How Long Do Dehumidifiers Last?

Like all machinery, dehumidifiers have a limited lifespan. Commercial dehumidifiers typically last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the type and quality of the unit. To maximize the life of your dehumidifier, it is important to maintain it. Be sure to regularly change the air filter, clean the condensate coil and exhaust grille, and empty and clean the water bucket.

In many commercial and industrial settings, optimal humidity levels should be maintained so as to preserve assets, ensure comfort, and promote health. Whether you're managing a warehouse, operating a gym, or maintaining a large basement, a reliable commercial dehumidifier is an essential piece of equipment. This guide will explore the factors affecting dehumidifier longevity, and provide tips for maximizing their lifespan.

What Affects Dehumidifier Lifespan?

Several key factors influence how long a dehumidifier will continue to function effectively:

Usage Frequency And Intensity

Dehumidifiers that run constantly in high-humidity environments will typically wear out faster than those used occasionally in moderately damp spaces. The demands placed on the compressor, fan, and other components in heavy-use scenarios can accelerate wear and tear. With continuous operation, the lifespan of dehumidifiers is reduced by 30-50% compared to intermittent use. Units operating in high-humidity environments (over 70% relative humidity) may experience a 20-30% reduction in lifespan due to increased component strain. The compressor, which typically accounts for 40% of a dehumidifier's energy consumption, is particularly vulnerable to wear from constant use.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning and proper upkeep can significantly extend a unit's operational life. This includes routine tasks such as filter cleaning or replacement, coil cleaning, and ensuring proper drainage. Regular upkeep can potentially extend a unit's life by up to 40%. Simple actions like changing filters every 3-6 months can improve efficiency by 5-15% and reduce wear on internal components, while annual professional servicing can add 2-3 years to operational life

Environmental Conditions

Extremely dusty or dirty environments can strain a dehumidifier's components, potentially shortening its lifespan. Dust and debris can clog filters, reduce airflow, and force the unit to work harder, leading to premature wear. For instance, dusty environments can reduce filter efficiency by up to 50% within a month, increasing strain on the unit and operating outside the recommended temperature range (typically 65-80°F) can reduce efficiency by 10-20% and accelerate wear.

Quality of Construction

Higher-quality units, like those offered by Aloraircommercial, are built to withstand heavy use and last longer than budget models. Robust components, durable materials, and thoughtful design contribute to extended longevity.

Power Supply Stability

Frequent power fluctuations or outages can stress the electrical components of a dehumidifier, potentially reducing its lifespan. Voltage fluctuations of ±10% potentially reduce compressor lifespan by up to 20%.

What is the Lifespan of Dehumidifiers?

The lifespan of a dehumidifier varies depending on its type and intended use

Portable dehumidifiers are units often used in residential settings that typically last around 5 years with proper care and maintenance. However, their lifespan can be shorter in commercial applications due to increased usage and more demanding environments.

Commercial grade dehumidifier, on the other hand, are high-quality commercial units, such as those in the Aloraircommercial Storm series that are built for durability and can last 10-15 years or more with proper maintenance. These industrial dehumidifiers are designed to withstand continuous operation in demanding environments. Their robust construction and advanced features contribute to their extended lifespan.

Whole-house dehumidifiers are systems that are integrated into a building's HVAC system and can last 8-15 years depending on usage and maintenance. While not typically used in commercial settings, their lifespan provides a good benchmark for what's possible with proper care and high-quality construction.

Tips for Extending Your Dehumidifier's Life

To maximize the lifespan of your commercial dehumidifier, consider these maintenance tips:

1. Clean or replace filters regularly: Most Aloraircommercial models use MERV-8 filters, which should be checked monthly and replaced as needed. This simple step can significantly improve performance and longevity by ensuring proper airflow and reducing strain on the unit.
2. Keep the coils clean: Dust and debris can accumulate on the coils, reducing efficiency and forcing the unit to work harder. Clean them periodically with a soft brush or vacuum to maintain optimal heat exchange.
3. Check and clean the water collection bucket or dehumidifier with drain hose: Ensure proper water drainage to prevent overflow and potential damage. Regularly inspect and clean the drainage system to prevent clogs and bacterial growth.
4. Maintain proper airflow: Keep the area around the dehumidifier clear to allow for optimal air circulation. This helps the unit operate more efficiently and reduces strain on its components.
5. Use a humidity controller: This can prevent unnecessary operation and extend the unit's life by ensuring it only runs when needed.
6. Perform regular inspections: Routinely check for any signs of wear, unusual noises, or decreased performance. Early detection of issues can prevent more serious problems down the line.

How Do I Know When To Replace My Dehumidifier?

When a dehumidifier is no longer effective in reducing humidity, it usually needs to be replaced. If your dehumidifier fails to maintain desired humidity levels despite regular maintenance, this is a clear sign that the dehumidifier is losing efficiency. 

Signs of this include a dehumidifier that continues to run without collecting water, makes unusual noises, smells musty despite running, or shows obvious signs of wear and tear, such as rust or leaks. 

• Decreased efficiency: If your unit is running constantly but not effectively reducing humidity, it may be losing its effectiveness. This could indicate worn-out components or refrigerant leaks.
• Unusual noises: Grinding, rattling, or excessively loud operation can indicate worn-out components such as the compressor or fan motor.
• Frequent breakdowns: If repair costs are mounting, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new unit. Consider the cumulative cost of repairs against the price of a new, more efficient model.
• Visible damage: Cracks, rust, or other structural issues can compromise performance and safety. These problems are often not economically viable to repair.
• Age: If your commercial dehumidifier is approaching or exceeding its expected lifespan, consider proactively replacing it to avoid unexpected downtime.
• Increased energy consumption: If you notice a significant increase in energy bills without a corresponding increase in usage, your dehumidifier may be operating inefficiently.

In general, dehumidifiers should be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on use and maintenance.

Why Choose Aloraircommercial Dehumidifiers

When considering a dehumidifier replacement or equipping a new space with a dehumidifier, Aloraircommercial is the best choice for commercial-grade equipment. These dehumidifiers are built with durability in mind, featuring rugged metal housings and high-quality components that can withstand the rigours of commercial and industrial environments. By minimising component strain, both operating costs are reduced and service life is extended.

Aloraircommercial dehumidifiers are also equipped with advanced features such as smart WiFi control, auto shut-off and a built-in pump, making them easy to use in a variety of environments.

Also, Aloraircommercial dehumidifiers come with warranties ranging from 1 to 5 years on different parts. There may be some variations between models. You can find detailed warranty information in the user manual.

For example, the owner's manual for the Strom LGR Extreme states its warranty policy as ‘Six (6) months parts and labour warranty. This includes shipping charges for replacement parts or equipment. One (1) year parts and labour warranty. This does not include freight charges to return a defective product for repair or replacement. Three (3) year parts and labour warranty for refrigeration systems (compressor, condenser and evaporator) only. This does not include freight charges. Five (5) year parts and labour warranty for refrigeration systems (compressor, condenser and evaporator) only. Shipping costs are not included.

Trust me choosing Aloraircommercial is a solid business. If you are interested you can visit our website by clicking here, and we have products on sale that you can learn about as well.

Conclusion

While the average lifespan of a commercial dehumidifier can vary, choosing a high-quality unit and maintaining it properly can significantly extend its useful life. By investing in a robust, efficient model like those offered by Aloraircommercial, and following a consistent maintenance routine, you can ensure your commercial space remains comfortably dry for years to come.

Remember, the cost of a quality dehumidifier is an investment in your property and the health of its occupants. The long-term benefits of effective humidity control, including reduced risk of mould growth, improved air quality, and protection of valuable assets, far outweigh the initial purchase price. Don't wait until your current unit fails – explore Aloraircommercial's range of commercial dehumidifiers today and experience the difference that superior humidity control can make in your space.

FAQs

Why Do Dehumidifiers Stop Working?

There are a variety of reasons why dehumidifiers stop working. Common problems include blocked airflow due to a clogged filter, a faulty compressor, low refrigerant levels or a faulty humidity regulator. Additionally, ice build-up on the coils can cause the unit to stop working, especially in cold environments. Electrical problems such as blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers can also cause the unit to stop working. Compressor Failure or Refrigerant Problems, The compressor is the workhorse of the dehumidifier, and if it fails, dehumidification stops. Similarly, refrigerant leaks or problems can cause the dehumidification process to stop. These problems usually require professional repairs.

Why Don't Dehumidifiers Last Very Long?

The service life of a dehumidifier may be shortened due to factors such as constant use, environmental conditions, and lack of maintenance. If the unit is not maintained on a regular basis (e.g. emptied or cleaned), it may clog and eventually shorten its service life. Dehumidifiers tend to wear out faster in areas with high humidity or high usage. Additionally, failing to perform regular maintenance on the unit, such as cleaning filters, checking coils, and ensuring proper drainage, can put more stress on the components, causing them to fail prematurely. Finally, lesser-quality models may use less durable parts, leading to a shorter lifespan. To learn exactly how to maintain and clean a dehumidifier you can read this article: How to Clean Your Dehumidifier: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide