LG Dehumidifier: not filling up tank

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing issues with your LG dehumidifier where it runs but the water collection bucket remains empty? This could indicate low humidity, a faulty compressor, or airflow problems. Understanding these issues can help you address the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for LG Models

LG units may use a bucket float switch that when faulty prevents operation; troubleshooting often involves checking this switch continuity.

Possible Causes

Humidity already low or dehumidifier not needed

How to Identify: Measure room humidity with a hygrometer; levels below ~40–50% can mean little to no water is collected even if unit is working.

Part: Environmental/usage conditions

Faulty compressor or refrigerant issue

How to Identify: Unit runs without collecting water; no cold coils, lack of compressor operation sound; possible ice on coils.

Part: Compressor/Refrigerant system

Fan motor failure or restricted fan airflow

How to Identify: No or weak airflow from vents; dehumidifier runs but little air movement; check fan operation.

Part: Fan motor

DIY Solutions

Check humidity level and adjust usage

Easy 5–10 minutes

Tools Needed: hygrometer

Place hygrometer near unit and measure humidity.
If humidity below 40–50%, understand that the unit may not collect much water until humidity rises.
Adjust settings or wait until humidity increases before expecting water collection.

Clean or replace the air filter

Easy 10–15 minutes

Tools Needed: soft brush or vacuum, warm water (if washable)

Turn off and unplug the dehumidifier.
Locate and remove the air filter.
Clean the filter with a vacuum or rinse if washable; dry thoroughly.
Reinstall filter and run the unit.
Monitor water collection over next few cycles.

Ensure proper placement and ambient conditions

Easy 5–10 minutes

Move unit away from walls or obstructions to improve airflow.
Ensure room temperature is above ~15–18°C.
Keep doors/windows closed to maintain humidity.
Run the unit in a space that matches its design (moderately humid space).

Next step

Choose the next step for not filling up tank

Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.

Check during diagnosis

Most relevant component to inspect

Compressor

Compresses refrigerant within the sealed cooling system and requires specialized service equipment.

Typical part-only price: $180 - $600
DIY difficulty: Hard
Estimated time: 120-240 mins

Optional: enter your model number

Where can I find the model number?

Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.

Find a part that fits my model

Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.

Other parts options

Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.

Model number required

Model-compatible Dehumidifier parts

Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.

Find a part that fits my model

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Professional Repairs

Replace float switch or bucket sensor

Estimated Cost: $20 - $50

Service or replace compressor/refrigerant components

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

Replace fan motor

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Unit runs but no water collected after basic troubleshooting

Unusual noises (grinding, loud humming) accompany failure to collect water

Visible ice build-up on coils or refrigerant issues suspected

Preventive Maintenance

Regularly clean air filter: Airflow restriction reducing water collection
Frequency: monthly during use
Monitor operating environment humidity and temperature: Reduced or no collection due to environmental conditions
Frequency: ongoing

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Dehumidifier not filling up tank?

Common causes include low humidity levels, a faulty compressor, or restricted airflow.

How do I fix LG Dehumidifier not filling up tank myself?

Check humidity levels, clean the air filter, and ensure proper placement for optimal airflow.

How much does it cost to fix not filling up tank?

Repair costs range from $20 for float switch replacement to $500+ for compressor servicing.

When should I call a technician for not filling up tank?

Consider professional help if DIY solutions fail or if you suspect compressor or fan motor issues.

References & Sources

Reasons why your dehumidifier is not collecting water Community
Why is my dehumidifier not collecting water? Community

Community Analytical Insights

Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions

Common Issues Reported by Users

Coils are frozen due to low ambient temperature or high humidity levels
Dirty air filter restricting airflow
Faulty humidity sensor not detecting moisture levels

User Suggested Solutions

Check and adjust the ambient temperature and humidity levels. Ensure the dehumidifier is in a suitable environment (above 65°F) and not placed in a corner or enclosed space. Allow the unit to thaw if frozen.
Inspect and clean the air filter. Remove the filter and wash it under warm water, then allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.
Test the humidity sensor using a multimeter. If it’s faulty, replace it with a new one. If unsure, consult the user manual for specific testing instructions.

Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
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