Dehumidifier displays E5 and will not dehumidify

Safety: Unplug the unit. Capacitors can hold a charge; discharge them properly or have a technician handle testing.

Steps:

• Basic reset: Unplug for 10–15 minutes, then plug back in. If E5 reappears immediately when the compressor tries to start, continue.
• Access compressor compartment: Remove the rear or side panel to expose the compressor and electrical box (usually a plastic cover on the side of the compressor).
• Inspect wiring: Look for burnt connectors, melted insulation, or a burnt smell around the compressor terminals and control board.
• Check start components: Remove the compressor terminal cover. Identify the PTC start relay and any run capacitor. Inspect for cracks, bulging, or burn marks.
• Test the capacitor: Using a multimeter with capacitance mode (and after discharging the capacitor), measure its value and compare to the rating printed on the part. Replace if out of tolerance.
• Test compressor windings: With the unit unplugged and wires removed from the compressor terminals, measure resistance between the three pins (C, S, R). Look for reasonable, non-zero values and no shorts to ground. A shorted or open winding indicates a failed compressor.
• Replace faulty parts: If the PTC relay or capacitor is defective, replace with Sunbeam-compatible parts of the same rating. Reassemble and test.
• Control board: If start components and compressor test good but E5 persists, the main control board relay or triac may be faulty and require replacement.
• Note: Compressor replacement is complex and usually not economical on small dehumidifiers; consult a professional.