Did you know that water is a scarce resource for 1.1 billion people worldwide? No wonder why water conservation is necessary. So the next time you start to throw away gallons of water from your dehumidifier’s tank, stop!
Instead, you can reuse this water for a bunch of different stuff, which is a brilliant way to do your part in saving water. In this post, we’ll discuss everything about dehumidifier water.
How Does a Dehumidifier Work And Collect Water
A dehumidifier works using the same principles as air conditioners do. It pulls in moisture-laden air from its surroundings with the help of a fan and passes it over some chilled coils.
As the air cools down, it is unable to hold moisture any longer. Hence, water droplets form as a result of condensation, leaving the air dry.
After this, the dehumidifier reheats the air and blows it out into your house, reducing the humidity level. And the condensate? It trickles down and collects in the dehumidifier’s tank, waiting for you to empty it.
You may also like: How to Reduce Condensation In Your Garage
Is Dehumidifier Water Distilled?
Dehumidifier water is not distilled, although it comes close to it. The way a dehumidifier can remove humidity from the air seems similar to how distillation works.
Distillation happens when water is boiled and turned into steam – a process that kills most pathogens. As water evaporates, it also leaves behind minerals and other contaminants. When the steam cools back into liquid form, it’s very pure and free from toxic stuff.
In contrast, your dehumidifier doesn’t boil the moisture in the air or turn it into steam. It simply draws it out from the air through condensation.
In short, dehumidifier water is free from minerals, which is why it’s similar to distilled water. But since it doesn’t undergo the same process, it’s not as pure and safe.
Read also: Should You Use Distilled Water in a Humidifier
Can You Drink Water from a Dehumidifier?
No, dehumidifier water is not drinkable, and there are many reasons behind this.
Bottled water or tap water undergoes filtration, boiling, and other processes that make it safe to drink. Unlike drinking water, dehumidifier water is simply condensed and collected, which is why it may contain airborne particles and pathogens.
Secondly, the coils that cool the air may leach metal into the water, making it toxic and dangerous. Moreover, water in the dehumidifier’s tank remains stagnant for quite some time, which could lead to bacteria and mold development.
See related: Humidifier Mold Prevention
Hence, dehumidifier water doesn’t qualify as safe to drink – not even for your pets. However, you can use it for other stuff that we’ll discuss below.
Can You Water Plants with Dehumidifier Water?
Even though dehumidifier water is not considered as potable water, it’s perfectly good and safe for watering the plants indoor and in your garden.
However, keep in mind that this water is free from minerals such as calcium and magnesium that your plants need to stay healthy. Only watering them with dehumidifier water can affect their well-being in the long run.
One solution is to use tap water along with dehumidifier water to balance things out. Even better is the idea of using this water for a hydroponic garden.
Tap water contains chlorine and other chemicals that harm plants in a hydroponic system. Hence, dehumidifier water, which is free from toxic chemicals, is great for hydroponic plants – just make sure you add enough nutrients and check its PH level before using.
Can you use dehumidifier water for laundry?
Yes, you can use dehumidifier water for hand-washing towels and other delicate laundry items. You can also use the water in your washing machine.
Other Ways To Use Dehumidifier Water
Can’t seem to find more uses for the gallons of water in your dehumidifier? Here’s a list that might help you.
Cleaning
If you have to clean some windows or mop the floor, use water from your dehumidifier instead of tap water. You can also add some bleach or vinegar in this water to make an antibacterial cleaning solution.
Use it to wipe windows, countertops, and even wash cars with it (skip the bleach for this!)
Appliances
Steam irons require a lot of water if you press clothes daily. And if you’ve used one before, you’d know that adding tap water causes mineral deposits in your expensive iron.
The solution? Dehumidifier water! Not only will you be conserving water but also saving your steam iron from the mineral mess.
Flushing
Another smart way to utilize dehumidifier water is to use it for flushing your toilet. All you’ll have to do is lift the lid at the back of your toilet and pour the water inside.
Painting
Feeling creative? Grab your paints and fill a container full of water from a dehumidifier. You can also use it to wash your paint brushes afterward.
Decor
If you’ve got flower vases or other decoration pieces that require water, go ahead and utilize dehumidifier water for filling them. You can use it to clean and wash these items as well.
Why is dehumidifier water yellow?
Yellow dehumidifier water is caused by mineral deposits that build up inside the dehumidifier. Especially hard water contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
Conclusion
How clean the air in your house is determines whether you can use dehumidifier water safely. For instance, you should use water from a basement dehumidifier only for flushing. If you’re sure the air is clean enough, you can use dehumidifier water for plants, laundry, flushing, cleaning, etc.