GE AHG40LHG1 Owner's Manual
Provided and hosted by Appliance Factory Parts
Models covered: AHG30LH, AHG40LH, AHG50LH
This manual provides essential information for the safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your GE dehumidifier.
⚠️ Safety Instructions
Important Safety Information
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
WARNING!
For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of fire, electric shock, or personal injury.
Safety Precautions
- Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as described in this Owner's Manual.
- This dehumidifier must be properly installed and grounded as described in this manual before it is used.
- Never operate this dehumidifier in an area that is likely to accumulate standing water. If this condition develops, for your safety disconnect the power supply before stepping into the water.
- Never unplug your dehumidifier by pulling on the power cord. Always grip the plug firmly and pull straight out from the receptacle.
- Repair or replace immediately all electric service cords that have become frayed or otherwise damaged. Do not use a cord that shows cracks or abrasion damage along its length or at either the plug or connector end.
- Turn the dehumidifier OFF and unplug it before making any repairs or cleaning.
NOTE: We strongly recommend that any servicing be performed by a qualified individual.
- For your safety, do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline, or other flammable vapors or liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
- All dehumidifiers contain refrigerants, which under federal law must be removed prior to product disposal. If you are getting rid of an old product with refrigerants, check with the company handling disposal about what to do.
How to Connect Electricity
Do not, under any circumstances, cut or remove the third (ground) prong from the power cord. For personal safety, this appliance must be properly grounded.
The power cord of this appliance is equipped with a 3-prong (grounding) plug which mates with a standard 3-prong (grounding) wall outlet to minimize the possibility of electric shock hazard from this appliance.
Have the wall outlet and circuit checked by a qualified electrician to make sure the outlet is properly grounded.
Where a 2-prong wall outlet is encountered, it is your personal responsibility and obligation to have it replaced with a properly grounded 3-prong wall outlet.
The dehumidifier should always be plugged into its own individual electrical outlet, which has a voltage rating matching the rating plate. This provides the best performance and also prevents overloading house wiring circuits, which could cause a fire hazard from overheated wires.
Use of Extension Cords
Because of potential safety hazards under certain conditions, we strongly recommend against the use of an extension cord.
However, if you must use an extension cord, it is absolutely necessary that it be a UL-listed, 14 gauge, 3-wire grounding type appliance extension cord having a grounding type plug and outlet and that the electrical rating of the cord be 15 amperes (minimum) and 125 volts.
Use of Adapter Plugs
Because of potential safety hazards under certain conditions, we strongly recommend against the use of an adapter plug.
However, if you must use an adapter, where local codes permit, a temporary connection may be made to a properly grounded 2-prong wall outlet by use of a UL-listed adapter available at most local hardware stores.
The larger slot in the adapter must be aligned with the larger slot in the wall outlet to provide proper polarity in the connection of the power cord.
When disconnecting the power cord from the adapter, always hold the adapter in place with one hand while pulling the power cord plug with the other hand. If this is not done, the adapter ground terminal is very likely to break with repeated use.
If the adapter ground terminal breaks, DO NOT USE the dehumidifier until a proper ground has been established.
Attaching the adapter ground terminal to a wall outlet cover screw does not ground the appliance unless the cover screw is metal, not insulated, and the wall outlet is grounded through the house wiring. You should have the circuit checked by a qualified electrician to make sure the outlet is properly grounded.
READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Operating Instructions
About the Controls on the Dehumidifier
The control panel allows you to manage the dehumidifier's settings.
Control Diagram Description: The control panel features a POWER button, HUMIDITY CONTROL pads (up/down arrows to adjust humidity percentage), a FAN SPEED pad (to select HIGH or LOW), and a HUMIDITY LEVEL DISPLAY showing the current humidity percentage. A BUCKET FULL LED indicator illuminates when the water bucket is full or improperly positioned.
Controls:
- POWER Pad: Press to turn the dehumidifier on and off.
- HUMIDITY CONTROL Pads: The humidity level can be set within a range of 35% RH (Relative Humidity) to 70% RH in 5% increments.
- For drier air, press the ⬇️ pad and set to a lower percent value.
- For damper air, press the ⬆️ pad and set to a higher percent value.
When you first use the dehumidifier, set the humidity control to 45% or 50%. Allow at least 24 hours for the dehumidifier to achieve the humidity level. If you still have damper air than desired, set the humidity level to a lower setting.
- FAN SPEED Pad: Controls the fan speed. Press to set to HIGH or LOW fan speed. Set the fan control to HIGH for maximum moisture removal. When the humidity has been reduced and quiet operation is preferred, set the fan control to LOW.
- HUMIDITY LEVEL DISPLAY: Displays percent humidity level. Its accuracy is (+/- 5%).
- BUCKET FULL LED: Indicates presence of bucket and its fill level.
Other Features:
- BUCKET FULL Light: Glows when the bucket is ready to be emptied, or when the bucket is removed or not replaced in the proper position.
- Auto Shut Off: The Water Level Control Switch shuts off the dehumidifier when the bucket is full, or when the bucket is removed or not replaced in the proper position. Also, when the bucket is out of position, the unit will beep 3 times.
- Auto Defrost: When frost builds up on the cooling coils, the compressor will cycle off until the frost disappears. The fan continues to run.
Power Outage & Auto Restart
If a power outage occurred or if the unit was unplugged, the unit will display its prior setting. Note: If "ON" is in the display, the dehumidifier is operating continuously, but a specific humidity level is not set. You will need to reset the HUMIDITY CONTROL to the desired level.
Once power is restored after a power outage, the unit automatically resumes operation after a 2-minute delay.
Using the Dehumidifier
When first using the dehumidifier, operate the unit continuously for 24 hours.
How the Dehumidifier Operates
Moist, humid air is drawn over a cold refrigerated dehumidifying coil. Moisture in the air condenses on this coil and drains into a bucket (or through the bucket into a hose and drain).
Dry, clean air is drawn through the condenser where it is heated and discharged out the front grille into the room.
It is normal for the surrounding air to become slightly warmer as the dehumidifier operates. This warming effect further reduces the relative humidity of the surrounding air.
Diagram Description: The internal diagram shows humid air entering the unit, passing over an evaporator coil where moisture condenses and drains into a drain pan. The air then passes through a fan and a condenser (where it's heated) before being expelled as dry air. Components include: Evaporator, Condenser, Humidity sensor, Fan, Drain pan, Garden hose connector, Bucket, Compressor.
Choosing a Location
A dehumidifier operating in a basement will have little or no effect in drying an adjacent enclosed storage area, such as a closet, unless there is adequate circulation of air in and out of the area.
- Place the dehumidifier on a smooth, level floor strong enough to support the unit with a full bucket of water.
- Allow at least 12-18 inches of air space on all sides of the unit for good air circulation.
- Place the dehumidifier in an area where the temperature will not fall below 65°F (18°C). The coils can become covered with frost at temperatures below 65°F, which may reduce performance.
- Use the dehumidifier in cooking, laundry, bathing, and dishwashing areas that have excessive moisture. NOTE: Place the dehumidifier away from the clothes dryer.
- Use the dehumidifier to prevent moisture damage anywhere books or valuables are stored.
- Use the dehumidifier in a basement to help prevent moisture damage.
- The dehumidifier must be operated in an enclosed area to be most effective.
- Close all doors, windows, and other outside openings to the room.
Diagram Description: A visual guide shows two scenarios: "YES" indicating placement above 65°F (18°C) with 12-18" minimum air space, and "NO" indicating placement below 65°F (18°C) where performance may be reduced due to frost buildup.
NOTE: The dehumidifier has rollers to aid placement, but it should only be rolled on smooth, flat surfaces. Do not attempt to roll the dehumidifier on carpet or over objects.
Automatic Defrost
When the dehumidifier control senses frost buildup on the evaporator coil, it will automatically shut off the compressor. The fan will continue to run to draw air across the coil and melt the frost. When the coil is defrosted, the compressor will automatically restart and dehumidifying will resume.
Removing Collected Water
Always make sure the water bucket is locked into place on the dehumidifier.
There are 3 ways to remove collected water:
- Use the bucket: When the bucket is removed, the unit will shut off. Empty and replace the bucket.
- Use a hose: Water can be automatically emptied into a floor drain by attaching a water hose (not included) to the bucket hose nozzle. Using a drill, make a hole at the end of the nozzle located on the lower left side of the bucket. Attach a water hose to the bucket nozzle. Fasten by hand only.
Diagram Description: Shows a close-up of the bucket nozzle with a drill hole and a hose attached.
NOTE: The nozzle cannot be fixed after puncture. Use an ordinary garden hose cap (not included) to reclose if necessary.
NOTE: Avoid using mechanical tools to tighten the water hose to the bucket nozzle. This may damage the threads on the nozzle.
- Use a floor drain: The unit can also be placed over a floor drain. Using a drill, make a hole at the end of the nozzle located on the lower left side of the bucket.
Diagram Description: Shows the dehumidifier positioned over a floor drain, with a hose connected from the bucket nozzle to the drain.
Installing the Water Bucket
Lift the bucket and hook the slots on each side onto the posts on the back of the dehumidifier. The bucket should lock securely in place.
Make sure the bucket is locked securely in place by pressing down on the upper back edge of the bucket. It will be firmly seated when properly installed.
Diagram Description: Illustrates lifting the bucket and aligning its slots with posts on the back of the dehumidifier, followed by pressing down on the upper back edge to ensure it's seated.
Water Level
The dehumidifier will turn off automatically when the bucket is full, or when the bucket is removed or not replaced in the proper position. The bucket must be replaced in the proper position for the dehumidifier to work. The light will be on and the dehumidifier will not run if the bucket is not in the proper position.
Care and Cleaning of the Dehumidifier
Turn the dehumidifier off and remove the plug from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Grille and Case
- To clean the case: Use water and a mild detergent. Do not use bleach or abrasives. If cabinet paint chips, you can touch it up with a good grade enamel paint to prevent rust.
- To clean the front grille: Use a vacuum attachment or brush.
Air Filter
The air filter is on the back of the dehumidifier. It should be checked and cleaned at least every 30 days or more often if necessary.
NOTE: DO NOT rinse or put the filter in an automatic dishwasher.
CAUTION: DO NOT operate the dehumidifier without the filter because dirt and lint will clog it and reduce performance.
To remove:
Flex the filter at the lower right corner and slide the upper right side to the left. Release all of the tabs and remove the filter. Wash it in warm soapy water. Rinse and let the filter dry before replacing it.
To replace:
Hold the filter with the middle tab at the top and place the bottom of the filter in the filter hook. Slide the side filter tabs into the side slots and press the other three tabs into their slots.
Diagram Description: Shows the back of the dehumidifier with the filter being removed and cleaned. It also shows how to reinsert the filter.
NOTE: Avoid using a dishwasher to clean the filter.
Cleaning the Coil
After removing the air filter, clean the coil with a soft brush when the soil is soft and wet.
NOTE: Do not allow water to enter the electrical/machine compartment through the circular opening behind the coil.
Do not spray the coil with a hose.
Diagram Description: Shows a close-up of the dehumidifier's internal cooling coils.
Water Bucket
Every few weeks, rinse the inside of the water bucket with a mild detergent to prevent growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
NOTE: Avoid using a dishwasher to clean the water bucket.
Diagram Description: Shows a water bucket and a bottle of mild detergent.
Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and money! Review the chart below first and you may not need to call for service.
| Problem | Possible Causes | What To Do |
|---|---|---|
| Dehumidifier does not start | The dehumidifier is unplugged. The fuse is blown/circuit breaker is tripped. Dehumidifier has reached its preset level or bucket is full. Bucket is not in the proper position. | Make sure the dehumidifier's plug is pushed completely into the outlet. Check the house fuse/circuit breaker box and replace the fuse or reset the breaker. The dehumidifier automatically turns off when this occurs. Empty the bucket and replace properly. See the Installing the Water Bucket section. |
| Dehumidifier does not dry the air as it should | Did not allow enough time to remove the moisture. Airflow is restricted. The Humidity Control may not be set low enough. Doors and windows may not be closed tightly. Clothes dryer may be blowing moisture-laden air into the room. | When first installed, allow at least 24 hours to maintain the desired dryness. Make sure there are no curtains, blinds, or furniture blocking the front or back of the dehumidifier. See the Choosing a Location section. Press the Humidity Control ⬇️ pad to lower the humidity setting. Check that all doors, windows, and other openings are securely closed. Install the dehumidifier away from the dryer. The dryer should be vented to the outside. |
| Dehumidifier runs too much | Room temperature is too low. Area to be dehumidified is too large. Doors and windows are open. | Moisture removal is best at higher room temperatures. Lower room temperatures will reduce the moisture removal rate. This unit is designed to be operated at temperatures above 65°F (18°C). Refer to the chart below to see if the capacity of your dehumidifier is adequate. Close all doors and windows to the outside. |
| Frost appears on the coils | Dehumidifier has been recently turned on or room temperature is below 65°F (18°C). | This is normal. Frost will usually disappear within 60 minutes. See the Automatic Defrost section. |
| Fan noise | Air is moving through the dehumidifier. | This is normal. |
| Water on floor | Bucket drain hose connection may be loose. Water bucket is not all of the way in. | Check the hose if one is attached. See the Installing the Water Bucket section. |
What dehumidifier do you need?
Condition without dehumidification:
| Condition | Area (in square feet) |
|---|---|
| During warm and humid outdoor conditions | 500 |
| Moderately damp - Space feels damp and has musty odor only in humid weather. | 1000 |
| Very damp - Space always feels damp and has musty odor. Damp spots show on walls or floor. | 1500 |
| Wet - Space feels and smells wet. Walls or floor sweat, or seepage is present. | 2000 |
| Extremely wet - Laundry drying, wet floor, high-load conditions | 2500 |
Recommended Models:
| Area (sq ft) | 500 | 1000 | 1500 | 2000 | 2500 | 3000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conditions | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG40 | AHG40 |
| Moderately Damp | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG40 | AHG40 | AHG40 |
| Very Damp | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG40 | AHG40 | AHG40 | AHG50 |
| Wet | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG40 | AHG40 | AHG50 | AHG50 |
| Extremely Wet | AHG30 | AHG30 | AHG40 | AHG40 | AHG50 | AHG50 |
Table indicates recommended GE dehumidifier models, based on the area of the space to be dehumidified and the conditions that would exist in that space when a dehumidifier is not in use. Dehumidification variables also include such other factors as climate, laundry equipment, number of family members, number of doors and windows, and degree and intensity of area activity.
Warranty and Support
GE Service Protection Plus™
GE, a name recognized worldwide for quality and dependability, offers you Service Protection Plus™—comprehensive protection on all your appliances—No Matter What Brand!
Benefits Include:
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You will be completely satisfied with our service protection or you may request your money back on the remaining value of your contract. No questions asked. It's that simple.
Protect your refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, range, TV, VCR, and much more—any brand! Plus, there's no extra charge for emergency service and low monthly financing is available. Even icemaker coverage and food spoilage protection is offered. You can rest easy, knowing that all your valuable household products are protected against expensive repairs.
Place your confidence in GE and call us in the U.S. toll-free at 800.626.2224 for more information.
*All brands covered, up to 20 years old, in the continental U.S.
Please place in envelope and mail to:
General Electric Company
Warranty Registration Department
P.O. Box 32150
Louisville, KY 40232-2150
Consumer Product Ownership Registration
Dear Customer:
Thank you for purchasing our product and thank you for placing your confidence in us. We are proud to have you as a customer!
Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:
- Complete and mail your Consumer Product Ownership Registration today. Have the peace of mind of knowing we can contact you in the unlikely event of a safety modification.
- After mailing the registration below, store this document in a safe place. It contains information you will need should you require service. Our service number is 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737).
- Read your Owner's Manual carefully. It will help you operate your new appliance properly.
Model Number: _________________________ Serial Number: _________________________
Important: If you did not get a registration card with your product, detach and return the form below to ensure that your product is registered, or register online at GEAppliances.com.
Consumer Product Ownership Registration
✉️ Important Mail Today! ✂️ Cut here
Model Number: _________________________ Serial Number: _________________________
Mr. Ms. Mrs. Miss
First Name: _________________________ Last Name: _________________________
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Check here if you do not want to receive communications from GEA's carefully selected partners.
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GE Appliances
GE Consumer & Industrial
Louisville, Kentucky
www.GEAppliances.com
Dehumidifier Warranty
All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician. To schedule service, on-line, 24 hours a day, visit us at GEAppliances.com, or call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737).
Staple your receipt here. Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under the warranty.
| For The Period Of: | We Will Replace: |
|---|---|
| One Year From the date of the original purchase | Any part of the dehumidifier which fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During this full one-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home service to replace the defective part. |
| Five Years From the date of the original purchase | The compressor if it should fail due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During this five-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home service to repair or replace the compressor. |
What Is Not Covered:
- Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the product.
- Improper installation, delivery, or maintenance. If you have an installation problem, or if the dehumidifier is of improper dehumidifying capacity, contact your dealer or installer. You are responsible for providing adequate electrical, plumbing, and other connecting facilities.
- Failure of the product resulting from modifications to the product or due to unreasonable use, including failure to provide reasonable and necessary maintenance.
- In commercial locations, labor necessary to move the unit to a location where it is accessible for service by an individual technician.
- Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers.
- Failure due to corrosion on models not corrosion-protected.
- Damage to the product caused by improper power supply voltage, accident, fire, floods, or acts of God.
- Incidental or consequential damage caused by possible defects with this dehumidifier.
- Damage caused after delivery.
This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home use within the USA. In Alaska, the warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal rights are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state's Attorney General.
Warrantor: General Electric Company. Louisville, KY 40225
Consumer Support
GE Appliances Website
Have a question or need assistance with your appliance? Try the GE Appliances Website 24 hours a day, any day of the year! For greater convenience and faster service, you can now download Owner's Manuals, order parts, catalogs, or even schedule service on-line. You can also "Ask Our Team of Experts™" your questions, and so much more...
Schedule Service
Expert GE repair service is only one step away from your door. Get on-line and schedule your service at your convenience 24 hours any day of the year! Or call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737) during normal business hours.
Real Life Design Studio
GE supports the Universal Design concept—products, services, and environments that can be used by people of all ages, sizes, and capabilities. We recognize the need to design for a wide range of physical and mental abilities and impairments. For details of GE's Universal Design applications, including kitchen design ideas for people with disabilities, check out our Website today. For the hearing impaired, please call 800.TDD.GEAC (800.833.4322).
Extended Warranties
Purchase a GE extended warranty and learn about special discounts that are available while your warranty is still in effect. You can purchase it on-line anytime, or call 800.626.2224 during normal business hours. GE Consumer Home Services will still be there after your warranty expires.
Parts and Accessories
Individuals qualified to service their own appliances can have parts or accessories sent directly to their homes (VISA, MasterCard, and Discover cards are accepted). Order on-line today, 24 hours every day, or by phone at 800.626.2002 during normal business hours.
Instructions contained in this manual cover procedures to be performed by any user. Other servicing generally should be referred to qualified service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since improper servicing may cause unsafe operation.
Contact Us
If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from GE, contact us on our Website with all the details, including your phone number, or write to: General Manager, Customer Relations
GE Appliances, Appliance Park
Louisville, KY 40225
Register Your Appliance
Register your new appliance on-line at your convenience! Timely product registration will allow for enhanced communication and prompt service under the terms of your warranty, should the need arise. You may also mail in the pre-printed registration card included in the packing material.
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