance. The evaporator coils may freeze if the air temperature goes below 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit. The frozen coils may impede the dehumidifier’s ability to rid the air of humidity effectively.
3. Incorrect Sizing of the Dehumidifier
Choosing the right-sized dehumidifier is crucial for optimal water collection. If a GE dehumidifier is too large for a small room, it may cycle on and off quickly, resulting in inadequate moisture removal. Conversely, using a small dehumidifier in a large space can overload its capacity, reducing water collection.
It is essential to follow guidelines for dehumidifier sizing based on the square footage of the area to ensure effective operation.
4. Malfunctioning Parts
Various components within the dehumidifier can experience malfunctions, affecting its ability to collect water.
The compressor, which circulates the refrigerant, may fail, resulting in decreased moisture removal. Leaks in the refrigerant coils can lead to a loss of cooling capacity, reducing water collection efficiency.
Clogged condenser coils or filters can restrict airflow, hampering the dehumidifier’s performance.
A malfunctioning humidistat can inaccurately measure the humidity level, causing the unit to operate incorrectly.
5. Stuck Float Switch
The float switch in a GE dehumidifier is crucial in preventing overflow. It detects when the water collection tank is full and activates a mechanism to shut off the unit. If the float switch becomes stuck or misaligned, it may falsely indicate a full tank, causing the dehumidifier to stop collecting water.
6. Full Water Tank
The water tank in the dehumidifier collects condensed moisture (water). If the water tank reaches its maximum capacity, your dehumidifier will stop working or collecting water. This is a safety feature that prevents the water tank from overflowing.
Hence, it’s vital for you to regularly inspect and empty the tank to ensure an uninterrupted operation. This goes without saying that once the tank becomes full, the dehumidifier will stop collecting extra moisture from the air until the tank has been emptied.
7. Leaking
Water can leak from a GE dehumidifier due to several factors. For example, cracks or damage to the reservoir tank can cause water to leak out from the unit. When that happens, it no longer becomes difficult to tell why your dehumidifier no longer collects water—it won’t be able to collect water since it leaks out of the reservoir tank.
Additionally, a clogged drain tube can cause water to bypass the reservoir tank, which will, in turn, result in leaks from the dehumidifier.
8. Icing Up
Like every other appliance, GE dehumidifiers are likely or prone to ice up in colder temperatures or environments.
When the ambient temperature of a room drops below the recommended threshold (usually around 65°F), frost can start forming on the coils. The frost on the coils can prevent the dehumidifier from extracting moisture.
9. Clogged Filter
Every GE dehumidifier comes with air filters, which are essential for maintaining proper airflow and ensuring efficient moisture removal in the air.
Over time, the air filters in the dehumidifier can become clogged with debris and dust that can obstruct the airflow and reduce the unit’s performance, thereby preventing the unit from collecting water.
10. Faulty Condenser
The condenser is a critical component responsible for cooling the coils in the dehumidifier. If the condenser fails to function or does not turn on, the coils will not cool down sufficiently, leading to a lack of water collection. Issues with the condenser can be related to room temperature, electrical problems, or mechanical failures.
How to Fix a GE Dehumidifier Not Collecting Water?
If your GE dehumidifier is not collecting water, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take to try and fix the issue:
1. Not Enough Moisture in the Air to Collect
Suppose you think your dehumidifier is not collecting water as it should because of the moisture content in the air or environment. In that case, evaluating the necessity of dehumidification for that specific environment is recommended.
Consider alternative methods to maintain an optimal humidity level, such as improving ventilation, using moisture-absorbing materials like desiccants or silica gel packs, or adjusting heating and cooling systems to create a more balanced indoor environment.
2. Low Room Temperature
Like many others, GE dehumidifiers operate optimally within a recommended temperature range. Maintaining the room temperature above the recommended threshold is crucial to prevent coil freezing and ensure proper operation.
To address this issues like this one, consider increasing the room temperature by adjusting the thermostat or using a space heater in colder areas. Doing that will help the dehumidifier work more efficiently by preventing frost formation on the coils and facilitating effective moisture extraction from the air.
3. Incorrect Sizing of the Dehumidifier
Choosing the right-sized dehumidifier is crucial for optimal water collection. For example, if you purchase a dehumidifier that is too big for your room, it can cycle on or off quickly, causing inadequate moisture removal.
Conversely, using a small dehumidifier in a large space can overload its capacity, reducing water collection. It is important to select a dehumidifier that matches the square footage of the area to ensure effective operation.
So before purchasing a dehumidifier, you should consult with an expert or the manufacturer’s guidelines to find the appropriate dehumidifier for your room based on its moisture conditions and dimensions. Replacing the dehumidifier with an appropriately sized unit will help maximize its efficiency and water collection capabilities.
4. Malfunctioning Parts
Various components within the dehumidifier can experience malfunctions, affecting its ability to collect water.
If you suspect any component is why your GE dehumidifier is not collecting water, then it is advisable to consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide. Alternatively, you can contact a professional technician to help inspect, repair, and replace specific components.
Proper diagnosis and resolution of these malfunctions will help restore the dehumidifier’s functionality and water collection capabilities.
5. Stuck Float Switch
The float switch in a dehumidifier is a crucial component that detects the water level in the collection tank. It can give false signals and prevent proper water collection if stuck or misaligned.
To address this issue, carefully inspect the float switch mechanism, ensuring it moves freely without obstructions. If misalignment or damage is identified, realign or repair the float switch per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Restoring proper movement and alignment of the float switch will enable accurate water level detection and ensure uninterrupted dehumidifier operation.
6. Full Water Tank
Regularly monitoring and emptying the water tank when full is essential for continuous water collection. Check the water level indicator or visually inspect the tank to determine if it requires emptying.
Follow the instructions in the GE manufacturer’s manual to empty the water tank. The instructions you’ll find there typically involve removing the tank from the dehumidifier and safely disposing of the water in it.
Once emptied, ensure that the tank is securely reinserted and aligned adequately in its place to allow for uninterrupted water collection. Regular maintenance and emptying the water tank will optimize the dehumidifier’s performance.
7. Leaking
If you notice cracks or damage in the reservoir tank, temporary solutions like waterproof repair tape can seal the leaks until a replacement part arrives.
For drain hose leaks, inspect the connections and tighten them if necessary. If the leak persists, consider replacing the hose.
To ensure proper water flow, clear any blockages in the drain tube. Locate the drain tube attached to the drip tray and use a straw or pen to remove any obstructions.
Resolving leaks and blockages will prevent water from escaping the dehumidifier and ensure efficient water collection.
8. Icing Up
If your dehumidifier is experiencing icing issues, unplug the unit and allow the coils to thaw completely. You can do that by turning the dehumidifier off and then letting it sit at room temperature until all the ice melts away.
Cleaning the air filters is also important as it improves airflow and prevents future icing. When cleaning the filters, ensure you are cleaning them according to the GE manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, consider relocating the dehumidifier to a warmer area or increasing the room temperature to prevent further icing problems.
9. Clogged Filter
Clean or replace the air filters regularly according to the manufacturer’s guide to maintain optimal performance. Clogged filters can obstruct airflow, reducing the dehumidifier’s effectiveness.
Remove the filters and gently clean them using soap and water, or replace them if they cannot be effectively cleaned. Ensure the filters are completely dry before reinstalling them.
Regular maintenance of the filters will prevent clogs and ensure proper airflow, allowing the dehumidifier to collect water efficiently and maintain optimal operation.
10. Faulty Condenser
If you suspect a faulty condenser, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional technician. They possess the expertise to diagnose the condenser’s functionality and determine if a replacement is necessary.
Technicians can perform tests and inspections to assess the condenser’s performance, identify any electrical or mechanical issues, and provide the appropriate repair steps.
Consulting a professional ensures accurate diagnosis and proper handling of the condenser, is crucial for restoring the dehumidifier’s functionality and efficient water collection.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
