You should never drink water from a dehumidifier due to safety concerns and potential health risks. Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air but are not designed to purify the water they collect. As a result, the water in the collection tank may contain contaminants, bacteria, and harmful substances. Various studies, including one published in the journal "Science of The Total Environment" in 2020, highlight the presence of heavy metals and microorganisms in dehumidifier water.
Airborne contaminants, such as dust, mold spores, and allergens, can be trapped in the water, making it unsafe to consume. Dehumidifiers may also contain chemical refrigerants, lubricants, or other substances that could leak into the water. Drinking water with these contaminants may lead to gastrointestinal issues, infections, or other health problems.
To ensure safe drinking water, it is essential to use a source that has undergone proper treatment and purification processes, such as tap water, filtered water, or bottled water.
Although dehumidifiers and distillers both involve the process of condensation, they are not the same, and dehumidifier water should not be considered distilled. Distillation is a process where water is heated until it turns into steam, which is then collected and condensed into liquid form. This process effectively removes impurities and contaminants, resulting in purified water.
In contrast, dehumidifiers collect water by condensing moisture from the air without the rigorous purification process involved in distillation. This process involves passing warm moist air across refrigerant-filled coils, effectively cooling the air and causing the moisture to condense. As a result, dehumidifier water may contain impurities and contaminants unsuitable for some applications where purity is crucial, such as consumption, in medical settings, or for use in sensitive electronic equipment.
While dehumidifier water is not suitable for consumption, there are other non-consumption uses for this water. Some potential uses include:
Watering plants: Dehumidifier water can be used to water plants if you ensure the water does not contain harmful chemicals or substances that could damage the plants. It is recommended to use this water for outdoor plants rather than indoor plants, as outdoor plants are generally more resilient to potential contaminants.
Flushing toilets: Dehumidifier water can be used to flush toilets, helping conserve water and reduce water usage.
Cleaning outdoor surfaces: The water collected from a dehumidifier can be used for cleaning outdoor surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, or patio furniture. However, ensuring the water does not contain harmful chemicals or substances that could damage these surfaces is essential.
When using dehumidifier water for any purpose, monitoring the water quality and being cautious of potential contaminants or impurities is essential.
When disposing of dehumidifier water, a few guidelines should be adhered to. Generally, pouring the water down a drain, toilet, or outside in an area away from your home's foundation is safe, ensuring it doesn't create a waterlogging issue. If your dehumidifier is equipped with a hose for continuous drainage, ensure it's directed towards a suitable drainage point or a garden area where it doesn't pose a problem.
While dehumidifier water may seem like a tempting source of free water, it is unsuitable for drinking or applications where water purity is essential. However, with proper maintenance and care, dehumidifier water can be repurposed for non-consumption uses, such as watering plants or cleaning outdoor surfaces. By understanding dehumidifier water's limitations and potential uses, you can ensure your home remains comfortable, healthy, and environmentally friendly.