How to Connect a Dehumidifier Drain Hose

humidity reading on temperature gauge
  • 1-2 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 0-50
What You'll Need
Dehumidifier
Garden hose
Teflon tape
Condensate pump (optional)
Concrete block or shelf (optional)
Small level
What You'll Need
Dehumidifier
Garden hose
Teflon tape
Condensate pump (optional)
Concrete block or shelf (optional)
Small level

While dehumidifiers are handy for removing excess moisture from the air, caring for the system's drain can be a hassle. However, you can eliminate the hassle of having to drain the dehumidifier's water pail yourself by connecting a drain hose to the system.

Warning: Follow all of the manufacturer’s directions for proper dehumidifier placement. Keep all doors closed to the room being dehumidified for best results.

Determining Water Flow

Step 1 - Decide if You Need a Condensate Pump

In most cases, you can set the dehumidifier on a pedestal, like a concrete block, close enough to a floor drain or sink to allow for easy gravity flow for the drain.

However, if there isn’t a drain to run the condensate hose to directly, you will now need to add a condensate pump to the flow line.

Step 2 - Locate the Hose Connector and Wrapping With Tape

In either case, locate the hose connector on the dehumidifier’s water bucket. Then, wrap the threads of the connector with Teflon tape. Wrap in a clockwise direction, so that when you tighten the hose onto the threads, the tape will sink into them.

Setting up the Dehumidifier and Drain System

Step 1 - Ensure Safety

Be sure that the air discharge is not blocked. If your unit has top airflow, you can position it close to a wall. Otherwise, you must follow your manufacturer’s warnings and specifications for placement. Also, it's important that the water isn’t dispensed near electrical cords or outlets.

Step 2 - Achieve Gravity Flow

You must set your dehumidifier drain on a raised surface to achieve gravity flow. This may take a few tries to get the elevation perfect. However, it's important to achieve this, or the water will flow back into the collection bucket.

Step 3 - Make Sure It’s Level

Place a small level on top of the dehumidifier, and using the adjustable feet, make certain that the unit is level. When the elevation is correct, the water will run freely from the hose.

Extending the Hose

Step 1 - Add a Condensate Pump

If you need to extend the hose, you will also need to add a condensate pump to the drain line. The setup is nearly identical to the one explained above. Simply connect the opposite end of the hose to the pump and then attach another hose to the pump outlet.

Step 2 – Connect the Second Hose

Connect the second hose in the same manner as the first, wrapping Teflon tape in a clockwise direction around the threads. Run the pump outlet hose to the dehumidifier drain.

While adding a drain hose to your dehumidifier makes owning one less of a hassle, consider replacing yours with a window air-conditioning unit for easier daily maintenance and the added benefit of cold air.