The Lennox Air Conditioner reviews are a comprehensive guide of the brand’s air conditioner main models, which will assist you in selecting the right unit for your climate, efficiency and performance preferences.

The pros and cons are a good source of information when comparing Lennox to Amana air conditioners and other top brands we’ve reviewed including:

• Trane;
• Carrier;
• And other brands…

In 1895, Dave Lennox began manufacturing the first riveted-steel furnace in the US. From that innovative start, Lennox has been a leader in residential performance and efficiency. A private company until 1999, Lennox is now a public brand and the parent company of several other HVAC brands. Some of them are Armstrong Air, Air-Ease and Ducane. However, their product lineups are different than Lennox’s.

Lennox Air Conditioner Brand Overview

Like many leading brands, this one makes basic (Merit Series), better (Elite Series) and best series (Signature Collection) Lennox air conditioners. The differences involve efficiency and performance, the two major factors in how much an air conditioner costs.

The Lennox Signature XC25 is the top pick for this entire brand. Also, it has the distinction of being the most efficient split system AC available with efficiency up to 26 SEER. There are 10 other models starting at 13 SEERS.

Lennox Air Conditioners Technical Specifications

The wide range of models is designed to meet consumers’ needs. That allows consumers to decide between a cheap, low-efficiency model or if they are willing to pay top dollar for a premium AC with great efficiency and climate control features.

• Lennox single-stage air conditioners are made in each series. They range in efficiency from 13 to 18.5 SEER with the top-pick Lennox SL18XC1. They make the industry’s most efficient single-stage model.
• Single-stage ACs are affordable but run at full capacity all the time. Therefore, the cycles are loud and might cool past the thermostat set point.
• Lennox two-stage models are available at 17.2 SEER. The top-pick Lennox XC21 is a 21 SEER AC, which is the most efficient in its class.
• Two-stage ACs run at low capacity for quieter, more balanced cycles. They remove more humidity from summer air than single-stage models can.
• Lennox makes two variable-capacity ACs: the XC25 and the Elite XC20 with a 20 SEER rating.
• Variable-capacity ACs modulate up and down like cruise control. They deliver precise balance, the quietest performance and the best dehumidification.
• All Lennox air conditioners are compatible with the brand’s SunSource solar panels that can provide enough energy for the entire HVAC system in sunny climates.

Pros and Cons of Lennox Air Conditioners

For all the advantages Lennox ACs offer, there are a few concerns to consider.

Pros

• Lennox’s high-efficiency ACs can reduce air conditioning costs and energy use by as much as 60 percent when replacing an old AC;
• Two variable-capacity models give you efficiency and cost options for premium indoor climate control;
• Seven Lennox air conditioner models meet Energy Star criteria. Also, they are eligible for rebates from many energy companies;
• Lennox covers the other bases too – affordable models for those that don’t require an efficient AC;
• The brand makes a full range of heating, air conditioning, home ventilation equipment and thermostats. Moreover, by coordinating a system with compatible components is the best way to optimize efficiency and comfort;
• The Wi-Fi thermostat controls allow you to monitor and control your HVAC from anywhere by using a smart device;
• Lennox’s service record is in the top 5-7 of all brands in most years.

Cons

• Most Lennox models cost more than comparable ACs;
• Lennox warranties are average for the industry – 10 years for Signature and Elite units and 5 years for Merit Series. Goodman, Amana, Maytag, Westinghouse and Heil are among the brands offering longer warranties;
• Lennox makes its own repair parts, unlike most other brands. While that might improve quality, supply-chain issues sometimes delay parts and repairs;
• The brand is currently having issues with Lennox air conditioner coils in some models;
• As with most top brands, you can only buy a Lennox air conditioner through an authorized dealer. Comparing pricing is impossible without getting a sales presentation from a representative.

Overview

• High-end model has 26 SEER.
• The mid-range model has 20 SEER.
• Low-end model has 16 SEER.
• Humidity control is Climate IQ.
• Has a variable fan.
• iComfort S30 is the Smart Thermostat.
• Top models have WiFi.
• Compatible with Alexa.
• High and mid-range models started using aluminum since 2014.
• Some low-end models use a copper coil and aluminum fins.
• Copeland single-stage compressor used.
• The range is 35%-100%.
• Increments 1%.

Warranty

• Signature compressor – 10 years; Signature parts – 10 years.
• Elite compressor – 10 years; Elite parts – 5 years.
• Merit compressor – 5 years; Merit parts – 5 years.

Things to Consider After the Lennox Air Conditioner Reviews

If you speak with a Lennox sales agent, we suggest you ask about the coil issues. If he or she claims not to be aware of the issue, try a different brand. Only choose Lennox if you get assurance from your local dealer that the coil will receive a proper warranty. While the part is covered for 10 years, the labor is generally covered for just one year. Consider purchasing an extended warranty on the labor.

When purchasing an air conditioner, the hotter your climate is, the more efficient your AC should be. The extra cost might be paid back through lower energy costs in as little as three years. Also, you’ll be saving money every cooling month beyond that.

Many of our readers are committed to eco-friendly heating and cooling. To create the least environmental impact, choose the most efficient AC you can afford and/or consider the installation of a whole-house attic fan. This option can quickly replace warm air in the home with cool evening air. If you’re in a sunny climate, ask your Lennox dealer about SunSource. The equipment is expensive, but it could reduce your cooling costs (heating too) to zero!

Ask your HVAC contractor to do a proper load test to ensure that the Lennox air conditioner you select has large enough capacity – but not too large. If your home has been made more energy efficient since the last AC was installed, perhaps by adding insulation or upgrading the windows, then your next air conditioner should be smaller.

Consider, Compare and Share the Lennox Air Conditioner Reviews

We hope this guide has been helpful as you consider and compare one of the industry’s leading brands.

It’s easy to share this Lennox air conditioner reviews on social media to benefit friends and followers who are looking at their central AC options.

Introduction to the Bryant Air Conditioner Reviews

This Bryant AC guide gives a detailed overview that will assist you in deciding if Bryant is the right brand. You can also find out which of its air conditioners is the best fit for your purpose. This is one of several Bryant AC reviews we’ve completed. If you’re looking for a complete HVAC system, see our Bryant Heating and Cooling Overview and guides to:

• Bryant Furnaces;
• Bryant Heat Pumps;
• Bryant Thermostats.

For comparison, browse our reviews of other AC brands and components including furnaces and heat pumps.

Bryant Brand Overview

Bryant HVAC has a history dating back to 1904 and its founder, Charles Bryant. The brand was at the forefront of the residential air conditioner revolution in the 1960s and was later bought by Carrier. Today, the Carrier and Bryant AC lines are quite similar. Both brands are owned by Fortune 100 company United Technologies.

Bryant’s air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, ductless systems and thermostats are considered among the very best available. That is why Bryant is among the best-selling HVAC brands.

Bryant AC Technical Specifications

This detailed summary lays out your efficiency and performance options. These include the top Bryant AC picks in good/better/best lines.

• Bryant Legacy air conditioners are affordable single-stage ACs, which means they run at full capacity only. They have fair quality and reliability backed by warranties of five to ten years.
• The best Bryant AC in the Legacy Series is the 16 SEER Bryant 106A that operates at around 72 decibels, about average for single-stage ACs.
• The Preferred air conditioner series is a mix of single-stage ACs and two-stage models that run on low most of the time. They shift to high capacity for quickly cooling your home, backed by warranties up to ten years.
• The top pick in the Bryant Preferred Series is the 17.7 SEER, two-stage Bryant 127A AC that meets Energy Star qualifications.
• Bryant AC series with the best efficiency (21 SEER) and performance is the Bryant Evolution air conditioners, mostly with two-stage and variable-speed air compressors and backed by ten-year warranties.
• The variable-speed performance of the Evolution 189BNV air conditioner means that its capacity rises and falls in 1% increments based on the exact cooling needs of the home. So cooling is quiet and balanced.

Pros and Cons of the Bryant AC Line-up

Here are reasons that make Bryant AC one of the top five brands in the industry plus a few cautions to consider.

Bryant AC Pros

• Bryant AC units in the Evolution Series are among the most reliable made today. With regularly scheduled maintenance, any product should last 20 years or more.
• Even a more affordable Legacy air conditioner will provide 15 years of durability if maintained.
• The variable-speed and two-stage Bryant AC models are designed to reduce humidity in your home significantly. When humidity is lower, you can set your thermostat higher, save money and still be comfortable.
• When replacing an AC that is 15+ years old with a new Bryant Evolution or Preferred AC, you might see a reduction in cooling costs by as much as 50%.
• Since Bryant is a comprehensive HVAC brand, you can install a matched system featuring a Bryant AC, gas furnace, thermostat and indoor air quality equipment too, all synced to maximize efficiency and climate control.
• The company’s AC models for residential use range in size from 18,000 BTUs for small homes and apartments to 60,000 BTUs for large homes. However, the climate and facts about your home’s construction ultimately determine what size AC you need.
• The 124ANS is a compact central air conditioner ideal for use where space is limited such as on a patio or beneath a deck.
• Two Bryant AC models are designed to endure the salty environment of coastal regions: the Bryant Evolution 2-stage 187BNC and the 14 SEER single-stage Legacy 114CNC.

Bryant AC Cons

• While Bryant ACs offer good reliability, they are among the most expensive central air conditioners on the market.
• The company’s warranties are good, but there are better warranties on top models from Goodman, Amana, Maytag, Westinghouse and Heil.
• Most Bryant AC models are only sold through the company’s network of certified dealers. Learning about pricing is only possible by inviting a Bryant sales representative to your home.
• Even though Bryant is one of the top brands, several other brands make ACs that are more efficient than Bryant’s top 21 SEER AC, including the 26 SEER Lennox XC25, the 25.5 SEER Maytag PSA4BI and the 24.5 SEER Amana AVXC20

Model Comparison Guideline

Evolution Series

• Variable Speed Air Conditioner.
• Noise levels 56 dB.
• 19 SEER rating.
• Lowest operating costs from all the models.
• Essential for a Bryant dealer to install and service the equipment.
• 5-stage rotary compressor.

Preferred Series

• Two-stage air conditioner.
• Noise levels 72 dB.
• 17 SEER rating.
• Medium operating costs.
• Essential for a Bryant dealer to install and service the equipment.
• Two-stage scroll compressor.

Legacy Line

• Single-stage air conditioner.
• Noise levels 76 dB.
• Up to 16 SEER.
• Higher operating cost.
• Bryant dealer installation recommended but not necessary. A licensed contractor can perform the job.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Bryant AC

The first issue to consider is whether you need an AC or a Bryant heat pump. Heat pumps cost more than ACs. They also heat your home and do it more efficiently than a gas furnace. If you live in a moderate or warm climate, you’ll pay a bit more upfront for a heat pump and air handler combination than for an AC and furnace combination. Your heating bills will be lower.

The hotter your climate is, or if you want to cool your home as efficiently as possible regardless of climate, then a model like the Evolution 180B with 21 SEER is a good choice. In cooler climates, it isn’t cost-effective to buy a very efficient AC because the payback period can be at least ten years. As a rule, the longer you intend to live in your current home, the more it makes financial sense to install a high-efficiency Bryant AC.

For the best price on a Bryant AC, request written estimates from several companies, and let them know they’re competing for the job. Also, if you can have your AC installed in early spring or in the fall, you might get better pricing than during the peak of summer. Although a Bryant air conditioner might be worth the retail price, consumers should take advantage of getting the best price by installing it in the off-season.

Is a Bryant AC Right for Your Home?

Bryant air conditioner reviews have highlighted the pros and cons of the brand and the models that Bryant offers. Most of Bryant’s products cost more than its competition. Evolution and Preferred Series models offer very good durability for the money. If you’re willing to pay more for reliability you can trust, then a Bryant AC makes sense. If you’d prefer a lower cost, even at the expense of some durability, consider Goodman ACs.

Has this Bryant AC review been of use to you as you consider this brand? If so, perhaps your friends and followers would appreciate it if you’d pass it along to them to help them research an air conditioner for their home.

Our Carrier air conditioner reviews include information about the top models in good/better/best Carrier AC series, efficiency ratings and Carrier air conditioner pros and cons. If you want a premium central air conditioner, then Carrier should be on your short list of brands to consider.

Homeowners can also compare Carrier central air conditioners with other top brands we’ve reviewed like Trane and Goodman. However, its units are priced at the top of their classes, but the quality, reliability and durability are among the best too. This brand, launched by Willis Carrier in 1902, was independent for decades and is now a division of United Technologies Corporation along with subsidiary Bryant.

Carrier Brand Overview and Carrier Air Conditioner Reviews

The 17 Carrier AC models represent one of the largest lineups in the industry with Infinity (best), Performance (better) and Comfort (basic) lines.  You have choices for efficiency and indoor climate control performance to fit your local cooling. Also, there are dehumidifying requirements whether the AC will be used occasionally or you need a workhorse AC to combat the extreme summer day night heat and humidity. 

Carrier AC Technical Specifications

Here’s a detailed summary of the three Carrier AC lines and what they offer in efficiency, performance and value.

Note: SEER ratings are Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a rating like gas mileage. The less energy required for the cooling you desire, the more efficient the unit is, and the higher its SEER rating will be.

• Carrier single-stage AC models are the most affordable and range in efficiency from 13 SEER, the least efficient currently allowed by law, to 16 SEER.
• All Carrier Comfort Series air conditioners are single-stage because the compressor always runs at full capacity. Slight over-cooling can result at the end of the cycle.
• The top Carrier Comfort AC is the Comfort 16 24AAA6 with 16 SEER efficiency, good enough to be Energy Star rated.
• Carrier two-stage AC models run at low capacity most of the time. That means cooling and de-humidification are even more efficient than with single-stage models.
• Only one Carrier Performance Series AC has two-stage performance. This is the Performance 17 24ACB7 AC with a 17 SEER rating.
• There are three two-stage models in the top series: Carrier Infinity, with the top pick being the 21 SEER Infinity 21 24ANB1.
• Carrier’s top AC for indoor comfort is the variable-speed Infinity 19VS 24VNA9 with 19 SEER cooling and a compressor that modulates from about 40 to 100 percent capacity to cool with little temperature fluctuation so that it dehumidifies more effectively.

Model Comparison

24ANB1

• Tonnage 2-5.
• SEER 21.
• Noise levels 49 dB.
• BTU’s 24,000-60,000.
• Two-stage compressor.

24ACB7

• Tonnage 2-5.
• SEER 17.
• Noise levels 55dB.
• BTU’s 24,000-60,000.
• Two-stage compressor.

24AAA6

• Tonnage 1.5-5.
• SEER 16.
• Noise levels 62 dB.
• BTU’s 24,000-60,000.
• Single-stage Compressor.

Pros and Cons of Carrier Air Conditioners

As with all brands, there are good and bad points about the Carrier AC lineup.

Pros

• This brand’s Infinity Series and Performance Series are highly rated by consumers for quality and reliability.
• These two series will last up to 25 years when properly maintained.
• Carrier is a popular brand, so repair parts are widely available and can be serviced by any certified HVAC contractor, not just a Carrier dealer.
• There is a Carrier model for every climate – affordable Comfort Series ACs for cool climates and part-time use, 16-19 SEER models in all series for areas with warm but not extreme summers and the 21 SEER Infinity model for very hot climates.
• All Carrier AC models use Puron-branded R-410A refrigerant. This one is better for the environment than earlier formulas.
• Models are offered from 18,000 BTU (1.5 ton) sizes to 60,000 BTU (5 ton) sizes to cool up to about 2,500 square feet depending on climate, home layout and other factors.
• The Infinity 21 24ANB1 with 21 SEER efficiency is very efficient, but it is a two-stage model. That makes it more affordable than if it were variable speed. The model has been rated an excellent value by a leading consumer group.
• The Infinity 17 Coastal AC has an enhanced coating and other features designed for areas where sea spray is an issue. Also, it comes with a 5-year coastal corrosion warranty that is decent but not outstanding.
• The Performance 14 24AHA4 is a compact AC, requiring only 6” of clearance and can be stacked for multi-family housing.

Cons

• Despite being highly rated for durability, Carrier does not offer great warranties – 5 years on most Comfort models and 10 years on Infinity and some Performance models. Meanwhile, Goodman, Maytag, Heil and others have longer or more comprehensive warranties.
• Carrier AC models are the most expensive in their respective good (Comfort), better (Performance) and best (Infinity) classes. So, prices are not disclosed without having a salesperson at your home to provide a written estimate.
• Carrier was one of the first major brands to have variable-speed/modulating technology. It has fallen behind more efficient models from other brands like the 26 SEER Lennox XC25, the 25.5 SEER Maytag PSA4BI and the 24.5 SEER Amana AVXC20.

Things to Consider After the Carrier Air Conditioner Reviews

Know what your air conditioning priorities are before meeting with a Carrier salesperson:

• Do you want high efficiency for green cooling regardless of your climate? Or do you prefer to match the SEER rating needed for cost-effective cooling given how warm your summers are?
• Also, do you want improved climate control from a two-stage or the variable-speed 19VS 24VNA9? Or would you prefer to live with minor temperature fluctuations of a single-stage model that costs significantly less?

The proven strategy for getting the best price on a new AC or entire split system is to request estimates from three local companies and let them know they’re competing for the job.

Be sure that the salesperson does a sizing test for your home, so that the unit isn’t too small and won’t cool adequately or is too large and over-cools your home.

Carrier Air Conditioner Reviews Wrap-Up

Thanks for checking out our Carrier AC review. We trust it has been helpful. If so, please share it with your friends and followers on social media, and e-mail us with any questions or comments. They might benefit from our Carrier air conditioner reviews on this leading AC brand!

Image from depositphotos.com.

Trane is an HVAC unit reputable for being dependable and the highest in quality. Nevertheless, there may be times when maintenance and troubleshooting become necessary. On the Trane.com website, there is an easy step guide for troubleshooting that you can follow before calling your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ in case there might be a serious problem with your unit. This information will help the Trane Comfort Specialist™ have an idea of what the issue might be beforehand. It is not encouraged to try to maintain your HVAC system yourself, so noting the mentioned symptoms that are stated on the website is the best step to take before calling your Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advice.

Common Issues

1. No Cold Air

The possible basis for this problem could be a coil that is congested. To avoid this issue, keep the unit clear of any foliage or debris that might cause a blockage. Another possible cause could be the filter is congested with dirt and dust. Replace the filters regularly. If you are unsure of how often to change your filter or where the filter is located please consult your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting recommendations. Another possibility for no cold air is that your thermostat is not set properly. Try turning the thermostat off and then back on to see if that may help with the issue, then you can set it to the temperature that you desire for your home or business.

2. No Air Movement

A possible reason for no air movement is there blown fuse or an open circuit breaker. It is recommended to change the blown fuse or reset the circuit breaker to possibly fix this issue. Also, check the return grills for obstruction. If you are unsure of how or where to check, please consult your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advise.

3. System Running Constantly

It is probable that your thermostat is set higher than it should be. It is advised to turn the thermostat off and then back on and then correct it to a level that is comfortable for your home or business.

4. The Drain Pan Is Overflowing

The pan under the unit inside your home or business collects condensation which is supposed to be dispersed into a drainage pipe. If this is the problem, it is possible the electric pump that moves the water has become unplugged or there might be an obstruction in the pipe itself. Please consult your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advises if you need help with this problem.

Tools You’ll Need for the Job

• A battery powered drill – 18 volts minimum is recommended, with two batteries and a charger. A drill usually comes with a Phillips bit, but make sure you buy a 1/4″ hex bit for this is the most common kind of screw that would be used in HVAC repairs.

• Electric tester – with HVAC repairs, you will be working with live electrical power, so its best to have an electrical tester preferably one that can perform multiple functions such as having a multi-meter.

• Screwdrivers – Various sizes and types of screwdrivers will always is considered valuable. Screwdrivers with protected handles are the greatest choice so to make sure you are safe from electrical shock.

• Hex head nut drivers – Most HVAC systems are built and installed with hex-head screws and bolts. Three sizes are most common: 1/4″, 3/8″, and 5/16″.

Furnace Troubleshooting

1. Make Sure the Thermostat Is Set on Heat

It’s possible not to have the thermostat set properly so make sure to set it at a temperature that will turn the furnace on.

2. Check If the Filter Is Clean

A congested filter will limit the airflow of the furnace and although it will continue to run, it will run with less heat air flow and run less efficient.

3. Change the Thermostat Batteries

Although most thermostats are connected to the electrical system, some use batteries. If you are not sure, please call your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advise. The ones that do use batteries will flash a low-battery symbol when they need to be replaced.

4. Check the Gas Valve

First, make sure the valve is not set in the off position. If it happens to be on and if you have other appliances that run on gas, check to see if that is working to make sure you don’t have a problem with a gas line. If any of these issues are not easily fixed, please consult your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advise.

Caution Notes

• One bit of advice is to have a carbon monoxide detector with fresh batteries near the furnace always. Carbon monoxide, which is colorless and odorless can become an issue during repairing and/or maintaining your HVAC system.

• It’s also best to turn off the power switch when performing basic maintenance.

• If you have severe allergies, it is suggested to use permanent HEPA type filters. However, make sure they are cleaned regularly. Another way of controlling the allergens coming into your home or business is covering Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advise.

• Cover the duct with a filter. In the past, people have placed a piece of cheesecloth over the ducts, but companies now offer special types of filters that you can Velcro over the duct. Please ask your local Trane Comfort Specialist™ for Trane air conditioner troubleshooting advise about what is offered regarding this type of filter.

Conclusion

A knowledgeable and experienced homeowner in HVAC do it yourself maintenance and repairs will save money with this. They will have a healthier, more comfortable home especially by having the basic facts. It’s important to use these advised troubleshooting steps, as well as know when the issue is beyond your control. This may make you not need the assistance of a Trane Comfort Specialist™.

Are you ready to attempt maintenance on your HVAC system or does it seem it needs repair? Trane offers various ways to discuss or ask questions via their Facebook page, as well as their YouTube channel. There may be some of you who have been very successful in this adventure. In this case, you could share your experiences with others who are contemplating maintenance and repair on their system. Please feel free to do so and by keeping the communications lines open. Your advice may help another homeowner in a way you did not consider.

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When we’re asked how does a dehumidifier work, the questioner is either curious or is really asking why their dehumidifier isn’t working as it should. For both the inquisitive and frustrated, this post explains how a dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air.

The Steps section below details how a dehumidifier works and includes tips on what to do if it isn’t doing its job.  After reading this post, “How does a dehumidifier work,” you’ll both understand the process and how to get maximum benefit from your appliance.

Dehumidifier Steps and Solving Common Problems

Here’s an overview of the process. A dehumidifier works by pulling in moist air and condensing moisture out of it to dry the air. The unit contains tubing filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant is circulated by the compressor first to an evaporator where it collects heat from the air and then to a condenser where heat is squeezed out of it. But heat isn’t the issue. Moisture is.

The purpose of using refrigerant to capture heat from the air around the evaporator is to make the evaporator cold enough for moisture to condense on it. The condensed water drains into a collection bucket or drain tube. Voila, the air is dehumidified! Now, let’s break down “how does a dehumidifier work” steps and solve common dehumidifier problems.

Step 1. The Dehumidifier Pulls in Moist Air

A fan in the dehumidifier pulls humid air into the front of the appliance. If this isn’t happening, the most common problem is that the humidistat, indicating how dry you want the air, is set below the humidity level in the room. Turn it up, like turning up a thermostat until the furnace comes on, to make the dehumidifier start. If you turn it up all the way, and nothing happens:

• The collection tank is full, prohibiting the unit from turning on. Check and dump the tank, if needed.
• The air is drier than the driest setting on the humidistat, so the compressor won’t start circulating refrigerant.
• The fan or electrical components aren’t working and need repair.

Step 2. Refrigerant Captures Heat in the Evaporator

If warm air is being blown out the back of the dehumidifier, it is collecting heat as it should.

If the fan is running, but no heat is being removed from the air:

• Your unit might have a continuously running fan, but the humidistat setting is too low to cause the compressor to come on and start circulating refrigerant. Adjust the humidistat to a drier setting.
• The dehumidifier might be low on refrigerant, so it’s not collecting heat. It requires repair or replacing.

If the dehumidifier is working, but less effectively than it used to:

• The refrigerant might be slowly leaking out, so repair or replacement is needed.
• The air filter at the front of the dehumidifier might be dirty, reducing the intake of air. Take it out, and clean it.

Step 3. The Evaporator Gets Cold and Condenses Moisture

If the unit seems to be running normally, but little moisture is being condensed and collected or drained:

• Turn up the humidistat until the compressor starts (you might hear it come on)
• Check the evaporator, and clean it if it is covered with debris. Dirt prevents heat transfer.
• Check to see if the float that descends into the collection tank is stuck in the “up” position that automatically shuts off the compressor to prevent overflow. If it is, gently pull it down, and remove dirt and debris from the float arm to free up its movement.

Step 4. Moisture Drains into the Tank or Drain Hose

If the unit shuts off when the air is still humid:

• Empty the tank if it is full
• Turn the humidistat to a drier setting

If the dehumidifier leaks:

• Check to see if the float is stuck and not rising as the water rises. Turn off the dehumidifier, and gently push the float up. Clear debris from its arm that might be causing it to stick.
• The drain hole, if it has one, might be plugged by debris, preventing water from entering the drain line. Search for and clear a clogged drain hole.

Step 5. Warm, Dry Air Comes Out the Back

We addressed a failed fan in Step 1.

If the fan is running, but the airflow seems diminished, clean the air filter.

In case the air coming out is cool, review Steps 2 and 3.

If the air that comes out smells bad:

• Clean the filter if it is dirty.
• Replace the filter or clean it with an oxygen bleach solution if it is moldy.
• Empty the tank, and if it is moldy, clean it with an oxygen bleach solution

Tips for Maximum Dehumidifying

We’ve answered the basic question: “How does a dehumidifier work.” These tips will help you get the most from your unit.

• Check the filter every few days, and clean it as needed.
• If you have a drain hose attachment option, use it. This allows you to run the dehumidifier continuously. If you collect water in a tank, it will shut off when full, and you might not be able to empty it for hours or days. Simply make sure the hose runs to a floor drain.
• Keep doors and windows shut. If humid air from outside continuously flows into space, it will never be dehumidified.
• Run a vent hood fan when boiling liquid on the stove and the bathroom exhaust fan when taking a shower to remove humidity.
• In warm weather, run a central AC or window unit to assist with dehumidification. Air conditioning uses the same technology, except that an AC moves warm air to the outside of your home while dehumidifying the indoor air.
• If the space is below grade and humidity issues persist, contact a foundation specialist about damp-proofing your home’s basement or crawlspace.

Many homes have humidity issues that make them uncomfortable. When humidity leads to mold growth, the homes are unhealthy too. Many of your friends and social media followers probably wonder, “How does a dehumidifier work?” Passing along this post can help them, their families and pets live in a home that is comfortable and healthy.

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