How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the unit. High voltage and stored charge are present in the compressor circuit.

Steps:

Listen for attempts: When the unit calls for dehumidification, listen for clicking from the relay and a brief hum from the compressor. Rapid clicking or no hum suggests a start circuit issue.
Access compressor components: Remove the rear panel to expose the compressor, start relay, and overload.
Inspect relay/overload: Remove the relay/overload assembly and check for burn marks or rattling. Replace if damaged or out of spec.
Test compressor windings: With a multimeter, verify proper resistance between compressor terminals and no short to ground. If windings are open or shorted, the compressor is failed.

Recommendation: If the compressor itself is defective, replacing the dehumidifier is usually more economical than sealed system repair.

Dehumidifier fan runs but compressor never starts; air is not cooled and little water is collected.

Possible Causes