Q: I wonder whether the water pulled out of the air by dehumidifiers is pure and drinkable. How does it compare to distilled water?
My parents have a vacation home in Western Massachusetts, where the air is quite damp. Frustrated by frequent mildew infestations and the associated unpleasant smell, they bought two dehumidifiers to dry the place out (one of which is pictured at left). As a 12-year-old, I was very curious about these noisy machines, but drinking the water from their collection buckets never crossed my mind. Fast forward to today. Many of us are trying to find ways to avoid wasting water, and Im happy to report that you can find productive uses for your dehumidifier water. However, please, please, please do not drink it!
Both dehumidifiers and air conditioners reduce the humidity level in indoor spaces. Not only can drier air improve personal comfort in humid climates, but it can also reduce the amount of mold, mildew and other organisms that thrive in moist environments. Dehumidifiers are best suited for mild humid climates (such as Western Massachusetts, where its damp but not warm enough to necessitate air conditioning), and humid hot climates (such as Florida, where air conditioners dont remove all of the humidity in the air).
Just as a cold drink collects condensation from the surrounding air, most dehumidifiers use cold metal tubes to turn water vapor from a gas to liquid water. This “condensate” then collects in a bucket or drains out through a hose. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, stagnant condensate can harbor biological contaminants, including mold, mildew and algae, especially if the collection bucket isnt cleaned regularly. Moreover, the condensate can contain lead and other metal residues from the component parts of the dehumidifier. Unlike distilled water (see Nitty Gritty), dehumidifier water is never sterilized through boiling. In case you were still entertaining the thought, let me make it clear: do not drink the condensate! It is better to be thirsty than to be sick.
You dont necessarily need to pour it down the drain, though. Like other kinds of gray water (see Nitty Gritty), most dehumidifier condensate can safely be used for flushing toilets. Because of the presence of harmful bacteria and microorganisms, its probably not a good idea to use condensate to water any plants you intend to eventually eat. For other plants, do a small test run to see how they respond, because you dont want to destroy your whole garden at once if they dont take to it.
If youre really intent on drinking water made from the air in your home, you can get a potable water device, designed specifically for that purpose. Otherwise, please restrict your drinking to the stuff from your tap.
Andy Martin, 02, received his joint MBA/MS from the Graduate School of Business and the Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources in 2010.
Ever looked at that clear water collecting in your dehumidifier and wondered if you could drink it? With water conservation becoming increasingly important, it’s a natural question. I’ve done extensive research on this topic, and I’m here to give you the straight answer: No, you should not drink dehumidifier water. Let me explain why and share some better ways to use this water.
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Dehumidifier Water
1. Contamination Risks
The water from your dehumidifier might look clean, but it’s got some nasty surprises
- Bacteria and Microorganisms: The collection tank is basically a breeding ground for various microorganisms
- Heavy Metals: Water can pick up copper, aluminum, and even lead from the machine’s components
- Industrial Pollutants: Non-food-grade materials in dehumidifiers can leach harmful compounds into the water
- Mold and Fungal Spores: These can concentrate in the collected water, especially if your home has mold issues
2. Storage Problems
The way dehumidifier water is collected and stored creates additional risks
- Stagnant water conditions
- Warm environment promoting bacterial growth
- No filtration or purification process
- Potential buildup of contaminants over time
Better Ways to Use Dehumidifier Water
Don’t worry – that water doesn’t have to go to waste! Here are some safe and practical uses
For Household Tasks:
- Iron Your Clothes: Perfect for steam irons, especially in hard water areas
- Flush Toilets: Keep a bucket in the bathroom
- Clean Your Car: Great for exterior washing
- General Cleaning: Good for mopping floors and outdoor cleaning
For Plants:
- Water Non-Edible Plants: Ornamental plants can handle this water just fine
- Orchid Care: These plants actually prefer distilled-type water
- Outdoor Plants: Great for garden plants (except vegetables)
⚠️ Important Note: Never use dehumidifier water for:
- Drinking
- Cooking
- Watering edible plants
- Personal hygiene
- Pet consumption
Pro Tips for Using Dehumidifier Water Safely
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your dehumidifier’s collection tank regularly
- Quick Use: Don’t store the water for long periods
- Proper Storage: If you must store it, keep it in a clean container
- Bleach Addition: Add a small amount of bleach if using for cleaning purposes
- Testing: When using for plants, test on a small area first
FAQ About Dehumidifier Water
Q: Is it similar to distilled water?
A: While the initial condensation process is similar, dehumidifier water isn’t sterile and picks up contaminants from the machine.
Q: Can I purify it somehow?
A: Even with filtration or boiling, it’s not recommended for consumption due to potential heavy metals and industrial contaminants.
Q: What if I’m in an emergency?
A: Even in emergencies, look for other water sources. Dehumidifier water isn’t designed or safe for human consumption.
The Bottom Line
While it’s tempting to think of dehumidifier water as “free” drinking water, the risks far outweigh any potential benefits. Instead of drinking it, focus on the many safe and practical ways to reuse this water around your home. It’s still a great way to conserve water – just not for drinking!
Remember, when it comes to drinking water, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Stick to properly treated and filtered water sources for your drinking needs, and save that dehumidifier water for your plants or cleaning tasks.
Quick Reference Table: Dehumidifier Water Uses
| Safe Uses | Unsafe Uses |
|---|---|
| Watering non-edible plants | Drinking |
| Cleaning cars | Cooking |
| Flushing toilets | Personal hygiene |
| Steam irons | Pet water |
| General cleaning | Watering food plants |
Let’s be smart about water conservation while staying safe! Have you found any other creative ways to use your dehumidifier water? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your ideas!
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Q: I wonder whether the water pulled out of the air by dehumidifiers is pure and drinkable. How does it compare to distilled water?
Asked by Bill Wachob, 69, from Eggertsville, N.Y.
My parents have a vacation home in Western Massachusetts, where the air is quite damp. Frustrated by frequent mildew infestations and the associated unpleasant smell, they bought two dehumidifiers to dry the place out (one of which is pictured at left). As a 12-year-old, I was very curious about these noisy machines, but drinking the water from their collection buckets never crossed my mind. Fast forward to today. Many of us are trying to find ways to avoid wasting water, and Im happy to report that you can find productive uses for your dehumidifier water. However, please, please, please do not drink it!
Both dehumidifiers and air conditioners reduce the humidity level in indoor spaces. Not only can drier air improve personal comfort in humid climates, but it can also reduce the amount of mold, mildew and other organisms that thrive in moist environments. Dehumidifiers are best suited for mild humid climates (such as Western Massachusetts, where its damp but not warm enough to necessitate air conditioning), and humid hot climates (such as Florida, where air conditioners dont remove all of the humidity in the air).
Just as a cold drink collects condensation from the surrounding air, most dehumidifiers use cold metal tubes to turn water vapor from a gas to liquid water. This “condensate” then collects in a bucket or drains out through a hose. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, stagnant condensate can harbor biological contaminants, including mold, mildew and algae, especially if the collection bucket isnt cleaned regularly. Moreover, the condensate can contain lead and other metal residues from the component parts of the dehumidifier. Unlike distilled water (see Nitty Gritty), dehumidifier water is never sterilized through boiling. In case you were still entertaining the thought, let me make it clear: do not drink the condensate! It is better to be thirsty than to be sick.
You dont necessarily need to pour it down the drain, though. Like other kinds of gray water (see Nitty Gritty), most dehumidifier condensate can safely be used for flushing toilets. Because of the presence of harmful bacteria and microorganisms, its probably not a good idea to use condensate to water any plants you intend to eventually eat. For other plants, do a small test run to see how they respond, because you dont want to destroy your whole garden at once if they dont take to it.
If youre really intent on drinking water made from the air in your home, you can get a potable water device, designed specifically for that purpose. Otherwise, please restrict your drinking to the stuff from your tap.
Andy Martin, 02, received his joint MBA/MS from the Graduate School of Business and the Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources in 2010.