QUESTION FROM Lsilic

What does it mean when the coils on a dehumidifier frost up? Do I need to performance maintenance on the unit. Is there any hazards associated with the coils frosting up.
can I clean out mildew that has accumulated under the vinyl strip that holds the glass to the shower tile?

ANSWER FROM HOME-WIZARD

Lsilic:

The answers to your questions depend on whether the frosting of the evaporator coils is complete and even, or is it just partially frosted? A dehumidifier should definitely not be operated with the coils are totally frosted over, as this can damage the compressor.

If your problem is that the coil is completely frosting over, then the problem is not likely a maintenance problem, but rather it is because the room temperature is too low for this particular unit. Most dehumidifiers are not designed to be used when the room temperature is below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, there are models called "basement" dehumidifiers that are designed to operate at lower temperatures. So you might have to change to one of these models. If the temperature of the room that you have your dehumidifier in is just slightly below 70 degrees, then you might try elevating the unit off the floor to where the temperature in the room will be a little higher (since hot air rises), or you might try placing a fan where it can blow warmer air on the unit.

On the other hand, if you are seeing just a partial frosting of your evaporator coils, then this could be an indication that either your unit is running low on refrigerant, or that the compressor is failing (or the controls for the compressor are faulty.

We hope this is helpful.
Home-Wizard.com