Fixing domestic dehumidifiers

[chainsaw_louie]

I've been reading through some of these drying forum threads and two things seem clear: 

a. that a lot of folks are using domestic dehumidifiers to help dry lumber and 

b. Those units aren't really designed for this heavy use and don't last very long.

Also , I often see these DH units thrown out in the trash behind buildings waiting to pumped free of Freon and disposed of. 

Here is an excellent video on some simple steps to fix a DH by 
- replacing a bad electrical thermal switch to fix a non-running compressor and 
- adding a Freon fill valve and pumping in a little R410 refrigerant available from an auto parts store . 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FhaZJTZJMIg&pp=ygUcRG9tZXN0aWMgZGVodW1pZGlmaWVyIHJlcGFpcg%3D%3D

[KenMac]

There's actually a little more to it than he showed. Getting the charge right is not that simple but if replacing is your other option you don't have much to lose.

[Freedy201]

KenMac's right, getting the charge right can be tricky. But if it's headed for the trash anyway, it's worth a shot. Just be careful not to overdo the R410.