You can reuse the water from a dehumidifier to a limited extent, but not as drinking water. It is condensation from the air that has run along parts of the device. It is better not to use it for people or pets, and only for things such as cleaning or rinsing out a bucket if the manual does not state otherwise.
Direct answer: you can reuse the water from a dehumidifier for non-edible purposes, such as cleaning, but do not drink it or give it to pets.
What exactly is the water from a dehumidifier?
A compressor dehumidifier cools the air along a cold surface. Moisture condenses there, just like on a cold glass on a warm day. That condensation drips into the water tank. So it is not tap water or distilled water, but water that has formed from the room air and flowed along the inside of the device.
The room air contains more than just water vapor: also dust, fibers, and small particles. Some of these can end up in the tank. The water can therefore be cloudy or have a slight odor, especially if the tank has been sitting for a while. That is why it is not a good idea to drink it or use it for food and drink.
What can you use the water for?
For cleaning outside the kitchen, such as a bucket of mop water for floors or windows, condensation water is perfectly fine to use. It can also be used for spraying garden or house plants, if it is clear and has no strange odor. Use it within a day or two, so it does not start to smell.
Be careful with devices that are sensitive to what is in the water. Steam irons and humidifiers often have their own advice about what water you can use. Follow that advice. If the manual says nothing, tap water or distilled water is the safe choice.
What should you better not do?
Do not drink the water or use it for cooking. Do not give it to pets as drinking water either. Do not leave the tank full for days, because stagnant water is the ideal breeding ground for odors and dirt. Therefore, empty the tank regularly. How often that is necessary can be read in our article about how often you should empty the water tank of a dehumidifier.
How much water does a dehumidifier collect?
That depends on the humidity, the temperature, and the size of the room. The stated maximum applies to humid conditions. In a room that is already fairly dry, the device collects less. Why the reality often falls short of the promise can be read in why a dehumidifier collects less water than promised.
| Use | Suitable? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking or cooking | No | Not drinking water |
| Drinking water for pets | No | Use fresh tap water |
| Cleaning (floors, windows) | Yes | Use fresh water |
| Watering plants | Usually | Only if clear and odorless |
| Steam iron or humidifier | Follow the manual | Tap water or distilled water is the safe choice |
Better: prevent having to empty it constantly
According to the Consumers' Association, many condensation dehumidifiers have a connection for a drain hose. The water then drains away automatically and you do not have to empty the tank, see the dehumidifier buying guide. Check the manual to see if your model supports this.
Also keep in mind that a dehumidifier is not a solution for the cause. Milieu Centraal states that dehumidifiers only work in a small, enclosed space where no new moisture enters, use a lot of electricity, and do not replace proper ventilation, see ventilating your home. First address the source of the moisture.
Dynter DH251 dehumidifier
The Dynter DH251 dehumidifier has a spacious water tank, so you have to empty it less often.
Dehumidification: up to 900 ml per day
Water tank: 3800 ml, with a safety sensor that switches off the device when the tank is full
Suitable for: rooms up to 55 m²
Consumption: 80 W
Extra features: timer from 1 to 24 hours, night mode where the display turns off and ambient light
Dimensions and weight: 24 x 13.4 x 37 cm and 2.51 kg
Want to know more about how a dehumidifier works? Read what a dehumidifier does and how it works. View the Dynter DH251 or the entire dehumidifier collection.
Frequently asked questions
Is the water from a dehumidifier drinkable?
No. It is condensation water that has run along parts of the device and can contain dust. Do not use it for drinking or cooking.
Can you water plants with water from a dehumidifier?
Usually yes, as long as the water is clear and does not smell. Use it within a day or two and replace it with fresh water if in doubt.
Can you put the water in a steam iron?
Follow the iron's manual. If it says nothing about it, choose tap water or distilled water.
What do you do with water that smells?
Pour it out and clean the tank with mild soap. Let the tank dry thoroughly afterwards before putting it back.