Making the Right Choice: Selecting the Suitable Dehumidifier Filter

Any appliance that comes with an air filter must have a consistent cleaning routine. Keeping the air filters clean and free from the accumulation of dust is crucial. Dehumidifier filters, air conditioner filters, and air purifier filters trap a ton of dust, pollen, mold spores, mildew, bacteria, and even other allergens of all kinds. It is important to understand how the air filter works and to keep it clean to maintain healthy air circulation across the home.

In this article, we will discuss the different dehumidifier filter types that one can find in commercial and residential dehumidifiers. We will also look at the best cleaning routine followed for a washable filter to ensure it works to its perfection as it deals with moisture-filled air. Despite the best brand or unit, you must maintain the dehumidifier filter to keep enhance its efficiency and to make sure it cleans the air that you breathe in effectively.

Types of dehumidifier filters

All products have differences in each type. The same goes for a dehumidifier filter. Depending on the size and function of the appliance in moisture extraction, a dehumidifier filter might vary in type. The following are the different types of dehumidifier air filters. You can choose the appliance to suit your preference in the type of air filter you need.

Mesh filters

A mesh filter is a common type of air filter that can be seen in a commercial or residential unit. The size, width, and depth of the mesh filter, and the products with which it is made can differ based on the brand and type of appliance.

You might find metal mesh, polyester mesh, disposable, and replacement types as well. One can simply remove them and fit them back into the frame. Mesh filters can effectively trap dust, pollen, pet dander, mold and mildew, and sometimes even bacteria.

Carbon filters

Some dehumidifier air filters come with a carbon filter. When you choose a unit with this type of air filter you can be confident that you will breathe in air that is not just free from air, rather it is also free from unpleasant odors, smoke, gases, and volatile organic compounds.

HEPA filters

HEPA or high-efficiency particulate absorption air filters are the most efficient type of filter. This type of filtration has multiple tiny pleats that are designed to trap particulate dust matter. Bacteria and microscopic mold and mildew can be trapped in a HEPA filter.

How to clean and replace dehumidifier filters

Always remember that cleaning or replacing any air filter must be done at the first sign of trouble and not weeks later. Devices that deal with moisture and air, like dehumidifiers, require consistent care. It is not just important for out o choose the right size and best brand of dehumidifiers, but you must also follow the steps when it comes to a cleaning routine. The following are the different steps to practice in cleaning and replacing your air filter.

1. Remove the panel

The rear of the dehumidifier will have a panel with a finger grip slot to remove the panel. The panel with the dehumidifier filter can be easily removed in almost all models.

2. Dehumidifier filter

On the other side of the panel, you will find the dehumidifier filter, which will also easily slide in and out. If you notice dust buildup on the air filter, it means it is time to clean the washable filter.

3. Cleaning

Remember to clean the washable filter gently. You can run it over warm water or even soapy water. Using a brush gently to remove all traces of dust from the filter is also suggested.

You can vacuum the filter as well to thoroughly remove all dust. Wait until the dehumidifier filter is completely dry before you replace it back into the unit.

Frequency of cleaning and replacing

How often you must clean your washable filter or how often it requires replacement will depend entirely on the usage and the environment. Homes or closets that are already filled with a ton of dust will require cleaning more often than a clean dust-free home.

The space that the dehumidifier is placed in, along with environmental factors like moisture and humidity, will determine the number of times the air filter will need cleaning. It is recommended that you clean the filter once a few or once in two weeks. Irrespective of how clean the home is, any air filter works to pick up invisible particulate matter that can be removed when cleaned often.

Signs that it’s time to replace your dehumidifier filter

There are a few signs that will indicate when it is time to change the filet. When you pay close attention to these signs and clean the filter at the earliest, you can be sure to enhance the delivery and performance of the unit.

Reduced airflow

If you notice that the airflow coming through the device has reduced significantly compared to the delivery of air from regular use, it is time to check the filter and clean it. The blocked air filter will reduce the airflow.

Increased noise level

Is there an increase in the noise level of your dehumidifier while operating? Clean the filter and use the unit to rule out troubles that spark from a blocked air filter.

Ineffective dehumidification

Any drop in the delivery and performance of the unit, or a decline in moisture extraction can be due to air filters that are unclean and blocked with dust. If the air filter is clean and the moisture extraction is still poor, you must check the other parts of the unit.

Odor

If your home continues to have a musty odor despite running a dehumidifier with excellent features, it could indicate that the air filter is blocked and not performing as it should.

Tips for maintaining your dehumidifier filter

Maintaining the dehumidifier filter is simple. It is a simple part of the unit that needs consistent care that is also easy to follow.

• If your dehumidifier unit has a washable filter, clean it regularly (a couple of times a week or depending on your use of the device and dust accumulation). If the filter requires replacement because it is beyond repair or ill-equipped for use, replace the filter.
• Remember to store the filter properly in an air-tight wrap when not in use. The filter must not be wet, damp, or dirty when it is being sent to storage or when not in use.

What happens if dehumidifier filter is dirty?

A dehumidifier filter that is dirty will pick up more allergens and diseases. The depth of the dust accumulation will just reduce the efficiency of the features built into the dehumidifier’s filter, but will also be a source of respiratory infections and diseases.

When you notice a decline in the efficiency of the device, it is time to clean the filter at the earliest.

Choosing the right size and type of filter for your dehumidifier

Selecting the right size and type of dehumidifier filter will depend on the brand and model. Different models from different brands will have features specific to them. To find the right dehumidifier filter you just take a careful look at the manual to learn what is required.

Where to find dehumidifier filters?

It is not difficult to find the dehumidifier filter for your unit. You can visit any reputable retailer or manufacturer to get the specific filter for the brand and model you own. There are also several o line shopping options available to find the filter that your unit needs. Remember that is important to never compromise on the compatibility and the quality of the filter.

Best Dehumidifier Filters

1. Quest MERV 8 Dehumidifier Filter

If you have a Quest dehumidifier at home and are in need of a replacement filter, this standard MERV-8 dehumidifier filter is the best choice. It ensures the peak efficiency of your Quest dehumidifiers by keeping the air clean and dry.

This MERV-8 filter is constructed with pleated fabric. It is designed to remove small airborne allergens and particles, even as small as 3 microns. This size includes mold spores as well, which enhances the efficiency of Quest dehumidifiers in fighting against mold.

The MERV-8 filter is compatible with Quest Dual 110 Dehumidifier and Quest Dual 150 Dehumidifier. The brand reminds its customers to check the filter every once in 6 months time to ensure the efficiency of the filters and the device.

2. PUREBURG HEPA Filter

The next product that we have on the list is a high-quality replacement HEPA filter set. This model is a dully compatible design with Afloia(AQ8/Q8), Honati, Hysure Q7, and Tenergy Sorbi 2-in-1 Dehumidifier (1000 ml). This HEPA filter set is one of the best filters for dehumidifiers capable of removing large and small airborne particles, dust, pollutants, allergens, chemical volatile organic compounds, and even tobacco smoke.

If you are looking for the best filter to keep the air and unit clean and guarantee that you will breathe in the fresh air, you can use models with HEPA filters. Cleaning any HEPA filter is easy. You can gently vacuum the filter or simply remove the dust using a soft brush once a month.

3. Santa Fe Compact Dehumidifier MERV 13 Filter Set

The last dehumidifier filter that we have here is the Santa Fe Compact Dehumidifier MERV 13 Filter Set. This filter set is built to keep operating a Sant Fe crawl space dehumidifier to the best of its efficiency. This model comes with a 5-filter replacement set that includes 4 MERV 13 filters plus 1 pre-filter.

This model is compatible with Santa Fe Compact2 and Conpact70 Crawl Space Dehumidifier and Santa Fe Element2 Crawl Space Dehumidifier.

Wrapping Up

With this, we have reached the end of the article. Remember the importance of using a dehumidifier filter with seamless maintenance to keep the unit working without any hiccups. Follow a simple and effective routine to clean the filters to protect the space from dust and all types of airborne allergens and pollutants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the filter on your dehumidifier?

Most dehumidifier air filters are located behind the front grille. They can be easily removed from the panel and replaced back inside after cleaning.

2. How often to change the AC dehumidifier filter?

Experts recommend changing an AC dehumidifier filter once in 12 months.

3. Can you wash a dehumidifier filter?

Yes, you can wash a dehumidifier filter if the model has a washable filter. You can use Warm soapy water to gently wash the filter. You can also use a soft bristles brush or vacuum to thoroughly remove all the accumulated dust and dirt.

4. How long do HEPA filters last in dehumidifiers?

Although it is suggested to replace HEPA filters once in 6 months, if you have a HEPA filter that has been left unused it can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years.

5. How to take filter out of dehumidifier?

To take the filter out of your dehumidifier, you simply have to take the panel out using the finger slot. The filter will smoothly glide out of the grille.

6. Does dehumidifier filter air?

A dehumidifier is a high-capacity device that is specially designed for moisture extraction. Along with moisture extraction, it can also keep removing the pollutants in the surrounding. Dehudmifers have high-efficiency air filters in theme o facilitate this process; like HEPA and MERV.

However, a dehumidifier is different from an air filter, a device that is specifically designed only to filter air.

7. Can you put a HEPA filter on the dehumidifier?

If the dehumidifier model supports a HEPA filter, you can use a HEPA filter for the unit. Various models of dehumidifiers come with different types of filters. The features of these filters might also be different. If the user manual of your unit mentions that you can use a replacement HEPA filter on your device, you might do so. Make sure to use only a compatible model of HEPA filter for the unit to boost its performance.