How long does a dehumidifier last? This is a question we get all the time but a legitimate one nonetheless. According to a National Association of Home Builders study, the average lifespan of a dehumidifier is about eight years depending on the amount of wear and tear it receives.
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY ABOUT THE LIFESPAN OF DEHUMIDIFIERS
The study results were based on surveys of researchers, trade associations, and manufacturers. Some even say that the typical dehumidifier lasts three to five years when used consistently. It’s a safe bet to say that the average dehumidifier lasts anywhere from three to eight years depending on its brand, cleaning regimen, and amount of usage.
REGULAR CLEANING AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICING CAN EXTEND YOUR DEHUMIDIFIER’S LIFESPAN
Regular cleaning and professional servicing are key to extending your dehumidifier’s lifespan. By removing dust and debris from the unit, you prevent it from working harder than necessary, which makes it easier to use for longer periods. This simple maintenance helps your unit operate efficiently and reliably for years to come.
Your dehumidifier’s lifespan also depends on how you use it. If you rely on your dehumidifier year-round, as many do in the consistently damp climates of Oregon and Washington, it’s especially important to stay on top of maintenance. Additionally, if the unit’s size is too small for the space, it will have to work twice as hard to keep up, which can significantly shorten its lifespan. Therefore, it is best to ask an HVAC professional to ensure you’re buying the right-sized dehumidifier for your home.
DON’T FORGET TO REPLACE OR CLEAN THE FILTER FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE
Dehumidifiers require little maintenance. You’ll have to change them once or twice a year which is a minimal expense. You’ll also want to have them cleaned regularly. This removes dust and debris from the unit, making it easier to use for longer periods of time.
How long does a dehumidifier last? This is a question we get all the time, and for good reason. According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, the average lifespan of a dehumidifier is about eight years, though this can vary based on usage and overall wear and tear.
To provide a more complete and trustworthy answer, we’ve compiled expert insight from experienced HVAC technicians. In this guide, we’ll explore how long dehumidifiers typically last, the key factors that influence their longevity, and practical maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your unit.
KEY FACTORS THAT CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR DEHUMIDIFIER’S LIFESPAN
Usage Intensity: In damp climates like ours in coastal Oregon and Western Washington, your dehumidifier may need to run more frequently, putting extra stress on the motor and components. This extra stress is often caused by issues like freezing coils and excessive auto-defrosting. Running the unit constantly, as opposed to occasional use, will shorten its lifespan.
Maintenance Frequency: Over time, dust and mold can clog the air filter and coils, forcing the unit to work harder and less efficiently. This strain can lead to premature failure if not addressed. Regular cleaning of its filter, coil, water tank and drain hose is important in our humid Pacific Northwest. This ensures that your dehumidifier runs efficiently, consuming less energy and removing excessive moisture effectively.
Environmental Conditions: The consistently high humidity in many parts of the region means your dehumidifier is constantly working to pull moisture from the air. This constant operation, combined with cool temperatures and a high level of dust and dirt in the air, can affect the unit’s performance and longevity.
Dehumidifier HVAC Integration: Yes, you can add a dehumidifier to your existing HVAC system, and in most cases, the best option is a whole-home dehumidifier. When integrated properly, it helps maintain healthier indoor air quality throughout your home while also taking some of the strain off the dehumidifier itself.
For homeowners in the Pacific Northwest, where mold, mildew and indoor air quality issues are common due to prolonged rainy seasons, HVAC-integrated dehumidifiers offer a long-term, low-maintenance solution that portable units simply can’t match. However, it is important to understand that improper installation can lead to poor performance and reduced HVAC efficiency. It is therefore always recommended to ask for a professional assessment from qualified HVAC technicians for dehumidifier compatibility, placement, ductwork integration and system interlocking.
Brand Quality: When choosing a dehumidifier, brand quality is an important factor that influences its lifespan. At APEX Air, we stand by Bryant whole-home dehumidifiers. These units are made with corrosion-resistant materials and are designed to run quietly, so they’re both durable and easy to live with. Bryant backs their dehumidifiers with a 5-year limited parts warranty for the original owner — a clear sign they stand behind the product’s durability and overall quality.