5 Ways to Prepare Your NXT Dehumidifier for Summer
Note: This blog post provides instructions for WatchDog NXT dehumidifiers only, which includes NXT60, NXT85, NXT85c, NXT120, and NXT120c. For instructions regarding 1st generation dehumidifiers, click here.
In most cases, your dehumidifier does not get as much use during the winter as it does during the warmer spring and summer months. In fact, if you live in the Northern United States, hopefully, your WatchDog dehumidifier was turned off to protect it from freezing temperatures. In more moderate climates, this approach isn’t necessary, however, warmer weather still means increased usage. This makes it an ideal time to check on your dehumidifier before humidity kicks in. Here are 5 ways to get your dehumidifier ready for summer:
1. Check the Drain Line
The first thing to do to prep your dehumidifier for summer is verify that the drain line is not blocked or kinked in any section inside or outside the crawl space. For instance, if water was accidentally left in the drain line over the winter, it’s possible that it might have frozen and damaged the drain tube. If there are any issues with the drain line, fix them prior to moving on to step 2.
2. Clean the Coils
Checking on your dehumidifier after the winter is a great time to perform annual maintenance, which includes cleaning the coils, checking the filter, and cleaning the drain. To clean the coils, you will need an approved coil cleaner spray like this one- WEB Coil Cleaner
- Remove the magnetic filter strips
- Slide out the filters
- Evenly spray coils with self-foaming coil cleaner
3. Check the Filter
The next step is to check the filter on the dehumidifier to see if it needs replacing or cleaning. All NXT models come standard with a pre-filter and a MERV-10 filter. The pre-filter is washable with the MERV-10 and other optional filters (carbon and HEPA) are not. Simply replace these filters as necessary.
4. Clean the Gravity Drain or Pump
Once the filter is taken care of, it’s time to clean the pump (85c + 120c) or gravity drain (60, 85, + 120) on your WatchDog. No matter which model you have, you will first need to make a cleaning solution:
Option #1- {1 oz bleach + 15 oz water} // Option #2- {4 oz bleach + 12 oz water}
Gravity Drain Models
- Remove the magnetic filter strips
- Slide out the filters
- Slowly pour the cleaning solution into the drain tray
- Let soak for 10-15 minutes
- Pour 16 ounces of clean water into drain tray
Condensate Pump Models
- Remove the magnetic filter strips
- Slide out the filters
- Slowly pour the cleaning solution into the drain tray
- Let soak for 10-15 minutes
- Pour clean water into the drain tray until you hear the pump activate twice (approx. 16 ounces)
5. Performance Check
At this point, it’s time to do a quick performance test of the dehumidifier. This is helpful to do prior to leaving the crawl space so you can ensure there was no damage over the winter and that everything is in the correct position after maintenance. To test the dehumidifier, simply turn the unit on and let it run for 10-15 minutes. During the test, make sure the set point is below the actual humidity level in the space so you can see the dehumidifier running.
Looking for more detailed instructions? Check out our how to guides page for step by step instructions.