Russell Hobbs Microbial Growth on Evaporator and in Water Tank

Dehumidifier emits a musty or mouldy smell from the air outlet

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Possible Causes

Dirty evaporator coil, Stagnant water in tank, Infrequent cleaning of tank and filter, High organic dust load in room

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the unit before cleaning. Do not spray water directly into electrical components.

Steps:

  • Clean water tank: Remove the tank and wash thoroughly with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse and dry. For heavy odours, use a diluted white vinegar solution, then rinse.
  • Clean filter: Wash the air filter and allow it to dry completely.
  • Clean evaporator: Remove the cover to access the evaporator coil. Use a soft brush and vacuum to remove dust. Then apply a non‑corrosive coil cleaner or a mild disinfectant spray designed for HVAC coils. Let it dry fully before reassembly.
  • Run in fan mode: After cleaning, run the unit in fan‑only mode (if available) for 30–60 minutes to dry internal surfaces.
  • Regular maintenance: Empty and rinse the tank daily in heavy use, and clean the filter every 2–4 weeks.
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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5

Required Part

Evaporator Coil
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