Noise unit makes very loud rattling noise for awhile the quiets down then starts again we cant even use it at night HELP

I get this complaint a few times a month , what I usually find is that the circulation fan has a build up of fuzzy lint on the blades and it throws the fan out of balance (hence the noise) a soak in a warm water/soap solution usually takes care of it , disassembly is required for this , I usually charge two hours labor for this

a change in tone of the noise from a working unit indicates to me that a bit of dust/dirt has built up on the internal fans blades and has caused a imbalance in the fan now , this usually requires a complete disassembly and cleaning out to remedy

It is probably the start device(the coil looking things), as long as you don't hear the compressor humming. A loud hum is a lock compressor and the cost would be far greater than a new unit.

I see by my computer this is a UK unit made for UK climates.
I also found various web sites you can access for help with your unit. Please explore these.
God bless your efforts.

As long as the unit is unplugged, I can't think of any reason why you can't.

If the machine's compressor runs when you switch it on, then turn the machine on maximum and let it run for an hour or so. Then check the coils in the back with your hand. If they are not getting cold at all, then there is a significant problem with the refrigeration process in the unit. It may have developed a leak and allowed your refrigerant gas to escape, or there may be another internal problem with the compressor. Either way you would need to have it serviced by a fridge technician, or more likely just replaced with a whole new unit since both options can potentially cost about the same.

If the unit runs normally and the coils are getting cold, then make sure they are not totally icing up which will impede the unit's performance. If your dehumidifier is freezing up then that probably means the unit itself is actually working well. The temperature or humidity level in the room may be a bit low and you may have the unit turned up too high for the conditions.

Try turning down the setting on the unit so that it cycles on and off every few hours and does not run continuously.

Also try using some warm soapy water to clean off any dust or oily residue from the cooling coils in the rear of the unit. Remember to also clean the air intake filter while you are at it.

If the ambient temperature in the room is a bit low, you can try adding some heat to the room if necessary. A dehumidifier will not work properly if the ambient air temperature is too low. Generally, the warmer and more humid the room is, the better they work.Since warm air rises, you can even try lifting the unit higher up off the cold floor onto a bench or table where the air is warmer.

You can click on the following link for a general operating and troubleshooting guide with additional tips on effective dehumidifier operation:

http://www.allergyconsumerreview.com/dehumidifier-advice-troubleshooting.html
The rattling noise may just be the coils vibrating against each other. Sometimes you can gently bend the coils apart slightly so they don't rattle, just dont bend them too much or you might damage them.

I hope that was helpful to you, good luck.

If you choose to rate this solution using the Thumbs Up scale provided, I thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Joe.

Hi,
When the compressors start to go bad they often start to get very loud also...the cost to replace the compressor will probably be more then a new unit...

Also check out this tip about dehumidifier problems...

Dehumidifier is running but no water is in bucket
http://www.fixya.com/support/r4662409-dehumidifier_running_but_no_water_in

Hi,
The fam motor bearings are dry and need oil..wd-40 with the long spray nozzle maybe the best way to get oil on the bearings... some motors are sealed and it is very dificult the get them quiet again...spray right where the shaft comes out of the motor and then lean the unit back so the oil runs into the motor and let it set for awhile..then try it...

http://www.fixya.com/support/r3877515-dehumidifier_problems_dehumidifier

heatman101

These things tend to make a bit of noise, some more than others. You will not be able to do much about the internal produced noise but you can do a lot with the resulting vibration noise.
While the unit is running, take a few minutes and actually touch the unit ALL OVER, you are listing for any vibration noise to cease or be less so where you are touching. This includes the collection pan and the filter. Slightly Tilt the unit in all directions. Make sure that the door to the collection pan is closed properly. Take a few strips of the peel-off adhesive sided thin window/door insulation and apply to the bottom of the collector pan, if it sits ON the bottom of the unit. Place an inch or two thick blocks of foam rubber under each corner of the unit. Make sure the unit is level. Some where along here you will stifle some of, or maybe even most of the noise.
Good luck. :)

sounds like a sealed system issue it has a 5 yr. warrenty on the sealed system, cost to repair might mean an new one instead