The short answer
What Causes Ice to Form
Ice forms on the coils when the air temperature drops below about 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The cold coils then freeze the moisture in the air instead of draining it into the bucket. You might notice this more in a basement or garage that stays cooler than the rest of your home.
High humidity can also cause icing. When the air is very humid, the coils have to work harder to pull out moisture, and they can get cold enough to freeze. Blocked airflow from a dirty filter or a closed vent makes the problem worse, because the coils get too cold without enough warm air passing over them.
- Room temperature below 65 degrees
- Very humid air
- Dirty air filter
- Blocked air intake or exhaust
- Low refrigerant level
- Thermostat set too low
How to Fix an Icy Dehumidifier
Start by turning the dehumidifier off and letting the ice melt completely. Do not try to chip it off, as that can damage the coils. While it thaws, check the air filter and clean or replace it if it looks dirty. Also make sure nothing is blocking the front or back of the unit.
If the room is cooler than about 65 degrees, move the dehumidifier to a warmer space or raise the room temperature. You can also adjust the humidity setting to a higher level, which makes the unit run less often and reduces the chance of freezing. If the problem continues, you may need a professional to check the refrigerant level.
When to Call the Pros
If you have cleaned the filter, moved the unit to a warmer spot, and adjusted the settings but the coils still ice up, the refrigerant may be low or a part may be failing. A water damage pro can inspect the unit and tell you whether it needs a repair or a replacement.
Icing is not a sign of a water leak, but it can lead to water damage if the ice melts and overflows the bucket. If you notice water pooling around the dehumidifier or on nearby floors, you may need water damage help to dry out the area and check for hidden moisture.
- Ice keeps coming back after cleaning
- Water pools around the unit
- The bucket fills too fast
- The unit makes loud noises
- The dehumidifier is more than a few years old
Preventing Future Ice Build-Up
Keep the dehumidifier in a room that stays above 65 degrees. If you run it in a cool basement, you might need a small space heater to warm the air slightly. Also, clean the air filter every two to four weeks during heavy use, and keep the area around the unit clear.
Set the humidity level to around 50 percent, which is comfortable and reduces the workload. Check the bucket regularly and empty it before it gets full. If you use a drain hose, make sure it is not kinked or blocked, because a full bucket can cause the unit to shut off and then restart, which can lead to icing.
Does This Cause Water Damage
In most cases, ice on the coils will melt and drain into the bucket without causing damage. But if the ice builds up thick and then melts all at once, the bucket can overflow. That water can soak into carpets, baseboards, or drywall and lead to mold or rot if not dried quickly.
If you notice water stains on the ceiling or walls near the dehumidifier, or a musty smell, you may have a hidden moisture problem. Local water damage pros can inspect the area and dry out any wet materials. Catching it early helps prevent bigger issues later.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a dehumidifier to ice up in winter?
It can happen if the room is too cold. Most dehumidifiers are not designed to run below 65 degrees. If you run it in an unheated basement, the coils can freeze. Move it to a warmer area or raise the room temperature.
Can I use a hair dryer to melt the ice?
No, that can crack the coils or damage the plastic parts. Turn the unit off and let the ice melt naturally. You can speed it up by moving the dehumidifier to a warmer room, but never use direct heat.
What if my dehumidifier keeps icing up after I clean it?
If cleaning the filter and moving it to a warmer spot do not help, the refrigerant may be low or a part may be failing. A professional can check the unit and tell you whether it needs a repair or a replacement.